reasons to visit aberdeen

• Aberdeen, Aberdeenshire & Moray

Aberdeen in Scotland is the third-largest city in the country and is one of the most popular destinations to experience Scotland! If you’re visiting our beautiful country for the first time, we highly recommend considering Aberdeen as one of your first choices. You’ll be amazed at the sheer amount of things to do in Aberdeen.

Aberdeen is known as the ‘Silver City or the ‘Granite City’, derived from the brilliant shiny granite stones that many of the city’s buildings are made. Driving towards Aberdeen on a clear, sunny day reveals a bright, sparkling city centre. Come see one of the major cities of Scotland with a detailed and extraordinary history exemplified by every new attraction you see within the city or outside in the surrounding area.

The City is also located in north-east Scotland, making it easy to travel to the highlands and enter the scenic areas of Scotland that are away from the major cities. With international connections from Aberdeen’s Airport, you can easily travel to and from to enjoy the many sights and things to do here.

Things to do in Aberdeen

Aberdeen is an incredible place to explore with many things to do, so we highly recommend you come to visit, even if you’re just passing through the city.

Aberdeen is home to a fantastic selection of distilleries, ancient castles and standing stone circles, dolphin spotting, and many more stunning attractions just waiting for you to explore. Honestly, if you’re here for the history, culture, nature, or just using the city as a home base while you explore the rest of Scotland, Aberdeen is one of the safest and friendliest cities in Scotland.

There’s so much to do in Aberdeen that it can sometimes be overwhelming, but we’ve gathered together the top things you should be doing while you’re here. See our guide for the top things to do in Aberdeen!

Aberdeen Maritime Museum

Aberdeen’s history is tightly intertwined with the sea, and the Aberdeen Maritime Museum takes you on a journey through the compelling and fascinating history of Aberdeen’s fishing, trading, and shipbuilding.

The Museum holds a vast collection of artefacts and exhibits from the famous 16th-century Provost Ross’ House. You can see big attractions, from Aberdeen whaler’s harpoons, medieval imported goods, and the entire deck of a historic streamer!

The Maritime Museum sits upon the Aberdeen Harbour and provides stunning views of the beautiful marina and an atmosphere beholden to a 900-years old Aberdeen Harbour. Make sure to visit the Maritime Museum to fully discover the rich and detailed history of Aberdeen City!

Footdee (Fittie)

While within the city of Aberdeen, don’t miss out on one of the hidden gems you can find here – the historic fishing village of Footdee!

You can find this peaceful village, known by locals as Fittie, on the east end of Aberdeen Harbour. It’s tucked away, so you’ll only really see it once you’re inside the quaint fishing village that’s been modernised but still maintains its adorable charm.

The narrow footpaths take you back to a time before cars and large wagons when the town of Aberdeen was beginning to flourish. The homes here are uniquely and colourfully decorated, and it’s easy to get sucked into every little detail as you wander the maze-like streets of the historic Footdee.

Duthie Park

The splendid Duthie Park was gifted to the city of Aberdeen in 1883 and has been beloved by locals of the Granite City ever since! The park holds several excellent attractions within its verdant expanse, and while you’re in the city, it’s one attraction you should not miss out on.

Duthie Park is the perfect place to visit on a sunny day, with beautiful Victorian-era design you can see when you visit the Band Stand, fountains, and the boat pond. It’s not uncommon to see Aberdeen youth playing on the park’s fields, making most of the weekend.

The Park also holds several other attractions that you should make time to see while you’re here – this park can’t be fully experienced without them.

David Welch Winter Gardens

The David Welch Winter Gardens are one of the most extensive indoor gardens and the third most visited garden in Scotland!

It’s easy to see why these Gardens are so famous, with a massive collection of flora ranging from the Corridor of Perfumes, Japanese Garden, Tropical House, Bloom Competition, and the most extensive collection of cacti and succulents in Britain! Don’t miss the talking cactus, an entertaining mascot that any children you bring will love.

The Winter Gardens are open year-round, making it the perfect place to visit whenever you come to Aberdeen.

Aberdeen Boat Club

The Aberdeen Boat Club is undoubtedly one of the best places to spend a warm summer day in this beautiful park. The Boat Club borders the boat pond, always filled with rowers or model boat enthusiasts testing out their latest models.

It has an excellent cafe that serves cold beer, a great way to enjoy an afternoon while your children play in the nearby play area! The locals are extraordinarily welcoming, and it’s easy to lose time chatting and drinking as the sun curves across the sky.

Duthie Obelisk

The towering Duthie Obelisk draws the attention of many who come to this park, and it’s one attraction that you can’t help but miss out on while exploring the Park.

The Obelisk was erected in 1850 in memory of Sir James McGrigor and is an incredible memorial with informative plaques that detail the history of the monumental Obelisk.

Slains Castle

When you first see Slains Castle, you may be convinced you’re in store for a wealth of historical knowledge but what you’ll find is so much better – a gothic-styled pub!

You won’t get more of a vibrant and lively atmosphere than you will at Slains Castle, and this pub is the perfect place to spend an evening soaking up the rich Scottish culture. They have a wide array of excellent cocktails and beers on draught, and there’s always a live performance to enjoy.

If you come before 8 pm, it’s also a fantastic spot to enjoy with the kids and have dinner after a long day of exploring Aberdeen city.

Gordon Highlanders Museum

You can find the detailed and fascinating history of one of the British Army’s finest regiments, the Gordon Highlanders!

The Gordon Highlanders Museum holds over 200 years of history covering the Gordon Highlanders, the best fighters of North East Scotland. You can find them on the west end of Aberdeen, and the Museum has a highly passionate guide tour team that will give you unparalleled insight into these Scottish warriors.

The Gordon Highlanders Museum has impressive displays, such as medals, uniforms, artefacts, and many more! Check out this Museum while you’re in Aberdeen.

Johnston Gardens

The Johnstone Gardens on the edge of Aberdeen are stunning, filled with gorgeous floral gardens, waterfalls, and rockeries, and are the ideal place for any wedding photos!

The Johnston Gardens are a photographer’s dream and a tranquil and idyllic place you can enjoy while in Aberdeen. If you are lucky enough to see the Gardens in Summer, you’ll be treated to blossoming spring pines, heathers, and alpines, transforming the Johnston Gardens into a floral paradise.

The fantastic Johnston Gardens are a joy to explore, so we highly recommend that you add this attraction to your to-do list.

The Tolbooth Museum

The fascinating Tolbooth Museum in Aberdeen takes you through the various forms of punishments and crime within the city of Aberdeen.

The Museum preserves the city’s history and has multiple presentations that fully immerse you into the conditions and punishments that criminals had to endure when they were caught. Keep in mind that the stairs of the Tolbooth Museum are pretty steep, so be prepared to climb a few to reach the fantastic exhibits the Museum holds.

The Tolbooth Museum sits right next to the Peacock Visual Arts, a contemporary art gallery you can find on Castle Street, so you can fit in two hotspots in a single afternoon!

The exhibits here are quite striking, and they have an atmosphere that is enough to send shivers down your spine. The Tolbooth Museum is a must-see attraction while you’re in Aberdeen.

Old Aberdeen

Another one of the hidden gems you can find is the historic region of Old Aberdeen, a quaint district that has beautiful cobblestone streets and cathedrals.

The Old Aberdeen district is filled with notable hotspots, like museums and botanic gardens designed with this district’s older architectural designs. Walking through the streets is one of the best ways to spend an early morning after a healthy breakfast in Aberdeen city centre.

Take yourself out of the bustling city and spend some time in the tranquillity of Old Aberdeen.

Hazlehead Park

The expansive lands of Hazlehead Park were once the hunting grounds outside of Aberdeen, but today you can experience golf courses, a zoo, a maze, and a wide range of garden parks! A trip to Hazelhead Park has a little bit of everything for travellers to enjoy.

This park is for you if you’re interested in enjoying some quiet contemplation in the immaculate rose garden, a family picnic day when the sun is out, or a great location to walk your dogs or go for a morning jog.

Spend a morning exploring the verdant Hazlehead Park while you’re in Aberdeen – you won’t regret it.

St Machar’s Cathedral

The stunning stained glass windows and jaw-dropping architecture of St Machar’s Cathedral are some of the most beautiful sights you can see while exploring Aberdeen’s historic district.

St Machar’s Cathedral is still considered a place of worship today, and the holy site still welcomes everyone to their times of prayer throughout the week. The interior is just as, if not more, gorgeous than the exterior and is terrific to take pictures of.

But whether you’re interested in attending one of their religious events or just want to see the beauty of this Cathedral, St Machar’s Cathedral is one attraction you should check out!

Aberdeen Art Gallery

You won’t find a more magnificent art gallery in Scotland than Aberdeen Art Gallery, with a collection that spans over 700 years of history.

There are 18 collection galleries for you to explore, and it’s worth dedicating an entire afternoon to admiring and learning about the many prolific artists that make their artwork home here. The Aberdeen Art Gallery is often recognised as one of Scotland’s finest art galleries. They pride themselves on collecting fine contemporary pieces from artists, designers and artisans all over Scotland to preserve its heritage for the future.

A visit to the Aberdeen Art Gallery is a must, and no trip to Aberdeen is complete without stopping by here.

Aberdeen Beach & Esplanade

We can’t speak about Aberdeen without talking about Aberdeen Beach and the stunning City Beach Esplanade. Many visitors flock to the golden sands of Aberdeen when the sun shines to enjoy a day at this beach.

The Esplanade also is a romantic evening hotspot, especially in the evening when the sun begins to set and colours the sky with beautiful shades of oranges, reds, and pink! Otherwise, the City Beach Esplanade & Aberdeen Beach is an excellent place for a walk or run and has a wide variety of dining options, from fish to pubs and many more!

Aberdeen beach grants you a quintessential beach holiday, and we highly recommend you enjoy a few hours here when the weather permits.

Pitmedden Garden & The Museum of Farming Life

Travel to the Pitmedden Garden, and you’ll feel as though you’re moving back in time to the Renaissance, with walled gardens and vibrant floral designs of the time being ever-present here!

It’s easy to imagine yourself being a lord or lady, walking through the beautiful gardens and preparing for a full day of royal events. Travel a bit further, and you’ll find the woodland walking trails that allow you to see an abundance of wildlife here, like squirrels, wild birds, and many others!

The Museum of Farming Life can also be found here and treats travellers to a fantastic retelling of Aberdeen and the surrounding area’s agricultural history with its exhibits. You’re genuinely getting two attractions in one when you visit Pitmedden Garden, the perfect destination if you have limited time in Aberdeen.

Seaton Park

You can find Seaton Park in the historic district of Aberdeen, known for its beautiful riverside features and the many amenities that the Park contains.

Seaton Park is a fantastic attraction, filled with verdant landscapes and stunning formal gardens – there’s even an incredible, walled maze for you to explore. As you walk along the Seaton Park riverside, there’s no telling what you might find. You can see a wide variety of wildlife, from red squirrels, deer, ducks, and even otters!

A short trip through this spectacular natural park is the perfect thing to cap off a day exploring Aberdeen amongst the peace and tranquillity of nature.

His Majesty’s Theatre

Situated in the heart of Aberdeen, this theatre is one of the most popular destinations for performing arts, live music, comedies, and other outstanding performances!

Booking a ticket for one of the incredible shows at His Majesty’s Theatre is a must-see attraction when you’re in Aberdeen, and you’ll undoubtedly find a show fit for you when you check out their website.

The Theatre was opened in 1906, created by famed theatre architect Frank Matcham, and can hold 1400 people. You’ll be amazed at the immersive atmosphere of the Theatre, enhancing any shows that you may attend.

Aberdeen Airport

This airport brings millions of tourists to and from Aberdeen, and you’ll likely be seeing this attraction at least once while visiting this fantastic city.

Aberdeen’s Airport has a comprehensive and fantastic selection of planes frequently visiting to entertain any budding planespotters. An Airport is also an excellent place for relaxing and dining just before waiting for a flight. It’s also next to P&J Live, one of Aberdeen’s premier concert venues with many international stars.

Next time you pass through Aberdeen’s Airport, explore and see what exciting services and amenities Aberdeen offers.

Cairngorms National Park

The massive Cairngorms National Park is the largest national park you can visit in Scotland, and we highly recommend you enjoy some time here!

The Cairngorms National Park is set in the picturesque Cairngorms Mountains, some of the most beautiful mountains and natural landscapes you’ll ever see! This National Park is excellent for anyone interested in exploring the Scottish outdoors, with hiking and camping sites scattered all over the National Park.

Beautiful landscapes and wildlife are abundant throughout the Park, which is icing on top of the stunning views that you can have of the National Park’s heathers, mountains, and serene lochs.

While you’re in Aberdeen, spending a few days at the Cairngorms National Park is a necessary part of your holiday if you’re interested in seeing the natural beauty of Scotland.

Codona’s Aberdeen

Are you seeking adrenaline and thrill? Look no further than Codona’s, Aberdeen’s most popular fairground and amusement park destination!

Whether you’re young or old, Codona’s will undoubtedly have something in store for you to enjoy. You can catch one of the fantastic Codona’s amusements rides, have a go-karting experience, explore the Smuggler’s Cove, and spend some time at the Lucky Strike Bar & Bowl.

Codona’s is a great day out for the whole family and has some adventure and activities for both parents and children. If you aim to bring your family on holiday in Aberdeen, a trip to Codona’s is necessary!

King’s College

The beautiful King’s College has one of the most prestigious college grounds for you to explore while visiting Aberdeen.

King’s College buildings date back to 1495 to house the University, and the buildings still hold the 15-century architecture and design, immersing you in the past when you gaze at the intricate stonework. The facilities aren’t only stunning but house the College’s pursuit of knowledge, and you’ll still see students walking across campus and attending lectures inside!

Other major universities in the area are the Robert Gordon University and the University of Aberdeen, the oldest university in the English speaking world and Scottish History.

Make sure to set aside to see a crucial part of Aberdeen’s history by touring the beautiful grounds of this college.

The Den & The Glen

Bring your young children with you on your holiday to Aberdeen? The Den & The Glen holds some of the best play park amenities for endless fun!

Your children will be overwhelmed with how many fun things to do in The Den & The Glen there are. The Den holds an indoor jungle and playpark, with a Sports Arena, 4-lane Astro Slide, and a restaurant that serves healthy, energy meals to keep your children active for their entire time at The Den.

The Glen is right outside The Den and takes the fairytale wonderland to another level! The Glen stimulates your children’s imaginations and journeys them through the many different slides and roundabouts, all themed around nursery rhymes.

Marischal College

Marischal College is the second-largest granite building in the world and is one of the many fine landmarks you can enjoy while you’re visiting Aberdeen.

The College was founded in 1583 and now is a stunning visitor attraction with Victorian-era architecture that is well-worth taking a picture of. The granite building is lovely and a marvel to behold in person and you can find Marischal College in the heart of Aberdeen, which makes up some of the numerous historic buildings in the Castlegate district of the city.

Check out this massive and imposing attraction next time you’re in the city centre. It’s undoubtedly one of the best things to do in Aberdeen.

Union Street & Square

You’ll know when you’re on Union Street & Square in Aberdeen because of its expansive collection of shopping malls and world-class stores. It’s Aberdeen’s most dense shopping district, welcoming millions of tourists.

Not only can this shopping district fulfil your shop ’til you drop holiday, but it also holds an excellent selection of restaurants and cafes that populate the storefronts. Union Street has many leading brands like Levi, Zara, and much more!

