Car Rental Orkney

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Top Car Deals in Orkney

* Price found within the past 6 days. Click for updated prices.

Economy

Chevrolet Spark
  • 4 people
Orkney, Scotland, GBR
Chevrolet Spark
Economy Chevrolet Spark

Compact

Ford Focus
  • 4 people
Orkney, Scotland, GBR
Ford Focus
Compact Ford Focus

Midsize

Toyota Corolla
  • 5 people
Orkney, Scotland, GBR
Toyota Corolla
Midsize Toyota Corolla

SUV

Jeep Compass
  • 5 people
Orkney, Scotland, GBR
Jeep Compass
SUV Jeep Compass

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What you need to know for your Orkney car rental

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Orkney

Renting a car in Orkney offers the freedom and flexibility to explore this beautiful area at your own pace. With a rental car, you can easily manage your luggage and create flexible travel plans, making it an ideal choice for families or those interested in cultural experiences. In and around Orkney, you can visit key attractions such as the Earl's Palace, Orkney Museum, and St. Magnus Cathedral, all located just 8 miles away. Additionally, the nearby city of Kirkwall, also 8 miles away, features these same attractions, allowing for a convenient sightseeing experience. Exploring Deerness, where Orkney is situated, gives you access to Balfour Castle and other notable sites. A rental car makes it simple to visit Toab, located 3 miles away, where you can enjoy the same cultural highlights. Whether you are traveling with family or seeking a rich cultural adventure, having a car provides the convenience to explore popular destinations without the constraints of public transportation.

Where to stay around Orkney

  • Kirkwall: Located 8 miles from Orkney, Kirkwall is a vibrant city that draws visitors for its rich culture and outdoor experiences. Explore the historic sites like Earl's Palace and St. Magnus Cathedral, or visit the Orkney Museum for a deeper understanding of the area's history. With access to hiking trails and beautiful beaches, Kirkwall offers numerous activities. Additionally, you can enjoy local food and drinks options, including distilleries and breweries, making it a great place to unwind after a day of exploration.
  • Deerness: Situated in Orkney, Deerness is known for its romantic and entertainment-themed atmosphere. Highlights include Balfour Castle, where you can soak in the culture and charm of the area. The proximity to Earl's Palace and the Orkney Museum ensures that culture enthusiasts have plenty to explore. Deerness also features local distilleries, providing a delightful opportunity to sample regional beverages. This area is especially appealing for couples looking for a cozy, engaging getaway.
  • Holm: Located 5 miles from Orkney, Holm offers a blend of culture and romance. Visitors can discover the Italian Chapel and Earl's Palace, which are both steeped in history and culture. Enjoy the scenic views of historic lighthouses and archaeological sites in the vicinity. Holm's access to sightseeing tours and local wineries further enhances the experience, making it a perfect destination for those seeking both entertainment and a taste of local flavors.

10 tips to save on your car rental in and around Orkney

  1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and features. Whether you're looking for an SUV for added space, a convertible for summer enjoyment, or an economy car for budget-friendly travel, utilize Expedia's filters to discover the best option for your journey.
  2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary based on demand, so it's advisable to secure your car well ahead of your trip. By booking early, you are likely to obtain lower rates and better availability, especially during peak seasons.
  3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Compact cars are typically less expensive to rent and easier to park in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals offer a great balance of cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
  4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily fees, and certain vehicle types—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be accessible. This can also apply to renters over 70 years old. Always verify the age requirements prior to booking.
  5. Check fuel policies: Some rental agreements stipulate a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is usually the most cost-effective option. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fueling alternatives, which are acceptable as well. Just ensure that you return the car empty in those cases.
  6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports often incurs a surcharge, but the added convenience may justify the extra cost.
  7. Know your payment options: Most car rental companies primarily accept credit cards for payment.
  8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unexpected expenses and provides peace of mind in case something unforeseen occurs during your trip. It's simple to add car rental insurance when booking through Expedia.
  9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you're planning extended road trips, look for rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent additional charges.
  10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is necessary to rent a car.

Finding the cheapest car rentals in Orkney

Using our Search Wizard

If the deals that are available on our page do not suit your needs, then enter Orkney into the search wizard at the top of the page. We will compare all the best deals available for your car rental in Orkney and provide you with a list of the cheapest options, with no added fees.

