Orkney Islands is a natural archipelago known for its sandy beaches, serene landscape, and well-preserved Neolithic sights. In this travel cost guide, we'll cover everything you need to know to plan your travel budget and have an amazing trip without spending too much. This guide includes average trip costs from previous travelers, typical hotel prices, food and dining costs, entertainment and sightseeing prices, and information about transportation. This will help you plan the best trip to Orkney Islands and stay within your ideal travel budget, whether you're eating the delicious cuisine, relaxing on the beaches, or hiking in nature.
How much does it cost to travel to Orkney Islands?
You should plan to spend around $204 (£153) per day on your vacation in Orkney Islands. This is the average daily price based on the expenses of other visitors.
Past travelers have spent, on average for one day:
- $77 (£58) on meals
- $74 (£56) on local transportation
- $160 (£120) on hotels
A one week trip to Orkney Islands for two people costs, on average, $2,852 (£2,142). This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
All of these average travel prices have been collected from other travelers to help you plan your own travel budget.
-
One Week
Per person
$1,426
£1,071
-
2 Weeks
Per person
$2,852
£2,142
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One Month
Per person
$6,111
£4,590
-
One Week
For a couple
$2,852
£2,142
-
2 Weeks
For a couple
$5,703
£4,284
-
One Month
For a couple
$12,221
£9,180
How much does a one week, two week, or one month trip to Orkney Islands cost?
A one week trip to Orkney Islands usually costs around $1,426 (£1,071) for one person and $2,852 (£2,142) for two people. This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
A two week trip to Orkney Islands on average costs around $2,852 (£2,142) for one person and $5,703 (£4,284) for two people. This cost includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
Please note, prices can vary based on your travel style, speed, and other variables. If you're traveling as a family of three or four people, the price per person often goes down because kid's tickets are cheaper and hotel rooms can be shared. If you travel slower over a longer period of time then your daily budget will also go down. Two people traveling together for one month in Orkney Islands will often have a lower daily budget per person than one person traveling alone for one week.
A one month trip to Orkney Islands on average costs around $6,111 (£4,590) for one person and $12,221 (£9,180) for two people. The more places you visit, the higher the daily price will become due to increased transportation costs.
Is Orkney Islands expensive to visit?
Orkney Islands is a small yet inviting archipelago that captivates travelers with a mix of travel preferences, spending habits, and budgetary ranges. Affordable hotel choices are available, but luxury hotels also cater to the more affluent clientele, along with mid-range accommodations that are perfect for families and couples.
Orkney Islands can definitely get expensive if you let it, but you have options to reduce costs, including eating at less expensive restaurants and taking public transit.
On average, budget travelers spend $89 (£67) per day, mid-range travelers spend $203 (£153) per day, and luxury travelers spend around $388 (£292) per day. These costs are calculated from the expenses of previous travelers to Orkney Islands.
Within Europe, which is known to be an expensive region, Orkney Islands is a moderately priced destination compared to other places. The overall cost of travel here is fair for the region and comparable to Aalborg or Bologna.
For more details, and to find out if it's within your travel budget, see Is Orkney Islands Expensive?
Orkney Islands, Scotland
How much money do I need for a trip to Orkney Islands?
The average Orkney Islands trip cost is broken down by category here for independent travelers. All of these Orkney Islands travel prices are calculated from the budgets of real travelers. Also, you can see more details at How much does a trip to Orkney Islands cost?
Orkney Islands on a Budget
|
Category
|
Budget
|
Mid-Range
|
Luxury
|
Accommodation1
For 1 person in double occupancy
|
$35
(£26)
|
$80
(£60)
|
$153
(£115)
|
|
Local Transportation1
|
$32
(£24)
|
$74
(£56)
|
$142
(£106)
|
|
Food2
|
$34
(£25)
|
$77
(£58)
|
$148
(£111)
|
|
Entertainment1
|
$16
(£12)
|
$36
(£27)
|
$68
(£51)
|
|
Alcohol2
|
$2-6
(£1-4)
|
$4-13
(£3-10)
|
$8-25
(£6-18)
|
Realistic Expectations for Your Travel Budget
To manage your travel budget, it's important to set realistic expectations. Many people think they can visit Orkney Islands on a cheap budget, but most don't enjoy the limitations of a tight shoestring budget. Consider how you like to travel. Do you enjoy hostels, resorts, hotels, or vacation rentals? Do you want to dine out and explore the major attractions? These decisions will determine your budget and itinerary.
