Orkney Islands 3-Day Tour from Inverness

From£530
3 days
Aviemore, United Kingdom

About this activity

Embark on a 3-day adventure from Inverness to the Orkney Islands, exploring ancient sites, Viking history, and stunning landscapes.

Highlights

  • Explore ancient Skara Brae village
  • Visit the mysterious Ring of Brodgar
  • Experience the rugged beauty of Yesnaby Cliffs
  • Discover the Viking heritage in Kirkwall
  • Enjoy scenic ferry rides across the Pentland Firth

Full description

Set off on a captivating 3-day journey from Inverness to the Orkney Islands, where history and natural beauty await. Traverse the Scottish Highlands, passing landmarks like Loch Ness and Ben Hope Mountain, before reaching John o'Groats, the northernmost point of mainland Britain. Cross the Pentland Firth by ferry to Orkney, where you'll delve into the Neolithic village of Skara Brae, marvel at the Ring of Brodgar stone circle, and explore the Viking heritage in Kirkwall. With two nights' accommodation in Orkney, this tour offers a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation.

Included / Excluded

  • 2 nights' accommodation in Orkney
  • Guided tours of Skara Brae and Ring of Brodgar
  • Ferry crossings to and from Orkney
  • Meals and personal expenses

Meeting point

Start Location

Unknown location

Important information

Know before you book

  • This tour involves ferry crossings; check ferry schedules in advance.
  • Accommodation is shared; private rooms may be available upon request.
  • Meals are not included; plan to dine at local establishments in Orkney.

Know before you go

  • Pack comfortable walking shoes for exploring ancient sites and coastal paths.
  • Bring a waterproof jacket, as weather can be unpredictable in Scotland.
  • Ensure you have a valid passport or ID for ferry crossings to Orkney.

Cancellation policy

Free cancellation up to 6 days before the activity starts

If you cancel at least 6 full day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a full refund.<br>If you cancel between 2 and 6 day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a 50% refund.<br>If you cancel within 2 day(s) of the scheduled departure, you will receive a 0% refund.

Accessibility

  • Service Animals Allowed
  • Easy Public Transport

Good to know

  • Luggage Restrictions: Maximum weight: 15kg. Maximum size: 55cm x 40cm x 20cm per person plus small carry on
  • If you are travelling alone, please choose the ‘Single Room’ option or we may not be able to accept your booking
  • Double/twin room: these rooms are for 2 people. If 3 people choose this option, you will be allocated a family room for 3, subject to availability. If you prefer 2 rooms, you must choose ‘Single Room’ for one person
  • Children under 3 years not accepted- valid ID may be required at check in.

Traveler reviews

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Excellent tour

Excellent tour. Viator took care of everything...we were travelling with our 14 year old son...they made sure we had a small suite at the B&B so he could have his own bedroom....our tour guide was kind, knowledgeable, and a great driver! We saw so much of Orkney...we were never far from a bathroom...the van was very comfortable. This was a terrific way to see Orkney!

Julia_SAug 24, 2025VIATOR

Outstanding tour

The guide/driver makes all the difference and Iain was outstanding. His sense of humor with his local knowledge and driving skills were without fault and make for a great tour.

GORDONGERALD_KJun 9, 2025VIATOR

Wonderful guide and group to travel...

<p>Wonderful guide and group to travel with. We had a good bit of time at each site. Accomodations at B and B were very nice. I'm ready to go back!!</p>

Kitty DAug 24, 2017VIATOR

Pick up in Inverness was efficient...

<p>Pick up in Inverness was efficient, all travel arrangements went according to plan, very good driving and tour commentary from our guide, thankyou. Accommodation in Orkney was a bit hit and miss as we were scattered over a wide area. I booked B and B accommodation but had not realised that I might be parked well out of the town centre. My B and B was very good, but with hindsight I would go for a hotel. Most tour operators lodge all guests together, which for a solo traveller is less isolating.<br/> We were advised to buy the all in one pass for attractions mine at concession rate was 15, a full price I think was 19. This should give entry to a varirty of venues without the need to pay at each, but as I only visited two of those places I don't think it was good value for me. You still had to queue up with other visitors and have your pass checked and dated by hand! which did not save much time.<br/> The places we saw were as I anticipated having done some research in advance, especially pleased to visit Maes Howe and Skara Brae, but would have like more time in Kirkwall when things were open. Had to forego the Bishop's Palace as I wanted to visit the cathedral, and time was quite limited. Also, we did not have enough time at Skara Brae to visit the stately home which was included as part of this visit. Frequent stops for toilets and refreshments at intervals I suppose are necessary, but when you only have one full day in Orkney they eat away at the available time for the major attractions. Now I have seen Orkney, I will probably go back and spend more time there. All in all it was a good, well organised tour with the few provisos I have mentioned.</p>

Gillian CMay 31, 2017VIATOR

This three day trip was everything...

<p>This three day trip was everything described and was a wonderful experience. The guide was knowledgeable and had a terrific sense of humor. I'd recommend this trip to anyone else who is considering a visit to the Orkney Islands.</p>

Leatrice ASep 27, 2016VIATOR

Additional information

Luggage Restrictions: Maximum weight: 15kg. Maximum size: 55cm x 40cm x 20cm per person plus small carry on If you are travelling alone, please choose the ‘Single Room’ option or we may not be able to accept your booking Double/twin room: these rooms are for 2 people. If 3 people choose this option, you will be allocated a family room for 3, subject to availability. If you prefer 2 rooms, you must choose ‘Single Room’ for one person