If you’re interested in bringing home souvenirs while enjoying your time here in Aberdeen, stop by Union Street to take them home to remember your holiday!

Aberdeen Harbour

Aberdeen Harbour is your gateway to the activities and attractions that lie over the waters of the North Sea.

Aberdeen’s Harbour is one of its main attractions, and it boasts an impressive size marina thanks to its previous history of being Scotland’s largest north sea oil industry. Today, you can do everything from eat fresh seafood overlooking the tranquil bay or book one of the many boat trips out over the water.

There is a world of Scotland’s sea life and coastline just outside the city that you can only experience over its waters, so we highly recommend you explore the harbour and its hidden gems.

Tivoli Theatre

In the heart of Aberdeen is one of Scotland’s most historical buildings and an incredible attraction to visit – The grand Tivoli Theatre.

This fine building was restored in 2009 and now is an excellent place to see impressive performances. The interior is also absolutely stunning, with a decorated balcony, plush red carpet, and architecture that makes you feel like an aristocrat.

The Tivoli Theatre is home to a wide selection of genres. One night can be filled with the symphonic harmonies of an orchestra and another with riotous laughter from a comedy show. Check out their website for more information about exhibitions taking place while you’re in town. We bet you’ll find something to your fancy!

The Tivoli Theatre is one of Aberdeen’s best attractions and is easily accessible via transport from Union Square.

William Wallace Statue

Just outside the Aberdeen Art Gallery, you’ll find a William Wallace statue that will instantly draw your eye, with its hand outstretched and showing off the beautiful city of Aberdeen.

This statue of William Wallace was erected in 1888, and it has watched over the city, claymore in hand and an intimidating pose that oozes heroism. This depiction of William Wallace was made by William Grant Stevenson, who also created notable works like the impressive Robert Burns statue in Kilmarnock!

The Statue is well worth stopping by and makes for an excellent place to take pictures. There’s no better way to remember your holiday in Scotland than a picture with William Wallace.

Kirk of St Nicholas

The Kirk of St Nicholas is almost as old as Aberdeen, and its clocktower is an attractive landmark that you can spot from anywhere while you’re in the heart of Aberdeen.

Sometimes known as Mither Kirkyard, or ‘Mother Churchard’, the Kirk of St Nicholas is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful ancient attractions you’ll be able to see in the city. The Church’s design is stunning and has the largest Carillion in all of Britain, with 48 bells letting out a magnificent symphony as the Church calls out to the city – waking to the sound of the bells of Kirk of St Nicholas is a divine.

The Church also has a rich history that includes periods like the Reformation, the burning of witches, and the ravaging of time for the almost 1000 years it has stood on these grounds.

Kirkhill Forest

Just 15-minutes outside of Aberdeen is Kirkhill Forest, a sanctuary for those who want to break from the city.

If you’re up for walking along a nature trail, cycling through the woodlands, or feeling the fresh breeze as you jog along the first path, Kirkhill Forest is one of the best places to experience the bountiful natural wonders of Scotland and switch your mind off for an hour or two.

Climb up to the top of Tappie Tower, and you will be treated to a panoramic view of the forest around – one of the most spectacular vantage points in Aberdeen.

Pittodrie Stadium

Whether you’re interested in attending a concert or catching an Aberdeen FC match, this stadium will have your adrenaline pumping and out of your seat!

This premier stadium has played host to many rugby and football matches and always has something coming up for you to attend. While in Aberdeen, grabbing a ticket to watch the home team of Aberdeen FC is one of the best ways to embrace the local spirit and enjoy 90-minutes of excellent football!

The Stadium is also extremely easy to reach, with the bus station and trains of the city’s railway station stopping by the stadium along their route. Don’t let yourself miss out on one of the most thrilling entertainment you can enjoy while figuring out the top things to do in Aberdeen.

Cruickshank Botanical Garden

As you wander through Aberdeen, you may come across one of Aberdeen’s hidden gems – Cruickshank Botanical Garden.

This sublime attraction is filled with a diverse bouquet of over 2,500 plants and makes for a beautiful afternoon of meditation and exploration throughout the Botanical Garden. The 11-acres hold a rock and water exotic plants garden, a herbaceous border, and even an arboretum! You’ll truly get a niche and profound understanding of the natural world when you enjoy some time at these Botanical Gardens.

The Cruickshank Botanical Gardens are one exemplary attraction and extensive gardens that you can’t miss out on!

Provost Skene’s House

Dating back to 1545, the Provost Skene’s House is a fantastic attraction that allows you to tour a historic building housed by the many notable people who built Aberdeen.

The Provost Skene’s House takes you on a journey using its interactive displays, highlighting the scientists, writers, sports champions, and media moguls that have helped Aberdeen grow and prosper. Anyone interested in learning about the history of Aberdeen city and the people who contributed to it will not receive a better record and informative experience than the one at Provost Skene’s House.

And as you’re learning about Lord Boyd-Orr, Mary Garden, and Denis Law, you can also appreciate the stunning ancient craftsmanship that bore the Provost Skene’s House design and architecture – a true feast for the senses!

Aberdeen Distillery & Gin School

Ever wanted to distil your blend of gin? This experience and many more can be yours when you visit the Aberdeen Distillery & Gin School tucked away in the city’s heart.

Here you can learn the fine art of gin-making from experts who have been cultivating their craft for over 80 years! Take a tour through their distillery, and you’ll receive an unparalleled view into how the gin gets brewed, with the ability to see the very same machinery used in the distilling process.

And at the Gin School, you can create your bottle of gin that mixes your favourite flavours and tastes into one perfect bottle – You won’t settle for anything else afterwards!

Balmoral Castle

Often called the ‘Royal’s Favourite Scottish Getaway’, Balmoral Castle certainly looks like an estate that would house a royal family.

Prince Albert purchased Balmoral Castle for Queen Elizabeth in 1852, who loved the Scottish countryside (who doesn’t?). Since then, it’s become a staple location for a Royal vacation every year and is a location you can tour during specific winter months since it is privately owned by the Royal Family.

Touring the Castle is a special treat, with the spires and towers of the Castle giving it the distinct and famous look that makes it instantly recognisable. Put this attraction at the top of your things to do in Aberdeen while you’re here from November through February!

Go Dolphin Watching

There’s no better spot to spot dolphins than the picturesque Aberdeen Harbour, and it’s as easy as catching one of the many day trips that take you out onto the water.

Dolphin watching is one of the most popular attractions to partake in while visiting Aberdeen, making it one activity you need to try while on holiday here. If you’re not interested in taking a boat out to sea, the Torry Battery lookout also gives you an excellent vantage point that ensures you’ll see any dolphins that break through the waves as they skim through the waters.

While dolphin watching, you’re also likely to see many other kinds of sea life that Aberdeen is famous for, including seals, whales, and sea birds! We highly recommend you set aside some time to see these amazing creatures while you’re in the city of Aberdeen.

King Links Golf Course

Want to practise your swing game on your holiday? Aberdeen’s King Link Golf Course is the best place to tee off!

Found just north of the city, this golf club has 18 fantastic golf courses for you to enjoy with stunning views of the coastline. This Golf Course presents unique natural challenges thanks to its proximity to the ocean, giant sand dunes, and quick greens that gave it the nickname ‘golf in the raw’.

If you’re a fan of golf courses, check out and book a session at the King Links Golf Course.

Girdle Ness Lighthouse

On the south side of the Aberdeen Harbour sits the mighty Girdle Ness Lighthouse, with the stunning gold-and-white colours that draw the eye.

The Lighthouse was established in 1883 by Robert Steveson and has been a stunning attraction ever since, with incredible views of the Aberdeen Harbour and the rolling waves of the North Sea. The Ness Lighthouse is centrally located and makes for a beautiful afternoon walk near the coastal cliffs. The surrounding area is also teeming with birdlife for any budding bird spotters who haven’t been able to enjoy the marine climate.

Best of all is the fact that the Ness Lighthouse allows for five visitors to stay within the adjacent cottages, giving you an excellent and unique accommodation option to consider.

Bridge of Dee

The Bridge of Dee, sometimes called the Old Bridge of Dee, is one of Scotland’s oldest bridges with a fascinating history.

The first mentions of the Bridge come back from 1148, and it has been primarily replaced and renovated throughout its long lifespan, witnessing the many stages of Scotland’s history. The Bridge of Dee was blocked off during the height of the Bubonic Plague infestation, a battleground during the Civil War in 1639, and embedded with the coat-of-arms of Bishop Elphinstone.

Aberdeen has an old and terrific past, and the Bridge of Dee connects you with it all while giving you a superb place to watch the River Dee pass under it.

South Donmouth Beach

Just as you head south from the historic older district of Aberdeen sits a stunning beach tucked away behind the looming buildings.

This charming nook has all the features of a beach you could ever want; the luxurious golden sands, gentle waters, and an abundance of incredible wildlife to enjoy while you’re here. The Beach backs onto the Donmouth Local Nature Reserve, which explains the seals, birds, deers, and dolphins that gather where the River Don meets the sea.

During the summer, locals gather to spot wildlife and enjoy the shining sun on this picturesque beach. If you want a quick pitstop attraction as you tour through Aberdeen, the South Donmout Beach is excellent.

Forvie National Nature Reserve

The beautiful and verdant Forvie National Nature Reserve awaits as you make your way north of Aberdeen!

This incredible natural park preserves the vast amounts of wildlife hidden underneath and around Scotland’s sand dunes and sand heath. They boast an impressive amount of bird species year-round and seals that can be seen dragging themselves onto the shore. Explore the almost 1000 hectares of untouched landscapes at this Nature Reserve by going on a dune hike and walking trail that will allow you to experience this unique part of Scotland’s ecology.

There’s no better place for tranquillity than the Forvie National Nature Reserve, and you won’t regret a visit to this spectacular attraction.

Haddo House

It’s difficult not to be impressed by the striking Haddo House. Its design and surroundings leave you speechless when you first set eyes on it – with even more in store once you enter!

Designed by William Adam in 1732, the clean elegance of this building is its main attraction, with a new luxury that emanates from the Victorian-era interior. The beautiful gardens surrounding the Haddo House are not to be understated either. After you tour the House, your top priority should be using the natural paradise that is mere footsteps away.

Including the Haddo House in your list of things to do while in Aberdeen is necessary; your holiday won’t be the same without seeing this idyllic attraction.

East Aquhorthies Stone Circle

This Stone Circle attraction is truly one-of-its-kind in Scotland and a fascinating historical interest you can see while you’re in Aberdeen.

These recumbent stones are incredibly well-preserved, especially when you consider them about 4000-years old! A peculiar fact about this stone circle is the red and pinkish colouration of the rocks due to the jasper and red and grey granite they are made from. As you wander among the Stone Circle, there’s an air of mystery that fills the atmosphere and makes this a site you can’t miss in Aberdeen.

You can freely touch and pose with the stones, making this a great attraction to take pictures.

Drum Castle Garden & Estate

Dum Castle Garden & Estate sits a little inland from Aberdeen city and takes about half an hour to travel to – it’s well worth the trip!

This mighty and imposing building is one of Scotland’s oldest tower houses, said to have been erected almost 700 years ago. Drum Castle wasn’t just pretty to look at but also held off the siege attacks of many battles over its lifespan, soaking the stone bricks and tiles with Scottish history.

Inside is an excellent set of period-piece furniture that takes you back to the Castle’s peak, immersing you literally into what the world would’ve looked like to the nobility of the time. Outside are the stunning gardens that also serve as a main attraction to the Caste, with the Historic Garden of Roses being the tour’s highlight.

As you explore outside the city centre of Aberdeen, taking a trip to Drum Castle is undoubtedly a must-see destination.

Keith’s Tower

A masonry feat of ingenuity, Keith’s Tower stands proudly overlooking the River Elgin and serves as a landmark highlight for anyone travelling along the River.

The tower was built to celebrate the Gordons against the Innes, a massive octagonal monolith that stretches to the sky and can be seen clearly as you move past it. It gained the name when the Keith and the Irvines of Drum fought during the 14-century.

Keith’s Tower is a great attraction to stop by as you travel through Scotland, serving as a unique and imposing landmark along your journey.

Muchalls Beach

Muchalls Beach is one of the hidden gems of Aberdeen – a picturesque beach tucked behind craggy mountains near the town of Muchalls.

Although finding a place to park may be challenging, the trek down to the beach is well worth the navigation, and you’ll soon be enamoured by the soft, golden sand and calm waves. There are many nooks and crannies to explore, making this a great place to take your family when there’s a beautiful, sunny day.

If the weather is in your favour, there’s no better place to picnic, so keep an eye out for a bright, shining morning!

Chapleton Trail

The Chapleton Trail is a one-hour marked trail that takes you through Scotland’s woodlands and farming spaces, giving you a chance to see farmland animals as you walk!

Each breath you take is fresh and filled with the spirit of this verdant land, and there’s no better reprise from the hustle and bustle of the city than a morning walk through Chapleton Trail. There is an arrangement of spectacular flowers, trees, cows and sheep, and a sprinkling of other fantastic wildlife as you walk.

The Chapleton Trail was created to embrace nature and give the community of Chapleton and Aberdeen a space that is untouched by the industry of their town, maintaining their roots in farming.

Other Things To Do in Aberdeen, Aberdeenshire & Moray

• Things to do in Aberlour
• Things to do in Ballater
• Things to do in Banchory
• Things to do in Braemar
• Things to do in Dufftown
• Things to do in Elgin
• Things to do in Inverurie
• Things to do in Keith
• Things to do in Peterhead
• Things to do in Royal Deeside
• Things to do in Stonehaven

Graham Grieve

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The 15 best things to do in Aberdeen: art, natural beauty and bespoke gin

Jan 25, 2022 • 8 min read

The vast, granite Marischal Building in Aberdeen is one of the city's great Gothic Revival buildings © James Jones Jr / Shutterstock

A modern European oil city built on the back of a rich maritime heritage, Aberdeen is the energetic kingpin of northeast Scotland . While the boom times may come and go, the dynamic coastal metropolis never ceases to thrill with its free museums, outdoor adventures and natural attractions right on the city’s doorstep.

Even when bracing against biting winds from the North Sea, visitors can dive indoors to take in globally renowned art, old-fashioned seaside amusements or steamy tropical plants. Here are the 15 best things to do in Aberdeen.

Browse 700 years of creativity at Aberdeen Art Gallery

Transformed after a massive renovation between 2015 and 2019, the revitalized Aberdeen Art Gallery displays a remarkable collection of fine and decorative art, including paintings by acclaimed French Impressionists and Pre-Raphaelites such as Aberdonian William Dyce.

Begin your tour of the elegant neoclassical building in the central Sculpture Court, where eye-catching works dot a checkerboard floor amid sleek marble columns. Boldly designed art deco ceramics and glassware are one floor up, while the top-story South Terrace lets you sneak a peek of the city’s rooftops.

Slurp on a cone at Mackie’s 19.2

Who says you need a balmy climate to enjoy a scoop of the soft stuff? Aberdeenshire dairy farm Mackie’s has been concocting an inventive lineup of ice cream flavors since 1986 with the help of nearly 300 black-and-white Holstein milking cows.

Named for the distance in miles from the farm to its location in the city center, Mackie’s 19.2 ice cream parlor serves a calorie-crammed assortment of cones, sundaes and build-your-own milkshakes, with choices ranging from raspberry ripple and honeycomb to decadently sweet Scottish tablet.