Orkney Islands on a Shoestring Budget?
You might think you're a budget traveler, but unless you're willing to sacrifice many comforts, expect to spend a lot more than the average of $89 per day that backpackers typically manage.
Younger budget travelers sometimes stick to a shoestring budget, which usually means staying in hostel dorms, eating at budget restaurants or fast food, relying on public transportation or walking, and limiting activities to free attractions.
For many travelers to Orkney Islands, food is a key attraction, yet budget-conscious visitors often stick to street food or hostel cooking, missing out on the delicious local dining experiences.
Do You Fit the Profile of an Average Traveler?
If you're a family or couple enjoying a vacation, you'll most likely want to stay in a mid-range hotel, eat at trendy restaurants, and check out the main museums and attractions that charge for entry. A significant number of visitors to Orkney Islands will want to tour the main attractions, museums, and landmarks. Keep in mind that most activities have costs associated with them. Hence, you should realistically expect your daily budget to hover around $203 per person, per day.
Looking to Travel in Luxury?
If you're looking for a luxurious getaway that offers top-notch amenities and exceptional service, you should budget around $388 per day. To enjoy a nicer hotel, dine at renowned restaurants, indulge in extravagant activities, and use taxis or private drivers to explore the archipelago, prepare for a luxury price tag. Many luxury travelers also enjoy unique experiences such as Semi Private Tour - Orkney and Kirkwall - offered by Viator.
Accommodation Budget in Orkney Islands
Prices for hotels in Orkney Islands vary widely, with luxury hotels charging more due to higher amenities. In the off-season, expect to pay around $, but during peak summer season, average prices climb to $. With options ranging from $ to $, there's something for every budget. Hostels are usually cheaper, especially dorm rooms. To save, book during the off-season or keep an eye out for special deals.
Calculated from travelers like you
The average price paid in Orkney Islands for two people for a typical double-occupancy hotel room is $160 (£120). For one person sharing a room, the average price paid for a hotel room is $80 (£60) per night. These costs are from the reported spending of actual travelers.
Looking for a hotel in Orkney Islands? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options.
While Orkney Islands has a good public transit system, staying outside the archipelago to save on accommodation could mean higher transportation costs and less convenience if you're short on time.
If you're visiting Orkney Islands for a week or more, opting for a vacation rental with a kitchen will let you prepare some of your meals, saving you money.
Visiting in the low or shoulder season, rather than during summer, will give you cheaper lodging options and fewer tourists to navigate around.
Transportation Budget in Orkney Islands
Orkney Islands's public transit system connects to several major sights. Buses travel to many parts of the islands and many islands are connected by ferries. To save money and travel efficiently, public transport is a good option if it's near your location, but taxis and rideshares are always around for convenience.
Unfortunately, getting around the archipelago on foot can be quite challenging. Walking is a great way to enjoy the beauty, but you'll need a vehicle to travel from place to place.
Public Transit: 
(good)
Walkability: (poor)
Calculated from travelers like you
-
On average, past travelers have spent $74 (£56) per person, per day, on local transportation in Orkney Islands. The cost of a taxi ride or rideshare service (Uber/Lyft) in Orkney Islands is significantly more than public transportation.
-
Transportation1
Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
$74
£56
To get into Orkney, you can take a domestic flight from mainland Scotland to Kirkwall or take a ferry from mainland Scotland. The two major ferry companies are Pentland Ferries and Northlink Ferries, both of which are car ferries so you can easily bring your car onto the island.
