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

Should you visit Orkney Islands or Lisse?

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

Orkney Islands

Orkney Islands is a natural, pristine, and remote archipelago. The beauty of Orkney Islands is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the museums, food, and beaches. See Orkney Islands travel costs.

Lisse

Lisse is a stunning, colorful, and picturesque town. Many visitors also come to Lisse because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food. See Lisse travel costs.

Orkney Islands and Lisse: 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
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Very walkable
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Keukenhof Gardens


Is there more to do in Orkney Islands or Lisse?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Lisse. Although Orkney Islands and Lisse are both popular with visitors, Lisse has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Lisse is more popular for its nightlife, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Orkney Islands is known for its food, beaches, and hiking. Lisse is more touristy than Orkney Islands and is known for its stunning flowers and iconic tulip fields. It is also home to the Keukenhof Gardens. Orkney Islands is popular for its sandy beaches, serene landscape, and well-preserved Neolithic sights.

How is Orkney Islands different from Lisse?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Orkney Islands
Lisse

You'll find a number of good museums and attractions in both Lisse and Orkney Islands.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Orkney Islands. 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.

Lisse is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are a handful of museums in the area, like the Museum de Zwarte Tulp (Museum of the Black Tulip), which showcases the history and art of the Dutch flower-growing industry, including exhibits on tulips, bulbs, and floral culture. And, of course, there's the Keukenhof Gardens, which is the main draw to the area during the spring season and one of the most popular attractions in the Netherlands.


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

Orkney Islands
Lisse

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

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.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Lisse area. The town has a variety of food options, from traditional Dutch snacks to international cuisine. Local cafes and restaurants often serve classic Dutch dishes, such as poffertjes (mini pancakes) and bitterballen (fried meatballs), perfect for a quick bite or a relaxed meal. In Keukenhof Gardens you'll find food stalls, trucks, and a cafe, but they can get crowded during peak times.

Is Orkney Islands or Lisse Better for Nightlife?

Orkney Islands
Lisse

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

If you're looking for night time activities Lisse has a few options to choose from. Most people don't think about nightlife when they visit town but there's a surprising number of thinks to do like cozy bars and charming cafes. Visitors can enjoy live music, great drinks, and a friendly atmosphere, especially in the town's central 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 Lisse Better for Beaches?

Orkney Islands
Lisse

Orkney Islands is great for the beach. However, Lisse is not a beach destination.

Orkney Islands is considered a top beach destination. 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.

Lisse is not a beach destination.


Is Orkney Islands or Lisse Better for Hiking?

Orkney Islands
Lisse

Orkney Islands is great for hiking. However, Lisse 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.

Lisse is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Orkney Islands or Lisse?

Orkney Islands
Lisse

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

Lisse has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. The town offers a range of shopping opportunities, especially in its charming town center. You’ll find boutique stores, gift shops, and specialty shops selling local products, such as Dutch cheeses, flowers, and souvenirs.

Orkney Islands is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Orkney Islands or Lisse More Beautiful?

Orkney Islands
Lisse

Lisse is renowned for its scenery and beauty. Also, Orkney Islands is not as popular, but is still a nice archipelago for its scenery and beauty.

Many visitors also come to Lisse because of it's amazing beauty. Most visitors come for the Keukenhof Gardens, which are a breathtaking spectacle, renowned for their vibrant and meticulously arranged displays of millions of tulips and other flowers. The gardens are designed with picturesque pathways, tranquil ponds, and themed flower beds, making it feel like a living painting in every corner.

Orkney Islands is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Stunning beaches and beautiful countryside make this landscape truly breathtaking.


Is Orkney Islands or Lisse Better for Families?

Orkney Islands
Lisse

You'll find good kid-friendly activities in either Orkney Islands or Lisse.

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.

Lisse is a family-friendly place to visit. The Keukenhof Gardens has a few things to keep the kids entertained, like a play area and boat rides. Some kids will also enjoy seeing the millions of colorful tulips and other flowers. For a more interactive experience, families can head to the Flowerstrip, where children can explore local farms and see how flowers are grown. Also near town is Lisse is the Duinrell theme park, which has thrilling rides and a water park that’s perfect for a family day out.

Is Orkney Islands or Lisse Better for Couples?

Orkney Islands
Lisse

Both Orkney Islands and Lisse are great 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.