Spot dolphins at Torry Battery

The city’s 19th-century former artillery is one of the best places in the UK to catch sight of bottlenose dolphins from the shore. You can glimpse them year-round feeding and playing at the mouth of Aberdeen Harbour, especially between the orange breakwater and the lighthouse.

To warm up, there’s a small coffee hut at Greyhope Bay , where plans are underway to convert shipping containers into a viewing center with a cafe, story trail and tours. Remember to bring binoculars, and keep your eyes peeled for other wildlife like otters, seals and gulls.

Hit the rides at Codona’s

When it comes to classic seaside thrills, Codona’s checks all the boxes. The retro beachfront amusement park is packed with summer rides like bone-jangling disco waltzers, spinning bumper cars and a stomach-flipping pirate ship. For panoramic city views, take a turn on the Grampian Eye big wheel or get hoisted up the Dead Man’s Drop Tower before plummeting back to earth.

Throughout the year, Lewis Hamilton wannabes can test their skills on the outdoor go-kart track, while indoors you can shoot your on-screen enemies in a 4D simulator or try your luck on old-school claw machines. Book ahead for bowling. For everything else, just turn up.

Encounter pioneers at Provost Skene’s House

Dating to the mid-16th century and reopened in 2021 following a major revamp, Provost Skene’s House showcases the people who have made Aberdeen. The turreted stone building contains a raft of interactive exhibits celebrating the achievements of more than 100 trailblazing residents, from scientists to sporting legends to writers.

Visitors to the free museum can learn about the likes of profoundly deaf pro percussionist Evelyn Glennie or Leslie Benzies, the brains behind Grand Theft Auto . Don’t forget to cast your vote for the next person to be added to the Hall of Heroes.

Surf the North Sea in Footdee

Called ‘Fittee’ by Aberdonians, former fishing village Footdee is a cute huddle of tiny mid-1800s cottages and narrow lanes perched at the entrance to the harbor. It was laid out by city architect John Smith and added to by his son William, who went on to design the Queen’s Scottish hideaway, Balmoral Castle .

Footdee also marks the start of Aberdeen Beach, an expansive sweep of sand stretching north, and a popular spot to catch a few waves. Pitch up at the Scot Surf trailer for boards and lessons.

Stroll the cobbled streets of Old Aberdeen

A lively ecclesiastical and academic hub since the Middle Ages, this historic quarter clusters around King’s College, founded in 1495 and part of the University of Aberdeen. On Wednesdays in term time, you can hear the university’s choir sing during services in King’s College Chapel , whose tower is topped with a striking imperial crown.

Nearby St Machar’s Cathedral is famed for its 16th-century heraldic ceiling, whose 48 shields represent kings, bishops and the Pope. Peaceful paths in Cruickshank Botanic Garden wind among roses, an arboretum and a herbaceous border.

Gaze at street art on a walking tour

Vivid murals and imaginative graffiti splash spaces across the city during the annual Nuart festival. Past works have ranged from Bortusk Leer’s multicolored monsters in the rooftop garden of the St Nicholas Centre to Fanakapan’s smiling yellow balloons that seem to pop out of the wall of a medical building.

Throughout the summer and early fall, free guided walks take in the highlights, including gigantic paintings covering entire facades as well as more bijou, hidden pieces of art. Tours begin at the Bon Accord mall.

Paddle a canoe around Rubislaw Quarry

Opened in the 18th century and filled with water since its closure in 1971, this craggy hole is a legacy of Aberdeen’s granite heyday. The 459ft quarry supplied much of the glittering silver stone used to build the city and also provided material for the construction of the Houses of Parliament and Waterloo Bridge.

Weekend canoeing sessions run by Adventure Aberdeen allow you to explore the crater-like cavity, whose jagged walls are now encased in thick vegetation. Instruction, boat rentals and flotation devices are included.

Explore the David Welch Winter Gardens

Skirting the edge of the River Dee, Aberdeen’s beloved Duthie Park has been drawing visitors to its bandstand and boating ponds since 1883. Within the park, the Winter Gardens are a cozy – and free – retreat from vigorous blasts of North Sea weather.

Tropical, arid and temperate glasshouses show off an aromatic array of rare and exotic plants, including lush ferns and a vast collection of cacti and succulents. Don’t miss the small Japanese peace garden outdoors, designed by Takashi Sawano to commemorate those who died in Hiroshima and Nagasaki in WWII.

Discover Aberdeen Maritime Museum

Aberdeen’s fortunes have been driven by the sea, whether through fishing, shipbuilding or the North Sea oil and gas industry. The four stories of hands-on exhibits at the free, glass-fronted Aberdeen Maritime Museum include artifacts celebrating the city’s nine-century history as a global trading hub.

The highlight? A detailed 30ft-high model of an oil platform, which gives you an up-close look at the workings of an offshore rig. Before you leave, check out the panoramic harbor views from the museum’s top floor.

Taste gin at the City of Aberdeen Distillery

Aberdeen’s first distillery for 80 years opened beneath a stone railway arch in late 2019. Specializing in small-batch gin, the business infuses its booze with fruity flavors like tangy lemon and Scottish bramble.

Discovery tours teach ginophiles about the city’s distilling heritage and continue behind the scenes to explain the production process. For tutored tastings, sign up to a 90-minute masterclass led by the head distiller, where you’ll have plenty of opportunities to sip – or glug – a few samples.

Cycle the Deeside Way

Connecting Aberdeen with Ballater in the mountainous Cairngorms National Park, the 41-mile  Deeside Way is a multiuse trail combining stretches of old railway line with quiet rural roads. Beginning in Duthie Park, the path heads west, taking in sights such as the ruins of an 11th-century church in Dalmaik.

Other pit stops include Crathes Castle, a 16th-century turreted delight with painted ceilings and a walled garden. Community-run beCyCle lends out bikes free of charge, and B&Bs are dotted along the route if you want to break up the journey.

Wander beneath tall trees in Foggieton

Less visited than neighboring Countesswells forest, this peaceful pocket of woodland west of the city contains a couple of gently winding paths. Hikers can listen out for singing birds on the Warblers’ Trail, a half-mile loop through a regenerated area of forest featuring young native trees like willowy silver birches.

The slightly longer Ladyhill Trail weaves among towering 150-year-old beech trees and patches of blackberry and raspberry bushes where you can grab your fill in summer and fall. Paid parking and cafes are available in the nearby village of Cults – the latter stocked with fluffy scones and cakes.

Plunge into Stonehaven’s outdoor pool

Just 15 miles south of Aberdeen, the coastal town of Stonehaven is home to an Olympic-size open-air pool , right by the beach. Open late May through early September, the 1934 seawater swimming spot was saved from imminent closure in the 1990s thanks to the efforts of a determined community group.

Today you can take a dip in the heated water or stretch out on a lounger on sheltered sun terraces. Wednesday midnight swims in the height of summer let you perfect your crawl to the beat of disco tunes. Stonehaven is a handy 20-minute train ride from Aberdeen.

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10 Reasons to Visit Aberdeen at Least Once

Aberdeen is the third largest city in Scotland, with a long and fascinating history, an enviable location and many things to see and do. There is much to recommend about the Granite City that it often surprises people. Here we list 10 reasons you absolutely must visit!

The History

The first people to live, or at least visit, what is now Aberdeen were stone age hunter-gatherers, around 8,000 years ago. Since then various tribes and groups of Celts and Picts called the area home and the Romans sent an army of tens of thousands of men into battle near here. In 580 A.D. a disciple of Columba, Saint Machar, arrived to convert the Picts to Christianity, founding a church that eventually was given his name and forming the basis of the settlement of Old Aberdeen. Aberdeen is blessed with several excellent museums, some of which tell the story of the history (and prehistory) of the area. Aberdeen was to reach its heyday in the late 18th and then 19th centuries, when huge public building schemes were funded, creating the Granite City we see today.

Marischal College and the City’s Architecture

This building is a must-see, especially now it has been cleaned and revitalised. It is the second largest granite building in the world and a masterpiece of Gothic Revival architecture, replacing an earlier university building on the site. Still owned by the University of Aberdeen it is presently leased to the City Council. Following restoration the building’s granite once more sparkles in the sunlight. Throughout the city there is a wealth of stunning architecture to be seen and a walking tour of some of these sites is highly recommended to the visitor.

Golf Courses

Scotland is the ancestral home of golf and Aberdeenshire features several legendary courses. The city itself is home to the sixth oldest club in the world, the Royal Aberdeen which was founded in 1780 along the links behind the beach to the north. Golf was played along the dunes around the city since the 1600s, and this depth of history and the challenging courses bring players from across the globe to the city. The beach is also worth a mention, as few such large UK cities play host to such a stretch of sand.

Parks and Gardens

Not all the green spaces in Aberdeen are golf-related, however. There are several remarkable parks and gardens throughout the city’s boundaries, 45 to be precise! These include the vast Hazlehead Park and the beautiful Johnston Gardens, as well as an array of others. With all these flowers and greenery, it is perhaps unsurprising to learn that Aberdeen has enjoyed considerable success in the annual horticultural contest of Britain in Bloom, winning no fewer than 11 times, most recently in 2016!

The University and Old Aberdeen

Up until 1891, Aberdeen was actually two Royal Burghs, Aberdeen and Old Aberdeen. The latter is quite different in character, centred around the High Kirk of St Machar and also the University of Aberdeen. This is the third oldest university in Scotland, the fifth oldest in the UK, and has played a huge role in the city ever since its foundation in 1495. Old Aberdeen is definitely worth a visit, with King’s College chapel and the new Sir Duncan Rice library being just two of the outstanding buildings.

Aberdeen has a vibrant and flourishing food scene, centred around ideas of sustainability, using the best of seasonal and, where possible, locally grown produce. This is especially true in the city’s cafés, where the quality really is second to none. As can be expected, locally caught seafood and fish feature heavily on the city’s restaurant menus, as does the world-renowned Aberdeen Angus beef.

Entertainment

Aberdeen has a long history of being a centre for the arts, with live music and entertainment eclectic enough to suit all tastes. Famous names to have performed in the city include Alec Guinness, Vivien Leigh, Charlie Chaplin, Cream, The Beatles, Pink Floyd and many others. However, it’s not all famous names, and the city has a habit of producing homegrown underground talent, with bands often cutting their teeth at venues such as The Lemon Tree, Café Drummond or The Tunnels.

Galleries and Public Art

It can be said that Aberdeen has so much art it is all over the city, unable to be contained within the walls of the excellent galleries on offer. The renowned Aberdeen Art Gallery has been undergoing an extensive series of renovations and repairs and is due to reopen in winter 2017. With public art dotted all over the buildings and streets of the city, as well as innovative arts festivals, Aberdeen continues to flourish as a vibrant home for diverse arts and artists.

Whisky and Bars

It should come as no surprise that Aberdeen has some excellent bars. While most pubs sell a range of whiskies, there are some that stand out as truly special, such as The Grill, where you can choose from over 600 different malts in a beautiful setting. This bar is said to be one of the best whisky bars in the world, but Aberdeen drinking establishments are not solely dedicated to the famous Scottish spirit. In recent years locally distilled gins have made a comeback, and cocktail bars are also popular in the city. Whatever your tipple, you will find it here.

One of the excellent things about the Granite City is not just the city itself, but the wider area in which it sits. Throughout Aberdeenshire and even further afield, most of the big roads head to the city, as does the railways, making it a perfect place to explore this corner of Scotland. From mountains to iconic castles, there is something for everyone here, all within easy reach of the city and its comfortable hotels. Add to this the port and airport, and communication with the wider world is easy.

Source: theculturetrip.com

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Aberdeen Travel Guide: 30+ Things to do in Aberdeen Scotland

Last updated: May 29, 2024 - Written by Jessica Norah 38 Comments

We’ve put together a travel guide about all the top things to do in Aberdeen Scotland. Aberdeen, nicknamed the Granite City, is Scotland’s third largest city. Although less known than Edinburgh or Glasgow, Aberdeen is a great city to visit if you are interested in seeing another side of Scotland.

We recently spent several days exploring Aberdeen and found that the city has a lot to offer visitors. Aberdeen has powerful architecture, beautiful gardens, charming historical districts, interesting museums (most of which are free!), good restaurants, internationally known golf courses, fun festivals, and even a beach! The wider area of Aberdeenshire is home to whisky distilleries, dozens of castles, the Cairngorms National Park, and some of Scotland’s best golf courses.

First, we’ll share all you need to know to plan your visit to Aberdeen including how to get there, how to get around, and where to stay. Then we’ll share our guide to Aberdeen attractions, highlighting all the top things to do in Aberdeen, from central Aberdeen to the surrounding area.

Table of Contents:

Basic Travel Info on Visiting Aberdeen 

Before we begin with all the attractions, here is some travel information that may come in handy. This includes advice and tip about getting to Aberdeen, getting around Aberdeen, where to stay in Aberdeen, and when is the best time of year to visit the city.

Where is Aberdeen?

Aberdeen is located in the northeastern part of Scotland, within the  Scottish Highlands . It is a coastal city with the North Sea (part of the Atlantic Ocean) located along the eastern side of the city.

Getting to Aberdeen

By Plane.  There are multiple flights a day in and out of Aberdeen Airport from destinations across the UK and Europe, and this can be a relatively cheap way to reach the city, especially if you book in advance with a budget airline. Aberdeen airport is 30 minute drive, bus ride, or taxi ride from the city centre.

The next closest airports are Inverness Airport and Edinburgh Airport which offer more UK and international connections.

By Train.  Aberdeen is well-connected by train from locations throughout England, Wales, and Scotland. You can check ScotRail  and  London North Eastern Railway  for local train services, routes, and to purchase tickets.

If you are interested in taking an overnight sleeper train (runs between London and Inverness), you can check the  Caledonian Sleeper  route and schedule as some services stop in Aberdeen.

By Bus. If you are in the UK and would rather travel by bus, there are daily coach connections to Aberdeen from a number of cities. Generally it takes longer to travel by bus but it may save you money compared to train fares or rental cars prices. You can check National Express for coach connections and prices. 

By Car. For drivers, Aberdeen is located about 105 miles from Inverness (about 2 hours, 45 minutes),125 miles from Edinburgh (about 2 hours, 45 minutes), 150 miles from Glasgow (2 hours, 45 minutes), 350 miles from Manchester (about 6 hours), and 545 miles from London (9 hours, 20 minutes).

Getting around Aberdeen

Aberdeen is an easy city to get around on foot and by public transit. The city center attractions can be explored on foot. The locations outside the city center such as attractions in “Old Aberdeen”, the University of Aberdeen, Footdee, and the Gordon Highlanders Museum can easily be reached by public bus, taxi, or car.

We’ll provide some guidance throughout the article about how far attractions are located from the city center to help you best plan and navigate the city.

It is easy to drive around Aberdeen but parking can be difficult to find around the city center and university areas, so we’d recommend using public transit or walking if possible around these areas.

If you need to call a cab while in Aberdeen, we recommend using this UK taxi comparison service to find the best rate.

If you are planning to use the bus in Aberdeen more than once or twice, we recommend checking out the GrassHopper ticket . The ticket is economically priced to allow for unlimited use of many of the local bus services for 1 day, multiple days, or even a week.

Most visitors will probably just need the ticket that covers the main zone around Aberdeen, but you can also get tickets that allows for travel around the full area of Aberdeenshire if you are planning some day trips.

If you are wanting to visit locations outside of the city such as castles, golf courses, whisky distilleries, or the Cairngorms National Park, the easiest way to explore is by car.