One of the easiest ways to get around Orkney is by car as attractions on the island are spaced fairly far apart. If you need to rent a car, you'll likely find cheaper prices and more options if you rent it from mainland Scotland, then ferry the car over to Orkney. If you prefer not to drive, you can use the local bus service which ranges in cost depending on how far you ride. Outside of Kirkwall and Stromness, there aren't many designated bus stops, meaning you just flag down the bus when you see if in smaller villages!
When driving, it's important to check that your hotel has good parking options.
How much does it cost to go to Orkney Islands? Naturally, it depends on the dates. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all airlines.
The price of renting a car in Orkney Islands will depends on dates, the type of car, the location, and your age. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all car rental companies.
Food Budget in Orkney Islands
The food in Orkney Islands is delightful, and it's important to take the time to experience all the local tastes. 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.
Calculated from travelers like you
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While restaurant and meal prices in Orkney Islands can vary significantly, the average cost of food in Orkney Islands is $77 (£58) per day, per person, based on the spending habits of previous travelers.
-
Food2
Meals for one day
$77
£58
When dining out, the average daily cost for food in Orkney Islands is around $77 (£58) per person, with previous travelers spending from $34 to $148. Generally, breakfast and lunch cost less than dinner, but this will depend on the type of restaurant and what you order.
Typical meal prices in Orkney Islands are as follows:
- Breakfast: $8 to $23
- Lunch: $12 to $31
- Dinner: $23 to $54
- Coffee: $6
- Fast Food or Street Food: $12
Orkney's food culture places a strong emphasis on using locally grown produce and meat, especially beef and North Ronaldsay lamb. Seafood is also very popular on the island, especially hand-dived scallops, lobster, and crab. There are a few distilleries on Orkney, including The Scapa Distillery and Orkney Brewery, where you can get incredible whisky. For the most restaurant options, look to the city of Kirkwall where you'll find the fantastic Kirkwall Hotel Restaurant and the delicious The Reel.
Numerous hotels provide breakfast as part of your stay, although others may charge you extra for it. The price and quality can vary from hotel to hotel. Being informed ahead of time can assist you in determining if you need to budget extra funds. The hotel buffet might be worth your money, or perhaps a cheaper option at a nearby bakery or cafe would suffice.
Save money while enjoying the scenery by planning a picnic. Visit a local grocery store or market, gather some fresh treats, and find a lovely park or scenic spot to relish your meal.
Fill up a water bottle rather than buying drinks every chance you get. It's also kinder to the earth.
Be sure to check which meals are part of your tour before you go. You might be responsible for some of your own food costs, which could stretch your budget further.
Sightseeing and Activities Budget in Orkney Islands
The appeal of Orkney Islands is evident, thanks to its food, beaches, hiking, and romance.
Calculated from travelers like you
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Sightseeing activities, entertainment, and entrance tickets in Orkney Islands typically cost an average of $36 (£27) per person, per day based on the spending of previous travelers. This includes fees paid for admission tickets to museums and attractions, day tours, and other sightseeing expenses.
-
Entertainment1
Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
$36
£27
Begin exploring Orkney with a trip to Skara Brae, a 5,000-year-old Neolithic village that was only discovered in 1850 after a major storm opened up the site. There is a path that overlooks Skara Brae where you can admire the ancient stone work then wander through the replica of the village at the Skara Brae Museum. At the museum, book a tour for Maeshowe, a 5,000-year-old burial cairn. Once inside of Maeshowe, marvel at the perfectly engineered architecture and the 900-year-old Norse graffiti carved into the stones. Near Maeshowe is the Ring of Brodgar, an ancient stone circle which originally had 60 stones, although only 36 remain today. As the site has not been fully excavated, it is still a mystery as to what exactly the ring was used for.
Also, one of the most visited sights in the area is the Roman Catholic Italian Chapel, constructed by prisoners of war during World War II. It is said to be one of the most beautiful churches in Europe, and shouldn't be missed.
