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 happens if I need to cancel my Orkney Islands car reservation?
We get that having a bit of wiggle room is important. That's why many prepaid reservations offer a full refund if you notify us six hours before the pickup time. You may want to go through your rental agreement though as there are some exclusions. If the information isn't there, make your way to our Customer Service Portal.
How do I find the best car rental deals in Orkney Islands with Expedia?
Check customer ratings, choose your preferred ride and compare prices from leading brands. Expedia makes it easy to track down the best deal on your rental wheels. Combine your Orkney Islands car rental with hotel or flight bookings and drive away with even greater savings.
How old do you have to be to rent a car in Orkney Islands?
Orkney Islands requires drivers to be 21 and above before they can rent a vehicle. However, young drivers will be subject to an extra cost and some restrictions on choice. Many companies impose a young renter fee on top of the usual rental rate. This covers the extra risk of accident or damage. While many car categories (like compact and economy) are available to young drivers, restrictions generally apply to specialty and premium cars.
What do you need to rent a car in Orkney Islands?
A valid driver's license and a credit card in the same name are two essentials. Don't want to take out the company's insurance plan? In that case, you may also require proof of your own coverage. Rules can differ between providers, so read your policy thoroughly.
Can I rent a car for a month or longer in Orkney Islands?
You can, and the terrific news is suppliers often offer lower prices the longer you rent. Look through our long-term car rental deals in Orkney Islands and drive away with an impressive bargain.
Where can I find a Orkney Islands car rental if I am younger than 25?
This will depend on the rental car companies located in Orkney Islands. They often have different age policies. If you've found a supplier that does cater to drivers under 25 years of age, bear in mind that extra fees may apply. Conduct some research into what those charges could be before you collect the car.
What insurance should I choose for my car rental in Orkney Islands?
Get your road trip off to a good start by selecting Expedia's collision damage protection. While there are all kinds of rental car insurance, this is one you should have. It provides primary coverage for collision damage, vandalism and theft up to $35,000, as well as 24-hour emergency assistance. Don't wait until you reach the rental desk to insure your wheels. Opt in to collision protection while booking your Orkney Islands ride with Expedia and save time and money.

Car Rental Information

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