However, you can also get to many places via bus and there are also some guided tours you can take from Aberdeen to places like Balmoral Castle , Royal Deeside , the Speyside whisky distilleries , and Loch Ness .

Best time of year to visit Aberdeen?

Being a city, there is a lot to do in Aberdeen at any time of the year, with multiple indoor and outdoor attractions. Of course, the best time for you will vary depending on your interests as you may want to catch a certain festival or visit during a particular season.

In general, our favorite time of year to travel in Scotland is May, June, and September. The weather is generally decent and the attractions are not too crowded. However, Aberdeen is much less busy with tourists than Edinburgh, so it is a pleasant city to visit in terms of crowds year-round. 

Most attractions within the city are open year round, although many of the castles in Aberdeenshire have seasonal hours and many close during the winter. 

In terms of weather, it is generally warmer in the summer and colder in the winter, but it rarely gets hot. However, the marine climate means that it can have cooler summers and warmer winters than other areas of Scotland. Weather is fickle in Scotland and rain is a strong possibility year round. We’d suggest checking the weather forecast before you visit, and be prepared for variable weather by bringing plenty of layers and rain gear no matter when you plan to visit.

How many Days should I Spend in Aberdeen? 

We’d recommend spending at least  two days in Aberdeen to see the city highlights, but three days would be even better to really get a feel for this city and perhaps explore a bit of Aberdeenshire. So a long weekend in Aberdeen would be ideal.

Of course, if you can stay for longer as there is plenty to do in the city and the rest of Aberdeenshire, so you won’t have trouble filling your time! There are also plenty of great day trips from Aberdeen if you have more than a couple of days here.

Where to Stay in Aberdeen?

We’d recommend staying in the city center of Aberdeen to maximize your time in Aberdeen. Many of the city’s museums, attractions, theaters, and popular restaurants and bars are located in or near the city center. Most of the city’s festival events also take place in central city locations.

However, Old Aberdeen (around the university), the West End, and the harbor area are also nice places to stay, depending on what you want to see and do in the city.

There is a wide variety of accommodation options in Aberdeen  that should suit any type of traveler, including hotels , apartments , guest houses , and hostels . If you want to stay in the central area, you can check out this list of lodging located in the city center .

If you are looking for a well-rated city center hotel, we recommend checking out the Sandman Signature , Residence Inn , the Carmelite Hotel , The Station Hotel , and Jury’s Inn .

For centrally located B&B’s you might want to look at Bimini Guest House and Lochnager Guest House .

In terms of hostels, the well-rated Soprano Hostel has a great central location, offering shared dormitory rooms as well as private rooms.

For those looking for a good value apartment, we have stayed in this apartment hotel , which came with a kitchenette (option to cook when we wished), free breakfast, work space, and free parking. You can also check out a list of apartments, and vacation rentals in Aberdeen on Vrbo here .

If you are looking for a special place out of the city center, you might consider staying in these former 19th century lighthouse cottages near Aberdeen Harbor (4 night stay minimum during most of the year).

If you have a car and don’t mind staying a bit outside the city there are some really nice Scottish country house hotels nearby which include the Marcliffe House & Spa  (also a good place for afternoon tea), MacDonald Norwood Hall Hotel , and the Ardoe House Hotel & Spa .

Where to Eat in Aberdeen?

One of the things we were most surprised about in Aberdeen was how much we enjoyed the food. The city offers a range of eateries where you can find everything from vegan dishes to pub fare to fresh seafood. So whether you are looking for a quick bite on the go or a nice dinner out, you should be able to find a restaurant that suits.

Laurence has put together this guide to our favorite restaurants in Aberdeen which provide loads of dining suggestions for those visiting the city, whether you are looking for a vegan breakfast, a seafood lunch, a pub meal, or a fancy dinner out.

How to Save Money in Aberdeen? 

Aberdeen is a wealthy city that has earned its riches in recent years from the energy industry, particularly from North Sea oil . Although it can be an expensive city to live in, it is not an expensive city to visit.

Most of the city’s museums and major attractions are FREE! Almost all the city’s museums, art galleries, parks, and gardens are free to visit. Those museums and attractions that do have entry fees, such as the Aberdeen Science Centre and Gordon Highlanders Museum are reasonably priced.

The three biggest expenses for most people will be lodging, food, and evening entertainment. In terms of lodging, it is easy to find budget and good value accommodation throughout the city, even in the city center. If you are on a tight budget, you can check out local hostels like Soprano Hostel (city center) and the Aberdeen Youth Hostel (West End).

The local population includes both university students and wealthy oil-rich millionaires, so you can find food options that vary from cheap eats to pub food to fine dining. You can also save money by staying in an apartment and cooking some of your own meals.

You don’t have to spend a lot of money to enjoy some of the local evening entertainment. You can often find free live music at pubs and free or inexpensive events at or around the University of Aberdeen (check this calendar for university specific lectures, concerts, and events).

Evening entertainment can be anything from live music at a club to a football match at Pittodrie Stadium to premium tickets to a performance at His Majesty’s Theatre. During the city’s many festivals, there are normally both free and ticketed events of varying price points so check the festival schedule in advance to plan your visit and pre-purchase tickets.

The only discount pass we are aware of is this one for North East Scotland , which gets you a discount at many attractions across the region. However, you will want to check that you plan to visit a few of the attractions to make it worth the investment.

There are currently no specific discount passes just for Aberdeen that we are aware of, mainly because most of the attractions are free to visit. But if you are planning to use public transportation, you may save money using the previously mentioned GrassHopper ticket . Also if you are planning to visit the Royal Deeside area, you might want to check out this Royal Deeside discount passport .

Where to Find more Information? 

For more information about the area, we’d recommend checking the VisitAberdeenshire official website , which has loads of information about visiting Aberdeen and the surrounding Aberdeenshire area.

We also recommend taking a look at this suggested 2 day Aberdeen itinerary that Laurence put together based on our own visits. Once in the area, we also recommend stopping at the city visitor center to pick up brochures and maps, as well as to ask about festivals and events. For more to do in Aberdeenshire, we recommend considering some of these day trips .

If your travels are taking you to other destinations in Scotland, we live in Scotland and have loads of posts on Scotland across our two travel blogs and you can find them all  here  and  here.

These include an Aberdeen itinerary , things to do in Edinburgh , information on visiting the nearby Cairngorms National Park ,  things to do in Glasgow , and tips for  planning a North Coast 500 road trip .

If you have a question about an upcoming trip to Scotland, just leave us your question in the comments section at the end of the post and we will happily try to help.

Things to do in Aberdeen Scotland

Use this list to choose the attractions of interest and put together your own personalized Aberdeen itinerary. We’ve divided attractions by those located in central Aberdeen, those located in Old Aberdeen, those located outside the city center, and those located within the wider Aberdeenshire area.

Things to do in Central Aberdeen

Luckily many of the top things to do in Aberdeen are located within central Aberdeen and can be reached by walking or by a short trip by bus, taxi, or car. If you are able, especially if the weather is pleasant, we recommend walking to get around the city center.

All the attractions in this section are located within a 20 minute walk from St. Andrew’s Cathedral on King Street (I’m using the cathedral as the center point of the city to measure distances). Most are located within a 10 minute walk or less, making it easy to visit several attractions in one day.

Aberdeen Maritime Museum

A good place to learn about the development of Aberdeen is the  Aberdeen Maritime Museum , which is located near Aberdeen’s dock area. Aberdeen has a long and rich maritime history with fishing and shipbuilding being two of its former primary industries. The first harbor in Aberdeen dates back to at least the 12th century and the Aberdeen Harbour is believed to be the oldest existing business in the UK! Today the fishing and shipbuilding industries have been largely replaced by the shipping and off-shore oil industries which still keeps the harbor active.

The museum tells the story of the city’s long relationship with the sea across 3 floors of exhibits. The museum covers everything from the beginning of the maritime industry to recent developments in the North Sea oil industry. The collection includes artifacts, maritime related art, and interactive exhibits. Part of the museum is in a modern building and a section is a historic building once lived in by shipowner Provost John Ross .

The museum is free to visit. It also has a cafe if you are in need of a sandwich or coffee before or after your visit.

Marischal College

Marischal College  was built in 1837 and served as the headquarters of the Marischal College and University of Aberdeen (now just the University of Aberdeen). The building was originally designed by Archibald Simpson and was later expanded and the front covered in granite by Alexander Marshall Mackenzie . The building is an interesting mix of styles and is huge. It is currently the second largest granite building in the world!

The building has not been used as an educational building for many years, and is now the headquarters for Aberdeen City Council. There was a small amount of information on the history of the building here when we visited but not much else in terms of public visits.

The interesting thing to do here for a visitor is to just to admire the long exterior as most of the interior is closed. The building can look a bit dull in rainy weather, but in the sunlight the building can sparkle silver. In front of the building is a statue of Robert the Bruce on horseback.

The former college building and the area around it have recently undergone lots of construction and restoration work. The building has been restored and the street in front has been pedestrianized.

There are a number of restaurants and cafes here and we recommend a walk around Marischal Square. In the public atrium of Marischal Square you’ll want to look up to see the leopard statue (Poised) designed by sculptor Andy Scott.

Provost Skene’s House

Provost Skene’s House is located near the Aberdeen Maritime Museum and houses a collection of furnished rooms that show visitors how people in Aberdeen would have lived in the 17th, 18th, and 19th centuries. The oldest part of the building dates back to 1545! The Tudor house was once the residence of the Lord Provost George Skene in the 17th century, which is where it gets its current name.

The historical house has a number of interesting features included carved plaster ceilings, wood paneling, and painted ceilings, and the museum also holds a collection of art and costumes. The house museum is free to visit.

NOTE: Provost Skene’s House is currently closed because of construction work on Marischal Square, so please check the museum website for the latest opening details.

Tolbooth Museum

The  Tolbooth Museum is a museum located in one of Aberdeen oldest and most interesting buildings, a former 17th century gaol (jail). The museum focuses on local history, especially as related to crime and punishment over the centuries.

The building in addition to being a jail, was also used for a number of other purposes, including as a town hall, a courthouse, and a council chamber. Despite its name, the building was not actually a tolbooth but was a Wardhouse which was located next to the former tolbooth.

The museum provides an interesting atmosphere to learn a bit about the town history, medieval punishment, and town laws. The museum provides thrilling stories of witches, the mass organized kidnapping and selling of children, prison escapees, and Jacobite prisoners who were interrogated and held after the Battle of Culloden. Some people believe the building to be haunted!

The building still has many original features and items including jail cells, torture devices, and a 17th century guillotine blade. You can also the town’s original mercat cross here near the entrance. It is free to visit the museum.

Note that the wax figures and stories of torture and punishment may be scary to young children. Also the museum contains a narrow, windy staircase that may be difficult for those with mobility issues, but there is a video presentation that can be watched near the entrance (ask at the entrance desk).

Castlegate Square & Aberdeen’s Mercat Cross

Near the Tolbooth Museum is Castlegate Square, where Aberdeen Castle once stood. The castle was used by both English and Scottish troops (including King Robert the Bruce and King Edward I), and it is believed that it was destroyed by King Robert the Bruce in the early 14th century. There is nothing left of the castle, but in the square you will find Aberdeen’s mercat cross.

The mercat cross denotes where the city was allowed to hold its market and it is where royal proclamations would have been announced. The mercat cross dates back to 1686 and was built by John Montgomery in sandstone. The large base is highly decorated with medallions representing 10 of the Stuart monarchs. The shaft is topped with a unicorn (the royal animal of Scotland). The shaft and unicorn are replacements but the original can be seen in the Tolbooth Museum.

Peacock Visual Arts

Peacock Visual Arts is a contemporary art centre, gallery, studio, print shop and digital studio located on Castle Street. The center promotes a variety of types of art in a variety of formats and provides a place for local artists to work and learn. They also have hands-on art workshops (e.g., printmaking, using a 3D printer, etching techniques) as well as showings where you can buy local as well as international art.

Although not a major tourist stop, it may be of interest to those with a passion for contemporary art and who enjoy checking out community art centers. We enjoyed watching a 3D printer in action as well as the activity in the print center. The center is mainly run by volunteers so if you are interested in visiting, it may be a good idea to contact them in advance as hours can vary.

It is free to visit although there is a fee to join most of the workshops.

The Kirk of St. Nicholas Uniting

The Kirk of St Nicholas Uniting dates back to the 12th century and was likely one of the largest and most important parish churches in medieval Scotland. Today it has members of both the Church of Scotland and the United Reformed Church and is sometimes referred to as “The Mither Kirk”  (mother church) of the city.

Most of the present building dates to the 18th and 19th centuries as fires and decay destroyed the majority of the original medieval buildings. However, parts of the medieval church still survive and archaeological digs have uncovered structures, wood, decorations, tombs etc. dating from the 12th to 17th centuries. Archaeological work here is ongoing, and the church contains information about this work and findings.

The church is free to visit although donations are welcome. It is regularly opened to visitors throughout the summer months, and visits can be arranged at other times of the year by contacting the church.

Aberdeen Art Gallery

The Aberdeen Art Gallery was founded in 1884 and is located in the city center in a building designed by Alexander Marshall Mackenzie. The large gallery contains a large collection of Scottish and international art, and is particularly notable for its collection of modern Scottish art.

In November 2019, the art gallery reopened in Aberdeen after a lengthy closure and refurbishment. It is more spacious with more room to display art now. There are 3 floors of exhibition rooms you can explore. Entry to the gallery is free, but donations are welcome.

There is a cafe here that is generally open during the museum’s opening hours if you fancy a cuppa, sandwich, or snack.

Union Terrace Gardens

The Union Terrace Gardens are a large sunken gardens located on the western side of the city center, near His Majesty’s Theatre. The park dates back to Victorian times and has an old viaduct located on one end.

The park has a variety of trees, flowers, and grassy areas as well as public toilets and places to sit. There are also a number of statues around the gardens, including a statue of Robert Burns along Union Terrace and statues of Prince Albert and William Wallace located across from His Majesty’s Theatre.

It is a pleasant place to wander around or sit for a break in good weather. Concerts and other city events are sometimes held here. The gardens are currently undergoing a major development which will likely change their look over the next few years.

Aberdeen Science Centre

The Aberdeen Science Centre  is a family science center that has a number of interactive science themed exhibits. They also have daily science talks and demonstrations that are free to join with your museum ticket. Exhibits cover a bit of everything from storms to gravity to music to insects, and there is something for every age group. The museum is fairly small, just one floor, so it is easy to visit even if you don’t have a lot of time.

There is a small entry fee to visit the science centre. Next door is a cafe that serves sandwiches, snacks, coffee, and drinks.

Aberdeen Beach & Boardwalk

Aberdeen is one of the few major cities in the UK to have a sandy beach! There is a large stretch of golden sand along the eastern part of the city.

When we first visited in winter there was a storm so very little of the beach was visible. But on subsequent visits, we’ve had a much better impression! But on a warm sunny day, this a very popular place for people to stroll and hang out. There is also a grassy area next to the beach known as Queens Links.

There are a number of attractions located at or near the beachfront, particularly for families. Along the Beach Esplanade is the city’s amusement park Codonas (includes amusement park rides, mini-golf, bowling, etc., some attractions are seasonal), restaurants and cafés (we can recommend the Sand Dollar Cafe), a cinema with 9 film screens, and an ice skating rink .

Also here is the Beach Ballroom, a beautiful Art Deco building with one of the best dance floors in Scotland. Opened in 1929, the venue continues to regularly host public and private events, including concerts, afternoon teas, ceilidh, plays, holiday parties, boxing matches, weddings, and other events. You can see what’s happening during your visit here .

