A Travel Price Comparison for United Kingdom Outer Hebrides vs. Orkney Islands for Hiking, Food, Beaches, and Couples

Should you visit Outer Hebrides or Orkney Islands?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Outer Hebrides and Orkney Islands. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Outer Hebrides

Outer Hebrides is a natural, tranquil, and serene archipelago. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the hiking, food, and beaches.

Orkney Islands

Orkney Islands is a tranquil, natural, and pristine archipelago. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include beaches, hiking, and museums.

Outer Hebrides and Orkney Islands: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Outer Hebrides or Orkney Islands?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Orkney Islands than Outer Hebrides, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Orkney Islands is better known for its museums, while Outer Hebrides is more popular for its hiking. Outer Hebrides is well known for its scenic beauty, fresh seafood, and distilleries. Orkney Islands is well known for its sandy beaches, serene landscape, and well-preserved Neolithic sights. Also, Orkney Islands is famous for The Heart of Neolithic Orkney.

How is Outer Hebrides different from Orkney Islands?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Orkney Islands and Outer Hebrides. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Outer Hebrides or Orkney Islands?

Orkney Islands is a good destination for its museums and history. However, Outer Hebrides does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Outer Hebrides does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Dining out at restaurants in both Outer Hebrides and Orkney Islands can be an enjoyable experience.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Outer Hebrides. You'll find plenty of seafood, smokehouses, distilleries and crofting produce in the area. Most islands have independent restaurants as well as pubs and other local eateries to choose from.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Orkney Islands. 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 Outer Hebrides or Orkney Islands Better for Beaches?

Outer Hebrides and Orkney Islands both offer high quality beaches.

Many people visit Outer Hebrides for it's beautiful beaches. From white sand beaches to hidden coves, you'll enjoy a completely serene beach experience on these islands. You can get lost in the nature and soak up the surprisingly blue waters at any of the remote beaches. Favorite beaches in the area include Vatersay Bay, Coilleag a’Phrionnsa, West Coast Beach, and Crabhadail.

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.

Is Outer Hebrides or Orkney Islands Better for Hiking?

Outer Hebrides is renowned for hiking. Also, Orkney Islands is not as popular, but is still a nice archipelago for the nearby hiking options.

Many people visit Outer Hebrides specifically for its hiking. The islands offer some of the area's best hiking. You'll pass by stunning beaches, see unique wildlife, and enjoy a remote and tranquil setting. Follow the Hebridean Way, which covers the full length of the archipelago. It spans 156 miles and goes through 10 islands with 2 ferry trips.

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.

Is Outer Hebrides or Orkney Islands Better for Families?

Both Outer Hebrides and Orkney Islands are notable family-friendly destinations.

Outer Hebrides is a family-friendly archipelago. The beautiful outdoor setting is great for kids and adults alike. There are beaches to explore as well as kid-friendly museums. You can also try your hand at digging for cockles or head out on the water to watch for dolphins.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Orkney Islands. 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 Outer Hebrides or Orkney Islands Better for Couples?

Outer Hebrides and Orkney Islands both high quality destinations for a couple.

Outer Hebrides makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Go island hopping and discover the countless beautiful beaches. You can take a boat trip or simply soak up the peaceful coastal setting.

Couples visit Orkney Islands frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. 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.

Is Outer Hebrides or Orkney Islands Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Orkney Islands is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Outer Hebrides is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Orkney Islands is very popular with the backpacker crowd. If camping is your style, you'll find some great campgrounds and campsites that make the most of this beautiful natural setting.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Outer Hebrides. You'll need to take either a plane of ferry to reach the islands but once you're there you can camp and hike and soak up the tranquil setting.

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

Orkney Islands is a good destination for times when you don't have a car. However, Outer Hebrides is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Orkney Islands has some public transit options. Buses travel to many parts of the islands and many islands are connected by ferries.

Public transit is generally limited in Outer Hebrides. There are buses that run doing the day between Monday and Saturday. In Stornoway you may be able to find some evening buses as well.

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

Should I spend more time in Orkney Islands or Outer Hebrides?