Renting a car in Orkney

Pay at pickup is available, so you don’t have to worry about spending your money until you arrive at your vehicle in Orkney. We partner with reliable partners that guarantee an enjoyable experience for solo travelers, couples, and families. Package your car with a flight or hotel to unlock even more savings from Expedia.

Expected prices in Orkney

Prices are subject to seasonal change depending on when you decide to arrange your car rental but right now you can book .

Flexibility & Cancellation

Most car suppliers offer penalty-free cancellations, so you don’t have to worry about losing money if your plans change. To cancel your booking log into your account through the Trips portal. Click manage booking and cancel this car. If you needed to alter your booking, then you can create a new one once you have canceled.

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Car classes available from Expedia in 2026

The classes of vehicles available will change depending on your chosen location.

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Frequently asked questions

What are the best cheap car rental companies in Orkney?
You can find cheap car rentals in Orkney from $57 a day with Avis's mini 4-5 door cars. For slightly more space, an economy 4-5 door car starts from $64 a day. Comparing suppliers on Expedia helps you find a cheap car rental in Orkney that fits your budget and travel needs. For more options, explore Economy Car Rentals in Orkney.
Can I rent a car round-trip in Orkney?
Orkney is well suited to round-trip rentals, with options starting from $57 a day. Picking up and dropping off your vehicle at the same location generally helps avoid one-way drop-off fees, making it a cost-effective choice for exploring the region. Providers like Avis and Europcar offer wide round-trip availability, giving you flexibility for your travel plans. For more options, explore Fullsize Car Rentals in Orkney.
What are the best car rentals in Orkney?
Car rentals in Orkney offer a variety of vehicle types to suit different travel needs. The most popular car classes available include:
  • Mini 4-5 door
  • Economy 4-5 door
  • Midsize crossover
  • Fullsize 4-5 door
  • Compact 4-5 door
These options provide flexibility whether you need a small car for easy navigation or a larger vehicle for more passengers and luggage. Families often prefer midsize crossovers or fullsize cars for extra space, while couples and solo travelers might find economy or compact cars more suitable for their adventures. For more options, explore Minivan Car Rentals in Orkney.

What are the best car rentals in Orkney for solo travelers?
The best car rentals in Orkney for solo travelers are economy and compact classes—small, easy to park, and fuel-efficient for one person exploring at their own pace:
  • Economy car, starting from $64 a day — fits up to 5 people and up to 2 medium suitcases, nimble on roads and simple to slot into parking spaces
  • Compact car, starting from $93 a day — fits up to 5 people and up to 3 medium suitcases, offering a little more room for luggage while remaining fuel-efficient
Both comfortably fit a solo traveler plus a bag or two, providing a convenient way to discover Orkney. For more options, explore Compact Car Rentals in Orkney.

What are the best car rentals in Orkney for couples?
The best car rentals in Orkney for couples balance comfort and easy handling for two:
  • Midsize crossover, starting from $81 a day — seats up to 5 with room for 3 large suitcases, offering smooth cruising for two
  • Fullsize 4-5 door, starting from $84 a day — seats up to 5 with room for 3 large or 5 medium suitcases, providing ample space for longer trips
Both options give a couple comfortable seating and trunk space without being difficult to park, making them ideal for exploring Orkney together. For more options, explore Midsize Car Rentals in Orkney.

What are the best car rentals in Orkney for families?
The best car rentals in Orkney for families are the ones with room for everyone and their gear:
  • Midsize crossover, starting from $81 a day — seats up to 5 with room for 3 large suitcases, suitable for families with car seats and strollers
  • Fullsize wagon/estate, starting from $98 a day — seats up to 5 with room for 3 large or 5 medium suitcases, ideal for families needing extra luggage capacity
These vehicles provide ample space for the whole family, ensuring a comfortable journey around Orkney. Booking 4+ weeks ahead is advisable, as family-sized vehicles can have lower availability during busy periods like July, August, and September. For more options, explore SUV Car Rentals in Orkney.

