Lerwick, the capital of the Shetland Islands, offers a surprising variety of tours that showcase its rugged landscapes, historic sites, and charming villages. Unlike many coastal towns, Lerwick’s compact size and unique scenery make it perfect for exploring in-depth with guided tours. We particularly enjoy the Half Day Private Tour with Puffins, Ponies and Past Shetland for its personalized approach and the opportunity to meet Shetland ponies, as well as visit the prehistoric Jarlshof settlement. This tour perfectly combines nature, history, and local character in just a few hours. For travelers who want a broader overview of Lerwick’s highlights, the Full-Day Private City Tour provides a comprehensive, customizable experience, including visits to Clickimin Broch, the Shetland Museum, and Scalloway. Both tours offer a private guide, ensuring a tailored day that fits your interests.
If your focus is on experiencing Shetland’s famous ponies up close, the Ponies Express Private Tour to Scalloway is a charming, shorter option. For those craving dramatic scenery, the Rugged Northern Exposure Tour takes you to the stunning Eshaness Cliffs and the Northmavine region, revealing Shetland’s wild side. Finally, the West Side Explorer offers a rare look at Shetland’s less-visited western coast, featuring ancient Neolithic sites and quiet beaches. Each of these tours offers something special, whether it’s wildlife, archaeology, or breathtaking landscapes.
1. Half Day Private Tour with Puffins, Ponies and Past Shetland
At number 1 on our list is the Half Day Private Tour with Puffins, Ponies and Past Shetland. Priced at $962.49 for up to six people, this 4.5-hour tour offers a personalized way to explore Shetland’s south Mainland. The tour starts with a brief stop in Scalloway, the island’s former capital, where you’ll get a glimpse of the old castle and the Shetland Bus Memorial. Then, it’s just a quick drive to Carol’s Ponies, where you can meet these hardy Shetland ponies, learn about their history, and take plenty of photos—remember, they’re friendly but have teeth, so don’t offer your fingers! Afterward, the visit to Jarlshof, one of the best-known prehistoric archaeological sites, immerses you in Shetland’s ancient past. Your final stop at Sumburgh Head offers stunning views and a chance to see puffins nesting on the hillside, a highlight for bird lovers.
The tour’s private format means you’ll get personalized attention, and reviews praise guides like Danny and Neville for their friendliness and knowledge. With a mix of wildlife, archaeology, and local storytelling, this trip is ideal for those with limited time but a keen interest in Shetland’s character. The biggest advantage? It avoids large group crowds and fits perfectly into a half-day schedule.
Bottom line: A well-rounded, intimate tour that combines wildlife, history, and local charm—perfect if you’re short on time but want a full experience.
2. Full-Day Private City Tour in Lerwick
Coming in at number 2 is the Full-Day Private City Tour in Lerwick. For around $498 per person, this 6.5-hour tour offers a deep dive into Lerwick’s sights and stories. Starting with Clickimin Broch, a well-preserved Iron Age structure, you’ll get insights into Shetland’s ancient settlements. The guide then takes you to Fort Charlotte for a look at Shetland’s wartime defenses, followed by a stroll along Lerwick’s Hay’s Dock, where you can admire traditional boats and grab a coffee. The Shetland Museum and Archives is the centerpiece—though closed on Wednesdays and Sundays, it’s replaced by the Lerwick Town Hall on those days, where you can learn about local governance and enjoy a historic setting.
The tour also features the Lodberrie, an historic Shetland house, and Scalloway, the once-capital of the islands. With a private guide, your experience becomes flexible—tailored to your interests. Reviewers mention how knowledgeable guides like Asif and Jackie bring the island’s history to life, often combining storytelling with practical insights. This tour suits history buffs and culture lovers who want to see a variety of sights without feeling rushed.
Bottom line: For travelers who want a comprehensive, personalized overview of Shetland’s history, this tour balances culture, scenery, and heritage in a full-day adventure.
3. Ponies Express Private Tour to Scalloway
Number 3 on our list is the Ponies Express Private Tour to Scalloway, a short but sweet 1-hour trip costing around $219 for up to 8 people. The highlight here is meeting Carol’s Shetland ponies, renowned for their resilience and friendly nature. Visiting Scalloway, the historic island capital, you’ll see the exterior of Scalloway Castle and stop at the Shetland Bus Memorial, commemorating wartime connections between Shetland and Norway.
