A Travel Price Comparison for United Kingdom Orkney Islands vs. Edinburgh for Attractions, Backpackers, Food, and Nightlife

Should you visit Orkney Islands or Edinburgh?

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 Edinburgh can help you decide which place is right for you.

Orkney Islands

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

Edinburgh

Edinburgh is a vibrant, gothic, and ancient city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. As it offers a special and quaint atmosphere, visitors come from all over to experience this destination. It's also popular because of the museums, theater, and nightlife.

Orkney Islands and Edinburgh: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Orkney Islands or Edinburgh?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Edinburgh. Although Orkney Islands and Edinburgh are both popular with visitors, Edinburgh has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Edinburgh is more popular for its museums & sights, theatre productions, nightlife, music, historical sights, shopping, big city activities, and quaint atmosphere, while Orkney Islands is known for its food, beaches, and hiking. Edinburgh is more touristy than Orkney Islands and is known for its medieval Old Town, the Royal Mile, and its influence on the Harry Potter series. It is also home to The Edinburgh Castle. Orkney Islands is popular for its sandy beaches, serene landscape, and well-preserved Neolithic sights.

How is Orkney Islands different from Edinburgh?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Edinburgh 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 Edinburgh?

Edinburgh 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, Edinburgh has many famous sights for visitors. The most famous sights include the Edinburgh Castle, the Palace of Holyroodhouse, and the National Museum of Scotland. There are also kid-friendly museums like Camera Obscura.

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 Orkney Islands or Edinburgh Better for Theater?

Edinburgh is great for its shows and theatre. However, Orkney Islands is not a theatre destination.

Edinburgh has a number of performance venues where you can see a variety of shows. It's fun to see a live performance or attend one of the festivals in town.

Orkney Islands is not a theatre destination.

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

Orkney Islands is a very popular place for its restaurants. However, Edinburgh is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

Orkney Islands has a huge number of terrific 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.

Edinburgh may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. The city has some unique but famous dishes to try including haggis and black pudding. For slightly less intimidating options, check out the cullen skink, porridge, or smoked salmon. There are many fish and chips shops to choose from as well as a diversity of ethnic restaurants including Indian, Thai, and Ethiopian.

Is Orkney Islands or Edinburgh Better for Nightlife?

Edinburgh is great for its evening party scene. However, Orkney Islands is not a good destination for nightlife.

Many people head to Edinburgh for the nightlife scene. With so many students, the nightlife stays very active. There are a wide range of bars and clubs to choose from as well as some of the country's oldest pubs. Tourists tend to frequent the Old Town area, but you'll find more locals if you head to the student and university areas.

Most people don't head to Orkney Islands specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. You'll find the most pubs and a few nightclubs in the main town of Kirkwall.

Is Orkney Islands or Edinburgh Better for Music?

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

Edinburgh has become a mecca for musicians from around the world. In addition to a wide range of live music venues, there are also a number of music festivals held in town.

Orkney Islands is not a live music destination.

Is Orkney Islands or Edinburgh Better for Beaches?

Orkney Islands is a very popular place for the beache. However, Edinburgh is not a beach destination.

The beaches at Orkney Islands attract visitors from all over. 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.

Edinburgh is not a beach destination.

Is Orkney Islands or Edinburgh Better for its Old Town?

Edinburgh is renowned for its historic old town charm. However, Orkney Islands does not have a historic old town.

The old town of Edinburgh is one of the most recognized in the world. The city's Old Town attracts international visitors who come to see the Edinburgh Castle, the quaint streets, and the many shops and cafes. The Royal Mile is a popular area with pubs and souvenir shops. It connects the castle to the Scottish Parliament.

Orkney Islands does not have a historic old town.

Is Orkney Islands or Edinburgh Better for Hiking?

Orkney Islands is a very popular place for its hiking trails. However, Edinburgh is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Orkney Islands. 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.

Edinburgh is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Orkney Islands or Edinburgh?

Edinburgh is great for its shopping areas. However, Orkney Islands is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Edinburgh. Head to Princes Street in the New Town to visit department stores and other name brand shops. Nearby George Street has more boutique style shops and less crowds. In the Old Town, Victoria Street is filled with Harry Potter shops and tourist stores where you can pick up a kilt or Edinburgh sweatshirt.

Orkney Islands is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Orkney Islands or Edinburgh Better for Families?

Edinburgh 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 Edinburgh. Kids will enjoy wandering down Victoria Street and popping in the Harry Potter shops. There are also a number of fascinating Harry Potter tours that take you through notable landmarks where J.K. Rowling was inspired to write these popular stories. You'll even visit Tom Riddle's gravesite. Other highlights that families will enjoy include Edinburgh Castle and the Edinburgh Dungeon, which is best for older kids or kids that enjoy a good scare. Younger kids will enjoy a trip the illusions museum, Camera Obscura, which also offers one of the best views of the city.

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 Edinburgh Better for Couples?

Both Orkney Islands and Edinburgh are superb destinations to visit as a couple.

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.

Edinburgh is a very popular place to visit for couples. With its castle and the Royal Mile, there are many romantic places to explore as a couple. There are also good restaurants and some nice hotels. Whether you're interested in history, food, or fun, this city makes for a great couples trip.