How long in Outer Hebrides or Orkney Islands?

Both Outer Hebrides and Orkney Islands have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Outer Hebrides than in Orkney Islands. Usually, 4-10 days is a good amount of time for Outer Hebrides, and 3-7 days is enough time in Orkney Islands.

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

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

One day in Outer Hebrides or Orkney Islands?

In Outer Hebrides, you'll find food. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

In Orkney Islands, you'll find museums and food. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Outer Hebrides or Orkney Islands?

Outer Hebrides is a great place to explore. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Anyone can find something fun to do here. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

Orkney Islands is a great place to explore. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Anyone can find something fun to do here. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

Five days in Outer Hebrides or Orkney Islands?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Outer Hebrides. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. It offers something for everyone. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. Because of this, five days is usually enough time for a trip here.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Orkney Islands. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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 Outer Hebrides or Orkney Islands?

In Outer Hebrides, you'll find food. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Your budget might influence how long you stay. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. One week is usually enough time to experience most activities.

In Orkney Islands, you'll find food and museums. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Your budget might influence how long you stay. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. One week is usually enough time to experience most activities.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Sightseeing Tours in United Kingdom, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in United Kingdom, The Best Luxury Tours to United Kingdom, and The Best Budget Tours to United Kingdom.

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

When is the best time to visit Outer Hebrides or Orkney Islands?

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 Outer Hebrides or Orkney Islands in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Outer Hebrides and Orkney Islands. Many travelers come to Outer Hebrides for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Orkney Islands in the summer for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Outer Hebrides is generally around the same temperature as Orkney Islands. Daily temperatures in Outer Hebrides average around 13°C (55°F), and Orkney Islands fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

Outer Hebrides usually receives less sunshine than Orkney Islands during summer. Outer Hebrides gets 117 hours of sunny skies, while Orkney Islands receives 129 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Outer Hebrides usually receives more rain than Orkney Islands. Outer Hebrides gets 73 mm (2.9 in) of rain, while Orkney Islands receives 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Outer Hebrides or Orkney Islands in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Outer Hebrides as well as Orkney Islands. Many visitors come to Outer Hebrides in the autumn for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Orkney Islands for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

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

In the autumn, Outer Hebrides often gets more sunshine than Orkney Islands. Outer Hebrides gets 83 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Orkney Islands receives 73 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Orkney Islands. Outer Hebrides receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Outer Hebrides usually gets more rain in October than Orkney Islands. Outer Hebrides gets 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain, while Orkney Islands receives 116 mm (4.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Outer Hebrides or Orkney Islands in the Winter?

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

The weather in Orkney Islands can be very cold. Outer Hebrides can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Outer Hebrides is a little warmer than Orkney Islands. Typically, the winter temperatures in Outer Hebrides in January average around 4°C (40°F), and Orkney Islands averages at about 4°C (39°F).

Outer Hebrides usually receives more sunshine than Orkney Islands during winter. Outer Hebrides gets 33 hours of sunny skies, while Orkney Islands receives 29 hours of full sun in the winter.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Orkney Islands. It's quite rainy in Outer Hebrides. In January, Outer Hebrides usually receives more rain than Orkney Islands. Outer Hebrides gets 122 mm (4.8 in) of rain, while Orkney Islands receives 106 mm (4.2 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Outer Hebrides or Orkney Islands in the Spring?

Both Orkney Islands and Outer Hebrides during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Outer Hebrides because of the beaches and the natural beauty. Furthermore, the beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Orkney Islands this time of year.

In April, Outer Hebrides is generally around the same temperature as Orkney Islands. Daily temperatures in Outer Hebrides average around 7°C (44°F), and Orkney Islands fluctuates around 6°C (43°F).

In the spring, Outer Hebrides often gets more sunshine than Orkney Islands. Outer Hebrides gets 149 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Orkney Islands receives 135 hours of full sun.

Outer Hebrides usually gets more rain in April than Orkney Islands. Outer Hebrides gets 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Orkney Islands receives 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Orkney Islands and Outer Hebrides