The Kings Links golf course and the Aberdeen Science Centre (described above) are also located nearby.

Note that you can of course swim at Aberdeen Beach although the water is never really warm. If you want to swim, paddleboard, surf, or do any other water sports you’ll want to bring or rent a drysuit or wetsuit .

For those looking for a warmer family-friendly place to swim I’d consider going to the nearby  Beach Leisure Centre which offers a large leisure swimming pool, wave machine, and sauna.

The Aberdeen Beach is about a 15 minute walk from the city center. If you don’t want to walk, you can catch a taxi or bus to the beach.

Follow the Aberdeen Sculpture Trail

There are a number of wonderful sculptures in Aberdeen and you’ll likely see several without trying as you wander around the city. They range from statues of famous figures like William Wallace and Prince Albert to leopards and abstract bronzes.

Some of our favorites are:

• Robert the Bruce by sculptor Alan Herriot – This large statue depicts Scottish king Robert the Bruce on horseback. It was unveiled in 2011 and can be found in front of Marischal College.
• Poised by Andy Scott – This impressive steel leopard statue sits upon a 10 meter high steel column in the open courtyard atrium of Marischal Square. Be sure to look up! Scott is also the sculpture behind the Kelpies in Falkirk.
• Robert Burns by Henry Bain Smith – This bronze statue of the famous Scottish poet was unveiled in 1892 and shows Burns holding a daisy (a reference to his poem “To a Mountain Daisy”). We’re fans of Robert Burns and are always trying to spot statues of the famous bard, which you’ll find in pretty much every city in Scotland.
• War Memorial Lion – This impressive granite kitty sits regally in front of the war memorial in Aberdeen. It was designed by William Macmillan and completed by James Philip. You can find it right next door to the Aberdeen Art Gallery on the corner of Schoolhill and Blackfriars Street.
• Mannie – Mannie, or Mannie in the Green, is a steel figure that sits along Castle Street. He was originally placed atop the Castlegate Well at some point in the 18th century and was later moved, but is again located at Castlegate. Not exactly sure what he is meant to symbolize, but he has long been a historical landmark in the city!

The Aberdeen City Council have put together a city sculpture trail that will help you find the statues as you walk around the city. Most are located near the city center. It also helpfully notes which are possible to visit for those in a wheelchair.

Shopping in Aberdeen

If you want to do a bit of shopping in Aberdeen, you can find everything from souvenirs to designer clothing. The city has a number of shopping centers located within the city center, including Union Square, Bon Accord, St. Nicholas, and Trinity shopping centers which offer a number of well-known fashion, beauty, and homeware stores as well as cafes and restaurants.

In terms of good shopping streets, it depends on what you are looking for but Union Street (also known as the “Granite Mile”) is home to a number of well-known brands as well as independent shops, cafes, and restaurants. The Rosemount area of Aberdeen also has a number of smaller shops, cafes, and independent retailers.

Festivals are a great way to learn more about the city culture, meet locals, and have some fun. There are a number of festivals in Aberdeen, and you should check before you go if there are any festivals happening during your visit.

This year there are 10 official festivals being held in the city throughout the year, celebrating a range of things including performing arts, music, creativity, technology, dance, and old boats. You can check out the list of festivals and festival schedule here . There are also many other smaller festivals such as the Nuart Festival which celebrates street art.

During our last visit to Aberdeen, the Aberdeen Jazz Festival was taking place, which was a 10 day festival with events taking place in multiple venues across the city each day. The festival included large free public events as well as smaller ticketed events. We saw three different Jazz Festival shows which included a saxophone performance by from  Andy Middleton , an afternoon tea event with cocktails and vocal performances by the Vintage Girls, and a fun Saturday late night show from Fat-Suit and Werkha.

Evening Entertainment

Even if there are no festival events going on during your visit, there are also loads of other entertainment options. These include live music events, performances at the city’s theaters, comedy nights, cinemas (there are independent ones like Belmont Filmhouse and modern multiplexes), and of course there are a number of bars and pubs, as well as several nightclubs.

For those looking to dance, some popular local nightclubs include Babylon, The Tunnels (located underground!), ATIK, Underground, and NOX. 

For performing arts, check out this website for what’s one during your visit. Popular venues include His Majesty’s Theatre, Music Hall, the Tivoli Theatre, and The Lemon Tree.

If you enjoy football (soccer), then you might want to join the locals for a match at Pittodrie Stadium to watch the Aberdeen Football Club play. Scotland isn’t exactly great at soccer but the games are still a lot of fun. You can check the match schedule and buy tickets online here . The stadium is about a mile from the city center, but the Football Club operates Park and Ride buses on home game days to take fans to and from the stadium.

Things to do in Old Aberdeen

Old Aberdeen was for a long time a separate burgh and fairly isolated from the city, and it only become a part of the city of Aberdeen in 1891. Today the area is mostly made of the University of Aberdeen campus.  If you have seen all the things you wanted to see in the city center, we’d recommend exploring this area next.

Most of the attractions in Old Aberdeen are a  25 to 30 minute walk from the city center. So you can walk or take the public bus, drive, or take a taxi. If driving, be sure to pay attention to signs when parking as many parking areas are for university staff and students only.

King’s College Chapel, University of Aberdeen

The University of Aberdeen dates back to 1495 and is the third oldest university in Scotland and the 5th oldest in the English speaking world! It was originally known as King’s College. It is a high ranking university and its presence in the city, along with Robert Gordon University, means that Aberdeen has a large university student population.

The university campus has a number of interesting buildings that date from the 16th century to today. The oldest building and one of the most notable is King’s College Chapel, which was built between 1498 and 1509, with its distinctive Crown Tower. The chapel’s crown has become a symbol of the university. Inside the chapel contains 16th century choir stalls and rood screen and the university’s war memorial.

The chapel is open to the public on weekdays and is free to visit. Regular services are also held here.

King’s Museum

The  King’s Museum  is one of the university’s museums. The small museum includes rotating exhibits of artifacts from the university’s collection that are used to illustrate history related to local culture, the university, the people of Scotland, etc. The museum is located in the 18th century Old Town House, the former home of Old Aberdeen’s local government.

The museum exhibits change every few months. Entry is free. Check the website for opening hours.

Zoology Museum

The Zoology Museum is part of the University of Aberdeen and is located within part of the university’s School of Biological Science building. The museum consists of two floors of specimens, models, and displays that represent everything from protozoa to giant whales. It is not a huge museum, but there is a lot to see and is great stop for those who enjoy natural history museums.

The museum is currently free and open to the public. It is closed on the weekends.

NOTE: The university in addition to the two museums mentioned often has other temporary exhibitions or art spaces elsewhere in the university if you have a special interest.

Cruickshank Botanic Garden

The Cruickshank Botanic Garden  is located just behind the Zoology Museum. The 11 acre botanic garden includes a rock garden, a sunken garden, a rose garden, and an arboretum. A pleasant place to wander around and enjoy a break. It is open year-round and is free to visit.

St. Machar’s Cathedral

St. Machar’s Cathedral  is the principal kirk, or church, of the Church of Scotland in Aberdeen. The present church (it is not technically a cathedral) dates to around the 13th century although it is said that St. Machar founded this site for religious worship in 580. It is the oldest building in active use in Aberdeen.

The church is made of granite with large twin towers and is a good example of a fortified church. It also has an interesting interior with stained glass and a heraldic ceiling. The church is probably best known for its beautiful wood paneled 16th century ceiling that contains 48 coats of arms. The heraldic ceiling has three rows, one representing the kings of Europe, one the Pope and important members of the church in Scotland, and one representing the King of Scotland and the powerful figures within Scotland.

Among the notable people buried here are Robert Laws , a Scottish missionary to Malawi and William Ogilvie of Pittensear . It is also believed that after Scottish knight William Wallace (the man Mel Gibson famously portrayed in the film Braveheart ) was “hung, drawn, and quartered”, that one of his quarters (the left one) was sent and buried here at St. Machar’s!

Entry to the church is free, although a donation is appreciated. The church also has a small gift shop inside, which is another way to support the property.

Brig o’ Balgownie & Donmouth Local Nature Reserve

Brig o’ Balgownie (formerly the Bridge of Don) is a stone arch bridge spanning the River Don in Old Aberdeen. It is believed that the bridge dates back to the 13th or 14th century (making it one of Scotland’s oldest bridges), although most of the bridge we see today dates to the 17th and 18th centuries. The bridge was the main way to cross the River Don until around 1830 when the (new) Bridge of Don was built. Today it is a pedestrian bridge and local landmark.

Although the true origins of the bridge are unknown, local legends say that the bridge was built by Bishop Henyr Cheyne and/or Robert the Bruce. Lord Byron mentions it in his poem “Don Juan”.

If you want to enjoy this area further and have more time, I’d recommend taking the riverside path located next to the bridge to the sea. The area where the River Don meets the sea is part of Donmouth Local Nature Reserve which includes a beach area and part of the riverside. The riverside path starts on King Street, then goes to the the Brig o’ Balgownie, and then alongside the river to the seaside. We saw several water birds here as well as a seal.

The bridge is located about a 20 minute walk from St. Machar’s Cathedral (or about a 45 minute walk from the city center). If visiting from the university area, you have a few options in walking there. You can walk across Seaton Park, walk along Don Street, or head along King Street until you reach the river and then turn left to join the riverside path to the bridge.

If you don’t want to walk, it is about a 7 minute drive or taxi ride from St. Machar’s. If you are taking the bus, you can take it to Donmouth Road and then walk to the bridge (it is about a 7 minute walk from the Donmouth Road stop).

Things to do Outside of Central Aberdeen

There are also a number of things you can do outside of central Aberdeen that are a 30 minute walk or further from the city center, including the Aberdeen Harbor area, war memorials, gardens, golf courses, and museums.

Here are our top picks:

Explore Aberdeen Harbor

Aberdeen Harbor is an interesting area to explore and we recommend a visit if you have good weather. The Aberdeen Harbour is believed to be the oldest existing business in the UK, dating back to the 12th century. However, the harbor is believed to have been in use since Roman times!

Today the harbor is still a busy place with oil/gas ships, shipping, small cruise boats, and ferries heading to and from the islands of Shetland and Orkney. There is also a good possibility to spot dolphins and other sea animals in the harbor area.

There are a few places around the Aberdeen Harbor area that might be of interest. From the city center, the main Harbor area and Footdee are about a 30 minute walk from the city center, Torry Battery is about a 40 minute walk, and Girdle Ness Lighthouse is about a 50 minute walk. You can also drive, or take public transit part of the way to visit these sites.

If you enjoy walking, consider taking this harbor hike around the Girdle Ness headland.

Footdee, often referred to locally as “Fittie”, is a small community that was once a fishing village. In the early 19th century the area was redeveloped and a housing development was built to house the local fishing community. The architect who designed the layout was John Smith , a Scottish architect who designed many buildings and structures within Aberdeenshire, including Balmoral Castle.

The initial homes consisted of 28 single-story thatched homes although that number was increased over time when further rows of houses were added. Each house has its own “tarry shed” which were originally all built out of driftwood.

Today, the houses have expanded and many now have slate roofs and many of the sheds have been re-built from brick. However, it remains a charming area that feels a bit like a village from another century. Many residents have added a lot of personal decorations and flavor to their sheds!

It is a small area and only takes a short time to walk around. Just remember when visiting that these are people’s homes and gardens, so be respectful of the residents when admiring their homes.

Nearby next to the harbor are some interesting buildings and artifacts like an old anchor, the Roundhouse (the former 18th century Harbor Master’s Station), and the Old Customs House. The former customs house is a now a popular seafood restaurant called The Silver Darling which offers good views over the harbor.

Torry Battery

The Torry Battery is an artillery battery that was built in 1860 overlooking Aberdeen Harbor. The battery was in use until 1956, including during World War 1 and World War II. It is currently in ruins but you can still see a lot of elements of the complex, including the entrance gate, sections of the walls, a gun emplacement, and barracks.

Today it is a popular spot for walkers and joggers, and there is a small car park here if you are driving. It is a good place to get views over the harbor with a chance to see dolphins, although you’ll need binoculars or a zoom lens.

South Breakwater Lighthouse & Girdle Ness Lighthouse

If you keep walking or driving past the Torry Battery, you’ll find a couple of lighthouses.

The first lighthouse is South Breakwater Lighthouse. It was built in 1815 and is still an active lighthouse. It is a good spot for dolphin watching, but be careful if you walk out close to it as it can be slippery and during storms the waves can entirely cover this area!

The second lighthouse, Girdle Ness Lighthouse, was built in 1833. The engineer was  Robert Stevenson , grandfather of the famous writer Robert Louis Stevenson. This lighthouse is also still in use.

Many of the building in the Girdle Ness Lighthouse complex are privately owned and you can actually book to stay in some of the former lighthouse buildings . One is the former 3 bedroom lighthouse keeper’s cottage and while modernized, it contains many original period features from the 19th century. A great spot if you are looking for a quiet place and don’t mind being outside of the city center.

Duthie Park & David Welch Winter Gardens

Duthie Park is one of Aberdeen’s best green spaces and is a popular place for locals to enjoy the outdoors. The 44 acre space opened as a park in 1883 (the land was donated by Miss Elizabeth Duthie) and contains open green spaces, trees, flower gardens, ponds, statues, a band stand, and the David Welch Winter Gardens.

There is also a nice playground area here with lots of slides and things to climb for the kids. There are playground areas for younger kids and older kids. Popular spot for local families to take the kids for some fresh air on the weekends.

The David Welch Winter Gardens are located within Duthie Park and are one of Europe’s largest indoor gardens. The gardens includes arid and tropical glass houses and house a large collection of exotic plants. They are particularly notable for their large collection of cacti. We were surprised at how large this complex was and really enjoyed these gardens which are definitely one of the best botanic gardens in Scotland. Entry is free and it is open year round.

There is a café, Duthie Park Café , located at Duthie Park that serves sandwiches, simple hot dishes, snacks, and drinks.

Duthie Park is located about a 35 minute walk or 10 minute drive from the city center.

Gordon Highlanders Museum

The Gordon Highlanders Museum presents the history of the Gordon Highlanders, a line infantry regiment of the British Army. The Gordon Highlanders have a history that dates back to 1794 when the regiment was raised by 4th Duke of Gordon. The Gordon Highlanders were an official regiment in the British Army from 1881 to 1994.

The Gordon Highlanders headquarters were in Aberdeen and thus the regiment played an important role in the lives of many people from northeast Scotland. The regiment served in a number of wars and conflicts, including the Boer War, First World War, Second World War, and Cold War. In September 1994, the Gordon Highlanders were amalgamated into the The Queen’s Own Highlanders to form what is now the  Highlanders .

In reporting on the Second Boer War  as a young war correspondent, Winston Churchill described the Gordon Highlanders as the “finest regiment in the world” based on his experiences observing them in action at the Battle of Doornkop in May 1900.

The museum serves to preserve the history and legacy of the regiment and presents information, artifacts, and exhibits that tells the story of the regiment. Visits start with a film and then visitors can explore the museum on their own. The museum includes interactive maps, a room filled with regimental silver, medals (including 11 Victoria Crosses), weapons, and a room set up as an officers’ mess room that includes a number of pieces of silver, china, and glass. The museum is housed in the former home of Scottish artist Sir George Reid.