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

Edinburgh 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 Edinburgh, as it is a very popular city for budget travelers. The city has some good hostels and an active nightlife, so it's not hard to find other travelers to hang out with. It's a well visited city with many areas that attracted younger travelers or students.

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 Edinburgh Better for Students?

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

Edinburgh is very popular with students. This multicultural city is popular with international students because of its excellent research and academic centers as well as its unique history.

Orkney Islands is not popular with students.

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

Orkney Islands and Edinburgh both offer good public transit to get you around.

While Orkney Islands offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. Buses travel to many parts of the islands and many islands are connected by ferries.

Edinburgh has a few public transit options. Buses are the best way to get into town from the outer edges if you don't have a car.

Is Orkney Islands or Edinburgh a more walkable city?

Edinburgh is renowned for its ease of walking around. However, Orkney Islands is not a good destination for its walkability.

Edinburgh is a very easy city to get around on foot. The Old Town in particular is fun to walk around

Orkney Islands is not a walkable archipelago. Walking is a great way to enjoy the beauty, but you'll need a vehicle to travel from place to place.

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

Should I spend more time in Edinburgh or Orkney Islands?

How long in Orkney Islands or Edinburgh?

In either Orkney Islands or Edinburgh, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Orkney Islands than Edinburgh because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Orkney Islands, and 2-5 days is enough time in Edinburgh.

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

Couples should spend more time in Edinburgh than Orkney Islands. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Edinburgh that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Edinburgh 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 Edinburgh.

One day in Orkney Islands or Edinburgh?

You'll find food and museums around the archipelago of Orkney Islands. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

In Edinburgh, you'll find nightlife and live music. Visiting the old town is also a must. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Orkney Islands or Edinburgh?

You'll find museums and food around the remote destination of Orkney Islands. Hikers are also drawn to this area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This archipelago offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Edinburgh is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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 Edinburgh?

You'll find food and museums around the serene archipelago of Orkney Islands. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this archipelago makes for a great vacation. It's also a great beach destination, too. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this archipelago has to offer.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Edinburgh. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. 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 Edinburgh?

Orkney Islands is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Orkney Islands, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Travelers enjoy the museums and theater when visiting the quaint city of Edinburgh. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Your budget might influence how long you stay. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from Edinburgh, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United Kingdom, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United Kingdom, and The Best Historical Tours in United Kingdom.

When comparing the travel costs between Orkney Islands and Edinburgh, we can see that Edinburgh 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 Edinburgh Expensive?.

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

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 Edinburgh in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Orkney Islands and Edinburgh. Many travelers come to Orkney Islands for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Edinburgh in the summer for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Orkney Islands is generally cooler than Edinburgh. Daily temperatures in Orkney Islands average around 12°C (54°F), and Edinburgh fluctuates around 14°C (58°F).

Orkney Islands usually receives less sunshine than Edinburgh during summer. Orkney Islands gets 129 hours of sunny skies, while Edinburgh receives 163 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Orkney Islands usually receives around the same amount of rain as Edinburgh. Orkney Islands gets 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Edinburgh receives 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Orkney Islands or Edinburgh in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Orkney Islands as well as Edinburgh. Many visitors come to Orkney Islands in the autumn for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, most visitors come to Edinburgh for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Orkney Islands is around the same temperature as Edinburgh in the autumn. The daily temperature in Orkney Islands averages around 9°C (48°F) in October, and Edinburgh fluctuates around 10°C (49°F).

In the autumn, Orkney Islands often gets less sunshine than Edinburgh. Orkney Islands gets 73 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Edinburgh receives 90 hours of full sun.

Orkney Islands receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Orkney Islands usually gets more rain in October than Edinburgh. Orkney Islands gets 116 mm (4.6 in) of rain, while Edinburgh receives 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Orkney Islands or Edinburgh in the Winter?

Both Edinburgh and Orkney Islands are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Orkney Islands for the museums and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Edinburgh because of the museums, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine.

The weather in Edinburgh can be very cold. Orkney Islands can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Orkney Islands is a little warmer than Edinburgh. Typically, the winter temperatures in Orkney Islands in January average around 4°C (39°F), and Edinburgh averages at about 3°C (38°F).

Orkney Islands usually receives less sunshine than Edinburgh during winter. Orkney Islands gets 29 hours of sunny skies, while Edinburgh receives 48 hours of full sun in the winter.

It's quite rainy in Orkney Islands. In January, Orkney Islands usually receives more rain than Edinburgh. Orkney Islands gets 106 mm (4.2 in) of rain, while Edinburgh receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Orkney Islands or Edinburgh in the Spring?

Both Edinburgh and Orkney Islands during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Orkney Islands because of the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, the activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Edinburgh this time of year.

In April, Orkney Islands is generally cooler than Edinburgh. Daily temperatures in Orkney Islands average around 6°C (43°F), and Edinburgh fluctuates around 7°C (45°F).

In the spring, Orkney Islands often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Edinburgh. Orkney Islands gets 135 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Edinburgh receives 132 hours of full sun.

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

Typical Weather for Edinburgh and Orkney Islands