How Much is the Bus From Inverness to the Isle of Skye? (2026 Guide)
- Jay
- Jun 26
- 4 min read
Travelling to the Isle of Skye used to be an expensive business from anywhere in the country - going back just to the start of the year a one-way bus ticket from the Highland Capital of Inverness would set you back something around ~£30. But backpackers heading to the Scottish Highlands & Islands this summer have had a massive game-changing stroke of luck - you can now make this journey by bus for just £2.
The price drop is part of the new £2 Highland bus fare pilot scheme - meaning up until March 2027 you can travel on most buses in this scenic part of the world for less than the price of a cup of coffee. We've put all the details below in this guide to travelling to Scotland's Misty Isle.
Explore our Ultimate £2 Highland Bus Route Guide here:
How to Book the £2 Bus From Inverness to the Isle of Skye
There's only one direct bus route and provider between Inverness and the Isle of Skye - the 917 Bus provided by Citylink Scotland. It travels at least 4 times a day in each direction in the Summer months, with two morning departures, one in the afternoon, and one in the early evening. If you have to change buses, you'll need to pay for a second £2 fare, so this bus is the only one you can take for just £2.
Depending on where you're travelling on the Misty Isle, you'll need to put in the name of the bus stop you want to get off at (ie. not just 'Isle of Skye). Most backpackers will travel to the island's backpacking hubs of Kyleakin and Portree, where affordable social hostels are located.
Check the latest bus times and book your tickets with Citylink:
Pro Tip: Be sure to plan ahead and book your bus tickets in advance, this bus is very popular and will book up way ahead of time in the summer months!
Top Highland Destinations You Can Visit for Just £2
The good news is that this £2 bus fare scheme doesn't just cover the Isle of Skye! You can actually travel to a great number of destinations either from Inverness, onwards from Skye, and from other top backpacker destinations including Loch Ness, Fort William and Oban.
Explore the full list of destinations here:
We highly recommend using Lochside Hostel in Loch Ness as a base for exploring the Highlands - you can travel to all of the above listed destinations, as well as popular destinations like Eilean Donan Castle, Ben Nevis, Glenfinnan Viaduct, Urquhart Castle and more on the buses that leave right out of the hostel's front door.
It's a highly social hostel with daily activities and events for you to take part in, kayak hire, and its own beach on Loch Ness. Beds at Lochside Hostel start from just £21 this summer, and you can use code LOCHNESSYES to bag 15% off your stay. Book your stay with Scotland's Top Hostels for the best price and flexibility:
Best Budget Accommodation: Where to Stay on the Isle of Skye
The best budget hostel on the Isle of Skye is Skye Backpackers - with its location in Kyleakin, just over the Skye bridge, you can easily access much of the charm that's likely drawn you to travel to Skye in the first place conveniently and affordably, taking advantage of the £2 bus fares you can travel to Portree, Eilean Donan Castle, and much more directly from the town.
With its own kitchen, affordable towel rental, and a continental breakfast for just £2, Skye Backpackers makes it easy and affordable to add Skye to your Scotland trip. On top of all of that, it's social too, with a cosy lounge, shared kitchen, and being located very close to Kyleakin's famous King Haakon Bar, where you can meet fellow travellers and locals alike.
Book your stay at Skye Backpackers with Scotland's Top Hostels affordably and flexibly below:
Top Things to Do on the Isle of Skye for Backpackers
Looking to explore the Isle of Skye and make the most of your time there? Check out our Ultimate Backpackers Guide to the Isle of Skye below:
Inverness to Isle of Skye Bus: Frequently Asked Questions
Which bus operators are included in the £2 Highland fare cap?
There are many operators included in the £2 Highland fare cap, but to travel between Inverness and the Isle of Skye you'll be looking specifically to book the Citylink 917 Bus. You can also travel between Inverness, Loch Ness, Fort William and Oban using Ember Buses for just £2 for a single fare.
Can I book the £2 Inverness to Skye bus ticket in advance online?
Yes, the easiest way to book is through the Citylink Website. It's highly recommended to book in advance due to high demand on the route.
Do I need to buy a separate ticket if I change buses on the route?
Not necessarily, you can book multiple buses in one ticket, but you are charged £2 for every bus journey, so if you take 2 journeys, the cost of your ticket will raise to £4.
Does the £2 bus discount apply to tourists and international backpackers?
Yes, the £2 bus fare scheme is open to everyone and there is no discount card or code required, you'll find all fares listed for just £2 when searching online or if you pay on the bus.
What is the last bus departure time from Inverness to Kyleakin & Portree?
The last bus from Inverness to the Isle of Skye leaves at 17:45 (5:45pm) during the summer months. It is best to check the Citylink Website for up to date information about departures in case of any last minute changes.
Can I take a bicycle on the bus from Inverness to the Isle of Skye?
Yes, but you need to book a space in advance when you buy your £2 ticket, and there are only limited spaces available. Check information about bicycles on the Citylink Website before you travel.
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