The Shetland Islands are one of Britain’s most fascinating destinations, offering spectacular coastal scenery, remarkable wildlife, Viking heritage, and some of the best-preserved archaeological sites in Europe. Whether you’re planning an independent trip or considering a Shetland Island Tour, there is no shortage of unforgettable places to explore.
From dramatic sea cliffs and ancient settlements to wildlife reserves and picturesque fishing villages, here are some of the top Shetland attractions to visit.
Where are the Shetland Islands?
One of the most common questions travellers ask is, “Where are the Shetland Islands?”
The Shetland Islands lie in the North Sea, approximately 100 miles north of mainland Scotland and around 50 miles north-east of Orkney. As Shetland is closer to Bergen, Norway, than to Edinburgh, the islands have had a unique blend of Scottish and Scandinavian influences.
Scandinavian Influences on Shetland
The islands’ remote location has helped preserve their distinctive culture, wildlife, and archaeological heritage, making them one of Scotland’s most rewarding destinations.
The archipelago consists of more than 100 islands, with around 15 permanently inhabited.
How to Get to the Shetland Islands
Visitors wondering how to get to the Shetland Islands have two main options.
Flights to Shetland
The quickest route is by air, with regular flights operating from Aberdeen, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Inverness, and several other Scottish airports to Sumburgh Airport at the southern tip of Mainland Shetland.
Ferry from Aberdeen to Lerwick
By sea, travellers can choose the overnight Northlink ferry from Aberdeen to Lerwick. The ferry journey offers visitors a relaxing, comfortable experience.
A real benefit of the ferry crossing is the dramatic approach to the islands at the end of the voyage.
Visiting Shetland on an Organised Tour
Alternatively, some visitors prefer to join an organised tour such as the Highlights of Orkney and Shetland, which combines transport and accommodation, with guided sightseeing, making it easier to explore the islands’ many attractions.
Why Visit Shetland?
Shetland offers a unique combination of history, wildlife, scenery, and culture unlike anywhere else in the United Kingdom.
History and Archaeology
From the ancient remains of Jarlshof and Mousa Broch to the seabird colonies of Sumburgh Head and Hermaness, there is so much to discover in these islands.
Wildlife and Birdwatching
Whether you are interested in Viking history, wildlife watching, photography, or simply exploring somewhere different, Shetland should be in your travel plans.
For many visitors, the islands are among the highlights of any visit to Scotland.
Attractions on the Shetland Islands
Jarlshof Prehistoric and Norse Settlement
No list of Shetland attractions would be complete without Jarlshof.
Located near Sumburgh at the southern tip of the mainland, Jarlshof is one of the most important archaeological sites in Britain.
The settlement contains evidence of human occupation stretching back over 4,000 years, including Bronze Age houses, Iron Age brochs, Viking longhouses, medieval farmsteads, and later laird’s houses.
For anyone interested in Scottish history, Viking culture, or archaeology, Jarlshof is an absolute must-see.
Sumburgh Head
Standing dramatically on cliffs overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, Sumburgh Head offers some of the finest coastal scenery in Scotland.
Sumburgh Head is a Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB) nature reserve which is, famous for its spectacular seabird colonies. During summer, visitors can often spot puffins, guillemots, razorbills, and fulmars nesting on the surrounding cliffs.
The visitor centre, located within the lighthouse complex, provides fascinating insights into the maritime history of the islands. The lighthouse, which was built in 1821, is still operational.
The views across the sea are breathtaking and often provide opportunities to spot seals, dolphins, and even whales.
Mousa Broch
One of the most iconic landmarks in Shetland is Mousa Broch.
This remarkable Iron Age tower stands over 13 metres high and is considered the best-preserved broch anywhere in Scotland.
Built approximately 2,000 years ago, visitors can still climb the original internal staircase and admire the ingenious construction techniques used by its builders.
A short boat trip from Mainland Shetland takes visitors to the island of Mousa, where the broch sits surrounded by spectacular coastal scenery and abundant wildlife.
St Ninian’s Isle
Connected to Mainland Shetland by one of Britain’s most impressive natural tombolos, St Ninian’s Isle is among the most photographed locations in the islands.
The stunning sand causeway links the island to the Shetland mainland and creates a beautiful beach on either side.
Visitors can enjoy coastal walks, birdwatching, and spectacular views across the Atlantic.
The island is also famous for the discovery of the St Ninian’s Isle Treasure, one of the most important early medieval silver collections ever found in Scotland.
Scalloway Castle
Scalloway Castle is one of the islands' most historic landmarks. Built in 1600 by Patrick Stewart, Earl of Orkney, the castle was designed as a grand residence, reflecting his wealth and power.
Although now roofless, its striking stone tower and impressive Great Hall remain remarkably well preserved, allowing visitors to imagine life in Shetland during the late 16th and early 17th centuries.
