Few things beat the feeling of sneaking in a city visit during a layover in Kirkwall. Kirkwall Airport is well-positioned for exactly that — downtown is reachable in about 25 minutes. Here’s what you need to know to make it happen smoothly.
Before You Step Outside KOI
Three things to verify before you walk out of KOI:
- Can you legally enter United Kingdom? Some nationalities need a visa even for a few hours. Check your passport’s validity too.
- Do you have enough time? With a 25-minute journey each way by Stagecoach Bus Service, you’ll want at least 5-6 hours total to make the trip worthwhile.
- How will you pay? Local currency is the GBP. A travel-friendly debit card with no foreign transaction fees will save you money here.
Getting from KOI to Kirkwall
From KOI, the Stagecoach Bus Service gets you to Kirkwall in around 25 minutes. That’s the option most travelers with a time constraint should pick.
Taxis and ride-hailing services are available too (expect roughly 45 minutes), but they cost more and are at the mercy of traffic. Unless you’re traveling with heavy luggage or in a group, the Stagecoach Bus Service offers the best balance of speed, cost, and reliability.
Storing Your Luggage at Kirkwall Airport
Specific locker facilities at KOI aren’t well-documented. We recommend checking Bounce before your trip to find a secure storage spot either near the airport or in Kirkwall itself.
If you’re traveling carry-on only, you might be able to skip storage entirely and bring your bag along.
What to Budget for Your Kirkwall Side Trip
Quick budget math for your Kirkwall layover:
| Expense | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Round-trip transport | ~$13 |
| Meal | ~$26 |
| Buffer / extras | ~$10 |
| Total | ~$49 |
If you’re only out for a few hours, you might not need much cash at all — many places accept contactless payments.
What’s Worth Seeing in Kirkwall
If you head into Kirkwall, here are two things worth checking out:
St Magnus Cathedral is a solid choice if you want to get a feel for the area. Respectful visitors are generally welcome for a quick look.
Orkney Museum (Tankerness House) is another option that’s easy to fit into a short visit. Worth a stop if you have at least an hour to spare.
Not every layover calls for a city trip. If you’re staying at KOI, check out Kirkwall Airport Shop or The Airport Cafe Seating Area to keep yourself occupied.
Best Bites Near KOI
- In the city: The Storehouse Restaurant and Helgi’s are both worth a visit if you’re exploring Kirkwall.
- At the airport: The Airport Cafe (Hot Meals) and The Airport Cafe (Coffee & Pastries) will get the job done without leaving the terminal.
Staying Connected
Most airports offer free WiFi these days, and KOI is no exception — connect and browse while you sort out your plans. If you’re heading into Kirkwall and want data on the go, pick up a local SIM from a shop in the arrivals hall or download an eSIM before you land. Airalo and Holafly are popular options that let you set up data access before you even touch down.
Rest Areas & Lounges
Not every layover involves sightseeing. If you’d rather rest, KOI has seating areas throughout the terminal, though comfort levels vary. Grab a neck pillow and stake out a quiet corner.
Airport lounges — accessible via day pass, credit card perks, or services like Priority Pass — typically offer reclined seating, showers, and a quieter environment.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Kirkwall is a chance to see a slice of somewhere new — even if it’s just for a few hours. Plan your time, keep an eye on the clock, and don’t forget to enjoy the detour. Some of the best travel memories come from the unplanned ones.
Safe travels, and enjoy Kirkwall.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.