Things to do in Shetland Islands

Our most recommended things to do in Shetland Islands

Orkney: West Mainland Group Day Tour

Orkney: West Mainland Group Day Tour

Participate in a semi-private tour (maximum of 8 guests) that takes you to some of the most fabulous spots on the West Mainland of Orkney. Start your tour at the Kirkwall Travel Centre in the centre of Kirkwall and take a scenic drive looking at the magnificent Scapa Flow, which was the main British naval base during both World Wars. Your guide will tell you about some of the major events that happened in the waters of Scapa Flow. Then stop by the Unstan Tomb, a 5,300-year-old burial chamber situated on the edge of Stenness Loch. Next, grab the opportunity to take some photos at the wild Cliffs of Yesnaby, some of the most stunning coastal scenery on the Orkney Islands. Feel the fresh air on your cheeks and capture some memories. Take a guided tour of Skara Brae, discovered in 1850. Learn more about what is considered the best-preserved Neolithic Village in Northern Europe. Your guide will tell you all about this magnificent 5000-year-old village. After the guided tour, enjoy some free time and have a look at the 400-year-old Skaill House or take a look around the Skara Brae visitor centre before heading to the Ring of Brodgar. A spectacular henge monument dating back 4500 years, this stone circle has been an iconic part of the Orkney landscape for thousands of years. Finally, stop at the Standing Stones of Stenness, which is believed to be the oldest stone circle in the UK. Experience the history and mystery of this site. Finish your tour at the Kirkwall Travel Centre, or get dropped off at the cruise port if required.

Orkney Day Trip: Meets the Scrabster - Stromness Ferry

Orkney Day Trip: Meets the Scrabster - Stromness Ferry

The Orkney Day Trip meets the Scrabster - Stromness ferry and returns in time for the ferry back to the Mainland (ferry fares not included). Visit the Cliffs of Yesnaby, Skara Brae, the Ring of Brodgar, the Standing Stones of Stenness, and Kirkwall. Enjoy a semi-private tour with a maximum of 8 passengers. Your local guide will provide commentary in the vehicle (English only) and also guides on some of the sites. Meet your guide at the Stromness Travel Centre and set off on your adventure. Travel to the Cliffs of Yesnaby and take in the stunning views. Continue to Skara Brae and Skaill House, where you can explore the ancient village and the nearby manor house. Next, head to the Ring of Brodgar and the Standing Stones of Stenness. Afterward, enjoy free time in Kirkwall or visit the Italian Chapel for an additional fee. Then, see Scapa Flow and Unstan Tomb before returning to Stromness. PLEASE NOTE THAT IS TOUR IS NOT SUITABLE FOR CRUISE SHIP GUESTS. This is due to the cruise port being 15 miles from the starting point. Cruise ship guests should look for the Orkney West Mainland Tour instead.

From Inverness: 3-Day Orkney Explorer

From Inverness: 3-Day Orkney Explorer

Day 1: From here, you drive along the northeast Highland coastline, travelling into some of Scotland's most dramatic scenery. Onwards through Scotland's most northerly mainland village, John o' Groats, and then to Gills Bay, where you board the ferry, and cross the Pentland Firth into the Orkney Archipelago. It’s a short drive to the famous Italian Chapel where you stop for a visit before continuing to the Viking stronghold of Kirkwall, capital of Orkney. Here you can visit Kirkwall's magnificent Viking Cathedral and enjoy its historic winding streets in the evening. Day 2: Today is your chance to explore the modern and ancient wonders of this fantastic island; a land of contrasts, where fertile green pastures are fringed by shores of golden sands washed by waters of the North Sea and the Atlantic Ocean. You visit the 5,000-year-old village of Skara Brae, the mystical prehistoric stone circle at Brodgar and the Druidic standing stones of Stenness. Then you explore the cairn of Maeshowe, where in the 12th century the Vikings left one of the largest collections of Norse runic inscriptions. Then it’s back to Kirkwall for your second night after what is sure to be a memorable day. Day 3: You'll have your last chance to grab some gifts for friends and family, and visit the local cathedral in Kirkwall. And after a ferry back to the mainland, you travel through the history-soaked regions of Caithness and Sutherland. You’ll find out about the Highland clearances, a world-changing period in Scotland’s dark history, and get a glimpse of some of Scotland’s most remote fishing villages. We arrive back in Inverness early evening.

