Kirkwall, on the Orkney Islands, is a treasure trove for travelers eager to explore ancient sites, rugged coastlines, and local heritage. What makes Kirkwall particularly appealing for touring is its compact size combined with a wealth of history and natural beauty. Among the many ways to experience this unique spot, guided tours stand out. We especially love the Orkney: West Mainland Group Day Tour, which offers a fantastic balance of archaeological marvels and stunning scenery. Its small-group format makes for a more personal experience, and guests rave about the knowledgeable guides and well-paced itinerary.
In this list, you’ll find a mix of group excursions, private tours, walking explorations, and even whiskey tastings—each tailored to different interests and budgets. Whether you’re after an in-depth archaeological adventure, a quick highlights tour, or a private heritage experience, there’s something to match your style. Below, we’ll break down the top options, helping you pick the best fit for your visit to Kirkwall and Orkney.
1. Orkney: West Mainland Group Day Tour
This semi-private tour is a standout for seeing the main sites of the West Mainland of Orkney in just half a day. For $147 per person, you get a carefully curated experience that covers Neolithic sites like Skara Brae, the Ring of Brodgar, and the Standing Stones of Stenness, along with dramatic coastal views at Yesnaby and Unstan Chambered Cairn. What makes this tour really shine is its detailed attention to the archaeological sites, with guided tours at Skara Brae and Brodgar that deepen your understanding of their significance.
This tour is praised for its friendly guides, comfortable small van, and relaxed pace—perfect for those who want a rundown without feeling rushed. Guests especially mention the storytelling, the weather (sometimes a challenge but part of the fun), and the crew’s helpful attitude. It’s a great choice if you’re after value for money and a well-rounded day exploring Orkney’s ancient history and stunning scenery.
Bottom line: If you want a friendly, informative, and scenic trip that hits the key archaeological spots, this tour is hard to beat. It’s a top choice for history lovers and those limited on time.
2. From Kirkwall – Orkney Mainland Private Tour
For those who prefer a customized experience, the Private Tour of the Orkney Mainland offers the flexibility to explore at your own pace. Priced at around $531.49 per person, this 7-hour journey is ideal for travelers who want a personalized itinerary and the ability to focus on specific interests such as Neolithic sites, coastal scenery, or wartime history.
Your guide will pick you up from your preferred address in Kirkwall, making logistics hassle-free. The tour includes visits to Scapa Flow, the Neolithic cairns, and stone circles like Stenness, with tickets to Skara Brae and Skaill House included. The guide’s local knowledge shines when explaining the archaeological significance and wartime stories, making this tour both educational and engaging.
Guests often comment on the easy pace and tailored approach, with one reviewer noting that the guide’s depth of local knowledge made the experience memorable. It’s best suited for history enthusiasts or families wanting a private, flexible adventure.
Bottom line: If you prefer an intimate, flexible day with a private guide, this tour offers a seamless way to cover all your must-see sites and tailor your experience.
3. Semi Private Tour – Orkney and Kirkwall
This tour balances a small group size and a variety of highlights. Starting at only $226.41 per person, it lasts around 6.5 hours and includes key sites like the Standing Stones of Stenness, Broch of Gurness, and the Italian Chapel. It also features visits to St. Magnus Cathedral and Kirkwall town, giving you a well-rounded view of heritage and local life.
Guests appreciate the friendly guides and the smooth, well-organized itinerary. The tour strikes a good balance between archaeological exploration and cultural sights. The inclusion of the Italian Chapel, built by Italian POWs during WWII, adds a poignant historical layer. The tour is ideal if you’re interested in both ancient and more recent history, and want to see a variety of sites in a single day.
Bottom line: This tour offers a broad overview with personalized touches, making it great for those wanting a comprehensive yet intimate experience.
4. Treasures of Orkney: Private Half-Day Tour from Kirkwall
If a private, shorter exploration sounds appealing, this Private Half-Day Tour is perfect. Priced at $1,361 for up to 4 people, it covers the most iconic sites in about 4 hours. This tour includes Yesnaby cliffs, Skara Brae, the Ring of Brodgar, and the Standing Stones of Stenness.
The guides focus on personalized storytelling and in-depth site visits, making this a very tailored experience. Its shorter duration makes it excellent for visitors with limited time or those who want a focused highlights tour. One reviewer calls it “fabulous,” praising the expert guidance and seamless logistics.
Bottom line: Best suited for those wanting a private, in-depth experience with a flexible schedule, especially if you’re staying in Kirkwall for just part of the day.
5. Shore Excursion Kirkwall Small Group Highlights of Orkney
This small-group tour, with just 2 reviews but perfect 5-star ratings, offers a personalized cruise-focused experience. At about $324.38 per person for roughly 6 hours, it includes visits to the Italian Chapel, St. Magnus Cathedral, the Churchill Barriers, and the Stones of Stenness.
