Orkney Private Tour (2–3 Days) from Inverness
A private multi-day journey to Orkney, designed around Scotland’s most remarkable Neolithic sites, dramatic coastal scenery, and a relaxed overnight stay in Kirkwall.
Duration
2 or 3 days
Overnight
Kirkwall (minimum 1 night)
Group size
Up to 7 guests
Start
Inverness and Highlands accommodation
Style
Private, flexible, history-rich and scenic
What’s included
- Luxury Mercedes vehicle
- Professional local Highland driver-guide
- Full itinerary planning and ferry coordination
- Pick-up and drop-off at accommodation
Ferry tickets, accommodation, meals, and attraction entry fees are not included unless arranged in advance.
Why Orkney is worth the journey
Orkney is one of the most fascinating places in Scotland. The islands are packed with ancient history, from Neolithic villages to wartime landmarks, all set against wide open skies and rugged coastal views. It is a perfect choice for guests who want something truly different from the usual Highland day trips.
We design this tour for a calm, premium pace. Explore with a private driver-guide and a tailored route built around your interests. For longer touring, our private tours from Inverness are designed around the same approach.
Orkney highlights (what you can see)
Skara Brae
A remarkable Neolithic village with a sense of place that still feels powerful today.
Maeshowe
A world class burial chamber and a must for history lovers, subject to availability and pre-booking.
Ring of Brodgar
A dramatic stone circle set in a wide open landscape with unforgettable views.
Stones of Stenness
Smaller than Brodgar but just as evocative, with a calm atmosphere and strong sense of history.
Kirkwall and St Magnus Cathedral
A charming capital town with a striking cathedral and a relaxed evening atmosphere.
Scapa Flow viewpoints
Wide coastal views with wartime stories and a real sense of Orkney’s maritime history.
Churchill Barriers
Iconic wartime structures that are still impressive to see in person.
The Italian Chapel
A moving, unexpected stop that adds a human story to the wartime landscape.
Orkney Brewery (optional visit)
A relaxed optional visit when opening times suit your route.
Museums and historical sites
Orkney has excellent museum options for guests who want deeper context.
Other Neolithic settlements and archaeology stops
We can include additional sites depending on interests and time.
2 Day Orkney Tour (Kirkwall overnight)
Day 1: Inverness to Orkney, arriving in Kirkwall
- Scenic drive north through the Highlands
- Ferry crossing to Orkney, route depends on sailing times and availability
- Arrive in Kirkwall
- St Magnus Cathedral and a walk through Kirkwall
- Optional Orkney Brewery visit if timings suit
- Evening in Kirkwall with dinner plans arranged around your preferences
Day 2: Orkney’s Neolithic heart and wartime history
- Skara Brae
- Ring of Brodgar
- Stones of Stenness
- Maeshowe, subject to availability
- Scapa Flow viewpoints
- Churchill Barriers
- The Italian Chapel
Then ferry return and drive back to Inverness.
3 Day Orkney Tour (more time, calmer pace)
The 3 day option is ideal if you want a slower pace, more time at the key sites, and space for museums, coastal stops, and extra Neolithic locations without rushing.
Day 1: Inverness to Kirkwall
Similar to the 2 day version, with a calmer evening and optional museum time in Kirkwall if you prefer.
Day 2: Neolithic Orkney
Focus on Skara Brae, Ring of Brodgar, Stones of Stenness, and Maeshowe, subject to availability. Additional Neolithic sites and settlements can be included if you want deeper history.
Day 3: Scapa Flow, barriers and coastal scenery
Focus on Scapa Flow viewpoints, the Churchill Barriers, and the Italian Chapel, with extra coastal stops and viewpoints as time allows. Then return to Inverness.
Museums and history stops (optional)
Orkney has excellent museums and local historical collections. If you enjoy archaeology, wartime history, and local storytelling, we can include the best museum stops depending on opening times and the pace you want.
Travel notes
- Ferry times vary by season.
- Weather can affect crossings.
- Some sites require advance booking, especially Maeshowe.
- Comfortable shoes and a warm layer are recommended.
- We will tailor the route around your dates and interests.
Bespoke private tours
Bespoke private tours
Every Venture Highland tour can be tailored. We can adjust timings, add stops, and build a completely bespoke itinerary to suit your interests, pace, and travel plans. If you have a wish list, we will design the day around it.
Plan your Orkney tour from Inverness
Tell us your dates, group size, and whether you would prefer the 2 day or 3 day option. We will design a private Orkney journey with the best sites, a comfortable Kirkwall overnight, and a relaxed pace throughout. If you are ready to begin, request a quote.
FAQ
Can you visit Orkney from Inverness in 2 days?
Yes. The 2 day option includes a Kirkwall overnight and a focused route covering the key highlights.
Is the 3 day Orkney tour better than 2 days?
The 3 day option is ideal if you want a calmer pace with more time for museums, coastal stops, and additional archaeology sites.
Do you stay overnight in Kirkwall?
Yes. A Kirkwall overnight is included in both the 2 and 3 day options.
Is Maeshowe included in the itinerary?
We include Maeshowe when availability allows, as it requires pre-booking.
Can you include Skara Brae and the Ring of Brodgar?
Yes. These are key highlights and we plan the route around them.
Can you visit the Churchill Barriers and the Italian Chapel?
Yes. These are important wartime sites and fit well into both the 2 and 3 day options.
Can you include museums and other historic sites?
Yes. We can include the best museum stops depending on opening times and your pace.
Can you tailor this tour for families or small groups?
Absolutely. Every tour is private and we plan the route around your group.