Historic Orkney Private Odyssey Tour By a Native Islander

Historic Orkney Private Odyssey Tour By a Native Islander

I will pick up up to 4 passengers from any location on the Orkney mainland, this includes the ferry ports of Stromness and St Margaret's hope and Kirkwall Airport. This short tour is perfect for those visiting Orkney on a day trip via the link ferries from the Scottish mainland, arriving by cruise liner, or even those spending a longer time on the island. During the tour, you will visit various sights around Orkney as a private group with a guide and vehicle solely for you. The duration and number of sites are completely up to you! My base tour is 5 hours long, but I’m happy to extend the tour on the day for an additional cost. The tour combines a guided experience with free time to explore each site at your own pace. I’ll share local insights and historical details from my lifetime of experience on Orkney. Below is an example itinerary of my standard 5-hour tour departing from Kirkwall at 09:00 AM. . 09:00 AM - Depart from the pickup location and visit the iconic St. Magnus Cathedral and the Bishops' and Earl's Palaces. . Drive past the HMS Royal Oak memorial and the renowned natural harbour of Scapa Flow. . Drive along Scorradale Road for a fantastic photo opportunity of Stromness and Hoy. . Visit the 5,300-year-old Unstan Tomb with time to explore the site. . Stop at the cliffs of Yesnaby for another scenic photo opportunity. . 11:00 AM - Explore the prehistoric village of Skara Brae, with around 60 minutes to enjoy the site at your own pace. A café and toilets are available on-site. (Update: As of April 2024, please make sure to reserve tickets online when booking the tour, as capacity can be limited.) . Visit the Ring of Brodgar for the chance to walk among one of the great Neolithic monuments. . Pass by or stop to visit the Standing Stones of Stenness. . Explore the Italian Chapel via the Churchill Barriers to dive into more island history and take some additional photos (approx. 20 minutes). . Time permitting, enjoy some free time in Kirkwall before being dropped off. . 14:00 PM - Base tour ends. I don’t enforce strict timings or set routes on my tours, giving you the freedom to explore at your own pace. Every tour is unique and tailored to your preferences. I currently use a midsize SUV for my tours, as well as a 4x4 estate car, both of which comfortably accommodate 4 mid size adults or 3 with extra space. These vehicles offer more comfort and room than most minibus-style vehicles. (Update: February 2024): I am currently having difficulty replying to clients who contact me through the GetYourGuide messaging platform. If you don’t receive a response within 24 hours, please message me directly.

From Edinburgh: 6-Day Shetland & Nothernmost Explorer

From Edinburgh: 6-Day Shetland & Nothernmost Explorer

Shetland Islands might be the 'last untamed corner of the UK. Day 1: Cruise the Sea, Ride the Breeze Our journey starts in Edinburgh. We'll see the iconic Forth Bridge, a UNESCO World Heritage Site erected in 1889. En route, a glimpse of Arbroath Abbey reminds us of Scotland's struggle for independence in the Declaration of Arbroath from 1320. Arriving at the port of Aberdeen, we'll board our cruise ship bound for the Shetland Islands, set to arrive the following morning. Day 2: The North Sea's Beating Heart As we step off the cruise, our Shetland adventure begins in earnest. Our first stop is Lerwick, the island's capital. Lerwick welcomes with its centuries-old architecture and culture, where Shetland knitting, an ancient craft indigenous to the islands, awaits discovery. Our journey delves further back in time to a New Stone Age settlement, an archaeological site spanning 40,000 years. Don't miss the iconic Sumburgh Lighthouse, constructed in 1821 by Robert Stevenson, the oldest lighthouse in Shetland. Cap your day with a visit to Lerwick Beach, a sanctuary for the ever-relaxing seals. Day 3: Expansive Landscapes, Vast Seascape Indulge in the soft seashells of St. Ninian's Ayre, where Shetland unveils its unique seascape. A coastline sandwiched between azure waters. The journey continues along the mesmerizing 1,697-mile coastline of Eshaness, where cliffs stand as captivating landmarks. Witness the sheer force of waves crashing against ancient rocks. Day 4: The Northernmost Point and Viking Legacy Reaching the true northernmost point of the UK. The Muckle Flugga lighthouse perches atop a small rocky outcrop at the northern edge of Unst's Hermaness peninsula, a place of epic cliffs, puffin colonies, and rookeries of seabirds. Unst, the northernmost inhabited island in the British Isles, holds concentrated evidence of Viking raiders and Norse occupation. The Viking Unst archaeological project unearthed three Viking longhouses, offering a glimpse into the past. On this adventure, you'll also encounter the loneliest and last bus stop, a testament to a father's love for his daughter. The best time to see puffins is from April to July Day 5: Graceful Ponies, Stunning Beaches Pet the charming Shetland ponies that have roamed these islands' exposed hills and wilderness for over 4,000 years. These hardy creatures have adapted to the harsh Shetland environment. A stroll along Minn Beach leads to Kettla Ness, a wild headland populated by seals, Arctic skuas, and Arctic terns. Our cruise back to Aberdeen concludes this enchanting day. Day 6: Though it Ends, it Never Truly Ends Upon disembarking, we venture to Dunnottar Castle, a majestic 14th-century fortress dramatically perched on rugged cliffs overlooking the coastline. Our final destination is St. Andrews, the birthplace of world golf and a spiritual center of Scotland. A pilgrimage site for golf enthusiasts worldwide, it's a fitting conclusion to our journey before returning to Edinburgh.

