Inverness is a likeable place that bustles, mostly because it's the largest city in Northern Scotland, and its biggest transport hub. This makes it both a springboard for visitors to the Northern Highlands as well as a lifeline for those living there.

But don't expect much more than a fairly bland modern town geared to shopping and dining – the restaurant scene (see tripadvisor) is relatively varied and well-developed.

At least everything is gathered beneath an attractive pink Victorian sandstone castle and the Inverness Museum & Art Gallery (AprTues–Sat 10am–5pm) offers interesting insights into regional culture, making it a good rainy day option. A good display on Pictish history is a useful primer if you're heading up to the Black Isle.