3 Day Orkney and Highlands Tour from Inverness

4.9 (73 reviews) 3 days Free cancellation

out of 5

73 reviews

4.9

Duncansby Head — Photos: the activity supplier, via Viator

Young woman at Yesnaby Sea Stacks — Photos: the activity supplier, via Viator

About this activity

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.

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At a glance

Duration: 3 days
Confirmation: Confirmed within 48 hours
Ticket: Mobile or paper ticket accepted
Group: Up to 16 people
People per booking: 1–15
Audio guide: German, Portuguese, Chinese, Italian, French, Spanish
Guide: English
Operated by: Highland Explorer Tours Ltd

Ages: Children (5–16 years) · Adults (17–59 years) · Seniors (60–99 years)

What is included

Included

Included: Skara Brae Admission
Included: English-Speaking Local Guide
Included: Breakfast
Included: Italian Chapel Admission
Included: Ferry Crossing to Orkney
Included: Two Overnight Stays at Bed & Breakfast Accommodation

Not included

Not included: Gratuities
Not included: Lunch, Dinner, or Snacks

Itinerary

Day 1 · Inverness to Kirkwall

Dunrobin Castle and Gardens

Passing 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.
North Coast 500

Passing by

We then drive along the world-famous north Coast 500, boasting magnificent coastal views.
John O'Groats

one hour

We arrive in the colourful John O'Groats with time to explore the vibrant harbour and try local food for lunch.
Kirkwall

4 hours

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.

Overnight stay at bed & breakfast accommodation in Kirkwall

Day 2 · Kirkwall to Kirkwall

Ring of Brodgar

20 min

The next stop is at the stunning stone circle of Ring of Brodgar, where we will learn about Orkney's prehistoric past.
Skara Brae

2 hours Admission included

Next up is the impeccable preserved Skara Brae, a Stone Age village offering a spectacular glimpse into life on Orkney 5000 years ago.
Yesnaby Cliffs

50 min

We take a walk to the majestic coastline of Yesnaby, a perfect photo opportunity to capture the dramatic Yesnaby Sea Stacks.
Brough Of Birsay

25 min

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.
Standing Stones of Stenness

15 min

Our last visit today are the Standing Stones of Stennes. Going back 5000 years, they are the oldest monument on the British Isles.

Overnight stay at bed & breakfast accommodation in Kirkwall

Day 3 · Kirkwall to Inverness

The Italian Chapel

20 min Admission 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.
Duncansby Head

45 min

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.
Lybster

15 min

We then make a brief stop at Lybster, a bustling herring port with a charming harbour.
Dornoch

30 min

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 point and pickup

Everyone meets at the meeting point.

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.

Using your ticket

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

Cancellation

Free cancellation

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

If you cancel	You get back
At least one day before	100%
Less than a day before	0%

The operator may cancel if the weather does not allow it; you then get another date or your money back.
The operator may cancel if too few people book; you then get another date or your money back.

Good to know

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.

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.