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

Should you visit Orkney Islands or Frankfurt?

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

Orkney Islands

Orkney Islands is a pristine, remote, and serene archipelago. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the beaches, hiking, and museums.

Frankfurt

Frankfurt is a diverse, accessible, and modern city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Orkney Islands and Frankfurt: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Public transit not as usable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • 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 Frankfurt?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Frankfurt. Although Orkney Islands and Frankfurt are popular destinations, Frankfurt has more sights and attractions for tourists. Frankfurt is very popular for its museums, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Orkney Islands attracts visitors for its beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Frankfurt is more touristy than Orkney Islands and is known for its financial industry, its popularity as a transportation hub, and its active nightlife. It is also well known for The Old Town Center. Orkney Islands is famous for its sandy beaches, serene landscape, and well-preserved Neolithic sights.

The Old Town Center
The Old Town Center

How is Orkney Islands different from Frankfurt?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Orkney Islands
Frankfurt

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

Many visitors head to Frankfurt specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. Many sights are concentrated in the old town center. Highlights include the Historical Museum and St. Nicholas Church. Elsewhere, make sure you check out Maintower, the Städel Museum, and the Museum District.

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 Frankfurt? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Orkney Islands
Frankfurt

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at very good restaurants in both Orkney Islands and Frankfurt.

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, Frankfurt makes for a great culinary experience. In addition to a number of international restaurants, the city also has a strong regional cuisine. Some of the most interesting local dishes include Frankfurter Sausage, Rindwurst, Grüne Soße (an herb sauce), and Handkäse mit Musik (marinated sour milk cheese). Also make sure you sample the Apfelwein.

Is Orkney Islands or Frankfurt Better for Nightlife?

Orkney Islands
Frankfurt

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

Many people head to Frankfurt for the nightlife scene. It's a vibrant city with many trendy clubs, cocktail bars, music venues, and more. You can enjoy techno, hip hop, and almost any style of music. There are also festivals, beer halls, and classic pubs.

Orkney Islands is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Orkney Islands or Frankfurt Better for Beaches?

Orkney Islands
Frankfurt

Orkney Islands is an excellent place to visit for the beach. However, Frankfurt is not a beach destination.

Orkney Islands is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. 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.

Frankfurt is not a beach destination.


Is Orkney Islands or Frankfurt Better for its Old Town?

Orkney Islands
Frankfurt

Frankfurt is very good for its historic old town charm. However, Orkney Islands does not have a historic old town.

Frankfurt has an old town worth visiting. Many museums and cafes are concentrated in the old town area.

Orkney Islands does not have a historic old town.

Is Orkney Islands or Frankfurt Better for Hiking?

Orkney Islands
Frankfurt

Orkney Islands is an excellent place to visit for its hiking trails. However, Frankfurt 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.

Frankfurt is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Orkney Islands or Frankfurt?

Orkney Islands
Frankfurt

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

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Frankfurt. It's a financial capital in Europe, and as such there are plenty of high end shopping opportunities. MyZeil is a major shopping mall in the city and Kleinmarkthalle is a more classic market. Popular shopping neighborhoods and streets include Goethestrasse, Sachsenhausen and Berger Strasse.

Orkney Islands is not a noteworthy shopping destination.


Is Orkney Islands or Frankfurt Better for Families?

Orkney Islands
Frankfurt

Frankfurt 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 Frankfurt. In town there's a zoo, a children’s museum, a math and technology museum (EXPERIMINTA), and a number of parks, natural areas, and playgrounds. If you're willing to head out of town then you can visit Taunus Wunderland, which is an amusement park with about 50 rides and attractions.

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 Frankfurt Better for Couples?

Orkney Islands
Frankfurt

Orkney Islands is an excellent place to visit for couples. Also, Frankfurt is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Orkney Islands makes for a fun place to visit for 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.

Frankfurt is a nice destination for couples. The iconic spot of romance in the city is the Iron Footbridge, which is a traditional spot to attach a "love lock" and take a selfie. The city also offers river cruises, winery tours, and beautiful parks and natural areas.

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

Orkney Islands
Frankfurt

For backpackers, both Orkney Islands and Frankfurt are very good places to visit.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers 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.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Frankfurt. You'll find a number of hostels in town. The city is also a major transportation hub so many backpackers pass through the area at some point on their trip through Germany.


Is Orkney Islands or Frankfurt Better for Students?

Orkney Islands
Frankfurt

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

Students come from all over the world to visit Frankfurt. The city offers prestigious universities and a world class education. The economy offers many internships and job opportunities and you'll find students from around the world studying here. Frankfurt is also well connected to the rest of Europe, so it's easy to explore the region.

Orkney Islands is not popular with students.

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

Orkney Islands
Frankfurt

Frankfurt 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.

Frankfurt has a great public transit system. It is a huge transportation hub with a major international airport and a number of international train connections. Locally, the city has a subway, trams, commuter trains and buses.