We had an enjoyable visit here and learned a lot; there was much more to see here than we expected. The museum is a registered charity and staffed primarily by volunteers who were friendly and eager to answer our questions and provide additional information.

There is an admission fee to visit the museum. You can currently save 5% on admission by pre-purchasing your tickets online on the museums’ website. There is also a popular tea room on-site as well as a garden and gift shop.

The museum is located about a 50 minute walk or 15 minute drive from the city center of Aberdeen.

Johnston Gardens

Johnston Gardens is a public garden that was designed and planted with aesthetics in mind. The garden includes ponds, streams, bridges, trees, and flowers and has won the Britain in Bloom competition (Aberdeen has won the award several times). The gardens also contain a play area for children.

Unfortunately we did not have the best weather during our visit, but the gardens are a pretty place to wander around. They are a popular local spot for engagement and wedding photographs. Entry to the gardens is free.

Located near the Gordon Highlanders Museum, the Johnston Gardens are about a 1 hour walk or 15 minute drive from the city center.

Golfing in Aberdeen

The northeast of Scotland is where golf was invented and it is home to many of the world’s oldest and top courses.There are over 50 golf courses in Aberdeenshire, and we counted 8 golf courses located within the city of Aberdeen. So if you are a golfer you will have no difficulty finding a place to play and you don’t even need to leave the city!

The city boasts golf courses suited to all levels from novices to pros, and you can find a list of courses here . One of the best known golf clubs in Aberdeen (and in Scotland!) is the Royal Aberdeen Golf Club which dates back to 1780, making it the 6th oldest golf club in the world. It has hosted a number of championship tournaments, including the Scottish Open in 2014. Next door is the highly rated  Murcar Links .

A few of the city courses are located within walking distance of Aberdeen city center (e.g., King’s Link Golf Course is a 17 minute walk from the city center). However, you’ll probably want to drive, take a bus, or get a taxi to get to most courses, especially if you have your golf clubs and gear with you.

Things to do in Aberdeen: Day Trips from Aberdeen

If you run out of things to do within Aberdeen, there are plenty of things you can do on a day trip from Aberdeen. These include golfing, visiting castles, whisky tasting, hiking, cycling, driving a scenic driving route, and birdwatching.

If you don’t have a car, you can get to some places by bus or train, but you may want to consider a guided day tour as it will allow you to see more places as many don’t have good public transit connections.

Good places to check out day tours are Rabbies , GetYourGuide and Viator . Possible guided day tours from Aberdeen visit Cairngorms National Park , Royal Deeside , Speyside Whisky Trail , Balmoral Castle , the North East coast , and Dunnottar Castle .

If you are considering a day trip from Aberdeen, check our guide to the best Aberdeen day trips .

Here are some options to get you started in planning your Aberdeen day trip:

The Den & the Glen

If you are traveling with younger children, you may want to make a trip over to The Den and the Glen for a morning or afternoon of fun. It is a child-friendly park with indoor soft play areas and outdoor gardens that have been decorated with fairytale and nursery rhyme characters. A popular spot for local families. There is a cafe located within the park.

The park is located about 20 minutes by car from the city center.

Castles near Aberdeen

Aberdeen is a great base for castle hunters in Scotland as there are loads of castles in Aberdeenshire and it is home to some of the most famous castles in Scotland. Some are privately owned and not open to the public, but many of the castles can be visited. You’ll find a bit of everything from grand residences to ruined rock piles, and everything in between.

Many of the most popular castles in this area are owned by the National Trust of Scotland.  If you plan to visit several National Trust properties while in Scotland (includes over 60 historical sites in Scotland) you may want to take a look at the  Scottish Heritage Pass  (valid for travel between April to October) which gives you free entry to a number of National Trust and Historic Scotland sites.

There are dozens of castles you could visit on a day trip from Aberdeen, but here are some of our favorites:

• Balmoral Castle – This castle was built by Queen Victoria and Prince Albert. It was completed in 1856 and has been the private Highland residence of the British Royal Family ever since. Although only a small section of the castle is open to visitors (the ballroom), the extensive gardens are fully open and there is an excellent audioguide that accompanies the visit here. If you don’t have a car, you can also join a guided tour from Aberdeen. Open to visitors during part of the Spring and Summer.
• Craigievar Castle – This pink harled Scottish castle dates back to the 17th century and was lived in as a residence until 1963. Today it is owned and managed by the National Trust of Scotland and open to the public. The castle still contains a number of original furnishings from the Forbes family. Visits are by guided tour only. Group sizes are limited so best to arrive early to pick up timed tickets. Open seasonally.
• Crathes Castle – This 16th century harled castle was the ancesterial home of the Burnetts of Leys until 1951. Today the house and gardens are owned by the National Trust for Scotland. Be sure to leave time to wander around the beautiful gardens. A  GoApe  treetop adventure course is also located within the castle grounds. Open year-round.
• Drum Castle – This castle’s tower house dates back to the 13th century, making it one of the oldest in Scotland. A large extension to the castle was added in the 17th century and then further renovations and changes were made during the Victorian era. Our favorite room here was the massive library. Managed by the National Trust for Scotland and currently open year round (except for over the Christmas holiday season).
• Dunnottar Castle – This ruined medieval castle sits on a clifftop alongside the coast. The buildings of the fortress date back to between 1400 and 1600. The castle was visited by famous people like Mary Queen of Scots, was where the Scottish Honours (Scottish Crown Jewels) were hidden from Oliver Cromwell’s army, and it was where a number of Whigs were held as prisoners in the 17th century. It has been in ruins since the early 18th century. It is currently privately owned but open to the public. If you don’t have a car, you can also join this tour from Aberdeen which stops at the castle and explore the Royal Deeside area.

Note that many of the castle have seasonal hours and are closed in the winter months, so be sure to check the opening dates and hours before visiting. All of the above castles have designated parking areas and some are possible to visit via bus from Aberdeen.

Kirkhill Forest

Kirkhill Forest is a forest located just outside of Aberdeen that has a number of multi-use trails, hiking paths, a orienteering trail, and a mountain bike fun park. Popular spot for local hikers, walkers, cyclists, and horse riders.

Kirkhill Forest  is located about a 40 minute drive from the city center. There are also many other forest areas within Aberdeenshire that you can explore.

Golfing in Aberdeenshire

As noted earlier, there are over 50 golf courses located in Aberdeenshire! Aberdeen, which is home to several courses of its own, makes for a great base for golfing day trips for the keen golfer.

The courses are set in a variety of locations. Many of the courses include sand dunes and coastal views, although you’ll also find courses located in town centers, forests, glens, near lochs, and even on castle grounds. There are courses well-suited for all types of golfers from novices to professionals.

Some of the well-known courses in Aberdeenshire (outside of the city) include  Cruden Bay Golf Club , Trump International Golf Links , Banchory Golf Club , Peterhead Golf Club , Fraserburgh Golf Club ,  Deeside Golf Club , and the 9-hole course at Balmoral . You can browse a list of the Aberdeenshire golf courses  to find the courses that are best suited for you.

You can also visit courses outside of Aberdeenshire and still use Aberdeen as a base. For example St. Andrew’s is only a 1.5 hour drive away from Aberdeen.

It is recommended that you book your tee times, especially at the better known courses, as soon as you know the dates you wish to visit to avoid disappointment.

Drive a Section of the North East 250

Looking for a scenic and interesting driving route, check out the North East 250 . It is a driving route that runs just outside Aberdeen and runs through Aberdeenshire as well as Speyside and the Cairngorms National Park. The route includes castle, whisky distilleries, natural attractions, beaches, museums, golf courses, and much more!

Want to drive the entire route? Check out our 3 day North East 250 itinerary .

Cairngorms National Park

Cairngorms National Park in one of two national parks in Scotland (the other being Loch Lomond & the Trossachs National Park ), and the eastern part of the park is located within Aberdeenshire.

The park is a perfect place for hiking, climbing, biking, scenic drives, birdwatching, wildlife, and even  skiing in the winter ! You’ll also find a number of castles, cultural sites, whisky distilleries, and family attractions located within the Cairngorms.

It is about a 1 hour drive to the eastern edge of the park. You can also reach many of the towns within the park via bus (most are operated by Stagecoach ). This guided small group bus tour from Aberdeen also visits this area.

Whisky Distilleries near Aberdeen

Whisky is the spirit of Scotland and Aberdeenshire and nearby Moray are home to several whisky distilleries. It is easy to spend a day (or two) visiting distilleries and tasting the local whisky.

The closest whisky distilleries are  Glen Garioch Distillery  (only 30 minute drive from Aberdeen city center) and  Royal Lochnagar Distillery (near Balmoral Castle). Aberdeen is also within about a 1 hour to 1.5 hour drive of several other famous distilleries, including  Strathisla Distillery (home of Chivas Regal),  Glenlivet Distillery , Glenfiddich Distillery ,  Cardhu Distillery (part of the Malt Whisky Trail), and  Macallan Distillery .

Most of the mentioned distilleries have visitor centers and do regular public tours, but some you’ll need to book in advance. So check the website or call them before stopping by.

Also, note the Scottish  drinking and driving laws  are very strict, so almost all distilleries offer to-go sample cups for drivers and bikers. If you don’t want to drive, I’d recommend booking a driver or guided tour such as this guided small group tour or you can find a list of potential guides  here . A guide can also help you learn more about the local whiskies and help you put together a customized itinerary.

So there is our list of things to do in Aberdeen Scotland! Have you been to Aberdeen? If so, any favorites among the above or places you’d add to this list? If you haven’t visited yet, which of these Aberdeen attractions would make it on your itinerary? As always, feel free to ask us any questions you may have about things to do in Aberdeen or planning a trip to Scotland!

** Disclosure: We were supported on our trip to Aberdeen by Visit Aberdeenshire and Aberdeen Festivals who helped us put together our itinerary and arranged some tickets as well as our lodging in the city. However, we chose all the places we visited on the trip and have visited the Aberdeenshire area independently as well. As always, this article contains only our own honest thoughts and opinions. You can read more in our  Ethics Code  about how we accept work.**

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Pat Freedman Post author

March 1, 2023 at 9:13 am

Hi Jessica, Your wonderful articles have already helped my husband and I plan a preliminary itinerary for a September trip to Scotland, and this Aberdeen article has convinced us to include 2-3 days in Aberdeen (taking the train from Edinburgh). But we’re having trouble deciding if we should just focus on the city of Aberdeen for those days or if we should do Rabbie’s day trip to Dunnottar Castle and Royal Deeside for one of those days, which would not leave much time to explore Aberdeen before we return to Edinburgh. The reasons we are hesitant about doing the Rabbie’s day trip is (1) the castle website says they may close on short notice due to high winds or other weather conditions and (2) I’ve read that there are 200 steps from the parking to the entrance, and that will be hard on my knees and both of our backs (my husband and I are in our 70s).

If we don’t sign up for Rabbie’s, is it possible to go on our own for a day to the castle and/or Royal Deeside? How would we get there, and where exactly in Royal Deeside should we go? If it’s too much trouble without the Rabbie’s tour, we will probably just skip those destinations and stay in Aberdeen for 2-3 days.

Our tentative Scotland itinerary is as follows (note that we already have a few castles included); I’d appreciate your feedback about the whole plan as well as the possible day trip from Aberdeen: Arrive in Edinburgh and stay for 4 nights, sightseeing in the city for most of that time but taking Rabbie’s day trip to Loch Lomond N.P., Kelpies, and Stirling Castle on day 3. (Thanks for your previous recommendation of that day trip and the timing!) Morning of day 5: Take train to Aberdeen and stay in city center lodging for 2 or 3 nights (3 nights if we are going to take the day trip to Dunnottar and Royal Deeside); sightsee in Aberdeen. Afternoon of day 7 (or 8?): Take train back to Edinburgh and stay 4 nights, with Rabbie’s day trip to Alnwick Castle, Northumberland Coast, and Borders on day 2 or 3 of this stay. Day 10 or 11: Begin Rabbie’s 5-day tour of Iona, Mull, and Isle of Skye (staying 2 nights in Oban and 2 nights in Plockton) Return to Edinburgh for 1 or 2 nights before flight home.

I know we have a lot of nights in Edinburgh as well as a lot of back and forth, but it seems the only way to see different parts of the country without renting a car. Also, we don’t mind having extra time in Edinburgh to both sightsee and relax between the various side trips. But feel free to suggest a way to make this itinerary more efficient. We can, if necessary, add a day or two to the trip. We will probably be arriving in Edinburgh the second week in September, but timing is flexible. Pat Freedman

Jessica & Laurence Norah Post author

March 2, 2023 at 9:05 am

In terms of Aberdeen, there is plenty to do for most people for 2 full days, just depends on your interests. Recommend staying central so you are within walking distance or a short bus or taxi ride away from all the places you want to see. I’d also see if there are any festivals or events of interst taking place during your visit.

In terms of should you do a day trip to Royal Deeside and whether you should do it as a tour or on your own, it really depends.

Yes, so there are A LOT of steps to access Dunnottar Castle so it is not for anyone with mobility issues as it is a bit of a steep hike. It has a lovely clifftop situation that is also very prone to being very windswept during storms. Given that most of the castle is in ruins, a lot of the area you visit is not covered and is exposed to the elements, which is why it can occasionally close during storms and high winds.

It is hard to predict weather, but I would probably consider the steps as the main factor. If those are concerning and you are already visiting a few other castles, this might be one to skip. It really just depends. It looks like you have at least 3-4 other castles in your itinerary?

So you can’t get all the way to Dunnottar Castle with public transit but you can get within about a 10-15 minute walk (Dunnottar Junction is closest stop) by taking a local public bus (Stagecoach main company here) so that could be a good option if you wanted to do it on your own. Or you can take the train to Stonehaven and follow the tourist path from the village to the castle, which takes about 30-35 minutes (or you could then take a bus onwards instead). You could also, of course, take a taxi although this would be pretty pricey.

So we’ve actually done that day tour with Rabbie’s and enjoyed it. It currently visits Dunnottar Castle, the Falls of Feugh, the village of Braemar in the Cairngorms National Park, and take a walk in the Muir of Dinnet Nature Reserve. It was a good mix and a fairly relaxing day. When we did it, it also drove by the Balmoral Estate and Crathie Kirk (Queen was in residence at the time and we watched her car go across to the church) although you don’t have a chance to visit them on this tour.

Some other things in Royal Deeside would be Balmoral Castle – if open to the public when you are there, you can typically visit the gardens, grounds, stables, and one of the big public rooms inside (but most of the castle is closed off to visitors). There is also the church across from Balmoral – Crathie Kirk – where the Royal Family worships when in residence at Balmoral. If open, it is free to visit (although you can always leave a donation). Golfing is very popular here.

There are also a few villages here like Ballater and Braemar. Braemar is home to the place used for the Highland Gathering that the Royal Family attends and the Braemar Highland Games Centre (you can learn about the history of the Highland Games and specifically those here). Braemar Castle is also here but I think it is currently closed to visitors as they do some restoration on it. This general area (Royal Deeside and wider Cairngorms area) is very pretty and a good place for walks and nature (one of the better places to spot red squirrels based on our experience).

If you want to see Royal Deeside, it probably makes the most sense to do a Rabbie’s tour as without a car, you will spend a lot of time changing buses and some places just are not very accessible without a lot of walking. But you can check the bus connections for specific places as it would probably be doable if you just wanted to visit a single village for the day.

