Orkney tours

ToursByLocals guides set their own prices in order to compensate themselves fairly for the hard work they do and the time spent preparing for the private tour as well as delivering the tour itself. Therefore there is no expectation for ToursByLocals customers to tip their guide. Writing a review after the tour is a great way to show your appreciation to your guide as it helps them receive more inquiries in the future.

Guided tours are perfect for getting in-depth knowledge about the history, culture, and significance of the places you're visiting. If you're interested in learning about Orkney from a local expert, a guided tour can be very informative, and an excellent use of your vacation time. If you have limited time in Orkney and want to see as much as possible in a short period, a private guided tour can be efficient. That way you are not restricted by a set schedule and can prioritise what you want to see in the time you have. Although private tours are generally more expensive than a group tour, they’re remarkably value: a good guide can provide you with insider tips, hidden gems, and local recommendations that will help you avoid tourist traps or overpriced places during your stay. ToursByLocals guided tours can be tailored to specific interests, such as art, history, or food. If you have a niche interest, a specialised tour can enhance your experience.

Yes, you can hire a tour guide in Orkney. Hiring a tour guide can be a great way to enhance your travel experience and gain valuable insights into the local culture, history, and attractions. ToursByLocals has several local guides in Orkney who are local experts and offer a wide range of customizable private tours. They will work with you to customize an itinerary based on your interests and preferences. Private tour guides can provide a more personalized experience and offer flexibility in terms of scheduling and activities.

Orkney, a group of islands off the northeastern coast of Scotland, is rich in history, natural beauty, and unique cultural experiences. Here are some must-do activities and places to visit in Orkney: Visit Skara Brae: This Neolithic village, older than Stonehenge and the Pyramids of Egypt, offers a fascinating glimpse into prehistoric life. Explore the Ring of Brodgar: This impressive stone circle, part of the Heart of Neolithic Orkney UNESCO World Heritage Site, is one of the finest stone circles in the world. Discover Maeshowe: A chambered tomb dating back over 5,000 years, famous for its Viking graffiti and winter solstice alignment. Take a Ferry to the Island of Hoy: Explore the rugged landscapes, cliffs, and the famous sea stack known as the Old Man of Hoy. Visit the Italian Chapel: Built by Italian prisoners of war during World War II, this chapel is a testament to human creativity and resilience. Explore Orkney's Scenic Coastline: Walk along stunning coastal paths, visit picturesque beaches like the Bay of Skaill or the Sands of Wright. Experience Orkney's Wildlife: Take a wildlife tour to spot seals, puffins, and other seabirds, or even take a boat trip to see orcas or dolphins. Visit the Orkney Museum: Learn about Orkney's rich history, from its Neolithic past to its Norse heritage and beyond. Sample Orkney's Cuisine: Try local specialties like Orkney beef, seafood, and traditional Orcadian dishes at local restaurants and pubs. Attend a Festival or Event: Orkney hosts various festivals and events throughout the year, including the Orkney Folk Festival and the St. Magnus International Festival. Whether you're interested in history, nature, or simply soaking up the unique atmosphere of the islands, Orkney has something to offer everyone.

The cost of a private tour in Orkney can vary depending on several factors, including the duration of the tour, the specific attractions or areas you wish to visit, the level of customization, and the number of people in your group. Additionally, prices may vary among different guides, as they set their own prices with ToursByLocals. The cost of a private tour in Orkney typically ranges from around $400- $1100. It's important to note that each guide sets their own prices, which is why there can be a large variation between one guide and another. When planning a private tour, be sure to read the 'what's included' and 'what's extra' sections of the tour page. If you don't quite see what you are looking for, you can send a message to the guide and discuss customizing a tour to meet your specific needs and budget.

Here are some of the top tours in Orkney, each highly rated with many five star reviews! 1) Half Day Guided Tour - Orkney Through the Ages 2) Classic Orkney Full Day Tour 3) Orkney Highlights Tour Full Day 4) Half Day Orkney Highlights - Private Tour 5) Explore and See My Orkney 7 hours

The ideal duration for touring Orkney depends on your interests and how in-depth you want to explore the islands. Here are some recommendations: Short Visit (1-2 Days): If you have limited time, you can still experience some of Orkney's highlights. Focus on visiting sites like Skara Brae, the Ring of Brodgar, and the Italian Chapel, as well as exploring a bit of the island's scenic coastline. This timeframe would give you a taste of Orkney's history and natural beauty. Standard Visit (3-4 Days): With 3-4 days, you can cover many of Orkney's major attractions more thoroughly. You'll have time to explore sites like Maeshowe, take a ferry to the Island of Hoy, visit museums, and perhaps even join a wildlife tour. This duration allows for a more relaxed pace and the opportunity to delve deeper into Orkney's history and culture. Extended Visit (5 Days or More): If you have the luxury of time, spending 5 days or more in Orkney allows for a more comprehensive exploration. You can venture off the beaten path, visit lesser-known sites, and immerse yourself in the local community. This duration also provides flexibility for activities like hiking, birdwatching, or simply enjoying the tranquility of the islands. Ultimately, the duration of your visit will depend on your personal preferences and interests. Orkney's diverse attractions offer something for everyone, whether you're a history buff, nature enthusiast, or simply seeking a peaceful getaway.

