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

Should you visit Orkney Islands or Lille?

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 Lille 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. And you can't forget about the food, beaches, and hiking.

Lille

Lille is a friendly, historic, and under-rated city. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the shopping, nightlife, and food.

Orkney Islands and Lille: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Orkney Islands or Lille?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Lille. Although Orkney Islands and Lille are both popular with visitors, Lille has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Lille is more popular for its food, nightlife, historical sights, and shopping, while Orkney Islands is known for its museums, beaches, and hiking. Lille is more touristy than Orkney Islands and is popular for its beautiful architecture, excellent shopping, and world class food scene. It is also home to Grand Place (Place du Général de Gaulle). Orkney Islands is popular for its sandy beaches, serene landscape, and well-preserved Neolithic sights.

Grand Place (Place du Général de Gaulle)

How is Orkney Islands different from Lille?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Orkney Islands is a nice place to visit for its sights and museums. However, Lille is a mediocre city for its museums and history.

Orkney Islands offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. 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.

While most people don't head to Lille specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. The city offers an amazing atmosphere, with many of the most beautiful buildings near Place du Général de Gaulle (the main square). Top rated attractions in town include Palais des Beaux-Arts, Musée du Louvre-Lens, and Eglise Saint-Maurice.

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

Lille is renowned for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Orkney Islands is not as popular, but is still a nice archipelago for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Lille has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. The city has a cuisine all its own. There are many local dishes that are recommended with some of the most popular being les moules (mussels), the Welsh (a beer and cheddar cheese dish), and la carbonade flamande (beef stew). Most dishes are served with a hearty side of fries. The mussels are a favorite and are served with various toppings including local cheese. You can expect your very own pot of mussels with each order. Many of the restaurants around the main square (General de Gaulle Square) offer these local specialties. Outside the old town you'll also find plenty of international restaurants including Asian street food.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Orkney Islands makes for a great culinary experience. 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.

Is Orkney Islands or Lille Better for Nightlife?

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

Many people head to Lille for the nightlife scene. With its young population and countless places to hang out, there's rarely a dull night around town. The most popular nightlife areas are Rue Masséna and Rue Solférino. The city also offers plenty of theaters and shows that you can enjoy.

Orkney Islands is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Orkney Islands or Lille Better for Beaches?

Orkney Islands is notable for the beache. However, Lille 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.

Lille is not a beach destination.

Is Orkney Islands or Lille Better for its Old Town?

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

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Lille. The old town (Le Vieux Lille) is charming to explore. Many of the buildings are from the 16th or 17th centuries and feature very ornate architecture. The area is filled with shops and restaurants and it stays active throughout the day. This is an area where locals and tourists alike live and play.

Orkney Islands does not have a historic old town.

Is Orkney Islands or Lille Better for Hiking?

Orkney Islands is notable for the nearby hiking options. However, Lille is not a hiking destination.

Orkney Islands is a popular spot for hiking. 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.

Lille is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Orkney Islands or Lille?

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

Many people travel to Lille specifically to go shopping. The city is filled with shopping opportunities. Almost any store you could want is in or around the old town and the two main shopping centers in town are McArthur Glen and A l'Usine. Also by the train station is a shopping mall.

Orkney Islands is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Orkney Islands or Lille Better for Families?

Orkney Islands is a nice place to visit for its family-friendly activities. However, Lille is a mediocre city for its kid-friendly activities.

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.

Lille is not always a place people visit with their families. There are a handful of kid-focused activities like a small zoo, a small amusement park, several museums and even a puppet theater. Many of the restaurants also have kid's menus that are reasonably priced.

Is Orkney Islands or Lille Better for Couples?

Orkney Islands is notable for its romantic activities. Also, Lille is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for couples.

Orkney Islands is a very popular place to visit for couples. 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.

Lille is a good archipelago for couples to visit. Couples who enjoy shopping, dining out, and exploring beautiful cities will enjoy a visit. There are many great restaurants worth experiencing, as well as beautiful architecture and fun shops.