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 Frankfurt a more walkable city?

Orkney Islands
Frankfurt

Frankfurt is great for its ease of walking around. However, Orkney Islands is not a walkable destination.

Frankfurt is a very walkable destination. It has a compact city center that is generally pedestrian-friendly.

Orkney Islands is not a walkable destination.


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

Should I spend more time in Frankfurt or Orkney Islands?

How long in Orkney Islands or Frankfurt?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Orkney Islands and Frankfurt. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Orkney Islands than in Frankfurt. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Orkney Islands, and 1-3 days is enough time in Frankfurt.

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

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


  • How many days in Orkney Islands or Frankfurt? Ideal Length of Stay
    Orkney Islands 3-7 
    Frankfurt 1-3

One day in Orkney Islands or Frankfurt?

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.

Because Frankfurt is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. So, one day is just the right amount of time to spend here.

A weekend in Orkney Islands or Frankfurt?

You'll find museums and food around the pristine 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.

Frankfurt 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 Frankfurt?

You'll find food and museums around the remote 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 Frankfurt. It offers something for everyone. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.


A week in Orkney Islands or Frankfurt?

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 shopping and museums when visiting the city of Frankfurt. 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 Coach Bus Tours in Germany, and The Best Adventure Tours to Germany.


Which place is cheaper, Frankfurt 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 Frankfurt is £105. 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 Frankfurt in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Orkney Islands £60
    Frankfurt £49
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Orkney Islands £120
    Frankfurt £98
Compare Hotels in Orkney Islands and Frankfurt

Looking for a hotel in Orkney Islands or Frankfurt? 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 Frankfurt


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.


Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Orkney Islands £56
    Frankfurt £21

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Frankfurt

Here are some examples of typical transportation prices from actual travelers in Frankfurt:


  • Car Rental
    £43

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Frankfurt

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

  • Private transfer from Frankfurt am Main to Prague: $1,059
  • Transfer from Frankfurt Airport to Munich: $695
  • Transfer from Frankfurt Airport to Baden-Baden: $396
  • Frankfurt Highlights Private Car Tour with Airport Transfers: $383
  • Private Transfer: Frankfurt to River Cruise Dock Nuremberg Port/Harbor transport: $284
  • Transfer in Private Vehicle from Frankfurt Airport (FRA)- Kaiserlautern: $267
  • Private Transfer Frankfurt Airport to Heidelberg City by Minivan: $157
  • Frankfurt Airport (FRA) to Baden-Baden Thermal - Arrival Transfer: $142
  • Frankfurt Airport (FRA): Private Transfer to Frankfurt: $140
  • BaronFleet Frankfurt- Arrival & Departure Airport Transfers: $132
  • Roundtrip Transfer Private Minivan Frankfurt Airport (FRA) - Frankfurt City: $123
  • Frankfurt Airport (FRA) to Frankfurt Round-Trip Private Transfer: $109

Is it cheaper to fly into Orkney Islands or Frankfurt?

Prices for flights to both Frankfurt 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
    Frankfurt £35

Typical Food Prices in Frankfurt

For Frankfurt, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Soda
    £1.71
  • Bagel Sandwich and Latte
    £5.99
  • Ham & Cheese Sandwich and Coffee
    £5.13
  • Sandwich and Cola
    £5.99

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Frankfurt

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

  • FOOD TOUR WITH 3-4 LOCAL INSIDER FOODSPOTS: $80
  • Eltz Castle Small-Group Tour from Frankfurt with Dinner: $281

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Orkney Islands £27
    Frankfurt £31

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

Tours and Activities in Frankfurt

For Frankfurt, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • 2-Hour Best of Frankfurt Walking Tour (English): $26
  • Atta Dripstone Cave and Braunfels Castle Tour from Frankfurt: $271
  • Bike Tour of Frankfurt Top Attractions & Nature with a Guide : $207
  • Bike tour city tour by bike to Skyline, Goethe, and apple wine: $53
  • Brandenburg Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $11
  • Breathtaking Pearls of Frankfurt - Walking Tour: $242
  • Cologne & Limburg Full-Day Tour: $283
  • Culinary Frankfurt Walking Tour: $609
  • Exciting private city tour of Frankfurt for your group: $164
  • Explore Bird & Marine Wildlife private Boat Tour in English: $108
  • Franfurt Horror Tour: Terror of the White Spider: $20
  • Frankfurt - Old Town Historic Walking Tour: $374

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Orkney Islands £6.43
    Frankfurt £26

Typical Alcohol Prices in Frankfurt

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for alcohol and nightlife costs in Frankfurt:


  • Becks Beer
    £1.71

Sample the Local Flavors in Frankfurt

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Frankfurt:

  • Night Pub Crawl through Alt-Sachsenhausen: $21
  • Enjoy the night with our Pub Tours: $32
  • Weekend Night Pub Crawl through Alt-Sachsenhausen: $34
  • Full Day Private Rhine Valley Wine Tour Experience from Frankfurt: $279
  • Frankfurt Wine Tasting Tour with a Wine Expert: $280
  • Frankfurt Wine Tasting Tour with a Wine Expert: $286
  • Guided Walk Tour With Apple Wine Tasting: $334
  • Bachelor(ette) Party with Pub Crawl: $401
  • Private Premium Pub Crawl Tour: $513
  • Private Rhine Valley tour with river cruise & wine tasting: $748


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Orkney Islands and Frankfurt, we can see that Orkney Islands is more expensive. And not only is Frankfurt much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Frankfurt would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Frankfurt and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Orkney Islands would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Orkney Islands than you might in Frankfurt.