Treasures of Orkney: Private Half-Day Tour from Kirkwall

Treasures of Orkney: Private Half-Day Tour from Kirkwall

Explore the ancient wonders of Orkney on a captivating half-day private tour from Kirkwall. The journey will take you to the dramatic coastal cliffs of Yesnaby, where you’ll witness breathtaking views of the rugged coastline and sea stacks. Continue to the Neolithic village of Skara Brae, one of Europe’s best-preserved Stone Age settlements, and delve into the mysteries of its history. Next, visit the Ring of Brodgar, an impressive stone circle set amidst the stunning Orkney landscape. Learn about its significance as a prehistoric ceremonial site before heading to the Standing Stones of Stenness, another enigmatic stone circle steeped in ancient lore. Throughout the tour, you’ll have the convenience of private transportation and the expertise of a local guide to uncover the rich history and natural beauty of Orkney. Note: You must book the Tickets for Skara Brae in advance on the official website.

Historic Orkney Coastal Charms Tour by a Native Islander

Historic Orkney Coastal Charms Tour by a Native Islander

I will pick up up to 4 passengers from any location on the Orkney mainland, this includes the ferry ports of Stromness and St Margaret's hope and Kirkwall Airport. This short tour is perfect for those visiting Orkney on a day trip via the link ferries from the Scottish mainland, arriving by cruise liner, or even those spending a longer time on the island. During the tour, you will visit various sights around Orkney as a private group with a guide and vehicle solely for you. The duration and number of sites are completely up to you! My base tour is 5 hours long, but I’m happy to extend the tour on the day for an additional cost. The tour combines a guided experience with free time to explore each site at your own pace. I’ll share local insights and historical details from my lifetime of experience on Orkney. Below is an example itinerary for my standard 5-hour tour, which departing Kirkwall at 09:00AM . 09:00 AM - Depart from the pick-up location . Drive past the Rendall Doocot on a scenic route. . Visit the Brough of Gurness (approx. 30 minutes) . Pass by Swannay Brewery . Stop at Kirbuster Farm Museum (approx. 20 minutes) . Explore the Brough of Birsay (approx. 20 minutes) . Pass by the Barony Mill, with the option to stop at Kitchener Memorial (an extra 60 minutes required for this stop) . Pass by the site of Skara Brae prehistoric village (with a café and toilets available on-site) . Visit the cliffs of Yesnaby . Stop at Stromness Museum . Visit Logins Well and the Cannon via Stromness High Street for a true local experience (approx. 5-10 minutes) . Visit Ness Point for a photo opportunity, also home to Ness Battery (approx. 20 minutes) . Return to Kirkwall, with an option to go up Wideford Hill for a photo opportunity or visit a hidden gem local produce store for a true taste of Orkney. . 14:00 PM - Tour ends I don’t enforce strict timings or set routes on my tours, giving you the freedom to explore at your own pace. Every tour is unique and tailored to your preferences. I currently use a midsize SUV for my tours, as well as a 4x4 estate car, both of which comfortably accommodate 4 mid size adults or 3 with extra space. These vehicles offer more comfort and room than most minibus-style vehicles. (Update: February 2024): I am currently having difficulty replying to clients who contact me through the GetYourGuide messaging platform. If you don’t receive a response within 24 hours, please message me directly.

