Orkney Islands Car Rentals

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Top destinations to rent a car in Orkney Islands

A historic church with a prominent tower and a surrounding graveyard.
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Kirkwall

Kirkwall

What you need to know for your Orkney Islands car rental

Reasons to book a car rental in Orkney Islands

Renting a car in the Orkney Islands is a popular choice for tourists looking to explore the area's rich culture and stunning landscapes at their own pace. With a rental vehicle, you can easily manage your luggage and adjust your travel plans flexibly. This is especially beneficial for those interested in culture-themed experiences, outdoor adventures, or beach-related activities.

With a car, visiting key attractions like Skara Brae, Balfour Castle, and the Ring of Brodgar becomes convenient. You can also explore charming destinations such as Kirkwall and Stromness, where you can find highlights like Earl's Palace, Orkney Museum, and St. Magnus Cathedral. The freedom to travel allows you to spend more time at sites that interest you, whether it’s wandering through ancient ruins or enjoying breathtaking views along the coast. Overall, a rental car enhances your experience in the Orkney Islands, making it easier to discover all that this beautiful region has to offer.

Where to stay in Orkney Islands

  • Kirkwall: Kirkwall is a vibrant city that offers a mix of culture and outdoor experiences. It is home to notable attractions such as the ruins of Earl's Palace, the Orkney Museum, and the stunning St. Magnus Cathedral. Visitors can enjoy access to hiking trails and beautiful beaches. Kirkwall also boasts various food and drink options, including local distilleries and breweries, making it an ideal base for exploring the area.
  • Stromness: Stromness is a picturesque city known for its cultural and outdoor adventures. Key points of interest include the iconic Skara Brae archaeological site, the symbolic Ring of Brogdar, and the ancient Standing Stones of Stenness. The city features nearby distilleries and breweries for those looking to indulge in local flavors. Its charming atmosphere and scenic waterfront make it a desirable location for travelers seeking cultural immersion.
  • South Ronaldsay: South Ronaldsay is a captivating city that offers a blend of history and natural beauty. Notable sites such as the Tomb of the Eagles, Duncansby Head lighthouse, and the John O' Groats Signpost provide a unique insight into the region's heritage. With various dining options and bars nearby, South Ronaldsay is perfect for travelers interested in exploring significant historical landmarks and enjoying the coastal scenery.

10 tips to save on your car rental in Orkney Islands

  1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and features. Whether you need an SUV for extra space, a convertible for summer drives, or an economy car to keep costs low, utilize the filters on Expedia to discover the best option for your trip.
  2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary based on demand, so it's wise to reserve your car well ahead of your travel dates. By booking in advance, you are likely to secure better rates and enjoy greater availability, particularly during peak seasons.
  3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller cars are typically more affordable to rent and easier to maneuver in crowded areas. Mid-size vehicles strike a nice balance between 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 available. This can also apply to renters over 70. Always verify the age requirements before making a reservation.
  5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate on a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is generally the most economical choice. Other options may include full-to-empty or prepaid fueling, which is acceptable as well. Just ensure you return the car empty in that case.
  6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports often incurs a surcharge, but the added convenience may make it worthwhile.
  7. Know your payment options: Most car rental companies exclusively accept credit cards for payment.
  8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unexpected expenses and provides additional peace of mind if something unforeseen occurs during your trip. It's easy to add insurance when you book through Expedia.
  9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you plan to take long road trips, seek out rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent any extra charges.
  10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is necessary to rent a car.

Find Orkney Islands Car Rentals

Expedia.com makes it easy for you to book your next Orkney Islands car rental. We work with the best car rental companies in Orkney Islands, bringing you discount car rental rates and a wide variety of car rental classes including economy, compact, midsize, full-size, convertible, van, luxury and SUV rentals. Our partner car rental companies in Orkney Islands offer different pick-up and drop-off options. If you are ready to book your Orkney Islands car rental, follow the links on this page to view more information and details on your next short or long term car rental.

Expedia.com offers a wide selection of rental cars in Orkney Islands to meet nearly every need. If you need any special equipment, like a child seat or ski rack, let us know and we will forward your request on to the rental car company. And what's more, when you choose to rent a car from one of our Orkney Islands airport car rental partners you'll be dealing with a rental car company that has made a special commitment to provide Expedia customers with great customer service, a wide choice of top quality cars, and competitive total pricing.

Expedia.com offers many Orkney Islands rental cars pick up locations

Find the best place to get your Orkney Islands airport rental cars by searching tons of pickup locations with Expedia.com

Frequently asked questions

What are the best car rental companies in Orkney Islands?
For car rentals across the Orkney Islands, providers like Avis and Europcar offer a range of vehicle options and competitive rates, with availability in the region's main cities such as Kirkwall, Stromness, and South Ronaldsay. Comparing suppliers and pickup points on Expedia can help you find a great rate and the right vehicle for your trip.
Can I rent a car from Kirkwall Airport (KOI) for exploring Orkney Islands?
Yes — you can pick up a rental car right at Kirkwall Airport (KOI) for exploring the Orkney Islands. Providers including Avis and Europcar operate at the airport. Kirkwall Airport is the region's main gateway and a convenient base for reaching cities across the area, from Kirkwall to Stromness.
Can I rent a car one-way in Orkney Islands?
Yes, one-way car rentals work well across the Orkney Islands — pick up in one city, such as Kirkwall, and drop-off in another, like Stromness, which is ideal for regional road trips. Providers like Avis and Europcar offer flexible one-way options. A one-way drop-off fee may apply, so confirm it when booking on Expedia.
What are the closest airports to Orkney Islands for car rental pick-up?
The primary airport for car rental pick-up in the Orkney Islands is Kirkwall Airport (KOI). This airport serves as the main gateway to the region, offering convenient access to cities like Kirkwall, Stromness, and South Ronaldsay. Comparing rental rates at Kirkwall Airport on Expedia can help you find a rate that fits your trip.
What are the best road trip destinations from Orkney Islands by rental car?
From the Orkney Islands, a rental car opens up plenty of nearby sights and road trips. Easy drives from the Kirkwall hub include:
  • Duff House, Banff, Scotland, United Kingdom, approximately 1 mile away
  • Inverboyndie Beach, Banff, Scotland, United Kingdom, approximately 2 miles away
  • Banff Museum, Banff, Scotland, United Kingdom, approximately 2 miles away
With cities like Stromness also within reach, having your own car makes exploring the wider region simple and flexible. For more options, explore Fullsize Car Rentals in Orkney Islands.

Which side of the road do you drive on in Orkney Islands?
In the Orkney Islands, you drive on the left-hand side of the road. Keep to local speed limits and traffic laws for a safe, easy drive while exploring the region's cities and the roads between them. If you're used to driving on the other side, give yourself a little time to adjust — take extra care at intersections and roundabouts, which flow in the opposite direction.
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 Islands?
Yes, there are several long-term car rental options available in Orkney Islands. 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 Islands?
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 Islands?
Budget car rental in Orkney Islands 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 Islands?
No matter what kind of vehicle you're looking for, Expedia makes it easy to find a great car rental deal in Orkney Islands. 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 Islands car rental with a hotel or flight to unlock additional savings.
What do I need to rent a car in Orkney Islands?
To rent a car in Orkney Islands, 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 Islands car rental?
If you need to cancel your Orkney Islands 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.

Car Rental Information

Popular car types:
SUV, Full Size, Economy
From the airport to your hotel:
Airport Transportation