Dunnottar Castle you can definitely do as a bus and/or train journey on your own and is easy to combine with a visit to Stonehaven. Stonehaven is a little seaside village that has a little museum, a lovely harbor, some nice walks, and a few little shops, cafes, and restaurants. A good place to stop for a few hours for lunch or coffee/ice cream and have a wander around.

One thing to note, that you already probably know, with all the Rabbie’s tours is that the entrance fee to most attractions is not included in the tour price. This gives you the flexibility to visit or not (on our Royal Deeside day trip a couple of people in our group decided not to hike up all the steps to pay to visit the castle but went up partway to get a nice view of the castle and the sea) and to also take advantage of any ticket discounts (e.g., student, child, seniors) or to use passes. So this is one advantage if you wanted to see Dunnottar but were not 100% sure if the climb was manageable or were worried about the weather (if closed due to the weather Rabbie’s would probably offer an alternative visit or spend more time elsewhere). But also something to keep in mind when doing your trip budget.

I think your itinerary is fine and I agree with having some downtime. I’d probably leave a free day after every overnight trip so you can have some time to rest and not feel pressured to sightsee. As the tours can be a bit tiring and jam-packed and the first and last days can involve long drives to get to and from Edinburgh.

Edinburgh is a great city to wander around and there are a number of free things to do here that you don’t need to plan in advance from museums to parks to walking up Arthur’s Seat. Also lots of shops, restaurants, and cafes. I would just recommend staying centrally (in or near Old Town or New Town) so you have the freedom to easily walk around and explore (although you can save money by staying further afield and using public transit).

One easy place to visit by bus from central Edinburgh is Rosslyn Chapel if that is of interest (we used to live in Roslin) as it is about a 10 minute walk from the nearest bus stop. You can also take a bus or train to Glasgow (about 1 hour) and explore central Glasgow on foot.

Anyway, hope that helps and would love to hear what you decide to do about Aberdeen and the day trip.

Best, Jessica

Kirsty Post author

August 22, 2023 at 1:05 pm

This is probably way too late for the original question, but my 2 daughters and I have just returned from 3 days (4 nights) in Aberdeen. On one of the days we took the bus (Stagecoach, as you mention) from Aberdeen to Dunnottar Junction, walked to the castle but didn’t go in (none of felt like tackling the steps – twice, once to go in, once to come back) and still felt that we truly “experienced” the drama and beauty of the place. We then walked along the cliffs down to Stonehaven, had a delicious lunch and then caught the bus back. In other words, for anyone concerned about the weather/steps, it is still definitely possible, and in my opinion worth it, to go to Dunnottar without taking the steps (and if weather were even worse than what we got, you could simply take the bus to Stonehaven back from Dunnottar Junction).

August 22, 2023 at 3:28 pm

Thanks for taking the time to share your experience!

Yes, that is a lovely walk from Stonehaven to the castle and you can get a nice view without going up all the stairs. When we’ve done it with Rabbie’s, I think about half the people just decided to tackle a bit of the stairs for a different viewpoint and were very satisfied without visiting. I do think it is worth a visit for those who don’t mind the steps as you learn a lot more of the history, see artifacts, and what is left of the castle, but you can definitely still enjoy it without going inside and doing the visit (and avoiding the steps)!

Note for those planning a visit that once up the steps to Dunnottar Castle, there are some more steps and a lot of uneven ground as you explore the various buildings and sections of the castle. So it is definitely not a great place for those with mobility issues or impractical footwear so be prepared.

So glad you had a lovely time in Aberdeen!!

Sandra Sharpe Post author

July 13, 2022 at 7:28 am

Thank you for this very detailed and interesting guide to Aberdeen. We will be in Scotland this October (2022), and I am searching my family history – my grandmother was born in Aberdeen, and I have the address of the home where she was born and lived. Am I able to reach you for further information about the city/area? Thank you again.

July 13, 2022 at 8:16 am

Glad you are finding our Aberdeen travel guide useful in planning your trip to Scotland. You are of course welcome to ask us any follow-up questions about visiting Aberdeen (or anywhere else in Scotland) here in the Comments section. We reply to all the comments we get!

In terms of researching family history, I would refer you to the Aberdeen Central Library and Local Studies. There you can find online and in-person information and resources. Folks there are able to help people research their family history and find local information. I would recommend getting in touch with them to perhaps set up an appointment when you are there. The Local Studies teams email, website, and phone numbers are listed on the Aberdeen City Council website.

If you have further questions, just ask us!

Alexa Post author

March 11, 2022 at 10:18 am

Thanks for providing such insightful content. Aberdeen is indeed a beautiful city and the information provided here will definitely help travelers and overseas students to explore the city in a better way. Keep up the good work.

March 13, 2022 at 9:40 am

Thanks for taking the time to comment and glad to hear that you enjoyed our article on things to do in Aberdeen Scotland! If you are traveling to Aberdeen, just let us know if you have any questions and we’re happy to answer them.

Arianna Post author

January 10, 2021 at 3:09 pm

Hi Jessica and Lawrence. I’m from Italy and I’ve been to Scotland several times; we’re planning to com back this summer for our honeymoon, with our two kids (2 and 13 yrs old) and I really want to visit Aberdeen, as I’ve never been there before. Well, let me tell you your blog post definitely convinced me to go! I usually don’t read many travel blogs but yours is different: it’s useful, vibrant and friendly, without being and endless praise to the places you’ve visited. I love your style, the info is accurate and the links work perfectly. Thank you again, keep up with the great job! Cheers, Arianna

January 11, 2021 at 10:16 am

Hi Arianna,

Thanks so much for taking the time to leave us such a kind comment! I hope that you get a chance to return to Scotland and visit Aberdeen. I think that if you enjoy Scotland and Scottish culture, you’ll enjoy Aberdeen. It definitely has a different vibe than Edinburgh and attractions and restaurants are not so crowded which is nice. Also nice that the city is along the coast. There are some great day trips that you can take if you base yourself in the city.

If you have any questions once you are able to actually plan the trip, just let me know and we’re happy to help!

Arianna Pernigoni Post author

January 14, 2021 at 8:07 am

Thanks forthe kind reply Jessica! I’ll definitely get back to you when I am actually planning the dates and the trips a bit more in detail. I’d also love to see the Highland Games, hoping they will be held this summer. See you soon then! All the best and congrats again

January 14, 2021 at 9:45 am

Yes, the Highland Games are a lot of fun and there are several ones you could potentially visit near Aberdeen such as the Abernethy Highland Games (Nethy Bridge) and The Braemar Gathering (members of the Royal Family typically attend this one). The last one we went to was the Abernethy one and it is a very traditional one and pretty informal; it was lots of fun. The Braemar Gathering requires booking tickets as it is very popular (because of the Royal Family) and is going to be more crowded and a bit more formal.

I would suspect that the ones in Spring and early Summer are not too likely to happen, but you’ll have a better chance with ones later in the year.

If you are in Scotland but there are no Highland Games going on, there is a museum in Braemar now that has information on The Braemar Gathering and the Highland Games in general that is interesting (more for adults than kids though). It is located at the site of The Braemar Gathering.

Just give a shout if you have further questions! Jessica

Martin Post author

February 13, 2020 at 7:55 am

Hi Jessica! Many thanks for this thorough guide to Aberdeen. Plenty of options indeed. I’d also love to incorporate some wind sports in my trip to Scotland. Is Aberdeen good for kiteboarding or windsurfing? Should we still plan our trip for May, June, or September to catch the best wind?

February 13, 2020 at 9:12 am

Yes, there is plenty to do in Aberdeen and the surrounding area!

I don’t think Aberdeen is that popular for kiteboarding or windsurfing, but is it possible if weather is right and can be done year round. I would contact the folks at The WindSurf Club which is based in Aberdeenshire for recommendations and to rent gear as they focus on windsurfing, surfing, and stand up paddleboarding. They can also rent wetsuits. The weather and wind conditions are not super predictable, but you could chat with the club members about when might give you the best chances.

But if you are really interested in doing wind sports while in Scotland, you might consider adding a trip to the Isle of Tiree or Kintyre peninsula. The western winds over the Isle of Tiree are some of the strongest and it is considered one of the better places for kiteboarding and windsurfing in the UK.

Thurso, along the very north mainland, is the best known area for surfing. For Thurso, best waves are in winter months (according to local surfers) but are also most dangerous then, but best in summer for new and intermediate level surfers. Rentals and lessons are available in the warm weather months.

Hope that helps! Jessica

Chris Beattie Post author

May 28, 2019 at 10:01 am

is it possible to get any printed brochures, guides sent to me in Canada. trying to plant our trip in August.

May 28, 2019 at 11:37 am

Hi Chris, we are travel writers don’t offer printed brochures, but you could try contacting the Aberdeen tourism office or Visit Scotland to see if they offer printed brochures to be mailed internationally. But feel free to ask us if you have questions as you plan your trip to Scotland.

Eric Wilson Post author

April 3, 2019 at 5:00 am

This Aberdeen Scotland Guide is impressive to read. Thanks!

April 3, 2019 at 10:32 am

Hi Eric, Glad you enjoyed our guide to things to do in Aberdeen. Just let us know if you have any questions as you plan your visit to Aberdeen. Best, Jessica

Emma Post author

December 28, 2018 at 1:33 am

Brilliant article just wanted to note tho that The Garage nightclub has now closed its doors and The Institute has rebranded as ATIK for anyone looking for these. I would also recommend Underground or Nox clubs. Paramount bar and the spiritualist also have great atmospheres for cocktails and more classy nights

December 28, 2018 at 9:45 am

Hi Emma, Glad you enjoyed our Aberdeen article and and thanks for the updates about the nightclubs in Aberdeen, there does seem to be a lot of turnover in that type of business. We have updated the post with the new info you provided! Thanks also for the classy bar recommendations, we haven’t been to either of those but will try to check one out on our next visit to Aberdeen 😉 Wishing you a wonderful Hogmanay. Best, Jessica

Marius D. Post author

September 26, 2018 at 1:57 pm

Hi Jessica,

great article and reading through it is reminding me of Aberdeen while I was in Scotland. In fact, I may come to Scotland this autumn for a week or so, I was just looking at some old pics of Scotland and connecting to a couple of people I met there while at the uni and I suddenly felt nostalgic for Scotland. I am talking about November more likely as I cannot do it right now because of financial reasons and I am waiting for two more salaries until then in order to afford it. I will sleep in Edinburgh, found a couple of good places on booking.com and will go (by train) to Stirling and also want to go to Loch Ness again so a guided tour to the Highlands will be good. First I was thinking about Hogmanay but the prices are too high and I am not necessarily a fan of big crowds and noisy environment, so mid November will be good, am a little bit afraid about the Scottish weather but then again in Scotland it is cloudy and rainy all the time….best, Marius

September 26, 2018 at 5:56 pm

Hi Marius! I am glad to hear you are thinking about visiting Scotland again, and do let us know. Yes, those sound like some great spots to visit, all highlights of Scotland for sure. For a guided tour of Loch Ness, we like this one from Rabbie’s that leaves from Inverness. Hogmanay is not a good time to visit if you don’t like festivals, crowds, and have a tight budget. I’d just avoid Christmas/New Years as well as August, and prices will be more reasonable most of the rest of the year. We’ve actually had an amazing summer in Scotland with lots of sunshine, warm weather, and little rain! It has been pretty unusual, but yes, I would expect some clouds and rain during your visit 😉 Best, Jessica

goblinette Post author

June 11, 2018 at 1:56 pm

This is truly everything one needs to know before going to Aberdeen. So much information in one post.

June 19, 2018 at 3:16 pm

Thanks, glad you found our guide to Aberdeen Scotland helpful!! Jessica

Anisa Post author

June 10, 2018 at 3:13 am

Wow I didn’t realize there was so much to do in Aberdeen. It’s definitely on my list to visit on my next visit to Scotland. I love how the museums are free and the churches look really impressive. Of course, I would love to go to Balmoral even if you can only see a little of the inside.

June 19, 2018 at 3:19 pm

Hi Anisa, Yes, there is plenty to do in Aberdeen for a couple of days and much more if you explore the wider Aberdeenshire area. It is one of the best areas of Scotland to go castle hunting, especially in the summer months (many of the castles are closed in the winter and low season). Balmoral Castle is nice to visit with a well done audio guide and the grounds and gardens are very pretty! There is also a good tea room/cafe there on the estate so an easy place to spend half a day! Easy to see why Queen Victoria loved it up here. Best, Jessica

Lolo Post author

June 10, 2018 at 2:51 am

I honestly never imagined that there was so much to do in Aberdeen! How wrong I was! Love the Scottish history and architecture and have wanted to visit for a long time! I would definitely hit up some of the distilleries!

June 19, 2018 at 3:24 pm

Hi Lolo, The architecture in Aberdeen is really interesting and is tied to a number of significant Scottish and British architects. There is loads of history in Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire as Aberdeen has a number of old buildings and structures and the castles in region date back from medieval times to Victorian times – you’ll find connections to just about all the major events in Scottish history.

Also plenty of whisky distilleries! Just a couple hours north is the Speyside area which is the best known whisky area in Scotland. If your interest is primarily in whisky, I’d recommend coming with a designated driver or doing a tour so you can sample as you go 😉

Anda Post author

June 10, 2018 at 12:12 am

I never heard of Aberdeen before, but I’m glad you introduced me to it. It looks like a wonderful place to explore and Scotland has been on my list for a long time now. Like always, your guide is extremely comprehensive, so I’m going to bookmark it. Thanks for sharing this, Jess.

June 19, 2018 at 3:26 pm

Hi Anda, Yes, Aberdeen is a great city to visit after you’ve been to Edinburgh and Glasgow as it shows another side to Scotland! Much less touristy and crowded than Edinburgh and still has a number of things to see and do. The wider Aberdeenshire area is great for castles, scenic coastlines, and golfing. Best, Jessica

Travel Lexx Post author

June 9, 2018 at 11:10 am

Really interesting to read about a blog post about somewhere other than Edinburgh! Aberdeen looks like an amazing place to visit with plenty to see, do and eat! I love maritime museums and try and visit these wherever I go. Love the museums and the beautiful architecture too! Need to get myself to Scotland!

June 19, 2018 at 1:46 pm

Hi Lexx, Yes, Edinburgh and the Highlands get most of the attention but there are loads of other great places to visit in Scotland like Aberdeen (as well as places like Glasgow, the Scottish Borders, east coast fishing villages, Stirling, etc.). Aberdeen’s museums such as the Maritime Museum are great places to learn more about the city and its history and they are also FREE! Hope you get a chance to visit Scotland soon! Best, Jessica

Tanja Post author

June 9, 2018 at 9:13 am

very extensive guide to Aberdeen, hope to visit soon! I’ve been to Scotland before but not this far up

June 19, 2018 at 1:40 pm

Hi Tanja, Hope our Aberdeen guide helps you plan your trip to Aberdeen. Just let us know if you have any questions! Best, Jessica

Sara Post author

June 8, 2018 at 7:39 pm

What an all-inclusive list! I think my favorite thing to see would be St. Macher’s Cathedral! It’s stunning in your photos!! (Really fantastic capture and balanced light!!) Scotland is so high on my list of places to visit, but I don’t know that I’ve seen a good flight deal in years… I keep holding out hope that it will show up with some of the London/Manchester/Dublin deals that we tend to see a few times a year! Saving this guide for when it does!

June 9, 2018 at 1:14 am

Hi Sara, Yes, St. Machar’s is one of my favorite places in Aberdeen as well, it is an interesting place with such a beautiful ceiling.

