Orkney Stays
Orkney Travel Planning - Orkney Stays

Orkney Travel Planning: Your Essential Guide

Discover guides and stories about Orkney Travel Planning in the Orkney Islands

Planning your adventure to the captivating Orkney Islands? You're in the right place! This guide helps you navigate the key decisions for a smooth journey. From choosing between scenic ferry routes and quick flights to deciding how long to stay and whether to bring your own wheels, we've gathered essential tips. Orkney's magic lies in its ancient history, stunning landscapes, and unique island culture – proper planning ensures you can soak it all in without stress. Let's map out your unforgettable Orcadian escape, considering everything from inter-island travel (check our Island-Hopping Guide) to the best times to visit (see Seasonal Experiences).

Latest Articles in Orkney Travel Planning

Last-Minute Trip to Orkney: How to Plan a Spontaneous Visit
Orkney Travel Planning

Last-Minute Trip to Orkney: How to Plan a Spontaneous Visit

April 25, 2025

Thinking of a spontaneous trip to Orkney? Guide covers the challenges (accommodation/ferry availability) and strategies for planning a last-minute visit, including flexibility and transport checks.

Read More
The Best Orkney Travel Apps and Digital Resources for Visitors
Orkney Travel Planning

The Best Orkney Travel Apps and Digital Resources for Visitors

April 24, 2025

Navigate Orkney with ease using the best travel apps and online resources. Guide covers apps for transport, weather, maps, and attractions, plus key websites like Orkney.com.

Read More
Expert Packing List for Orkney: Season-by-Season Essentials
Orkney Travel Planning

Expert Packing List for Orkney: Season-by-Season Essentials

April 22, 2025

A detailed season-by-season packing list for Orkney. Covers essential layers, waterproofs, footwear, and accessories needed to handle Orkney's changeable weather comfortably.

Read More
Orkney vs Shetland 2026: An Honest Local's Comparison
Orkney Travel Planning

Orkney vs Shetland 2026: An Honest Local's Comparison

April 21, 2025

Orkney vs Shetland compared honestly: landscape, Neolithic vs Norse history, wildlife, ferries and flights. Pick the right Northern Isle for your 2026 trip.

Read More
The Hidden Costs of an Orkney Holiday (And How to Avoid Them)
Orkney Travel Planning

The Hidden Costs of an Orkney Holiday (And How to Avoid Them)

April 20, 2025

Plan your Orkney trip budget effectively by understanding potential hidden costs like inter-island ferries, paid attractions vs free, eating out, and activity fees. Tips to save money.

Read More
Getting Around Orkney Without a Car: Buses, Bikes, Walks
Orkney Travel Planning

Getting Around Orkney Without a Car: Buses, Bikes, Walks

April 19, 2025

How to explore Orkney without a car — Stagecoach buses, cycling routes, walking paths and inter-island ferries. A practical car-free travel guide.

Read More
Orkney Weather Month by Month: 2026 Local's Packing Guide
Orkney Travel Planning

Orkney Weather Month by Month: 2026 Local's Packing Guide

April 18, 2025

Orkney weather month by month: temperatures, rain, wind and daylight, plus an honest local packing list (layers, waterproofs, hat). Plan your trip.

Read More
Digital Nomad Guide to Orkney: Internet, Co-Working, and Extended Stays
Orkney Travel Planning

Digital Nomad Guide to Orkney: Internet, Co-Working, and Extended Stays

April 17, 2025

Considering working remotely from Orkney? This digital nomad guide covers internet connectivity, workspace options (cafes, library), and tips for finding extended stay accommodation.

Read More
Solo Travel in Orkney: Safety Tips, Social Opportunities, and Accommodation Advice
Orkney Travel Planning

Solo Travel in Orkney: Safety Tips, Social Opportunities, and Accommodation Advice

April 16, 2025

Explore Orkney independently! Guide for solo travellers covering safety tips, solo-friendly activities, social opportunities in pubs and events, and finding suitable accommodation like B&Bs or self-catering.

Read More
Orkney on a Budget 2026: £49 a Day, Real Numbers
Orkney Travel Planning

Orkney on a Budget 2026: £49 a Day, Real Numbers

April 15, 2025

What an Orkney trip actually costs in 2026 — verified ferry, bus, hostel and attraction prices, plus the free sites worth half a day each.

Read More
How to Get to Orkney in 2026: Flights, Ferries & Drive
Orkney Travel Planning

How to Get to Orkney in 2026: Flights, Ferries & Drive

April 12, 2025

Flights, ferries and the drive north — the three honest routes to Orkney in 2026, with verified NorthLink and Pentland fares and a London-to-Orkney plan.

Read More
The Ultimate 3-Day, 5-Day, and 7-Day Orkney Itineraries for Any Budget
Orkney Travel Planning

The Ultimate 3-Day, 5-Day, and 7-Day Orkney Itineraries for Any Budget

April 10, 2025

Plan your perfect Orkney trip! Detailed 3, 5, and 7-day itineraries for budget, mid-range, and luxury travellers, covering Neolithic sites, island hopping, and practical tips.

Read More
Best Time to Visit Orkney: A First-Timer's 2026 Guide
Orkney Travel Planning

Best Time to Visit Orkney: A First-Timer's 2026 Guide

April 1, 2025

Best time to visit Orkney by month: weather, daylight, ferries, festivals and crowds, plus a first-timer's checklist for planning your 2026 trip.

Read More

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I get to Orkney?

You have two main options: ferry or flight. Ferries offer scenic routes: NorthLink Ferries sail from Aberdeen (approx. 6 hours) or Scrabster (near Thurso, approx. 90 mins) to Kirkwall and Stromness respectively. Pentland Ferries run from Gills Bay to St Margaret's Hope (approx. 1 hour). Flights via Loganair connect Kirkwall Airport (KOI) with major Scottish cities like Edinburgh, Glasgow, and Inverness in under an hour, offering speed and convenience. Consider bringing your car on the ferry for maximum flexibility exploring the islands.

How many days do I need to visit Orkney?

While a short trip is possible, we recommend at least 3-4 full days to cover the main highlights on the Orkney Mainland, such as the Heart of Neolithic Orkney sites, Kirkwall, and Stromness. To truly explore other islands like Hoy or Westray, aim for 5-7 days. This allows for a more relaxed pace and accommodates potential ferry schedules or weather changes. See our guides for Kirkwall and Stromness for location-specific ideas.

Do I need to book accommodation and ferries in advance?

Yes, absolutely! Especially if travelling during peak season (May-September) or during major events like the Orkney Folk Festival. Accommodation, particularly self-catering options, can be limited and books up months ahead. Vehicle spaces on ferries are also highly sought after, so booking well in advance (3-6 months recommended) is crucial to avoid disappointment.

Should I rent a car in Orkney?

Renting a car offers the most flexibility for exploring Orkney's widespread attractions at your own pace. While public buses connect major towns and some key sites, they may not reach more remote areas or align perfectly with your schedule. Car rentals are available at Kirkwall Airport and in Kirkwall town. If you plan extensive island-hopping, check ferry options for taking a car versus relying on transport on each island.

Explore Other Categories

Local Attractions & HeritageIsland-Hopping GuidesNatural OrkneyOrkney Food & DrinkArts, Crafts & Culture
View All Articles