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

Should you visit Orkney Islands or Glasgow?

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

Orkney Islands

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

Glasgow

Glasgow is a high energy, friendly, and cultural city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Orkney Islands and Glasgow: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Orkney Islands or Glasgow?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Glasgow. Although Orkney Islands and Glasgow are popular destinations, Glasgow has more sights and attractions for tourists. Glasgow is very popular for its museums, nightlife, music, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Orkney Islands attracts visitors for its food, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Glasgow is more touristy than Orkney Islands and is known for its rich culture, its beautiful Victorian and art nouveau architecture, and its large student population. It is also well known for Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum. Orkney Islands is famous for its sandy beaches, serene landscape, and well-preserved Neolithic sights.

How is Orkney Islands different from Glasgow?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Glasgow 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 Glasgow specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The city is rich in culture and offers many fascinating sights including the Glasgow Cathedral, Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum, and the Necropolis.

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 Glasgow? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Orkney Islands is great for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Glasgow is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

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.

Glasgow offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. The city's food scene continues to grow and innovate. You'll find plenty of seafood options as well as international cuisine and everything from fine dining to local cafes.

Is Orkney Islands or Glasgow Better for Nightlife?

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

Glasgow is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. The city has some of the best nightlife in the entire country. There are clubs, bars, techno warehouses and more. Some of the best clubs include Sub Club, The Berkeley Suite, and The Garage.

Orkney Islands is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Orkney Islands or Glasgow Better for Music?

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

Glasgow has become a mecca for musicians from around the world. Known to some as "the city of music", you'll find a wide range of music venues, live shows, festivals, and even a great underground music scene.

Orkney Islands is not a live music destination.

Is Orkney Islands or Glasgow Better for Beaches?

Orkney Islands is great for the beach. However, Glasgow 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.

Glasgow is not a beach destination.

Is Orkney Islands or Glasgow Better for its Old Town?

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

Glasgow has an old town worth visiting. High Street is one of the oldest and most well known streets in the city.

Orkney Islands does not have a historic old town.

Is Orkney Islands or Glasgow Better for Hiking?

Orkney Islands is great for hiking. However, Glasgow 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.

Glasgow is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Orkney Islands or Glasgow?

Glasgow is very good for its shopping areas. However, Orkney Islands is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Glasgow has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. The city has independent boutique shops as well as major brands. Head to the "Style Mile" for some of the best shopping. It's a district that offers pedestrian-friendly shopping and includes high end boutiques and independent markets. Also check out The Barras Market, Buchanan Street, and High Street.

Orkney Islands is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Orkney Islands or Glasgow Better for Families?

You'll find nice kid-friendly activities in either Orkney Islands or Glasgow.

Orkney Islands offers lots of family activities. 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.

Glasgow is a family-friendly place to visit. The city has some family-friendly museums including the hands on The Burrell Collection, the Glasgow Science Center, and The Riverside Museum. If you have older kids who enjoy the water, there are some water activities in town. Check out Pinkston Watersports, Glasgow Wake Park or Outdoor Pursuits. There are also climbing gyms and skate parks.

Is Orkney Islands or Glasgow Better for Couples?

Orkney Islands is great for couples. Also, Glasgow is not as popular, but is still a nice city for romance.

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.

Glasgow is a nice destination for couples. Couples can enjoy a museum or one of the parks around town. There are also river cruises and spas. For a more locally specific activity, check out the Bothwell Castle.

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

Orkney Islands is great for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Glasgow is not as popular, but is still a nice city for backpackers.

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.

Glasgow is a good archipelago to visit for backpackers. There are a good number of hostels around town as well as a good social scene, making this a decent option for backpackers.

Is Orkney Islands or Glasgow Better for Students?

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

Glasgow is very popular with students. The city has the second largest student population in the UK, so you'll find plenty of students to hang out with.

Orkney Islands is not popular with students.

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

Glasgow is great 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.

The public transit in Glasgow can get you to most places easily. The subway is convenient in the city center, west end, and southside. There are also buses throughout the city.

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 Glasgow a more walkable city?

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

Glasgow is a very walkable destination. The city center is generally walkable and can be explored on foot.

Orkney Islands is not a walkable destination.

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

Should I spend more time in Glasgow or Orkney Islands?

How long in Orkney Islands or Glasgow?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Orkney Islands and Glasgow. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Orkney Islands than in Glasgow. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Orkney Islands, and 2-3 days is enough time in Glasgow.

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

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

One day in Orkney Islands or Glasgow?

In Orkney Islands, you'll find food and museums. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. This archipelago offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

In Glasgow, you'll find nightlife and live music. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Orkney Islands or Glasgow?

In Orkney Islands, you'll find museums and food. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Glasgow 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 Glasgow?

Orkney Islands is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Orkney Islands has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Glasgow. 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 Glasgow?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Orkney Islands. In Orkney Islands, you'll find museums and food. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the city of Glasgow. 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 Glasgow, we can see that Glasgow 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 Glasgow Expensive?.

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

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 Glasgow in the Summer?

Both Glasgow 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 Glasgow for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

Orkney Islands is cooler than Glasgow in the summer. The daily temperature in Orkney Islands averages around 12°C (54°F) in July, and Glasgow fluctuates around 15°C (59°F).

Orkney Islands usually receives less sunshine than Glasgow during summer. Orkney Islands gets 129 hours of sunny skies, while Glasgow receives 159 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Orkney Islands usually receives less rain than Glasgow. Orkney Islands gets 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Glasgow receives 99 mm (3.9 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Orkney Islands or Glasgow in the Autumn?

Both Glasgow 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. Also, many visitors come to Glasgow in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene.

In the autumn, Orkney Islands is around the same temperature as Glasgow. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Orkney Islands in October average around 9°C (48°F), and Glasgow averages at about 10°C (49°F).

In the autumn, Orkney Islands often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Glasgow. Orkney Islands gets 73 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Glasgow receives 69 hours of full sun.

Glasgow gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Orkney Islands. Orkney Islands usually gets less rain in October than Glasgow. Orkney Islands gets 116 mm (4.6 in) of rain, while Glasgow receives 163 mm (6.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Orkney Islands or Glasgow in the Winter?

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

Glasgow can be very cold during winter. Orkney Islands can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Orkney Islands is generally a little warmer than Glasgow. Daily temperatures in Orkney Islands average around 4°C (39°F), and Glasgow fluctuates around 3°C (38°F).

Orkney Islands usually receives less sunshine than Glasgow during winter. Orkney Islands gets 29 hours of sunny skies, while Glasgow receives 40 hours of full sun in the winter.

Glasgow receives a lot of rain in the winter. Orkney Islands gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In January, Orkney Islands usually receives less rain than Glasgow. Orkney Islands gets 106 mm (4.2 in) of rain, while Glasgow receives 165 mm (6.5 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Orkney Islands or Glasgow in the Spring?

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

Orkney Islands is cooler than Glasgow in the spring. The daily temperature in Orkney Islands averages around 6°C (43°F) in April, and Glasgow fluctuates around 7°C (45°F).

In the spring, Orkney Islands often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Glasgow. Orkney Islands gets 135 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Glasgow receives 134 hours of full sun.

Orkney Islands usually gets less rain in April than Glasgow. Orkney Islands gets 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Glasgow receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Glasgow and Orkney Islands