Orkney Islands Vacations & Trips

An Orkney Islands vacation package in Kirkwall lets you combine flights, hotel stays, and rental cars. Some hotels in Kirkwall offer free breakfast, and some also provide airport shuttle service to Kirkwall Airport (KOI).


Exactly what's included will vary by hotel and package, so it's worth reviewing the details before you confirm your booking.

When you bundle, you can save up to 30%*. To save money on a Orkney Islands package, consider traveling during the quieter months or be flexible with your dates to find more options. Bundling your flights and hotel together often unlocks savings compared to booking separately. *Members only. Savings vary.

The best time to plan an Orkney Islands vacation is generally during the peak season from June through August, with July being the most popular month. This period offers the most favorable conditions for exploring the islands' outdoor attractions and cultural sites.


Travelers can also enjoy specific events during other months, such as the Orkney Folk Festival in May, the St Magnus Festival in June (mostly in Kirkwall), and the Orkney Science Festival in September (mostly in Kirkwall).

For an Orkney Islands vacation, choosing the right base depends on your travel style. Here are some destinations to consider:

• Kirkwall: As the main hub with the most lodging choices, Kirkwall is ideal for cultural exploration, offering easy access to historical sites and a lively atmosphere.
• Stromness: This town is a great option for travelers seeking cultural attractions combined with scenic views and outdoor activities, particularly those interested in coastal beauty.
• South Ronaldsay: For those prioritizing outdoor activities and beaches, South Ronaldsay provides a good base to enjoy the natural landscapes and coastal charm.
• Holm: If you're planning a romantic getaway, Holm is a quieter choice known for its charming setting and cultural attractions, perfect for a more relaxed escape.

The Orkney Islands are primarily a cultural destination, offering a rich tapestry of history and ancient sites. Travelers on an Orkney Islands vacation can immerse themselves in the past at places like the Orkney Museum, the historic Earl's Palace, or the prehistoric village of Skara Brae.


While cultural attractions are dominant, the islands also feature beautiful coastal areas for those who enjoy beaches. You can find scenic spots like Scapa Beach near Kirkwall or Cata Sand on Sanday for walks and enjoying the island scenery. Your Orkney Islands vacation package can be customized to include both historical exploration and coastal relaxation.

For an Orkney Islands vacation, the most direct access is via Kirkwall Airport (KOI), located on the main island of Orkney. This airport serves the islands directly.


Alternatively, travelers can fly into mainland Scotland airports such as Inverness Airport (INV) or Wick John O'Groats Airport (WIC), and then take a ferry to the Orkney Islands. Lerwick (LSI-Sumburgh) in the Shetland Islands is also an option, though less direct for the Orkney Islands.

An Orkney Islands vacation is easiest to explore from a base like Kirkwall, which offers the most lodging choices in the region. From there, you can discover a wealth of historic and natural attractions:


Browse and book things to do in the Orkney Islands on Expedia.

Yes, you can cancel your vacation package via your itinerary page on Expedia or by contacting customer service. Remember that some packages are fully refundable, but the details vary based on each unique booking. A fully refundable package may depend on how far out from the travel dates you're canceling and what airline you are traveling with.

Yes, members who join our free One Key™ travel rewards program can instantly unlock additional savings and save 10% or more on over 500,000 stays worldwide with Member Prices and over 1 million car rentals.

Yes, with Expedia's Book Now, Pay Later option, powered by Affirm, you can spread the cost of your Orkney Islands vacation over 3, 6, or 12 months. With no late payment fees or hidden costs, it's easy to secure your ideal vacation package as soon as you spot it.

To find last-minute vacation packages to Orkney Islands, explore the last-minute deals section for the latest package offers, including flights, departing in the coming weeks. Being flexible with your travel dates and hotel preferences can help you secure the best prices.

Free cancellation on a Orkney Islands vacation package depends on the specific hotel and rate combination you book. Many bookings allow free cancellation up to a stated deadline (often a few days before travel) where eligible. Read the cancellation terms carefully when reviewing the package, and visit Expedia help center for further details.

Booking flights and hotels together can unlock lower overall prices. Better still, you can tailor your Orkney Islands getaway to match your exact preference. Pick your preferred flight time, select the hotel type and add a car rental. Explore our bundles to see how much you can save.

Booking your vacation package on Expedia makes it easier to get more out of your trip from the start. With a wide choice of hotels, you can compare prices, reviews and amenities all in one place, then bundle your hotel with flights which could help you save even more. Flexible booking options on selected stays also make it easier to plan with confidence.