Cheap Flights to Shetland Islands

Your flight to Shetland Islands brings you to the northernmost archipelago of the United Kingdom. This remote collection of islands in the North Atlantic serves as a vital hub for fishing and aquaculture, offering a unique blend of Nordic and Scottish influences. You’ll find a rugged landscape sculpted by centuries of wind and sea.

The capital, Lerwick, features the historic Lodberries waterfront and the Shetland Museum and Archives, detailing island life and heritage. Across the islands, ancient brochs like Mousa Broch stand as impressive Iron Age fortifications. Jarlshof, an archaeological site, reveals settlements spanning 4,000 years, from the Stone Age to the Norse period.

Shetland Islands offers a journey into a distinct cultural landscape, rich in Viking history and maritime tradition. Its dramatic coastlines, abundant wildlife, and archaeological treasures define its unique appeal for discovery.

High Season (Summer)

From June to August, the Shetland Islands experience their high season, characterised by long daylight hours. Temperatures are mild, typically ranging from 10°C to 15°C, with less wind and fewer rainy days. Upon arrival, you'll find an islands bustling with visitors enjoying the extended daylight, which can last almost 19 hours around the summer solstice.

This season brings a lively atmosphere, with numerous outdoor events and festivals. The Shetland Folk Festival (late April/early May) and the Shetland Accordion and Fiddle Festival (October) are popular events, alongside smaller community gatherings. Many locals are actively outdoors, making the most of the weather for fishing, hiking, and exploring the coastline. The high season offers a lively and active experience, defined by its continuous daylight and open-air activities.

Low Season (Winter)

The low season, from October to March, transforms the Shetland Islands into a quieter, more dramatic landscape. Temperatures drop to between 2°C and 7°C, accompanied by stronger winds, shorter daylight hours, and more frequent rainfall or snow. Upon landing, you'll encounter a starker, wilder side of the islands, with fewer people outdoors and a prevailing sense of calm.

While outdoor activities are limited by the weather and only a few hours of daylight, the low season is prime for experiencing the Aurora Borealis on clear nights. Local life shifts indoors, with community halls hosting events and pubs providing warmth and social connection. Up Helly Aa, a series of fire festivals across Shetland, culminates in Lerwick in late January, offering a spectacular cultural highlight during the darkest months. The low season reveals a resilient island life, defined by its dramatic weather and unique cultural traditions.

Landing in the Shetland Islands, you’re greeted by an ancient landscape where the wind whispers tales of Vikings and resilient island life. This archipelago invites you to explore a distinctive blend of raw natural beauty, rich history, and a lively cultural heritage that immediately sets it apart. Prepare to discover a world shaped by the sea, offering truly unique experiences.

Here are some of Shetland's most distinctive attractions and experiences:

Jarlshof Prehistoric and Norse Settlement
Explore over 4,000 years of human history compressed into one site, from Bronze Age houses to Viking longhouses. This multi-layered archaeological treasure offers a rare glimpse into continuous human habitation.

Sumburgh Head Lighthouse and RSPB Reserve
Perched at the southern tip, this dramatic headland provides exceptional opportunities for birdwatching, especially puffins and gannets during nesting season. The historic Stevenson lighthouse adds to the wild, rugged atmosphere.

Up Helly Aa Fire Festival
Witness Europe's largest fire festival, an unforgettable spectacle held annually in Lerwick and other communities, celebrating Shetland's Norse heritage. Vikings, fire, and a burning longship create a thrilling display of island spirit.

Shetland Ponies in their Natural Habitat
Spot the famous Shetland ponies roaming freely across the islands' moors and coastal areas. Observing these hardy, adorable animals in their rugged environment is a quintessential Shetland experience.

St Ninian’s Isle Tombolo
Walk across one of the finest active sand tombolos in Europe, connecting the mainland to St Ninian's Isle. This natural sand causeway offers stunning coastal views and access to the remains of a medieval chapel.

Mousa Broch
Visit the best-preserved Iron Age broch in the world, standing majestically on the uninhabited island of Mousa. This ancient stone tower offers a remarkable insight into prehistoric defensive architecture and incredible views.

Before you know it, you'll be soaring towards Shetland Islands. To find the best flight deals, remember to book in advance and consider flexible travel dates. Plus, with an eDreams Prime subscription, you can unlock even more exclusive benefits to make planning your journey smoother and more rewarding.