Best Orkney Islands Tours & Trips
Nestled off Scotland’s northeastern coast, the Orkney Islands offer a captivating blend of ancient history and rugged coastal beauty. Explore the Neolithic Standing Stones of Stenness and the well-preserved village of Skara Brae, both predating Stonehenge. Wander through Kirkwall’s St. Magnus Cathedral, a Romanesque gem in the islands’ quiet capital. Discover dramatic sea cliffs at Yesnaby and enjoy local crafts and brews in friendly island communities. With rich Viking heritage, serene landscapes, and dark skies ideal for stargazing, Orkney invites immersive, off-the-beaten-path discovery.
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Dates & Length
4.9
( 4 reviews )
Tour Code: 716451
Start / End City
Edinburgh
Duration
8.0 Days
City & Attractions
Edinburgh, Oban, Portree
+12 more
Languages
English Live
Group Type
Standard Group Tour
Operator
Highland Experience Tours
From
$2,229.90
4.8
( 4 reviews )
Tour Code: 716457
Start / End City
Edinburgh
Duration
5.0 Days
City & Attractions
Edinburgh, Inverness, Orkney Islands
+8 more
Languages
English Live
Group Type
Small Group Tour
Operator
Highland Experience Tours
From
$1,314.90
4.9
( 4 reviews )
Tour Code: 716439
Start / End City
Inverness
Duration
3.0 Days
City & Attractions
Inverness, Orkney Islands, Kirkwall
Languages
English Live
Group Type
Small Group Tour
Operator
Highland Experience Tours
From
$833.67
5.0 Tour Code: 729777
Start / End City
Edinburgh, Glasgow
Duration
9.0 Days
City & Attractions
Edinburgh, St. Andrews, Inverness
+16 more
Languages
English Live
Group Type
Standard Group Tour
Tour Audience
Primarily English-Speaking Travelers
Operator
The Travel Corporation (TTC)
From
$3,825.00
![[16 Pax] 5-Day Orkney and Scotland's Northern Coast Tour from Edinburgh: Glencoe, Loch Ness, Inverness, Kirkwall and Ullapool](https://cdn.tff.bz/public/wt/86/b2/20241219031147608536797.jpg?imageView2/2/w/400/h/0/q/85/format/webp)
4.2
( 1 reviews )
Tour Code: 12657
Start / End City
Edinburgh
Duration
5.0 Days
City & Attractions
Edinburgh, Stirling, Inverness
+10 more
Languages
English Live
Group Type
Small Group Tour
Operator
Rabbie's Trail Burners LTD (GBP)
From
Live
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Best Time to Visit Orkney Islands
Spring
2026/2027
In spring, the Orkney Islands enjoy cool, crisp weather with average temperatures of 6°C (43°F) and lengthening daylight hours. Milder conditions make it ideal for exploring Neolithic sites like Skara Brae and the Ring of Brodgar amid soft sunlight. Winds ease compared to winter, enabling smoother ferry crossings to South Ronaldsay and Hoy, where red-throated divers return to scenic cliffs. Wildflowers bloom by May, enhancing coastal walks and views of nesting seabirds at the RSPB reserve on Copinsay. With fewer crowds, spring offers a peaceful chance to experience Orkney’s ancient heritage and rugged natural charm.
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Summer
2026
Summer in the Orkney Islands brings mild temperatures averaging 14°C (57°F), with long, light-filled days perfect for exploring ancient sites like Skara Brae and Maeshowe. Coastal cliffs buzz with puffins and kittiwakes, while the turquoise waters around Papa Westray and the Calf of Eday tempt kayakers and swimmers. Festivals like the St Magnus International Festival celebrate music and culture under the near-24-hour daylight.
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Autumn
2026
Autumn in the Orkney Islands brings crisp air and dramatic skies, with temperatures averaging 8°C (46°F) - ideal for cozy exploration. Though days grow shorter, the landscape glows with golden heather and russet moorland, enhancing the mystique of ancient sites like Skara Brae and Maeshowe. This season is perfect for storm-watching along the Brough of Birsay cliffs or spotting migrating seabirds and seals. Warmer layers are essential as winds pick up, but the reward is fewer crowds and hauntingly beautiful light. Local distilleries, such as Highland Park, offer warm refuge with tastings of peaty single malts.
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Winter
In winter, the Orkney Islands experience cool, crisp conditions with temperatures averaging 4-7°C (39-45°F) and shorter daylight hours enhancing their mystical charm. While windswept coastlines and dramatic sea swells showcase nature’s power, the tranquil ambiance draws travelers seeking solitude and raw beauty. Explore ancient sites like Skara Brae and the Ring of Brodgar beneath moody skies, visit the glowing St. Magnus Cathedral in Kirkwall, or enjoy cozy pub evenings with local ales and stories. Winter lights and the possible northern lights add magic to this remote Scottish archipelago.
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Reviews for Orkney Islands Tours
A
Seeing beautiful Scotland
Our guide was very knowledgeable about Scottish history and all of us learned a lot while seeing beautiful Scotland. This is a meaningful trip.
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B
An unforgettable Scotland trip
This tour took us all over Scotland and included incredible scenic vistas, castles and ruins, waterfull and whisky, ferry rides. It was an unforgettable trip.
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C
A memorable 3 days trip
Honestly this trip exceeded all of my expectations from the aspect of landscape and itinerary. It was a memorable trip.
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FAQs about Orkney Islands Tours
What is the best time of year to visit the Orkney Islands for mild weather and daylight?
The best time to visit the Orkney Islands is between May and September. During these months, temperatures range from 10-16°C, rainfall is relatively low, and daylight lasts up to 18 hours in summer. This period also offers ideal conditions for exploring Neolithic sites and coastal walks without the frequent storms of the winter months.
How do I get from Kirkwall Airport to the town center using public transport?
Kirkwall Airport is just 2 miles from the town center. Stagecoach bus service X1 runs regularly between the airport and Kirkwall, with a journey time of about 10 minutes. Tickets can be paid in cash (exact change advised) or by contactless card. Services operate on weekdays and Saturdays, but with reduced frequency on Sundays.
Is there a local pass for visiting historic sites like Skara Brae and Maeshowe in Orkney?
Yes, the Historic Environment Scotland (HES) Explorer Pass covers entry to Skara Brae, Maeshowe, Standing Stones of Stenness, and other HES sites in Orkney. The pass costs £57 for 7 days and offers unlimited access. It’s ideal for visitors planning to tour multiple Neolithic and Viking-era locations during their stay.
Are midges a problem when hiking in the Orkney countryside during summer?
Midges are significantly less common in the Orkney Islands compared to mainland Scotland due to constant sea breezes and lower humidity. While small biting insects may appear on calm, overcast days, they rarely reach problematic levels. Hikers typically do not require midge nets or repellent, but carrying a light spray as backup is still advisable.
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