Scotland: Orkney and Northern Coast 5-Day Tour

Scotland: Orkney and Northern Coast 5-Day Tour

Day 1 Depart Edinburgh, heading west towards Stirling. Pass Stirling Castle and the Wallace Monument, and continue to Doune Castle, used for location shoots in Monty Python’s “Holy Grail.” Stop in the small town of Callander for refreshments. Then, marvel at the splendor of Loch Luibnaig, Loch Earn, Glen Ogle, and Glen Dochart on a scenic drive over the wild and remote Rannoch Moor. The views of the extinct volcano will take your breath away, and were also the scene of the infamous Clan Macdonald massacre of 1692. Continue north up the Great Glen to mysterious Loch Ness, with plenty of time to try and spot “Nessie” the Loch Ness Monster. The evening will be spent in Inverness, with free time to explore the “Capital of the Highlands.” Day 2 Depart Inverness early to cross over the Black Isle, and continuing past Dunrobin Castle. From here, drive the northeast coastline, traveling into some of Scotland’s most dramatic scenery. Enjoy the views of some of Europe’s oldest landscapes, and the chance to spot wildlife such as golden eagle and red deer. Close to Scotland’s most northerly mainland village, John O’ Groats, board the ferry to cross the Pentland Firth to the Orkney archipelago. It is a short drive on arrival to the famous Italian Chapel, where you will stop for a quick visit before continuing to the Viking stronghold of Kirkwall, your home for the next 2 nights. Look inside Kirkwall’s magnificent Viking cathedral, and wander the winding streets of the historic town center. Day 3 Explore the ancient island of Orkney, and discover a land of contrasts, where fertile green pastures are fringed by shores of golden sands, and washed by the waters of the North Sea and Atlantic Ocean. Highlights include a visit to Skara Brae, the mystical prehistoric stone circle at Brodgar, the standing stones of Stenness, and Maeshowe, where Vikings left one of the largest collections of Norse runic inscriptions in the 12th century. Day 4 It’s time to leave Orkney and sail the Viking waters back to the mainland. From here, travel across the very top of Scotland, driving past the stunning Ben Loyal and Ben Hope mountains, following the rocky cliffs and stunning golden sand beaches of the northern coastline. Go to the far northwest of the Highlands, and admire the grandeur of the wild Assynt mountains. Stop to view the 15th-century ruins of Ardvreck Castle. Continue to Ullapool at the mouth of Loch Broom, a beautiful whitewashed fishing village where you will spend your last night. Day 5 Your morning includes visits to Corrieshalloch Gorge, and the ancient Clava Cairns, as well as exploring the more recent bloody history of the Culloden battlefield. Return south through the magnificent Cairngorm National Park, driving past the ancient Caledonian pine forests of Highland Perthshire, before your drop off in Edinburgh.

Shore Excursion Kirkwall: Small Group Highlights of Orkney

Shore Excursion Kirkwall: Small Group Highlights of Orkney

Discover the charm of Orkney in an intimate setting with our small group tour, limited to just 6 individuals. Experience the allure of The Italian Chapel, a poignant symbol of history crafted by Italian prisoners of war during World War II. Nestled on a once-desolate island, these prisoners left behind a remarkable legacy while constructing the Churchill Barriers near Scapa Flow. Join us for an exclusive journey through time and heritage. Next we embark on a journey of engineering marvels with the Churchill Barriers – a series of four causeways spanning the picturesque Orkney Islands. Stretching over 2.3 kilometers in total, these barriers seamlessly connect the Orkney Mainland in the north to the serene South Ronaldsay, weaving through the islands of Burray, Lamb Holm, and Glimps Holm. Experience the ingenuity of human craftsmanship as you traverse these historic links, immersing yourself in the breathtaking landscapes of Orkney. Indulge your senses in the captivating beauty of the Scapa Flow area on our tour. Marvel at the dramatic coastlines, adorned with rugged cliffs and the tranquil expanse of scattered islands. Behold the picturesque slopes of lush farmland, adorned with vibrant green grasslands. A remarkable highlight of your journey: The Ring of Brodgar. Nestled approximately 6 miles northeast of Stromness on Mainland, the largest island in Orkney, this Neolithic henge and stone circle awaits your discovery. Immerse yourself in the ancient allure of this iconic site as you explore its intriguing history and marvel at its enduring presence amidst Orkney's timeless landscape. Prepare to be transported back in time to the Neolithic era as you encounter the Standing Stones of Stenness, a historic monument located five miles northeast of Stromness on the mainland of Orkney, Scotland. Widely believed to be one of the oldest henge sites in the British Isles, this sacred site offers a profound glimpse into ancient civilization and the mysteries of prehistoric culture. Join us on a journey to uncover the secrets of this remarkable archaeological wonder. Discover the awe-inspiring Skara Brae, hailed as the best-preserved Neolithic settlement in Western Europe. Situated within the UNESCO-designated Heart of Neolithic Orkney World Heritage Site, Skara Brae offers a captivating window into ancient history. Immerse yourself in the mysteries of this remarkable archaeological site as you explore its well-preserved dwellings and unravel the secrets of Neolithic life. Step into the grandeur of Skaill House, Orkney's premier mansion commanding a stunning vista over the picturesque Bay of Skaill. With a rich heritage spanning 400 years, this historic landmark invites you to embark on a journey through time. Experience the essence of Orkney's aristocratic legacy in the splendor of Skaill House. Welcome to a timeless treasure awaiting your discovery.

