Loch Ness is located just a short distance from the Highland capital of Inverness, making getting to Loch Ness a straightforward journey for many. The northern end of the loch is only about 14 miles (22 km) away, with the drive taking roughly 30 mins. Most visitors choose a private car for the flexibility, but public buses and guided tours offer convenient alternatives. While the roads are open year-round, be mindful of weather conditions, as winter snow can affect travel times.
From Edinburgh: ~225 km (~140 mi)
By train & bus: ~4.5 hours (Edinburgh Waverley → Inverness, then bus to Loch Ness)
By bus: ~5 hours
By car: ~3.5-4 hours (no stops)
By tour (round trip): ~12-13 hours including sightseeing
From Glasgow: ~235 km (~146 mi)
By train & bus: ~5 hours (Glasgow Queen St → Inverness, then bus to Loch Ness)
By bus: ~4.5 hours
By car: ~3.5 hours (no stops)
By tour (round trip): ~11-12 hours including sightseeing
From Inverness: ~13 km (~8 mi)
By bus: ~30 mins
By car: ~20 mins (no stops)
By tour (round trip): ~8.45 hours, including sightseeing and cruise
| Mode | Duration | Cost | Best for | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Guided tour | 8–13 hours (full day) | £50-£90+ | First-timers, solo travellers, and convenience | Hassle-free way to see multiple sights, including a boat trip and castle visit |
Car | 3.5–4 hours from Glasgow or Edinburgh, ~30 mins from Inverness | Variable (fuel + parking) | Flexibility, groups, scenic stops | Provides the most freedom to explore the area at your own pace |
Train | 5–6 hours from Glasgow or Edinburgh (with bus transfer) | £35-£90+ | Scenic views, comfort | No direct service to the loch; requires a transfer in Inverness |
Bus | 4.5–5 hours from Glasgow or Edinburgh (with transfer), ~30 mins from Inverness | £20-£40+ | Budget-conscious travelers | Slowest option from major cities, but the most affordable |
A medieval ruin on the shores of the loch. This historic fortress offers dramatic views and a glimpse into over 500 years of Scottish history, including its role in the Wars of Independence.
Located in the village of Drumnadrochit, this attraction is dedicated to the scientific and cultural story of the Loch Ness monster. It's the best place to learn about the legend and the efforts to find evidence of Nessie.
A must-do for any visitor. Numerous operators offer boat trips that take you out on the water, providing a unique perspective of the landscape and the opportunity to use sonar to look for any signs of the loch’s famous inhabitant.
This village at the southern end of the loch is a hub of activity. Watch boats navigate the series of five locks on the Caledonian Canal, explore local craft shops, or simply enjoy a meal at one of the picturesque pubs.
A 79-mile walking and cycling route that runs from Fort William to Inverness, following the loch for a significant stretch. Even a short walk on one of the sections offers a tranquil way to experience the Highland scenery.
Depart from your base city and aim to arrive at the loch by late morning. The first stop is Urquhart Castle, perched on the shores of the loch. Explore the ruins of this ancient fortress and learn about its dramatic history, offering a perfect introduction to the legend of the Loch Ness monster. After your castle visit, consider taking a cruise from the nearby pier for the best chance to spot Nessie and appreciate the scale of the loch.
Head into the nearby village of Drumnadrochit for a relaxing lunch at a local pub or cafe. Afterwards, visit the Loch Ness Centre & Exhibition, a well-regarded attraction that presents a compelling look into the scientific research and folklore surrounding the monster.
Before beginning your journey back, find a lochside pub or restaurant for a final meal. Villages like Fort Augustus or Drumnadrochit offer cosy spots to relax and reflect on the day. Enjoy a traditional Scottish meal and a pint before setting off. The return trip will offer twilight views, completing your experience of getting to Loch Ness and back.
If you have extra time or prefer a less-crowded experience, drive to Fort Augustus at the southern end of the loch. Here, you can watch boats navigate the impressive lock system of the Caledonian Canal.
The cheapest way is by bus. While the journey from Edinburgh or Glasgow requires a transfer in Inverness, booking your long-distance bus ticket in advance can result in significant savings.
The fastest way to get to Loch Ness is by car. From Edinburgh or Glasgow, the drive takes around 3.5 to 4 hours, and from Inverness, it's a quick 20-30-min journey. Driving gives you the most control over your itinerary and is the quickest door-to-door option.
Yes, a day trip is a popular option, but be prepared for a long day. The round trip from either city is a minimum of 11–13 hours, including free time for exploring the loch itself. Guided tours are especially convenient for a day trip, as they handle the driving, allowing you to relax and enjoy the scenery.
Yes, a guided tour is absolutely worth it if you prefer a stress-free experience. Tours take care of all the logistics, including transportation. They are a great option for day-trippers who want to see the main sights without the hassle of driving or public transport.
Yes, it is highly recommended to book train tickets in advance, especially for the long-distance routes to Inverness. Booking "Advance Single" tickets up to 12 weeks before travel is the best way to secure the lowest prices. Prices can increase significantly for tickets purchased closer to the day of travel.
Yes, you can absolutely drive yourself, and it's a very popular option. Driving provides the most flexibility to explore the loch's shores and surrounding areas at your own pace. The main A82 road is well-maintained, but be prepared for narrower, single-track roads if you venture to the quieter B-roads on the loch's eastern side. Parking is available at all major attractions, though spaces can fill up quickly during peak season.
It's not essential to drive the entire loop to experience the best of Loch Ness. The main sights and visitor centres are on the A82 on the west side of the loch, and this is where most of the tourist traffic is concentrated. The eastern side (B862) is a much quieter, single-track road that is better suited for a slower, more scenic drive if you have extra time and want to get away from the crowds. For a day trip, sticking to the A82 is more efficient.
From Edinburgh: Loch Ness, Glencoe, Inverness & The Highlands Day Trip
From Glasgow: Loch Ness, Glencoe & The Highlands Day Trip
From Inverness: Loch Ness & The Highlands Day Trip