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

Orkney Islands is notable for backpackers. Also, Lille is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Orkney Islands is a great archipelago to visit for backpackers. If camping is your style, you'll find some great campgrounds and campsites that make the most of this beautiful natural setting.

Lille is a good archipelago to visit for backpackers. This small city flies under the radar for most backpackers, but there are a handful of hostels and a great experience for those who venture here. It feels more off the beaten path than some French cities, but you'll find great food and a nice atmosphere.

Is Orkney Islands or Lille Better for Students?

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

Lille is very popular with students. The city is home to a number of students, both local and international. It has a lower cost of living than many places in France as well as a youthful vibe with fun activities and plenty of shopping.

Orkney Islands is not popular with students.

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

Lille 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 Lille can get you to most places easily. There is a metro as well as trams and 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 Lille a more walkable city?

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

Lille is a very easy city to get around on foot. The old town in particular is compact and best explored on foot, but even outside of the old town, many areas are easily explored on foot.

Orkney Islands is not a walkable destination.

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

Should I spend more time in Lille or Orkney Islands?

How long in Orkney Islands or Lille?

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

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

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

One day in Orkney Islands or Lille?

In Orkney Islands, many people enjoy the food and museums that this tranquil destination offers. It's also a great beach destination, too. This archipelago offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

In Lille, you'll find nightlife and food. Visiting the old town is also a must. So, one day is just the right amount of time to spend here.

A weekend in Orkney Islands or Lille?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Orkney Islands. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Lille 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 Lille?

Orkney Islands is a fun place to experience. In Orkney Islands, many people enjoy the food and museums that this destination offers. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

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

In Orkney Islands, many people enjoy the museums and food that this serene destination offers. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. Most people come for the beaches. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is often enough time to do most activities.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the city of Lille. 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 10-Day Tours from Paris, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Paris.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Orkney Islands and Lille, we can see that Orkney Islands is more expensive. And not only is Lille much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Lille would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Lille 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 Lille.

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 Lille Expensive?.

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

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Orkney Islands or Lille in the Summer?

Both Lille and Orkney Islands during the summer are popular places to visit. 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 Lille for the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Orkney Islands is generally cooler than Lille. Daily temperatures in Orkney Islands average around 12°C (54°F), and Lille fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

In Lille, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the summer, Orkney Islands often gets less sunshine than Lille. Orkney Islands gets 129 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lille receives 202 hours of full sun.

Orkney Islands usually gets less rain in July than Lille. Orkney Islands gets 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Lille receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Orkney Islands or Lille in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Orkney Islands and Lille. Many travelers come to Orkney Islands for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Lille in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

Orkney Islands is cooler than Lille in the autumn. The daily temperature in Orkney Islands averages around 9°C (48°F) in October, and Lille fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

Orkney Islands usually receives less sunshine than Lille during autumn. Orkney Islands gets 73 hours of sunny skies, while Lille receives 105 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Orkney Islands gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Orkney Islands usually receives more rain than Lille. Orkney Islands gets 116 mm (4.6 in) of rain, while Lille receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Orkney Islands or Lille in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Orkney Islands as well as Lille. Many visitors come to Orkney Islands in the winter for the museums and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Lille for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

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

In the winter, Orkney Islands often gets less sunshine than Lille. Orkney Islands gets 29 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lille receives 47 hours of full sun.

Orkney Islands receives a lot of rain in the winter. Orkney Islands usually gets more rain in January than Lille. Orkney Islands gets 106 mm (4.2 in) of rain, while Lille receives 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Orkney Islands or Lille in the Spring?

Both Lille and Orkney Islands are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Orkney Islands for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Lille because of the natural beauty.

In April, Orkney Islands is generally cooler than Lille. Daily temperatures in Orkney Islands average around 6°C (43°F), and Lille fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

Orkney Islands usually receives less sunshine than Lille during spring. Orkney Islands gets 135 hours of sunny skies, while Lille receives 158 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Orkney Islands usually receives more rain than Lille. Orkney Islands gets 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Lille receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Lille and Orkney Islands