Planning a trip to Orkney Islands on a mid-range budget? This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about comfortable travel with good value for money in this stunning Scotland destination.
Mid-range Budget Overview
Estimated Daily Costs: £70-120 per person
A mid-range budget allows for comfortable travel in Orkney Islands without breaking the bank. You’ll enjoy quality accommodation, good food, and access to most attractions and experiences Scotland has to offer.
Budget Breakdown
Accommodation: B&Bs, guest houses, 3-star hotels (£50-90/night)
**Best Options:
- Traditional B&Bs: Family-run, breakfast included, local insights
- Country Inns: Historic buildings, pub on site, cozy atmosphere
- 3-Star Hotels: Reliable comfort, good amenities, convenient locations
- Guest Houses: Personal service, often with beautiful views
Recommendation: Stay in smaller villages like those near Ring of Brodgar for character and value.
Food and Dining: Mix of dining out and pub meals (£25-40/day)
Dining Options:
- Local Pubs: Traditional atmosphere, good food, reasonable prices
- Bistros and Cafés: Light lunches, coffee, homemade dishes
- Restaurants: Mix of traditional and contemporary cuisine
- Fine Dining: Occasional splurge for special occasions
Local Specialties to Try:
- Traditional Scotland dishes
- Fresh seasonal produce
- Regional ales or ciders
- Homemade desserts
Recommendation: Mix pub meals with occasional restaurant visits for variety and value.
Transportation: Car hire, good public transport (£15-25/day)
Transportation Options:
- Car Hire: Most flexible, convenient for exploring Orkney Islands thoroughly
- Public Transport: Good coverage of main attractions
- Taxis/Transfers: For convenience, especially to/from airports or train stations
- Guided Tours: Transport included with commentary
Recommendation: Consider car hire if visiting multiple Skara Brae, Ring of Brodgar, Maeshowe, Italian Chapel, St Magnus Cathedral. It offers the best value and flexibility.
Activities and Experiences: Paid attractions, guided tours, experiences (£20-40/day)
Range of Activities:
- Guided Tours: Small group or private options (~£30-60)
- Adventure Activities: ancient history, wildlife, etc. (~£40-80)
- Cultural Experiences: Museums, galleries, historical sites (~£10-25)
- Special Experiences: Photography tours, cooking classes (~£50-100)
Popular Paid Attractions:
- Skara Brae
- Ring of Brodgar
- Maeshowe
Mid-range Travel Tips
- Book accommodation in advance for better rates
- Mix free and paid activities
- Consider weekly car hire if exploring extensively
- Look for meal deals at local pubs
- Use online booking for attraction discounts
Additional Mid-Range Tips:
Value Maximization:
- Book attractions online for discounts
- Look for combination tickets for multiple attractions
- Choose accommodation with good reviews and local insights
- Balance splurges with value options
Quality Enhancements:
- Invest in one or two special experiences
- Choose accommodation with character and local feel
- Take advantage of local knowledge from hosts and staff
Sample Mid-range Itinerary
Daily Budget Breakdown:
- Accommodation: £50-90/night
- Food: £25-40/day
- Transport: £15-25/day
- Activities: £20-40/day
- Total: £70-120 per person
Day 1: Arrival and Orientation
- Arrive and check into B&B
- Explore ${destination.highlights[1]} on foot
- Dinner at well-reviewed local restaurant
Day 2: Main Attractions
- Guided tour of ${destination.highlights[0]}
- Lunch in village
- Visit ${destination.highlights[1]} (advance booking recommended)
Day 3: Experiences and Departure
- ${destination.activities[0].charAt(0).toUpperCase() + destination.activities[0].slice(1)} experience
- Farewell lunch
- Depart
Mid-range Highlights in Orkney Islands
- Quality accommodation with local character
- Good range of dining options
- Flexibility in transportation
- Access to most attractions and tours
Mid-Range Accommodation Areas:
- Around Ring of Brodgar (great B&Bs)
- Smaller villages (character and value)
- Accessible to main attractions but quieter locations
Final Mid-range Travel Advice
A mid-range budget gives you the freedom to experience the best of Orkney Islands comfortably. You’ll enjoy quality accommodation, good food, and access to the attractions and experiences that make Scotland special.
Balance is key - splurge on experiences that matter to you while finding value in everyday activities. Orkney Islands rewards visitors with its natural beauty, rich culture, and welcoming atmosphere regardless of budget.
This budget level allows you to create lasting memories while maintaining financial peace of mind.
Conclusion
Whether you’re traveling on a comfortable budget, Orkney Islands offers incredible experiences that will create lasting memories. The key is understanding what matters most to you and allocating your resources accordingly.
Mid-range travel in Orkney Islands means enjoying quality accommodation with local character and good range of dining options while making smart choices about spending.
Plan wisely, embrace the spirit of adventure, and get ready for an unforgettable Scotland experience!