Lisse is a very popular place to visit for couples. Couples will enjoy this area, especially during the spring when the Keukenhof Gardens come alive with vibrant tulip fields and flower displays. There are also boat rides through the nearby canals, surrounded by beautiful countryside. A visit to the nearby Keukenhof Castle provides a charming atmosphere, with its elegant gardens and tea room. perfect for relaxing together. Couples can also explore the local flower fields by bike.

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

Orkney Islands
Lisse

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

Many 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.

Lisse is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. The entrance fee to Keukenhof Gardens can be a bit pricey, but there are plenty of free or low-cost activities to enjoy nearby, like cycling through the beautiful tulip fields or exploring the nearby countryside. Budget accommodations, such as hostels or guesthouses, can be found in Lisse or in nearby towns like Leiden, offering affordable options for travelers.


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

Orkney Islands
Lisse

Orkney Islands and Lisse 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.

Lisse has a few public transit options. There are buses that travel from Schiphol Airport and elsewhere in the country to Keukenhof Gardens. It's best to book your tickets in advance.

Is Orkney Islands or Lisse a more walkable city?

Orkney Islands
Lisse

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

Lisse is a somewhat walkable town. Many visitors bike through the tulip fields outside of the Keukenhof Gardens. You could walk, but you'll cover more ground with a bicycle.

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 Lisse Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Lisse or Orkney Islands?

How long in Orkney Islands or Lisse?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Orkney Islands or Lisse to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Orkney Islands than Lisse because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Orkney Islands, and 1-2 days is enough time in Lisse.

Families should spend more time in Orkney Islands than Lisse. 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.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Orkney Islands than Lisse 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 Orkney Islands.


  • How many days in Orkney Islands or Lisse? Ideal Length of Stay
    Orkney Islands 3-7 
    Lisse 1-2

One day in Orkney Islands or Lisse?

In Orkney Islands, many people enjoy the food and museums that this serene 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 Lisse, you'll find museums and nightlife. So, one day is just the right amount of time to spend here.


A weekend in Orkney Islands or Lisse?

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.

Lisse 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 Lisse?

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 Lisse. 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 Lisse?

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 shopping and museums when visiting the town of Lisse. 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 One-Week (7-Day) Tours from London, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Edinburgh, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Netherlands, and The Best Sightseeing Tours in Netherlands.


Which place is cheaper, Lisse or Orkney Islands?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

  • Orkney Islands Prices
    UK Prices
    Lisse Prices
    Netherlands Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Orkney Islands £153
    Lisse £155

The average daily cost (per person) in Orkney Islands is £153, while the average daily cost in Lisse is £155. 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 Lisse in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Orkney Islands £60
    Lisse £68
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Orkney Islands £120
    Lisse £136
Compare Hotels in Orkney Islands and Lisse

Looking for a hotel in Orkney Islands or Lisse? 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 Lisse


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
    Lisse £20

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Lisse

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

  • From Rotterdam: One-Way Private Transfer to/from Keukenhof: $337
  • From The Hague: One-Way Private Transfer to/from Keukenhof: $291
  • Private Transfer from Haarlem to cruise port in Amsterdam: $103

Is it cheaper to fly into Orkney Islands or Lisse?

Prices for flights to both Lisse 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 £58
    Lisse £70

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Lisse

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

  • Haarlem Evening Pizza Cruise with Fresh Nolita Pizza: $31
  • Self Guided Asian Food Tour Haarlem: $41
  • Haarlem's Food-steps: A self-guided Food Tour: $43
  • Food Tour Haarlem | Guided & Walking | Old City: $105
  • 10 Tastes of Haarlem Food Tour: Full Meal, 15 min from Amsterdam: $195

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Orkney Islands £27
    Lisse £26

Tours and Activities in Orkney Islands

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

  • Kirkwall Private Walking Tour: $248
  • Semi Private Tour - Orkney and Kirkwall: $261
  • Semi Private in Orkney and Kirkwall Tour with History and Sights: $222

Tours and Activities in Lisse

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

  • 2 Hours Walking Tour Throughout History & Highlights of Haarlem: $34
  • 2-Hour Private History and Highlights of Haarlem Walking Tour: $236
  • 90 minutes Self-Guided Walking tour with puzzles in Haarlem: $23
  • Antwerp: Full-day Holland Guided Keukenhof & Windmills Tour: $168
  • Bike Tour Haarlem | National Park | Dunes & Sea: $41
  • Brussels: Full Day Holland Keukenhof & Windmills Guided Tour: $168
  • Corrie Ten Boom and WW2 Experience: $38
  • Discover Haarlem with a self-guided Outside Escape city game tour: $32
  • Escape Experience Haarlem The Escape of Kenau: $33
  • From Flower Bike Tour Around Keukenhof Small Group: $115
  • From Keukenhof Flower Fields Bike Tour: $58
  • From Landrover Tour Around Keukenhof & Flower Fields: $99

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Orkney Islands £6.43
    Lisse £20

Sample the Local Flavors in Lisse

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

  • Haarlem Pub Crawl: Historic Brown Cafés & Local Bars: $8.48


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



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

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 Lisse in the Summer?