The main draw is the visit to Carol’s ponies, where you’ll learn about their origins as packing ponies and their current role as riding ponies and companions. The relaxed, informal nature of this tour makes it perfect for families or travelers with limited time who want a personal touch. Reviews mention the adorable ponies and the friendly driver-guide Eden, who shared interesting stories about Shetland’s history and culture.
While this tour is short, it’s packed with authentic experiences that highlight Shetland’s equine heritage. Plus, the small group size means more interaction and a more relaxed pace.
Bottom line: Ideal for pony lovers and those pressed for time, this tour offers a personal connection to Shetland’s equine heritage without the fuss of a full-day commitment.
4. 4 Hours Rugged Northern Exposure Private Guided Tour from Lerwick
Ranked number 4 is the 4 Hours Rugged Northern Exposure Private Guided Tour. For $924, this half-day adventure takes you to Shetland’s North Mainland, showcasing some of the most dramatic scenery. Starting with a drive past Mavis Grind, a narrow isthmus where the Atlantic and North Sea almost meet, your guide then leads you to Hillswick, a picturesque village perfect for photos. The highlight is the Eshaness Cliffs, where sheer cliff faces and pounding waves create a landscape that seems almost untouched by time.
The Tangwick Haa Museum offers insights into Northmavine’s past, making this tour ideal for those interested in geology, natural beauty, and local life. Reviewers praise guides like Drew and Maureen for their depth of knowledge and friendliness, often highlighting the spectacular views at Eshaness.
This tour suits those who love wild coastlines and geological wonders. It’s a shorter trip, so perfect if you want a taste of Shetland’s rugged beauty without committing to a full day.
Bottom line: For lovers of dramatic landscapes and natural scenery, this tour delivers high-impact sights with a friendly, knowledgeable guide.
5. Private Tour from Lerwick West Side Explorer
Completing our list at number 5 is the Private Tour from Lerwick West Side Explorer. At $998 for up to six people, this 4-hour trip focuses on Shetland’s less-visited western coast—an area largely untouched by large tour groups. You’ll pass through Reawick, stopping to buy fresh baked goods at the Sand Honesty Box, and visit the quiet Culswick Chapel. The highlight is the Stanydale Temple, a mysterious Neolithic structure that sparks curiosity about Shetland’s ancient past.
This tour is perfect for travelers who want to avoid crowds and see some of the most authentic, unspoiled parts of Shetland. The combination of archaeological sites and scenic beaches makes it ideal for history enthusiasts and those craving solitude. Reviewers mention the beautiful scenery and the fact that the tour is very flexible, with the driver-guide adjusting the schedule based on your interests.
While it’s the most expensive per group, it’s also the most exclusive, offering a unique glimpse into Shetland’s prehistoric and natural wonders without the hustle.
Bottom line: Best suited for history buffs and those seeking a quiet, off-the-beaten-path experience, this tour offers an intimate look at Shetland’s western coast.
$997.79 per group (up to 6)
How to Choose the Best Tour in Lerwick
When selecting your ideal Lerwick tour, consider your interests and time constraints. For a quick but personalized experience, the Half Day Private Tour offers wildlife, archaeology, and local flavor. If you want a deep dive into Shetland’s history and culture, the Full-Day Private City Tour is your best bet. For wildlife lovers and pony enthusiasts, the Ponies Express provides an authentic, personal encounter. Those craving rugged landscapes should lean toward the Northern Exposure for its stunning coastal scenery, while the West Side Explorer is perfect if you prefer quiet archaeological sites and secluded beaches.
Practical tips include booking early, especially in peak season, to secure your preferred time and size of group. Think about your fitness level—some tours involve walking or scenic drives over uneven terrain—and your specific interests, whether wildlife, archaeology, or scenery.
Lerwick offers a surprising variety of tours that cater to different interests and schedules. Whether you opt for the intimate wildlife encounters of the Half Day Private Tour, the rundown of the Full-Day City Tour, or the scenic ruggedness of the Northern Exposure, each experience guarantees a memorable glimpse into Shetland’s authentic character. If your time is limited, the private half-day options are ideal, but for those wanting to immerse themselves more fully, longer guided tours will reward your curiosity. Book early and choose the one that best matches your travel style to ensure a memorable Shetland adventure.