A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Orkney Islands vs. Berlin for Attractions, Backpackers, Food, and Families

Should you visit Orkney Islands or Berlin?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Orkney Islands and Berlin can help you decide which place is right for you.

Orkney Islands

Orkney Islands is a remote, serene, and tranquil archipelago. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the museums, food, and beaches.

Berlin

Berlin is a historic, cultural, and artsy city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. It's also popular because of the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Orkney Islands and Berlin: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Public transit not as usable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
  • Big city activities


Is there more to do in Orkney Islands or Berlin?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Berlin. Although Orkney Islands and Berlin are both popular with visitors, Berlin has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Berlin is more popular for its museums, nightlife, music, shopping, and big city activities, while Orkney Islands is known for its beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Berlin is more touristy than Orkney Islands and is known for its art scene, cultural activities, and war torn history. It is also home to the Brandenburg Gate. Orkney Islands is popular for its sandy beaches, serene landscape, and well-preserved Neolithic sights.

How is Orkney Islands different from Berlin?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Berlin and Orkney Islands. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Orkney Islands or Berlin?

Orkney Islands
Berlin

Berlin is renowned for its historical sights. Also, Orkney Islands is not as popular, but is still a nice archipelago for its sights and museums.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Berlin has many famous sights for visitors. Famous landmarks include the rebuilt Reichstag, the Berlin Wall Memorial, and Berliner Fernsehturm. Many of the city's oldest and most famous museums are found on Museum Island, where you'll find the Pergamon Museum, the James Simon Gallery, the Altes Museum, and the Neues Museum, among others.

Orkney Islands is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. The islands is home to a number of archaeological ruins including the stone age village of Skara Brae and the neolithic chambered cairn of Maes Howee. Also check out impressive Ring of Brodgar stone circle as well as the oldest dwelling in the UK, the Knap of Howar on Papa Westray.


Is the Food Better in Orkney Islands or Berlin? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Orkney Islands
Berlin

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at excellent restaurants in both Orkney Islands and Berlin.

Orkney Islands has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. You'll find so many local products on the islands. It's famous for its local beef, lamb, salmon, and seafood, but you'll also find cheeses and produce. There are two breweries on the island as well. Many people pick up some items that they take home with them.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Berlin makes for a great culinary experience. There's a great international food scene, but also all of the traditional favorites like currywurst, spätzle, and schnitzel. You'll find many diverse food halls, street markets, and local restaurants, as well as a large selection of traditional German restaurants that cater to the tourists.

Is Orkney Islands or Berlin Better for Nightlife?

Orkney Islands
Berlin

Berlin is renowned for its evening party scene. However, Orkney Islands is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Berlin is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. The nightlife scene here is legendary. There are club nights that last for days, bars and parties that appeal to every personality, and a diversity of venues that you can choose from. You'll find the classic techno warehouses, but there are also modern dance clubs, bunker parties, and raves.

Orkney Islands is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Orkney Islands or Berlin Better for Music?

Orkney Islands
Berlin

Berlin is renowned for its music scene. However, Orkney Islands is not a live music destination.

Berlin has become a mecca for musicians from around the world. From the raves to the techno parties, there is a hugely diverse music scene in the city. It is so much more than the stereotypical punk and techno music that Berlin is known for. Rock, pop, and other genres are popular as well.

Orkney Islands is not a live music destination.


Is Orkney Islands or Berlin Better for Beaches?

Orkney Islands
Berlin

Orkney Islands is a great archipelago for the beache. However, Berlin is not a beach destination.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Orkney Islands. The archipelago has hundreds of miles of beaches that feel serene and remote. If you're looking for a tranquil setting that is natural and untouched, you'll have many to choose from. Some of the best beaches on the islands include Tresness Beach, Grobust Beach, and Sands of Evie Beach.

Berlin is not a beach destination.

Is Orkney Islands or Berlin Better for Hiking?

Orkney Islands
Berlin

Orkney Islands is a great archipelago for hiking. However, Berlin is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Orkney Islands for the hiking trails. Rolling hills and rugged landscapes make for relaxing and beautiful walks. There are also many archaeological ruins that you can explore. Favorite hikes in the area include Balfour Village and Mill Dam, Birsay Whalebone, and Birwick to Barth Head.

Berlin is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Orkney Islands or Berlin?

Orkney Islands
Berlin

Berlin is renowned for its shopping areas. However, Orkney Islands is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Many people travel to Berlin specifically to go shopping. Bookshops, flea markets, luxury boutiques and artisan shops all make up the shopping scene in the city. Kurfürstendamm is one of the most famous shopping districts in the city.

Orkney Islands is not a noteworthy shopping destination.


Is Orkney Islands or Berlin Better for Families?