The village of Scalloway itself is well worth exploring, with its attractive harbour, maritime heritage, and links to the famous "Shetland Bus" operations of the Second World War.
Lerwick
As Shetland’s capital and largest town, Lerwick serves as the cultural heart of the islands.
The historic waterfront, narrow lanes, independent shops, and welcoming cafés make it an excellent base for exploring the archipelago.
The most northerly town in the British Isles, Lerwick, was founded in the 17th Century to serve the needs of the Dutch fishing fleet, which had begun herring fishing around 1602.
The excellent Shetland Museum tells the story of Shetland’s history and culture over the centuries.
Lerwick is also famous as the setting for the popular Shetland TV series, which introduced millions of viewers worldwide to the islands’ stunning landscapes.
Explore Locations from the Shetland TV Series
Fans of the Shetland TV series often visit the islands to see filming locations associated with Detective Inspector Jimmy Perez.
Coastal Villages and Remote Moorland
The award-winning television adaptation of Ann Cleeves’ novels showcases many of Shetland’s most beautiful landscapes, including Lerwick, coastal villages, beaches, and remote moorlands.
The series has played a significant role in boosting tourism and introducing new audiences to the islands.
For many visitors, combining sightseeing with a tour of locations featured in the Shetland TV series adds another dimension to their trip.
Experience Up Helly Aa
Shetland’s Viking heritage remains alive through Up Helly Aa, the islands’ world-famous fire festival.
When and Where Up Helly Aa Takes Place
The event takes place in Lerwick each January. The festival features torchlit processions, Viking costumes, and culminates in the spectacular burning of a replica Viking longship.
It is one of Scotland’s most colourful events and attracts visitors from around the world.
Those planning a winter visit should consider timing their trip to coincide with this remarkable celebration.
Visit Shetland with Scottish Tours
If you want a comprehensive island experience without the hassle of arranging ferries, accommodation, and transport independently, then our Orkney and Shetland Tours provide the perfect solution.
Our tours feature the very best of Scotland’s Northern Isles, including Neolithic Orkney, the Italian Chapel, Skara Brae, Jarlshof, Mousa Broch, Lerwick, and many of Shetland’s wildlife and heritage attractions.
Orkney and Shetland Tour Options
Highlights of Orkney and Shetland | 6-days/5-nights from Edinburgh and Glasgow
Archaeological Treasures of Orkney and Shetland | 6-days/5-nights from Edinburgh and Glasgow
Highlights of Orkney and Shetland by Air | 5-days/4-nights from Edinburgh
Browse our Scotland tours and book today.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best attractions to visit in the Shetland Islands?
Shetland's top attractions include Jarlshof, Mousa Broch, Sumburgh Head, Lerwick, Scalloway Castle and St Ninian’s Isle. Hopefully, you might be able to see a lovely Shetland pony or two!
Where are the Shetland Islands located?
The Shetland Islands are situated around 100 miles north of mainland Scotland in the North Sea, between Scotland and Norway.
How do you get to the Shetland Islands?
Visitors can reach Shetland by direct flights to Sumburgh Airport from several Scottish cities or by the overnight ferry from Aberdeen to Lerwick. Many travellers also choose organised Shetland Islands Tours.
How many days do you need to visit the Shetland Islands?
A stay of four to six days allows enough time to explore Mainland Shetland and the islands of Unst and Mousa, while enjoying the islands’ wildlife, archaeology and coastal scenery.
What is Jarlshof famous for?
Jarlshof is one of Britain’s most important archaeological sites, containing remains from the Bronze Age, Iron Age, Viking period and medieval Scotland, representing over 4,000 years of continuous settlement.
Is the Shetland TV series filmed in the Shetland Islands?
Yes. Much of the Shetland TV series was filmed on location throughout the islands, particularly around Lerwick and several coastal villages, helping to showcase Shetland’s dramatic landscapes to audiences worldwide.
What is Scalloway Castle known for?
Scalloway Castle is a well-preserved 17th-century tower house built by Patrick Stewart, Earl of Orkney. It is one of Shetland’s most important historic buildings and offers insight into the islands’ turbulent Renaissance history.
What wildlife can you see in the Shetland Islands?
Shetland is renowned for puffins, gannets, guillemots, seals, otters, dolphins, whales and the famous Shetland ponies. Hermaness National Nature Reserve and Sumburgh Head are among the best places for wildlife watching.
Are guided Shetland Islands Tours worth it?
Yes. Guided Shetland Islands Tours make it easy to visit the islands’ major archaeological sites, wildlife reserves, and coastal scenery without having to arrange ferries, accommodation, and transport independently.
Can you combine Orkney and Shetland in one holiday?
Absolutely. Many visitors choose Orkney and Shetland Tours to experience Neolithic Orkney, Skara Brae, the Italian Chapel, Jarlshof, Mousa Broch, Lerwick, and many other highlights in a single itinerary.