From Edinburgh: Orkney and The Far North 5-Day Tour

From Edinburgh: Orkney and The Far North 5-Day Tour

The 5-day tour from Edinburgh takes you on a discovery of the Scottish Highlands and the Orkney Islands. Heading north from Scotland’s capital city, you can admire the breathtaking scenery of the Scottish Highlands and explore the history of the Orkney Islands. On day 1, travel north to Loch Ness. The spectacular tour starts by heading west through the beautiful scenery of Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park. The route then takes you through the haunting landscape of Glen Coe, the scene of the terrible massacre of the MacDonald Clan, and on through Fort William and the Great Glen to arrive at the fabled shores of Loch Ness. Stay overnight in Inverness. On day 2, head north via Inverness and the spectacular coastal scenery of the Moray and Cromarty Firths. Then, board the ferry for a memorable trip to the mysterious and magical Orkney Islands. Once you arrive, take in the stunning scenery and start exploring. Visit the beautiful Italian Chapel, which was built by Italian prisoners of war, as well as the famous Churchill Barriers – causeways that were constructed to protect the British naval fleet from submarines. Stay overnight at Kirkwall. On day 3, explore the ancient history of the islands. From your base in Kirkwall, which boasts many craft and gift shops to explore, spend the whole day exploring the islands. This is a land full of ancient history and you will be able to take in prehistoric marvels such as the Maeshowe chambered cairn, the world-famous Neolithic village of Skara Brae, and the brooding stone circles of Stenness and the Ring of Brodgar. The day will finish with a visit to the beautiful St Magnus Cathedral. Stay overnight at Kirkwall. On day 4, start with a ferry ride back to the mainland. Then you will get the chance to take in Inverness, the capital of the Highlands. Stay overnight in Inverness. On day 5, head back to Edinburgh. On the way, visit the battlefield of Culloden, the site of the defeat of the Jacobite forces. You will also pass the stunning Cairngorm Mountains and explore the picturesque town of Pitlochry.

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What people are saying about Shetland Islands

Overall rating

2.5
(2 reviews)

Shona was an amazing guide and driver. The information provided, stories, facts given were fantastic. Shona is clearly a passionate Scottish historian. Knowledgeable, funny and so nice. Our 3 day trip exceeded our expectations. Not only did we experience the amazing Orkney Islands but were traversed around a number of towns and villages that were steeped in history, culture, tradition and narratives of people who lived, worked, contributed to the Highland mystic and story. We enjoyed the B&B accommodation…The British do this very, very well. We happened to have sunny weather for each day which was unusual and wonderful as much of what we did and saw was outdoors. However, 1 hour of stormy weather at the “beach” was an experience in itself and we did not mind as we expected inclement weather and were blessed with sunny conditions for most of our trip The drive along narrow roads and through towns and villages of the Highlands was a treat, to be taken by a local made it special.🙏🙏

All in all, a very nice tour. Our ship docked a little later due to the weather conditions, so we couldn't be at the agreed meeting point at the bus on time. But thanks to very good communication via email, this wasn't a problem at all. Our guide Dougie gave us a very good insight into his homeland. The dialect was sometimes a little difficult to understand, but on the whole, everything was clear from the context. We got information about the Orkneys that isn't in every travel guide. We can recommend this tour without reservation and say thank you again for this wonderful day.

It was a great opportunity with Rachael. She made a slow pace of explanation, including some humors so that I could understand well about the history. And she was flexible to take me the Borough of Birsey which was not the planned journey. Thank you for the kind guiding and great enthusiasm.

Helen was an amazing tour guide, we had a wonderful time on Orkney. She was really informative, spontaneous and gentle. We definitely will book again with her. Liam was also a great guy to talk to. Thank you for the great time!

The tour guide was very knowledgeable about the sites visited. Maybe could have a bit more time for the lunch break.