Orkney Islands
Berlin

Berlin is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Orkney Islands is not as popular, but is still a nice archipelago for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Berlin. The city has a number of great kid-friendly museums such as the Museum of Natural History and the Computer Games Museum. There's also Legoland, an impressive aquarium, and lots of parks and playgrounds to explore.

Orkney Islands is a family-friendly place to visit. Exploring the beaches is one of the best way to spend your days with kids. There are also several places you can take the kids like Barony Mill, Skate Rumple Alpaca Farm, Corrigall Farm Museum, and Kirbuster Farm Museum.

Is Orkney Islands or Berlin Better for Couples?

Orkney Islands
Berlin

Orkney Islands is a great archipelago for its romantic activities. Also, Berlin is not as popular, but is still a nice city for couples.

Orkney Islands is a great archipelago if you're traveling as a couple. Nature lovers will enjoy the stunning beaches and beautiful natural setting. There are also some great restaurants and even live music performances that make for a fun date night.

Berlin is a good archipelago for couples to visit. Romantic activities in the city include wandering through Schloss Charlottenburg gardens and learning to dance at Clärchen’s Ballhaus. For couples who enjoy a night out on the town, there are many great restaurants and nightclubs that you can check out.

Is Orkney Islands or Berlin Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Orkney Islands
Berlin

Berlin is renowned for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Orkney Islands is not as popular, but is still a nice archipelago for backpackers.

A large number of backpackers visit Berlin, as it is a very popular city for budget travelers. The city has no shortage of hostels to choose from, many of which organize activities and tours that guests can enjoy.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Orkney Islands. If camping is your style, you'll find some great campgrounds and campsites that make the most of this beautiful natural setting.


Is Orkney Islands or Berlin Better for Students?

Orkney Islands
Berlin

Berlin is renowned for its student-friendly activities. However, Orkney Islands is not popular with students.

Students come from all over the world to visit Berlin. With it's rich culture and eclectic creative side, this city appeals to many international students. There's also a great social scene that is perfect for university students.

Orkney Islands is not popular with students.

Is Orkney Islands or Berlin Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Orkney Islands
Berlin

Berlin is renowned for times when you don't have a car. Also, Orkney Islands is not as popular, but is still a nice archipelago for its public transit.

Berlin has a great public transit system. The transportation system is diverse and includes the S-Bahn, U-Bahn, buses, and trams.

Orkney Islands has a few public transit options. Buses travel to many parts of the islands and many islands are connected by ferries.

Is Orkney Islands or Berlin a more walkable city?

Orkney Islands
Berlin

Berlin is very good for its ease of walking around. However, Orkney Islands is not a walkable destination.

Berlin is a somewhat walkable city. While parts of the city are very walkable, the neighborhoods are spread out and the city covers a large amount of space, so walking isn't always practical.

Orkney Islands is not a walkable destination.


For even more information, also check out Is Orkney Islands Worth Visiting? and Is Berlin Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Berlin or Orkney Islands?

How long in Orkney Islands or Berlin?

Both Orkney Islands and Berlin have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Berlin has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Berlin than Orkney Islands. In general, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Orkney Islands, and 2-7 days is enough time in Berlin.

Families should spend more time in Berlin than Orkney Islands. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Berlin, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Berlin than Orkney Islands if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Berlin.


  • How many days in Orkney Islands or Berlin? Ideal Length of Stay
    Orkney Islands 3-7 
    Berlin 2-7

One day in Orkney Islands or Berlin?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and food when visiting the destination of Orkney Islands. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

Because Berlin is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Orkney Islands or Berlin?

Orkney Islands is a great place to explore. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Berlin is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Because of this, a weekend is usually enough time for a trip here.

Five days in Orkney Islands or Berlin?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Orkney Islands. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Berlin. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. It offers something for everyone. Because of this, five days is usually enough time for a trip here.


A week in Orkney Islands or Berlin?

Many travelers enjoy the food and museums when visiting the serene destination of Orkney Islands. This archipelago offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Because Berlin is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. Your budget might influence how long you stay. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. One week is usually enough time to experience most activities.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from Edinburgh, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United Kingdom, The Best Adventure Tours to Germany, and The Best Cultural Tours in Germany.