Both Lisse and Orkney Islands are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Orkney Islands for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Lisse because of the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Orkney Islands is generally cooler than Lisse. Daily temperatures in Orkney Islands average around 12°C (54°F), and Lisse fluctuates around 17°C (62°F).

It's quite sunny in Lisse. Orkney Islands usually receives less sunshine than Lisse during summer. Orkney Islands gets 129 hours of sunny skies, while Lisse receives 204 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Orkney Islands usually receives less rain than Lisse. Orkney Islands gets 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Lisse receives 75 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Orkney Islands 12°C (54°F) 
    Lisse 17°C (62°F)

Should I visit Orkney Islands or Lisse in the Autumn?

Both Lisse and Orkney Islands during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Orkney Islands because of the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Lisse this time of year.

Orkney Islands is cooler than Lisse in the autumn. The daily temperature in Orkney Islands averages around 9°C (48°F) in October, and Lisse fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

In the autumn, Orkney Islands often gets less sunshine than Lisse. Orkney Islands gets 73 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lisse receives 99 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 Lisse. Orkney Islands gets 116 mm (4.6 in) of rain, while Lisse receives 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


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

Should I visit Orkney Islands or Lisse in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Orkney Islands and Lisse. The museums and the cuisine are the main draw to Orkney Islands this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Lisse for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Lisse. It's quite cold in Orkney Islands in the winter. In the winter, Orkney Islands is much warmer than Lisse. Typically, the winter temperatures in Orkney Islands in January average around 4°C (39°F), and Lisse averages at about 2°C (36°F).

Orkney Islands usually receives less sunshine than Lisse during winter. Orkney Islands gets 29 hours of sunny skies, while Lisse receives 46 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 Lisse. Orkney Islands gets 106 mm (4.2 in) of rain, while Lisse receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Orkney Islands 4°C (39°F) 
    Lisse 2°C (36°F)

Should I visit Orkney Islands or Lisse in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Orkney Islands as well as Lisse. Many travelers come to Orkney Islands for the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Lisse in the spring for the natural beauty.

In April, Orkney Islands is generally cooler than Lisse. Daily temperatures in Orkney Islands average around 6°C (43°F), and Lisse fluctuates around 8°C (46°F).

In the spring, Orkney Islands often gets less sunshine than Lisse. Orkney Islands gets 135 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lisse receives 166 hours of full sun.

Orkney Islands usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Lisse. Orkney Islands gets 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Lisse receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Orkney Islands 6°C (43°F) 
    Lisse 8°C (46°F)

Typical Weather for Lisse and Orkney Islands

Orkney Islands Lisse
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 4°C (39°F) 106 mm (4.2 in) 2°C (36°F) 66 mm (2.6 in)
Feb 4°C (38°F) 73 mm (2.9 in) 3°C (37°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Mar 5°C (40°F) 84 mm (3.3 in) 5°C (41°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)
Apr 6°C (43°F) 56 mm (2.2 in) 8°C (46°F) 52 mm (2 in)
May 9°C (47°F) 50 mm (2 in) 12°C (54°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Jun 11°C (52°F) 52 mm (2 in) 15°C (59°F) 68 mm (2.7 in)
Jul 12°C (54°F) 56 mm (2.2 in) 17°C (62°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Aug 13°C (55°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 17°C (62°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Sep 11°C (52°F) 102 mm (4 in) 14°C (57°F) 67 mm (2.6 in)
Oct 9°C (48°F) 116 mm (4.6 in) 11°C (51°F) 72 mm (2.8 in)
Nov 6°C (42°F) 123 mm (4.8 in) 6°C (43°F) 81 mm (3.2 in)
Dec 4°C (40°F) 113 mm (4.4 in) 3°C (38°F) 80 mm (3.1 in)