Here is a selection of the best guided tours in Orkney: 1) Taster Tour of Orkney - Five Hours 2) Creative Walk: A Full Day Tour of a Local Orkney Beach 3) Orkney in Four Hours 4) Orkney Shore Excursion - Private Tour 5) Historic Orkney - Showcase Tour

The cost of a 7-day trip to Orkney from the US can vary widely depending on factors such as your travel style, accommodation preferences, activities planned, and the time of year you visit. Here are some estimated expenses to consider: Flights: The cost of round-trip flights from the US to Orkney will likely be one of the most significant expenses. Prices can vary based on factors such as departure city, airline, and the time of booking. On average, expect to pay anywhere from $800 to $1500 or more for round-trip airfare. Accommodation: Orkney offers a range of accommodation options, including hotels, bed and breakfasts, self-catering cottages, and hostels. Prices can vary depending on the location, amenities, and time of year. Budget travelers can expect to pay around $50-$100 per night for a basic room, while mid-range options may range from $100-$200 per night or more. Transportation: Once in Orkney, you'll need to consider transportation costs for getting around the islands. Renting a car is a popular option for exploring Orkney independently, with prices averaging around $50-$100 per day for a rental car. Alternatively, you can use public buses, taxis, or guided tours to get around, which may vary in cost depending on the distance traveled and the mode of transportation. Food and Dining: Dining out in Orkney can range from casual cafes and pubs to fine dining restaurants. Budget travelers can expect to spend around $15-$30 per meal at a mid-range restaurant, while fine dining establishments may cost upwards of $50 per person or more. If you prefer to cook your own meals, groceries can cost around $50-$100 per week, depending on your dietary preferences and cooking habits. Activities and Excursions: Orkney offers a variety of activities and excursions, from visiting historical sites and museums to outdoor adventures like hiking, wildlife watching, and boat tours. Prices for activities can vary widely, ranging from free to several hundred dollars per person for guided tours or special experiences. Taking all these factors into account, a rough estimate for a 7-day trip to Orkney from the US could range from $1500 to $4000 or more per person, excluding airfare. Keep in mind that these are just rough estimates, and actual costs may vary based on your individual preferences and travel arrangements. It's always a good idea to research and budget accordingly before planning your trip.

Where you stay in Orkney largely depends on your preferences, budget, and itinerary. Orkney offers a range of accommodation options to suit different needs and tastes. Here are some popular choices: Kirkwall: As the largest town in Orkney, Kirkwall offers a variety of accommodation options, including hotels, guesthouses, bed and breakfasts, and self-catering apartments. Staying in Kirkwall provides easy access to amenities, restaurants, shops, and attractions like St. Magnus Cathedral and the Orkney Museum. Stromness: This picturesque town on the west coast of Mainland Orkney is known for its charming streets, historic buildings, and artistic community. Stromness offers a selection of accommodation options, including hotels, guesthouses, and self-catering cottages. It's a great base for exploring attractions like the Orkneyinga Saga Centre and the Pier Arts Centre. Rural Areas: If you prefer a quieter, more remote setting, you might consider staying in one of Orkney's rural areas or smaller villages. There are plenty of cozy bed and breakfasts, farm stays, and self-catering cottages scattered throughout the islands, offering peaceful surroundings and opportunities for outdoor activities like hiking and birdwatching. Island Accommodation: If you plan to explore Orkney's outer islands, such as Hoy, Rousay, or Westray, you'll find accommodation options ranging from guesthouses and self-catering cottages to campsites and youth hostels. Staying on one of the outer islands allows you to immerse yourself in the island's unique atmosphere and landscapes. Unique Accommodation: For a truly memorable experience, consider staying in one of Orkney's unique accommodation options, such as a historic manor house, a converted lighthouse keeper's cottage, or a traditional Orcadian blackhouse. These special properties offer a blend of comfort, character, and authenticity. When choosing accommodation in Orkney, it's a good idea to book well in advance, especially during the peak tourist season (summer months). Consider factors such as location, amenities, and reviews from previous guests to find the perfect place to stay during your visit to Orkney.

The best time to visit Orkney depends on your preferences and what you hope to experience during your trip. Here are some considerations for each season: Summer (June-August): Summer is the most popular time to visit Orkney, with longer daylight hours and milder weather. This is the best time for outdoor activities such as hiking, wildlife watching, and exploring Orkney's scenic coastline. Many festivals and events take place during the summer months, including the Orkney Folk Festival and the St. Magnus International Festival. Spring (March-May): Spring is a beautiful time to visit Orkney, with flowers blooming and wildlife becoming more active. This is a great time for birdwatching, as many migratory birds return to Orkney to breed. The weather can be variable in spring, with occasional rain and cool temperatures, but you can still enjoy outdoor activities with proper clothing. Autumn (September-November): Autumn offers quieter surroundings and stunning landscapes as the colors change. This is a good time for exploring historical sites and museums, as well as enjoying cozy evenings by the fire in a traditional pub. You may encounter some rain and cooler temperatures in autumn, but there are still plenty of indoor and outdoor activities to enjoy. Winter (December-February): Winter is the quietest time to visit Orkney, with fewer tourists and a peaceful atmosphere. This is a great time for experiencing Orkney's traditional culture, attending local events, and enjoying hearty comfort food. While winter weather can be cold, windy, and damp, you may also have the chance to see the Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis) if conditions are right. Ultimately, the best time to visit Orkney depends on your personal preferences and interests. Whether you prefer mild summer weather, colorful autumn landscapes, or a quiet winter getaway, Orkney offers something special year-round. Just be sure to check weather forecasts and plan accordingly for outdoor activities, especially during the cooler and wetter months.