Which place is cheaper, Berlin or Orkney Islands?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Orkney Islands is £128, while the average daily cost in Berlin is £118. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Orkney Islands and Berlin in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Orkney Islands £60
    Berlin £55
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Orkney Islands £120
    Berlin £110
Compare Hotels in Orkney Islands and Berlin

Looking for a hotel in Orkney Islands or Berlin? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Orkney Islands


Hotels in Berlin


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Berlin Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Orkney Islands £56
    Berlin £15

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Berlin

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for transportation costs in Berlin:


  • Short Trip Metro Ticket
    £1.20
  • Bahn Ticket
    £2.57
  • Short Taxi Ride
    £17

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Berlin

Also for Berlin, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Private transfer from Berlin to Prague: $727
  • Private Highlights Tour with Hotel Transfers: $367
  • Trabi Limousine Airport Transfer with City Tour: $358
  • Private Minivan Transfer with Driver and Guide: $321
  • Try find your better than us ! Airport transfer service in Berlin APT-HTL (SXF): $300
  • Try find your better than us ! Airport transfer service in Berlin HTL-APT (SXF): $300
  • Private transfer from Berlin to Prague with stops at Potsdam + Sanssouci Palace: $295
  • Private Transfer from Berlin to Nuremberg with 2h of Sightseeing: $276
  • Private Transfer, Berlin to Prague with 2h of Sightseeing, 8 pax: $273
  • Classic Remise Private Tour with Transfer: $271
  • Private transfer from Berlin to Prague with Terezin Concentration Camp stop: $267
  • Private Transfer: Berlin to River Cruise Dock Nuremberg - Port/Harbor transport: $263

Is it cheaper to fly into Orkney Islands or Berlin?

Prices for flights to both Berlin and Orkney Islands change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Orkney Islands £34
    Berlin £44

Typical Food Prices in Berlin

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Berlin:


  • Sandwich and Coffee To Go
    £4.28
  • Turkish Sandwich
    £1.71
  • Currywurst
    £1.71
  • 2 Pho Noodles
    £7.70
  • Restaurant Dinner and Beers (for 2)
    £51
  • Mauer Park (2)
    £9.41
  • Coffees at Impala
    £6.67

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Berlin

For Berlin, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • English Stand-Up Comedy with Pizza and Shots: $19
  • Hard Rock Cafe Berlin with Set Menu for Lunch or Dinner: $27
  • English Comedy Showcase Including Pizza in Berlin Mitte: $28
  • Hard Rock Cafe Berlin With Set Lunch or Dinner : $34
  • Kreuzberg kulinarisch – Die Food Tour: $48
  • Berlin Mitte kulinarisch – Die Food Tour: $48
  • No Diet Club - Street Food Tour with many Tastings !: $59
  • Evening Yacht Cruise with Aperitif & Optional Dinner: $63
  • Sicilian Cooking Workshop with unlimited drinks: $70
  • Evening Food Tour by Bike: $70
  • Sharing plate food tour in Berlin: $76
  • Dinner Cruise on the Spree with Prosecco: $79

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Orkney Islands £27
    Berlin £19

Tours and Activities in Orkney Islands

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Orkney Islands.

  • From Kirkwall - Orkney Mainland Private Tour: $275
  • Semi Private Tour - Orkney and Kirkwall : $246

Typical Entertainment Prices in Berlin

For Berlin, here are some examples of average entertainment and activity prices from previous travelers:


  • Berlin Zoo (2)
    £17

Tours and Activities in Berlin

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Berlin.

  • East Berlin and the Berlin Wall 2-Hour Walking Tour : $22
  • Sachsenhausen Concentration Camp Memorial Tour from Berlin.: $32
  • (E) Bike Tour for Non Bikers option Rickshaw Shared Guide: $48
  • 2 Hours Berlin City Guided Electric Trike Tour: $59
  • 2 Hours E-Scooter Tour: $60
  • 2-Hour Private Berlin Walking Tour, Berlin in the Third Reich and Cold War: $213
  • 2-Hour Segway Discovery Tour Berlin: $75
  • 3 Hours Berlin City Guided Electric Trike Tour: $73
  • 3-Hour Bike Tour of Tiergarten and Berlin's Hidden Places: $35
  • 3-Hour Private Berlin Bike Tour: Vibes of Berlin: $184
  • 3D Adventure black light mini golf (Berlin): $21
  • 4 Hours 2 Person Highlights Berlin Rickshaw Tour with Guide : $207

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Orkney Islands £6.43
    Berlin £14

Typical Alcohol Prices in Berlin

Here are a few samples of the prices for alcohol and nightlife in Berlin from other travelers:


  • Drinks at a Show
    £12

Sample the Local Flavors in Berlin

Also in Berlin, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Original One80 Berlin Pub Crawl: $16
  • VIP Pub Crawl with Drinks and Challenges: $16
  • brewery tour with beer tasting: $19
  • Vagabund Brauerei Beer Tasting & Guided Brewery Tour: $24
  • Pub Crawl with Skip-the-Line Club Entry: $24
  • Berlin Pub Crawl and Nightlife Clubbing tour: $26
  • The Showgirls of Burlesque: $46
  • Showgirls of Burlesque Entry Ticket: $69
  • Berlin:sunset boat trip with Argentine wine tasting and food: $214
  • German Wine Tasting Tour at the Best Wine Bars in Berlin: $250
  • German Wine Tasting Tour at the Best Wine Bars in Berlin: $255
  • Bachelor(ette) Party with Pub Crawl: $401


When comparing the travel costs between Orkney Islands and Berlin, we can see that Orkney Islands is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Orkney Islands Expensive? and Is Berlin Expensive?.



