Kirkwall car hire

Driver's age: 26-65
Thu 2/5
Thu 9/5

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Kirkwall car hire information

Pick-up locationKirkwall
Car types
Hire locations12
Airport locations7

Cheap car hire in Kirkwall

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Mini
Economy
Compact
Intermediate
Standard
Full-size
Luxury
People carrier
Passenger van
SUV
Commercial
Pick-up truck

KAYAK’s top tips for hiring a car in Kirkwall

  • When visiting Kirkwall, car hire provides several advantages over public transport and local taxis. With car hire in Kirkwall, you're free to explore the stunning landscapes and historic sites of the Orkney Islands at your own pace. Public transportation options on the islands can be limited and taxis are pricey, making a car the ideal choice to access remote areas, such as the Neolithic sites of Skara Brae and the Ring of Brodgar. Car hire in Kirkwall offers flexibility, convenience, and security.
  • Car hire services in Kirkwall are available at Kirkwall Airport (KOI). The desks are conveniently within the terminal building, making it easily accessible upon arrival. To find the car hire desks at Kirkwall Airport (KOI), follow the signs to the Arrivals area and proceed to the designated section outside baggage claim. With a car, you can conveniently pick up your vehicle at the airport and explore the surroundings without additional transportation arrangements, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable travel experience.
  • When driving in Kirkwall, be prepared for the presence of roundabouts, which are common in the city. Familiarise yourself with the correct lane positioning and yield to vehicles already on the roundabout. Additionally, when venturing outside the city, you may encounter single-track roads. Utilise passing places to yield to oncoming traffic and maintain smooth traffic flow. Lastly, be mindful of increased traffic around the ferry area, particularly during peak times. Follow the instructions of ferry staff to ensure safe manoeuvring and efficient traffic movement.
  • In Kirkwall, rush hour typically occurs on weekdays from 08:00 to 09:00 in the morning and 17:00 to 18:00. During these times, main roads such as Victoria Street and Junction Road may experience increased traffic congestion. Additionally, during the winter months, adverse weather conditions, including snow and ice, can make driving challenging, especially on hilly or rural roads. It is important to plan accordingly, allow extra time for your journey, and drive cautiously in these conditions to ensure a safe and smooth driving experience in Kirkwall.
  • Book your car hire in Kirkwall at least 7 days before your trip in order to get a below-average price
  • Economy car hire in Kirkwall are around 6% cheaper than other car types, on average

FAQs about hiring a car in Kirkwall

  • How much is the price of fuel in Kirkwall?

    The average price of fuel in Kirkwall is R134,01 per litre over the past 30 days. Filling up a tank of fuel costs between R1 608 and R2 144, depending on the car size.

  • What is the most popular car hire in Kirkwall?

    Economy (Vauxhall Corsa or similar) is the most frequently booked car hire type in Kirkwall.

  • How can I find car hires near me in Kirkwall?

    Take a look at our extensive car hire location map to find the best car hire deals near you.

  • How much does an Economy car hire cost in Kirkwall?

    An Economy car hire in Kirkwall costs R1 636 per day, on average.

  • How much does a Luxury car hire cost in Kirkwall?

    A Luxury car hire in Kirkwall costs R1 909 per day, on average.

  • What type of car is recommended for driving in Kirkwall?

    When considering car hire in Kirkwall, a compact car or a versatile SUV are recommended options. The narrow streets of Kirkwall make a compact car ideal for manoeuvring through the town centre and finding parking in tight spaces. For adventurers looking to explore the rugged landscapes of Orkney, an SUV provides the space and capability needed to navigate rural roads and reach remote areas. Kirkwall car hire offers a variety of vehicles to cater to different traveller needs, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable driving experience throughout your visit.

  • What’s the speed limit in Kirkwall, Scotland?

    In Kirkwall, Scotland, adhere to the specified speed limits to ensure road safety. Within the city limits and residential areas, the general speed limit is 30 mph (48 kilometres per hour). However, it is crucial to keep an eye out for specific speed limits indicated by signage as they may vary in certain areas, such as near schools or construction sites. Additionally, remember that several speed cameras are installed on major roads, including the A920 and the A965, for strict enforcement of speed limits.

  • Where are the best places to park in Kirkwall, Scotland?

    For convenient parking in Kirkwall, explore options outside the city centre and utilise public transport or enjoy a pleasant walk. This approach not only saves money but also allows you to soak in the charm of the city. However, if parking in the city centre is preferred, there are paid car parks and on-street parking available. Hourly rates typically range from £1.50 to £3.50. Popular parking areas include Broad Street Car Park and Ayre Road Car Park, both offering convenient access to various attractions and amenities in Kirkwall.

Kirkwall car rental reviews and directory

Avis

8,7

Very Good

1 review
Best rated

One location in Kirkwall

Show locations

Locations in Kirkwall

W R Tullock

+44 1856 875500

Monday07:30 - 19:30
Tuesday07:30 - 19:30
Wednesday07:30 - 19:30
Thursday07:30 - 19:30
Friday07:30 - 19:30
Saturday07:30 - 19:30
Sunday12:00 - 19:30

Filters

Reviews

6,8 Okay

Aug 2016

KAYAK

Cons:

See above.

1 out of 1

Europcar

6,8

2 locations in Kirkwall

Show locations

Locations in Kirkwall

Kirkwall Airport

+44 1856 875500

Opening times not available

Wr Tullock

+44 1856 876262

Opening times not available

Filters

Reviews

8,4 Very Good

Apr 2017

KAYAK

Pros:

So easy to pick up and drop off the car but that is obviously because Kirkwall is such a small airport. We were the only customers expected at that time, it was all dealt with very quickly and the staff member who handled it was out of the airport and heading off in his own car before we had even reached our car.

Cons:

The desk was closed and shuttered when we returned so we simply had to put the key in a drop-off box. This would not have been helpful if we had wanted to report any issues. The car was not comfortable and felt sluggish a lot of the time. Once or twice I wondered if it would make it up hills but it kept going.

1 out of 1

Easirent

6,2

Okay

No reviews available

One location in Kirkwall

Show locations

Locations in Kirkwall

Kirkwall Airport

Opening times not available

Filters

No reviews available

keddy by Europcar

5,4

Fair

No reviews available

2 locations in Kirkwall

Show locations

Locations in Kirkwall

Kirkwall Airport,

+44 185 687 5500

Opening times not available

Wr Tullock

+44 185 687 6262

Opening times not available

Filters

No reviews available

Firefly

7,9

Good

No reviews available

One location in Kirkwall

Show locations

Locations in Kirkwall

Kirkwall Airport

Opening times not available

Filters

No reviews available

Routes Car & Truck Rentals

2,9

Poor

No reviews available

2 locations in Kirkwall

Show locations

Locations in Kirkwall

Kirkwall Airport, Terminal Building

Opening times not available

Wr Tullock, Castle Garage, Castle Street, Kirkwall

Opening times not available

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No reviews available

Shouqi

No score available yet

2 locations in Kirkwall

Show locations

Locations in Kirkwall

Kirkwall Airport

+44 1856 875500

Opening times not available

Wr Tullock Castle Garage

+44 1856 876262

Opening times not available

Filters

No reviews available

2 travellers who hired a car in Kirkwall gave the car agency they used an average rating of 6.7

Car hire locations in or near Kirkwall

Good to know

Most popular car type

Economy

When to book a car hire in Kirkwall

Average daily price per month
Car hire prices as pick-up date approaches