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 Frankfurt Expensive?.



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

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 Frankfurt in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Orkney Islands and Frankfurt. The summer months attract visitors to Orkney Islands because of the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Frankfurt this time of year.

Orkney Islands is much colder than Frankfurt in the summer. The daily temperature in Orkney Islands averages around 12°C (54°F) in July, and Frankfurt fluctuates around 19°C (67°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Frankfurt this time of the year. Orkney Islands usually receives less sunshine than Frankfurt during summer. Orkney Islands gets 129 hours of sunny skies, while Frankfurt receives 225 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Orkney Islands usually receives less rain than Frankfurt. Orkney Islands gets 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Frankfurt receives 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Orkney Islands 12°C (54°F) 
    Frankfurt 19°C (67°F)

Should I visit Orkney Islands or Frankfurt in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Orkney Islands as well as Frankfurt. The hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Orkney Islands this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Frankfurt for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Orkney Islands is cooler than Frankfurt. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Orkney Islands in October average around 9°C (48°F), and Frankfurt averages at about 11°C (51°F).

In the autumn, Orkney Islands often gets less sunshine than Frankfurt. Orkney Islands gets 73 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Frankfurt receives 103 hours of full sun.

Orkney Islands receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Orkney Islands usually gets more rain in October than Frankfurt. Orkney Islands gets 116 mm (4.6 in) of rain, while Frankfurt receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Orkney Islands 9°C (48°F) 
    Frankfurt 11°C (51°F)

Should I visit Orkney Islands or Frankfurt in the Winter?

Both Frankfurt and Orkney Islands are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Orkney Islands for the museums and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Frankfurt in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Frankfurt can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Orkney Islands. In January, Orkney Islands is generally much warmer than Frankfurt. Daily temperatures in Orkney Islands average around 4°C (39°F), and Frankfurt fluctuates around 1°C (34°F).

Orkney Islands usually receives less sunshine than Frankfurt during winter. Orkney Islands gets 29 hours of sunny skies, while Frankfurt receives 41 hours of full sun in the winter.

It's quite rainy in Orkney Islands. In January, Orkney Islands usually receives more rain than Frankfurt. Orkney Islands gets 106 mm (4.2 in) of rain, while Frankfurt receives 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Orkney Islands 4°C (39°F) 
    Frankfurt 1°C (34°F)

Should I visit Orkney Islands or Frankfurt in the Spring?

Both Frankfurt and Orkney Islands during the spring are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Orkney Islands in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty. Furthermore, most visitors come to Frankfurt for the activities around the city during these months.

Orkney Islands is much colder than Frankfurt in the spring. The daily temperature in Orkney Islands averages around 6°C (43°F) in April, and Frankfurt fluctuates around 10°C (50°F).

In the spring, Orkney Islands often gets less sunshine than Frankfurt. Orkney Islands gets 135 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Frankfurt receives 163 hours of full sun.

Orkney Islands usually gets more rain in April than Frankfurt. Orkney Islands gets 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Frankfurt receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Orkney Islands 6°C (43°F) 
    Frankfurt 10°C (50°F)

Typical Weather for Frankfurt and Orkney Islands

Orkney Islands Frankfurt
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 4°C (39°F) 106 mm (4.2 in) 1°C (34°F) 44 mm (1.7 in)
Feb 4°C (38°F) 73 mm (2.9 in) 3°C (37°F) 40 mm (1.6 in)
Mar 5°C (40°F) 84 mm (3.3 in) 6°C (43°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Apr 6°C (43°F) 56 mm (2.2 in) 10°C (50°F) 52 mm (2 in)
May 9°C (47°F) 50 mm (2 in) 14°C (58°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Jun 11°C (52°F) 52 mm (2 in) 17°C (63°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Jul 12°C (54°F) 56 mm (2.2 in) 19°C (67°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)
Aug 13°C (55°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 19°C (66°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
Sep 11°C (52°F) 102 mm (4 in) 16°C (60°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)
Oct 9°C (48°F) 116 mm (4.6 in) 11°C (51°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Nov 6°C (42°F) 123 mm (4.8 in) 5°C (42°F) 59 mm (2.3 in)
Dec 4°C (40°F) 113 mm (4.4 in) 2°C (36°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)