When is the best time to visit Orkney Islands or Berlin?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Orkney Islands or Berlin in the Summer?

Both Berlin and Orkney Islands are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Orkney Islands this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Berlin for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Orkney Islands is generally much colder than Berlin. Daily temperatures in Orkney Islands average around 12°C (54°F), and Berlin fluctuates around 19°C (66°F).

It's quite sunny in Berlin. Orkney Islands usually receives less sunshine than Berlin during summer. Orkney Islands gets 129 hours of sunny skies, while Berlin receives 227 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Orkney Islands usually receives more rain than Berlin. Orkney Islands gets 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Berlin receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Orkney Islands 12°C (54°F) 
    Berlin 19°C (66°F)

Should I visit Orkney Islands or Berlin in the Autumn?

Both Berlin and Orkney Islands during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Orkney Islands for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, many visitors come to Berlin in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene.

Orkney Islands is cooler than Berlin in the autumn. The daily temperature in Orkney Islands averages around 9°C (48°F) in October, and Berlin fluctuates around 10°C (50°F).

In the autumn, Orkney Islands often gets less sunshine than Berlin. Orkney Islands gets 73 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Berlin receives 106 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Orkney Islands. Orkney Islands usually gets more rain in October than Berlin. Orkney Islands gets 116 mm (4.6 in) of rain, while Berlin receives 35 mm (1.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Orkney Islands 9°C (48°F) 
    Berlin 10°C (50°F)

Should I visit Orkney Islands or Berlin in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Orkney Islands and Berlin. Many visitors come to Orkney Islands in the winter for the museums and the cuisine. Furthermore, most visitors come to Berlin for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Berlin can be very cold during winter. Orkney Islands can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Orkney Islands is much warmer than Berlin. Typically, the winter temperatures in Orkney Islands in January average around 4°C (39°F), and Berlin averages at about -0°C (31°F).

Orkney Islands usually receives less sunshine than Berlin during winter. Orkney Islands gets 29 hours of sunny skies, while Berlin receives 42 hours of full sun in the winter.

Orkney Islands gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In January, Orkney Islands usually receives more rain than Berlin. Orkney Islands gets 106 mm (4.2 in) of rain, while Berlin receives 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Orkney Islands 4°C (39°F) 
    Berlin -0°C (31°F)

Should I visit Orkney Islands or Berlin in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Orkney Islands as well as Berlin. Most visitors come to Orkney Islands for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months. Additionally, the spring months attract visitors to Berlin because of the activities around the city.

In April, Orkney Islands is generally cooler than Berlin. Daily temperatures in Orkney Islands average around 6°C (43°F), and Berlin fluctuates around 9°C (47°F).

In the spring, Orkney Islands often gets less sunshine than Berlin. Orkney Islands gets 135 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Berlin receives 160 hours of full sun.

Orkney Islands usually gets more rain in April than Berlin. Orkney Islands gets 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Berlin receives 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Orkney Islands 6°C (43°F) 
    Berlin 9°C (47°F)

Typical Weather for Berlin and Orkney Islands

Orkney Islands Berlin
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 4°C (39°F) 106 mm (4.2 in) -0°C (31°F) 40 mm (1.6 in)
Feb 4°C (38°F) 73 mm (2.9 in) 1°C (33°F) 31 mm (1.2 in)
Mar 5°C (40°F) 84 mm (3.3 in) 4°C (40°F) 35 mm (1.4 in)
Apr 6°C (43°F) 56 mm (2.2 in) 9°C (47°F) 40 mm (1.6 in)
May 9°C (47°F) 50 mm (2 in) 14°C (57°F) 52 mm (2 in)
Jun 11°C (52°F) 52 mm (2 in) 17°C (63°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Jul 12°C (54°F) 56 mm (2.2 in) 19°C (66°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Aug 13°C (55°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 18°C (65°F) 57 mm (2.2 in)
Sep 11°C (52°F) 102 mm (4 in) 15°C (59°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Oct 9°C (48°F) 116 mm (4.6 in) 10°C (50°F) 35 mm (1.4 in)
Nov 6°C (42°F) 123 mm (4.8 in) 5°C (41°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)
Dec 4°C (40°F) 113 mm (4.4 in) 2°C (35°F) 51 mm (2 in)