3 Day Orkney and Highlands Tour from Inverness

4.9 (73 reviews) Inverness, Scotland
Duration3 days
Free cancellationFull refund up to 24 hours before
TicketMobile or paper ticket accepted
LanguagesGerman, Portuguese, Chinese, English, Italian, French, Spanish
Group sizeUp to 16 travelers

Overview

This 3-days small-group Orkney tour from Inverness offers a unique blend of history, breathtaking landscapes, and coastal adventure. It goes beyond sightseeing, offering stops at culturally rich sites like Dunrobin Castle and John O’Groats, and the chance to spot whales while crossing the Pentland Firth. With highlights such as Kirkwall’s Norse heritage, the ancient Skara Brae village, and the mystical Ring of Brodgar, this tour will connect you with Scotland’s ancient past and northern beauty, making it an unforgettable journey through Orkney's most iconic heritage sites and scenic wonders.

Options

Bed & Breakfast Double Room

Double Room: One double bed in one room, suitable for two people.

Bed & Breakfast Twin Room

Twin Room: Two separate single beds in one room, suitable for two people.

What's included

  • Skara Brae Admission
  • English-Speaking Local Guide
  • Breakfast
  • Italian Chapel Admission
  • Ferry Crossing to Orkney
  • Two Overnight Stays at Bed & Breakfast Accommodation
  • Gratuities
  • Lunch, Dinner, or Snacks

What to expect

Day 1: Inverness to Kirkwall
  1. Dunrobin Castle and Gardens
    Pass by
    Our Orkney Islands tour starts in Inverness before we travel north, passing by Dunrobin Castle, which sits high on a hill and overlooks the Moray Firth.
  2. North Coast 500
    Pass by
    We then drive along the world-famous north Coast 500, boasting magnificent coastal views.
  3. John O'Groats
    1h
    We arrive in the colourful John O'Groats with time to explore the vibrant harbour and try local food for lunch.
  4. Kirkwall
    4h
    After sailing across the ocean to reach Orkney Islands, we reach Kirkwall with free time to explore, settling into our accommodation, and get a first taste of Orkney's local culture.
Day 2: Kirkwall to Kirkwall
  1. Ring of Brodgar
    20m
    The next stop is at the stunning stone circle of Ring of Brodgar, where we will learn about Orkney's prehistoric past.
  2. Skara Brae
    2h · Admission ticket included
    Next up is the impeccable preserved Skara Brae, a Stone Age village offering a spectacular glimpse into life on Orkney 5000 years ago.
  3. Yesnaby Cliffs
    50m
    We take a walk to the majestic coastline of Yesnaby, a perfect photo opportunity to capture the dramatic Yesnaby Sea Stacks.
  4. Brough Of Birsay
    25m
    If the tidal state allows, we may also add a visit to Brough of Birsay, a tidal island boasting archeological hidden gems and breath-taking views of the sea.
  5. Standing Stones of Stenness
    15m
    Our last visit today are the Standing Stones of Stennes. Going back 5000 years, they are the oldest monument on the British Isles.
Day 3: Kirkwall to Inverness
  1. The Italian Chapel
    20m · Admission ticket included
    We first visit the Italian Chapel, where we explore its unique architecture and rich history, serving as a symbol of resilience and creativity for Italian prisoners of war during World War II.
  2. Duncansby Head
    45m
    After sailing back to the mainland, we drive to Duncansby Head for a scenic walk. Here, you can admire Duncansby's dramatic cliffs and striking rock formations.
  3. Lybster
    15m
    We then make a brief stop at Lybster, a bustling herring port with a charming harbour.
  4. Dornoch
    30m
    Our final stop before we arrive back at Inverness is Dornoch, where we enjoy the scenic coastal views and get the chance to visit historic Dornoch Cathedral, a significant landmark with deep roots in the region's heritage.

Meeting and pickup

Meeting point

Meet 15 minutes before departure, across from the Victorian Market entrance, for check-in. Look for a blue or yellow bus.

End point

Meet 15 minutes before departure, across from the Victorian Market entrance, for check-in. Look for a blue or yellow bus.

Additional information

  • Service animals allowed
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • Minimum age to travel is 5 years old, while anyone aged 5-17 must be accompanied by an adult.
  • Please note that itinerary order may change.
  • Travel insurance is recommended.
  • We advise you to organise transport to the departure point in advance and make sure you arrive at least 15 minutes early for check-in; late arrivals cannot be refunded and we cannot delay departure.
  • Return times are approximate and subject to weather/travel conditions - allow at least 3 hours for onward travel or reservations.
  • Each traveller may bring 1 suitcase (max 33lbs/15kg) and 1 carry-on.
  • Collapsible wheelchairs are allowed if you are accompanied by someone to assist with boarding.
  • The tour may operate with our sister company, HAGGiS Adventures.
  • If you are using an audio guide, please bring your headset.

Cancellation policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Reviews

4.9 (73)
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£625.00 per person
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  • Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts
  • You'll choose your date and travelers and pay on viator.com. Prices vary by date, group size and option.
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