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Edinburgh to Kirkwall from $110: 5 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Edinburgh, United Kingdom
to
Kirkwall, United Kingdom

How to Get from Edinburgh to Kirkwall: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

1Map provides directions to cities, towns, landmarks, attractions, and addresses worldwide, offering thousands of multi-modal routes to easily get you from point A to point B.

$110 - Night train, FerryBest price
211 milesDistance
2h 1m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Edinburgh to Kirkwall with 1Map travel planner. Easily compare ticket prices, explore various transport options, and find the best routes for a seamless and cost-effective travel experience.

Company
Loganair
Plane
Average Duration
2h  47m
Estimated price
$197-576
Recommended
Company
First ScotRail Service, NorthLink Ferries
Train
Drive
Average Duration
9h  35m
Estimated price
$79-269
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 211 miles
Duration: 2h 1m

See more options

Company
Caledonian Sleeper, NorthLink Ferries
Train
Drive
Average Duration
10h  10m
Estimated price
$115-161
Company
various
Drive
Plane
Average Duration
2h  25m
Estimated price
$202-643
Company
various
Drive
Plane
Average Duration
2h  1m
Estimated price
$214-895
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Traveling From Edinburgh to Kirkwall

The journey from Edinburgh to Kirkwall offers a captivating shift from the vibrant city life of Scotland’s capital to the tranquil charm of Orkney’s largest town.

Best Neighbourhoods in Kirkwall

Kirkwall features diverse neighborhoods, each with its own charm and attractions.

St. Magnus Cathedral Area
• Home to the stunning St. Magnus Cathedral.
• Close to local shops and cafes.
Holm
• Quiet residential area with scenic coastal walks.
• Ideal for observing wildlife and birdwatching.
Orkney Heritage Area
• Rich in history and archaeological sites.
• Hosts the Orkney Museum and local crafts.

Best Times To Visit Kirkwall's Attractions

Timing your visit to Kirkwall's attractions can greatly enhance your experience.

St. Magnus Cathedral
Visit early in the morning for fewer crowds and peaceful exploration.
Orkney Museum
Late afternoons tend to be quieter, allowing for more relaxed visits.
Historic Scapa Flow
Spring and early autumn offer ideal weather for scenic tours without the summer rush.

Kirkwall Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Kirkwall experiences a maritime climate with mild summers and cool winters, making it a year-round destination for travelers. While the summer months offer the warmest weather and longer days, be prepared for rain at any time and always check forecasts to help plan your daily adventures.

Dining Recommendation

Try the fresh seafood at The Shore, where locally sourced ingredients shine in dishes like Orkney crab or scallops. The intimate atmosphere and the chance to savor authentic Orkney flavors create a dining experience that stands in stark contrast to the bustling eateries of Edinburgh.

Edinburgh - Kirkwall operators

Explore transport companies operating between Edinburgh and Kirkwall, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.

Plane Show flights
Website
https://www.loganair.co.uk

Plane from Edinburgh Airport (EDI) to Kirkwall Airport (KOI)

Average Duration
1h 13m
Estimated price
$190-700

Plane from Glasgow Airport (GLA) to Kirkwall Airport (KOI)

Average Duration
1h 15m
Estimated price
$180-800

Plane from Dundee Airport (DND) to Kirkwall Airport (KOI)

Average Duration
50m
Estimated price
$180-1100
Train
Contact phone
+44 344 811 0141
Website
https://www.scotrail.co.uk/

Train from Edinburgh to Aberdeen

Average Duration
2h 20m
Estimated price
$40-95
Contact phone
+44 345 722 5333
Website
https://www.lner.co.uk/

Train from Edinburgh to Aberdeen

Average Duration
2h 34m
Estimated price
$95-140
Contact phone
0344 736 9123
Website
https://www.crosscountrytrains.co.uk/

Train from Edinburgh to Aberdeen

Average Duration
2h 31m
Estimated price
$75-210
Website
https://sleeper.scot

Train from Edinburgh to Aberdeen

Average Duration
2h 55m
Estimated price
$75-100
Ferry
Contact phone
+44 845 600 0449
Website
https://www.northlinkferries.co.uk/

Ferry from Aberdeen to Hatston, Passenger Terminal

Average Duration
6h
Estimated price
$26-50

Edinburgh to Kirkwall: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Edinburgh and Kirkwall offers a variety of convenient options to suit your preferences, schedule, and budget. Whether you prioritize affordability, speed, or comfort, you’re sure to find the perfect way to travel without compromising on quality or convenience.

🛫 Flying from Edinburgh Airport to Kirkwall Airport in Orkney is quick and convenient with the direct flight offered by Loganair, taking just 1 hour and 10 minutes. ✈️ The flight duration for this route is approximately 2 hours and 47 minutes, providing a comfortable and efficient way to travel between the two destinations in the UK. 💰 Prices for flights between Kirkwall and Edinburgh typically range from £156 to £455, offering a variety of options to suit different travel budgets and preferences.
Departure Point
Edinburgh Airport
Arrival Point
Kirkwall Airport
Useful tips for plane travellers
• Book your flight with Loganair, the only airline operating the direct route from Edinburgh to Kirkwall, to ensure a smooth journey since they have a proven track record for punctuality on this domestic flight.
• Upon arriving at Kirkwall Airport, expect a small terminal where amenities are limited, so familiarize yourself with the local transport arrangements beforehand; consider pre-booking a taxi as the airport has a limited number available, with an approximate fare of £10 to £15 to the city center.
• Check out the Loganair website (loganair.co.uk) for real-time flight updates and local transport schedules, and for dining options during your flight, consider bringing light snacks, as the onboard refreshments can be limited.

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Edinburgh to Kirkwall.

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The distance between Edinburgh and Kirkwall is approximately 339.6 km. There are two main modes of transportation to get from Edinburgh to Kirkwall. Taking a bus and ferry combination through Aberdeen takes about 11 hours and 16 minutes. Alternatively, flying from Edinburgh to Kirkwall takes approximately 3 hours and 20 minutes.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from Edinburgh to Kirkwall is by taking a bus and ferry via Aberdeen. This option costs between £35-£59 and takes approximately 11 hours and 16 minutes. For a quicker option, flying is the most time-efficient choice. It takes around 3 hours and 20 minutes and costs between £142-£472.
The best way to travel from Edinburgh to Kirkwall without a car is by train and ferry. You can take a train from Edinburgh to Aberdeen, which takes around 3 hours. From Aberdeen, you can then take a ferry to Kirkwall, which takes approximately 6-7 hours. This option typically takes around 10 hours and 39 minutes and costs between £51 and £204 depending on the chosen ticket type.
The flight distance between Edinburgh and Kirkwall is approximately 238 kilometers. The quickest non-stop flight from Edinburgh Airport to Kirkwall Airport takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes. The cost of flights between Kirkwall and Edinburgh can vary, with prices ranging from £145 to £442 depending on factors such as airline, time of booking, and availability.
There are plenty of accommodation options available in Kirkwall. With 122+ hotels to choose from, you can find something that suits your budget and preferences. Prices start at £63 per night, so there are options for both budget-conscious travelers and those looking for more luxurious accommodation.

Trips from Edinburgh