It’s perfect if you’re arriving on a cruise and want an efficient, intimate exploration of Orkney’s highlights. The advantage here is the small group size, which means more flexibility and personal attention. Reviewers emphasize how knowledgeable and friendly the guides are, making the day both comfortable and informative.
Bottom line: Ideal for cruise passengers wanting a focused, personalized tour that hits the must-see sites without feeling rushed.
6. Kirkwall Private Walking Tour
If you prefer to explore on foot and stay close to Kirkwall, this Private Walking Tour offers an intimate look at the town’s highlights. For $338.15 per person, you’ll visit St. Magnus Cathedral, the Bishop’s Palace, and Earl’s Palace, along with some free time to wander on your own.
Guests love the personalized attention and the opportunity to see the local vernacular architecture, especially the 17th-18th-century houses. The walking pace allows for plenty of photo opportunities and a chance to soak in Kirkwall’s atmosphere.
Bottom line: Best suited for those who enjoy walking and want a relaxed, detailed exploration of Kirkwall itself.
7. Orkney Highlights Private Tour
This private heritage tour offers a deep dive into Orkney’s stone circles and Neolithic sites. Costing about $1,175.40 for up to 4 people, it includes Standing Stones of Stenness, Ring of Brodgar, Skara Brae, and Yesnaby Cliffs.
Guests praise it for its personalized itinerary and guide Kenny’s knowledge. It’s well-suited for travelers wanting an in-depth archaeological experience with a comfortable and tailored approach. The smaller group and custom itinerary make this ideal for those with specific interests in prehistory.
Bottom line: Perfect for serious archaeology buffs or families wanting a private, immersive experience.
8. Orkney Discovery: Private Half-Day Tour from Kirkwall
Designed for cruise visitors, this Private Half-Day Tour offers a compact, flexible itinerary. Starting from Stromness or Kirkwall, it covers Yesnaby, Stenness, Ring of Brodgar, and the Italian Chapel in about 4.5 hours.
The tour includes pickups and drop-offs and focuses on efficiently showcasing Orkney’s highlights. Reviewers mention the knowledge of the guide Ciaran Stormonth and the ease of logistics.
Bottom line: Ideal for cruise passengers who want a well-organized, private experience without overextending their day.
9. Private Orkney Spirits: A Whiskey Journey Through Time
For a very different kind of experience, this Private Whiskey and Heritage Tour combines history and distilling. At $3,040 per group, it’s suited for small groups or couples willing to splurge for a luxury experience.
You’ll explore ancient sites like the Standing Stones and Skara Brae and finish with tastings at Scapa distillery. The guide shares stories about Orkney’s whisky-making history, making this a unique blend of archaeology and spirits.
Bottom line: Best for those interested in whiskey, exclusive experiences, and historical stories—a one-of-a-kind way to connect Orkney’s past and present.
10. Puffin Explorer – Private Orkney Half-day Tour
This tour offers a nature-focused outing for wildlife lovers. For around 5 hours, you’ll visit Brough of Birsay (tidal island), Yesnaby, and Marwick Head, with opportunities to see puffins and other seabirds.
It’s perfect if you want to combine wildlife watching with scenic coastal views. Reviewers enjoy the flexible stops and the chance to see Orkney’s birdlife and rugged coastlines up close.
Bottom line: Ideal for birders and nature lovers, especially those eager to see puffins and seabirds on Orkney’s coast.
How to Choose Your Perfect Tour in Kirkwall
When selecting a tour, consider your budget, time constraints, and interests. If archaeology is your main passion, the West Mainland Group Day Tour or the Heritage private tours are excellent options. For those wanting a personalized experience, private tours like the Orkney Mainland Private Tour or the Heritage Highlights may suit better.
If your cruise schedule is tight, the discovery or half-day private options provide a rundown without overloading your day. For lovers of local spirits or wildlife, specialized tours like the Whiskey Journey or Puffin Explorer can provide a memorable experience.
Make sure to book early, especially in peak season, as these tours tend to fill quickly. Consider the walking and mobility requirements for some options, like the Kirkwall Private Walking Tour, if you prefer less physical activity.
Final Thoughts
Kirkwall offers an incredible array of guided experiences that bring its ancient history, stunning landscapes, and local traditions to life. For a comprehensive archaeological adventure, the West Mainland Group Day Tour is hard to beat. If you value personalized attention, the private options like the Heritage Private Tour are excellent choices.
For a special treat, consider the Whiskey Journey, blending history with a taste of local craftsmanship. Whatever your interests, booking early ensures you won’t miss out on these enriching ways to experience Orkney’s fascinating past and breathtaking scenery.