What is the best time to book a car in Orkney?
From January, prices in Orkney are typically lower—rentals can start from as little as $57 a day during this period. July tends to be the busiest month, along with August and September, when high demand can lead to higher prices. Booking 3-4 weeks ahead can help with availability and pricing. Many bookings allow free cancellation 24+ hours before pickup—book early and rebook if rates drop.
What are the best car companies in Orkney?
Car rentals in Orkney are available from providers like Avis and Europcar, offering vehicles suited to local roads and conditions. Avis provides a range of options, including mini 4-5 door and economy 4-5 door cars that are easy to park and fuel-efficient for exploring, as well as midsize crossovers and fullsize 4-5 door vehicles with more space and stability. Europcar also offers mini vehicles. Choosing a car class that matches your planned routes and passenger count will enhance your Orkney driving experience. For more options, explore Premium Car Rentals in Orkney.
What are good day trip destinations from Orkney by rental car?
Exploring Orkney by rental car offers convenient access to its rich history and stunning landscapes. For families and couples, several fascinating day trip destinations are easily reachable from Deerness, providing a comfortable way to discover the islands. A midsize or fullsize car is often preferred for families needing extra space for luggage and passengers, while a compact or economy car is efficient for navigating the island roads and offers good value for budget-conscious travelers. Always ensure your rental car has sufficient fuel before heading out to explore the islands. Some popular options include:
  • The Orkney Fossil & Vintage Centre in Burray is approximately 10 miles from Deerness, a drive of about 20 minutes. This center is ideal for families interested in natural history and unique vintage collections.
  • The Orkney Museum and the Orkney Wireless Museum, both located in Kirkwall, are around 11 miles from Deerness, taking approximately 20 minutes to reach. These museums offer engaging insights into the island's heritage and technological past, suitable for all ages.
  • Skara Brae in Stromness, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is about 28 miles from Deerness, with a driving time of approximately 50 minutes. This ancient Neolithic village is a must-see for history enthusiasts and provides a unique experience for families and couples.
For more options, explore Convertible Car Rentals in Orkney.

Are there any hidden fees when renting a car on Expedia?
Expedia aims to show the key price and important rental details clearly during booking, so you know what to expect before you reserve. In some cases, car rental companies may apply additional charges at pick-up or during the rental, such as security deposits, tolls, fuel charges, extra driver fees, or local requirements, so it's worth checking the supplier's rental terms before you book.
Are there any long-term car rentals in Orkney?
Yes, there are several long-term car rental options available in Orkney. Whether you're planning an extended holiday with the family, relocating temporarily, or simply need a vehicle for several weeks or months, many car rental providers offer flexible long-term rental plans tailored to your needs. Click on our long-term car rental deals page, enter your trip information and then book a ride that suits.
Do you need insurance to rent a car in Orkney?
No, you don't need personal auto insurance to rent a car in most cases. You will, however, be required to purchase some insurance to cover the duration of the rental. Rental companies will offer this insurance when you rent the car. Certain personal car insurance policies can also be applied to rental cars, and travelers can even use non-owner car insurance if they rent cars often but don't have a car of their own. Additionally, some car rentals simply include rental car insurance within the price of the rental.
How much does it cost to rent a car in Orkney?
Budget car rental in Orkney can be easy to find, with prices based on rates seen within the past seven days . To find some of the cheapest options, sort your search results by price and use filters to match your budget and travel needs. For added flexibility, it's also worth exploring one-way car rentals.
What are the top car rental deals in Orkney?
No matter what kind of vehicle you're looking for, Expedia makes it easy to find a great car rental deal in Orkney. The easiest way to get a good deal on a rental car is to use our filters. At the top of the filter list, you'll find a section featuring our best car rental offers. Check the filter for "Great Deal," and your search results will be filled with specials. Compare offers from trusted rental providers, choose the option that fits your trip, and book with confidence. For even more value, bundle your Orkney car rental with a hotel or flight to unlock additional savings.
What do I need to rent a car in Orkney?
To rent a car in Orkney, a current driver's license and a credit card in the same name are essential. If you're opting out of the company's insurance plan, then you may also need proof of other coverage. Rules may differ between rental companies, so read through your policy.
What happens if I need to cancel my Orkney car rental?
If you need to cancel your Orkney car rental, read over the policy to be sure, but almost all prepaid rentals are eligible for a complete refund if you notify us at least six hours prior to the pickup time, though there may be some exclusions so check your itinerary for more information, or just click through to our Customer Service Portal.
Why should I rent a car in Orkney with Expedia?
Booking your car rental on Expedia makes it easier to get more out of your trip from the start. With a wide choice of car rentals, you can compare prices, suppliers and deals all in one place, then bundle your car with a hotel which could help you save even more. Join our free One Key™ travel rewards program to instantly unlock additional savings.

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