Flights to Inverness arrive into Dalcross International, which is around 8 miles west of the city centre. The 'jet' is the name of the dedicated shuttle service, which connects the city and the airport, although there are other standard buses that pick up every 30 minutes directly outside the main terminal. There is also the taxi option at an affordable rate; alternatively, if the idea is to tour the region, there are 2 leading rental car desks. The airport itself has some fabulous scenery with a backdrop of the spectacular Highlands. 

The airfare to Inverness can work out quite reasonable despite it being the capital of the Highlands. Once in the city, getting around is very easy. Walking is very much the mode for the compact centre, although Stagecoach operate an extensive bus service that is a really good value and the taxis fares are also extremely low. At the other end of the scale the limo hire might add a nice touch of extravagance, but they are very pricey and probably only worthwhile in larger parties where the cost can be evenly split. 

Inevitably the biggest pull of the area is Loch Ness, or possibly the chance of a glimpse at its famous resident 'monster'. Anybody arriving on Inverness flights cannot escape the promotion of the freshwater lake, but it is in actual fact, a stunning view in its own right, with Urquart Castle offering one of the best vantage points, from its high position. Culloden Battlefield, just 4 miles outside the city boundary is also well worth a visit; similarly Plodda Falls, locally referred to as the Niagara of Scotland. Bogbain Farm is a real action seekers paradise with quad bikes, archery, paint balling, and clay pigeon shooting, all open to the public. 

Eastgate Centre is the main venue for shopping; there is also a covered Victorian market with some terrific bargains. There are some excellent cheap flights to Inverness and no visit is complete without a trip to the Highland Souvenirs Store, the oldest shop in the city dating back over 300 years. There are a wide variety of cuisines, some of the favourites include: The Kitchen and Cafe 1 for local traditional fare, The Rajah and Aspendos for Indian and Turkish meals respectively and Dickens, possibly the most popular of all, situated on Church Street. The same street and side alleys are where the night-life kicks off, with a good time guaranteed at places like the Castle Tavern, Johnny Foxes Irish Pub and Hootananny's.