Orkney is ideal for all sorts of outdoor activities, including scuba diving, kayaking, hiking, and cycling. For a scenic hike, head to the Old Man of Hoy, a sea stack located on the northern part of Hoy Island. The six-mile hike to the sea stack begins at the North Hoy ferry point and traces through the beautiful landscape to the cliff side. You can either admire the sea stack from the cliff, or wander down the natural steps to the base. If you prefer a more leisurely walk, head to the Brough of Birsay where you use a causeway that's only accessible at low tide to walk to the small island of Birsay. You can walk the entirety of the island, stopping at the lighthouse and Neolithic settlement on your way around. Just be sure to watch the water levels as the sea covers the causeway during high tide.
Beaches:
Numerous beach lovers choose Orkney Islands as their destination for unwinding. 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.
Hiking:
The hiking opportunities around Orkney Islands are outstanding. 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.
Local tours that last a few hours can be a great way to explore Orkney Islands. Prices vary by the type of activity or tour, the dates, and the size of the group. Here are a few of the highest rated tours by previous visitors:
- Semi Private Tour - Orkney and Kirkwall for $224 details
Nightlife Budget in Orkney Islands
The nightlife scene in Orkney Islands is marked by a quiet and laid-back ambiance. You'll find the most pubs and a few nightclubs in the main town of Kirkwall.
Calculated from travelers like you
-
The average person spends about $8.56 (£6.43) on nightlife and alcoholic beverages in Orkney Islands per day. The more you spend on alcohol, the more fun you might be having despite your higher budget.
-
Alcohol2
Drinks for one day
$8.56
£6.43
Exploring the nightlife is often a fun part of any trip, but skipping a few drinks can make a big impact on your overall travel cost.
Travel cost data last updated: Mar 26, 2025
Traveling in Orkney Islands
Kirkwall, Orkney Islands, Scotland
The Orkney Islands are located off the north coast of mainland Scotland, offering incredible sights and activities set against the Atlantic Ocean. Having been inhabited for over 5,000 years, Orkney is an archaeologist's dream as ancient relics are discovered all the time, meaning there are endless places for tourists to explore. The best time to visit Orkney is from May-October, when temperatures tend to stay between 50-65° Fahrenheit and rainfall is at it's lowest. Although, with their location on the sea, rain and heavy winds are very common, so be sure to always have waterproof clothing and shoes around!
Neighborhoods & Around
Orkney has over 70 islands that are divided between the North Isles, Mainland, and South Isles. As only 20 of the islands are inhabited, with a total population of around 11,000 people, there are some islands that are of more interest to tourists than others. The main island of interest is Mainland Orkney, home to the capital city, Kirkwall. This is one of the best places to set up base when traveling Orkney as it offers plenty of accommodation and restaurants. Key cities on the Mainland include Stromness and St. Margaret's Hope, both of which are ferry ports to enter Orkney through.
Other major islands include Hoy, Rousay, and Westray. Hoy is home to the famous sea stack, the Old Man of Hoy, which you can reach from the North Hoy ferry point. Rousay is a beautiful island with much historical significance; you'll find ruins, cairns, and artifacts that go all the back to the Neolithic Period. Finally, there is Westray, another historically important island that features a lovely lighthouse and the 15th century Lady Kirk Church.
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We've been gathering travel costs from tens of thousands of actual travelers since 2010, and we use the data to calculate average daily travel costs for destinations around the world. We also systematically analyze the prices of hotels, hostels, and tours from travel providers such as Kayak, HostelWorld, TourRadar, Viator, and others. This combination of expenses from actual travelers, combined with pricing data from major travel companies, gives us a uniqe insight into the overall cost of travel for thousands of cities in countries around the world. You can see more here: How it Works.
Budget Your Trip is all about finding out how much everything costs so that you can travel cheaper and longer. Created by avid travelers Laurie and Bryan, our goal is to help you plan your next trip on the right budget. With average daily travel costs that are calculated from the budgets of real travelers, plus an analysis of hotel and tour prices, you can find out how much money you need to plan your next adventure. We also have plenty of travel advice, accommodation reviews, and activity suggestions.