If you are coming from North America, there are not usually cheap flights to Scotland, so you are better off probably looking for a good deal to London or Dublin, and then taking a cheap flight onwards to Scotland (Edinburgh, Glasgow, Aberdeen, or Inverness). Flights are generally inexpensive within the UK and Europe especially if you book in advance. Or you can train or bus from London or Manchester. It is about a 4.5 hour fast train between London and Edinburgh .

Seana Turner Post author

June 5, 2018 at 9:07 am

Reading your blog has really gotten me interested in visiting Scotland. I was just telling my husband last night that we should plan a trip, and that I have this great blogger I follow who gives the exact kind of detail we need. So here is my question: if I’ve never been, and I have maybe 10 days, where should I go?

June 6, 2018 at 3:18 pm

Hi Seana! I am so glad that my articles have inspired you to visit Scotland. Of course, happy to provide advice. It depends a bit on your interests, what you like to do, and how fast/slow you like to travel, etc. so might be easier to chat via email. Then I can recommend more specific places. You can also search through my Scotland articles to get some ideas.

But for a first time (and maybe only time visit to Scotland) I’d suggest 2-3 days in Edinburgh (the city is beautiful and a must-see with lots of attractions), 3-4 days in the Highlands, 1-2 days in Glasgow (or Aberdeen) if you like cities (both provide a nice contrast to Edinburgh), 1-2 days in one of Scotland national parks (Loch Lomond or Cairngorms) and perhaps choose an island or group of islands to visit for 2-3 days (the Isle Skye is the most popular but you have Orkney, the Shetlands, Outer Hebrides, Arran etc.).

It really depends though on your interests and how you plan to travel (rental car, train, guided tour, etc.). If you or your husband like golf or whisky or clan history, etc. it could really change the above itinerary a lot. If you are looking for less touristy areas you might want to spend a day or two in the Scottish Borders, beautiful area with lots of ruined abbeys, lovely places to walk, and little historical villages.

If you want to email me (jessica at independenttravelcats.com) I am happy to help provide more personalized suggestions 😉

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Is Aberdeen worth visiting?

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Table of Contents

Located in the northeast of Scotland, Aberdeen is a city renowned for its rich history, stunning architecture, and stunning natural landscapes.

Known as the “Granite City,” Aberdeen is a popular destination for tourists visiting Scotland, offering a wealth of attractions and activities to suit all interests.

In this article, we’ll tell you exactly why we think Aberdeen is worth visiting and what makes it a must-see destination for those visiting Scotland.

To give a bit of background, it’s the city that we live in , so we’re pretty qualified to talk about whether it’s worth visiting.

The History

One of the most compelling reasons to visit Aberdeen is the city’s rich history.

Dating back to the 12th century, Aberdeen has played a pivotal role in Scotland’s development, and its historic architecture is a testament to this.

Visitors can explore the ruins of the world-famous Dunnottar Castle , explore the 16th-century Tolbooth Museum tower, and marvel at the stunning Marischal College, which is the second-largest granite building in the world. You can actually see Marischal College from anywhere in the world on one of these Aberdeen webcams .

The city’s history is also celebrated in its many museums, including the Aberdeen Maritime Museum giving visitors a look into the fishing and oil history and the Gordon Highlanders Museum to name just a few of the many on offer.

Another reason to visit Aberdeen is its stunning natural surroundings.

Situated on the coast, the city offers easy access to some of Scotland’s most spectacular beaches , including Balmedie Beach and the picturesque fishing village of Footdee.

Visitors can also explore the rugged hills and valleys of the Cairngorms National Park, which is just a short drive from the city.

And for those looking for a taste of Scottish wildlife, the Loch of Strathbeg nature reserve is home to a diverse array of birdlife and other wildlife.

The Culture

In addition to its historic and natural attractions, Aberdeen is also a city with a vibrant cultural scene.

The city hosts a range of festivals throughout the year, including the Nuart Street Art Festival and the Granite Noir crime writing festival.

The city’s theatres, galleries, and music venues also offer a wealth of entertainment options, making it a destination that truly has something for everyone.

Of course, no visit to Aberdeen would be complete without experiencing the city’s famous hospitality. Offering a wide variety of locally sourced produce in many of the fantastic restaurants catering to whatever tastes you may have.

Seafood and fine dining, to street food and more. Aberdeen has some incredible restaurants that are definitely some of the best in Scotland.

In conclusion, Aberdeen is a city that truly has it all.

With its rich history, stunning natural surroundings, vibrant cultural scene, and warm hospitality, it is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Scotland.

Whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, or culture vulture, you’re sure to find plenty to keep you busy and entertained in this beautiful and fascinating city.

So why not plan a visit to Aberdeen and discover all it has to offer for yourself?

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Peter was born in Aberdeen, Scotland and is passionate about sharing his knowledge of the area with others. Whether it's food recommendations, tourist attractions or picturesque spots worth visiting, he covers it all.

When Peter isn't working on the site, he's often found in the gym or working in his day job as a Digital Marketing Manager.

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15 Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Aberdeen

Written by Bryan Dearsley Updated Dec 22, 2023

Aberdeen, often referred to as "The Flower of Scotland" due to its many lovely parks and gardens, lies in a picturesque spot on the North Sea between the Rivers Dee and Don. The capital of the Grampian Region, Aberdeen is Scotland's biggest fishing port, an important center for offshore oil, and the ferry terminus for the Orkney and Shetland Islands.

Tourists can enjoy its two miles of sandy beaches, superb golf courses, shop-lined streets, theatrical and dance performances at His Majesty's Theatre, concerts by top-class orchestras in the Music Hall, and a variety of arts festivals during the summer months. Regardless of when you visit, there are always plenty of things to do in Aberdeen by day or night.

Silver-gray granite from nearby quarries gives the city a distinctive character. Indeed, when the sun shines, the mica in the stone sparkles, an interesting architectural effect, which led to Aberdeen's other nickname: "Silver City."

Aberdeen has many interesting places to visit, too, including a number of protected historical buildings, the oldest of which dates from the 16th century. To find out more about these and other points of interest in this fascinating city, have a read through our list of the top attractions and things to do in Aberdeen, Scotland.

See also: Where to Stay in Aberdeen

Visit Historic St. Machar's Cathedral

Head back to school: visit the university and king's college of aberdeen, cross brig o'balgownie, scotland's oldest bridge, visit the tolbooth museum, aberdeen's most haunted building, see the mercat cross, get your floral fix at duthie park and david welch winter gardens, explore the work of scottish artists at aberdeen art gallery, tour aberdeen's oldest home: provost skene's house, take a drive to crathes castle, aberdeen maritime museum, take a day trip to craigievar castle, see the queen's balmoral castle, follow your green thumb to cruickshank botanic gardens, aberdeen science centre, the gordon highlanders museum, where to stay in aberdeen for sightseeing, frequently asked questions, how do you get from edinburgh to aberdeen, how do you get from glasgow to aberdeen, what are the must-visit destinations near aberdeen, map of attractions & things to do in aberdeen, aberdeen - climate chart.

The Cathedral Church of St. Machar — usually referred to simply as St. Machar's Cathedral — is believed to occupy the site of a small Celtic chapel erected by St. Machar in AD 581. The succeeding cathedral was founded in 1136, although the earliest work in the present building dates from the 14th century and was completed in 1552.

Of particular note to visitors are the striking towers on the West front, with their sandstone spires dating from 1518 to 1530, and the 16th-century wooden ceiling painted with coats of arms. Be sure to also pay attention to the stained-glass windows, most dating from the 1870s.

If you can, try to time your visit to coincide with one of the frequent classical or choral concerts held here (details are available on the cathedral website below). A shop is located on-site.

Address: 18 The Chanonry, Aberdeen, Scotland

Official site: www.stmachar.com

Founded in 1494 in what's known as Old Aberdeen, the University and King's College of Aberdeen received its charter from King James IV.

One of the college's identifying features is its huge tower (1633) and an elegant stone dome, the only remaining structure of its kind in Scotland and notable for the stone replica of the imperial crown of Charlemagne that sits atop it. The 16th-century oak choir stalls and wooden ceiling in the chapel are preserved in their original form, and portraits of the Stuart monarchs are carved in wood.

A visit to the University of Aberdeen Zoology Museum is another must and is rated one of the top free things to do in the city. This fascinating museum covers everything from protozoa to whales. Also of interest is the King's Museum, which features temporary exhibits of artifacts from various university collections.

Self-guided walking tours of the university and its attractions are available from its official website.

Address: King's College, Aberdeen, Scotland

Official site: www.abdn.ac.uk

Aberdeen is also home to one of Scotland's most romantic settings: the Brig o'Balgownie. Also known as the Bridge of Don, you can access this attractive stone structure via a short walk through Seaton Park.

Built on the orders of Robert the Bruce around 1320 and restored in 1607, it served as the River Don's main crossing point. Lord Byron, who went to school in Aberdeen for a short time, referred affectionately to the single span bridge in his satirical poem, Don Juan .

Another fine old bridge to visit is Brig o'Dee. Dating from the 1520s, it's decorated with interesting coats-of-arms and inscriptions and is set in lovely Duthie Park, famous for having one of the largest winter gardens in the world.

Evidence of Aberdeen's old medieval town can still be seen around Castlegate, which centuries later is still very much the focal point of the city. While there's no longer a castle here, the tower of the 17th-century Tolbooth — formerly the town hall and prison — is Aberdeen's oldest building and home to a museum with fascinating displays on the development of crime and punishment.

Exhibits include original prison cells from the 1600s that were infamously used a hundred years later to house Scots prisoners after the Battle of Culloden. You can also see the infamous "Maiden," the blade from the city's guillotine. This fascinating structure is also said to be Scotland's most haunted building.

Address: Castle Street, Aberdeen, Scotland

Official site: www.aberdeencity.gov.uk/AAGM/plan-your-visit/tolbooth-museum

Also in Castlegate, Diagonally opposite the Tolbooth Museum and adorned with a white unicorn, stands the Mercat Cross . This elaborate and highly decorated medieval symbol of Aberdeen's right to hold a market was built in 1686 by the city's guild of merchants.

A staircase in the center of the structure was used to allow news of newly crowned monarchs to be proclaimed to gathered crowds from its roof. Portrait medallions show the heads of the 10 Stuart monarchs from James I through to James VII, Charles I, Charles II, and Mary Stuart.

Another interesting nearby landmark is St. Andrew's Cathedral . And be sure to also take a stroll down Union Street, Aberdeen's busy main street. Over 200 years old, it's a bustling street with plenty of shops, cafés, and shopping arcades.

Address: High Street, Aberdeen, Scotland

A beautiful year-round floral experience, the David Welch Winter Gardens at Duthie Park is one of the world's top indoor gardens, filled with rare and exotic plants from all over the world. It's a large attraction — the largest indoor gardens in Scotland and one of the largest in the UK — and features an impressive collection of cactus and other succulent plants.

Numerous other plant varieties can be seen in the Temperate House, Tropical House, and Arid House. Be sure to also visit the Victorian Corridor, Corridor of Perfumes, the Fern House, and the Japanese Garden.

Established in 1883, the 44-acre Duthie Park has open green spaces, trees, beautiful seasonal flower beds, and cascading ornamental ponds. Fun things to do in Duthie Park including boating, plus enjoying concerts at the bandstand. Also fun is visiting during the popular Opera in the Park held here each summer.

Address: Polmuir Road, Aberdeen, Scotland

Official site: www.aberdeencity.gov.uk/services/duthie-park

Built in 1884, the Aberdeen Art Gallery houses a comprehensive collection of 17th- to 20th-century paintings. Scottish artists with work displayed here include Charles Rennie Mackintosh, William Dyce, Thomas Faed, John Philip, and other representatives of the Glasgow School. Works by George Jameson, Scotland's first portrait painter (1589-1644), are also on exhibit.

Among the most famous works included in this impressive collection are portraits by Raeburn and works by William Turner, David Hockney, and Impressionist painters including Monet, Sisley, Bonnard, Pissarro, and Renoir. Sculptures by Barbara Hepworth and Jacob Epstein are displayed in the well-lit entrance hall.

The museum also displays interesting collections of British silver, glass, and ceramics. A great little café is located on the premises. Admission to this first-rate art gallery is free.

Address: 61 Schoolhill, Aberdeen, Scotland

Official site: www.aberdeencity.gov.uk/AAGM/plan-your-visit/aberdeen-art-gallery

Sir George Skene of Rubislaw, provost from 1676 to 1685, was a prosperous merchant whose wealth came from trade with Gdansk in Poland. His former home — built in 1545 and the oldest standing residence in Aberdeen — now houses an excellent museum with displays of locally excavated artifacts, religious paintings, and period costumes.

The rooms themselves have been furnished to represent lifestyles through the centuries from the 17th to 19th centuries. Also of interest is the plasterwork in the old 17th-century bedroom and the painted wooden ceilings from the same period in the picture gallery. Admission is free, and a popular café is located on-site.

The building underwent major renovations and reopened in October, 2021. A number of excellent exhibits have been added, including displays relating to famous Aberdonians, as well as the building. A souvenir shop has also been added.

Address: 5 Guestrow, Aberdeen, Scotland

Run by the National Trust for Scotland, Crathes Castle is a classic example of a Scottish baronial-style castle. The tower house, with its small oriel windows and corner towers, was begun in 1553. Its upper stories are worth a tour, if only for a glimpse of the beautifully painted wooden ceilings dating from 1600.

The figures depicted in the Room of the Nine Nobles — typical of the decorative work of the time — are the ancient heroes Hector, Julius Caesar, and Alexander the Great; three Old Testament characters; and three famous rulers, including King Arthur and Charlemagne. There's also a notable collection of artworks worth seeing.

The castle also has its own ghost in the Green Lady's Room, where the ceiling is also painted decoratively. In addition to its lovely gardens, the castle has a visitors center, café, gift shop, an adventure playground, and treetop trekking.

About a 25-minute drive from downtown Aberdeen, Crathes Castle can be reached by bus and a short walk.

Location: Crathes, Banchory, Scotland

Official site: www.nts.org.uk/Property/Crathes-Castle-Garden-and-Estate/

Located in the harborside Shiprow district in an interesting old 16th-century Provost Ross's House, the Aberdeen Maritime Museum is one of the most popular places to visit in the city. Highlights include excellent collections of models, photos, and paintings documenting the development of the Dee estuary's port, as well as the arduous life of the whale-hunters, herring fishermen, and North Sea traders.

Also on display are the legendary Aberdeen clippers that American ship owners used to secure their monopoly over the trade in China tea, including the Stornaway , a prototype produced for Jardine Matheson in 1850. The museum also has exhibits on modern oceanic pursuits and is the only one in the UK with displays about the North Sea petroleum industry.

A shop and café are located on the premises, and provide a great excuse to hang around awhile to watch the boating traffic in the harbor.

Location: Shiprow, Aberdeen, Scotland

Official site: www.aberdeencity.gov.uk/AAGM/plan-your-visit/aberdeen-maritime-museum

This delightful pink castle with its small towers is almost an hour's drive from downtown Aberdeen and makes for a great and easy day trip. It was first mentioned in documents dating from 1457 when it was owned by the Mortimer family. In addition to its color, it's certainly unique and supposedly the inspiration for the castle motif adopted but Walt Disney.

Featuring crow-stepped gables, oriel windows, conical roofs, ornamental stone cannons, and decorative zigzag console, this towering seven-story residence stands as a symbol of authority and wealth, as well as practicality. Wood for building was in short supply in the Highlands at the time, so architects exploited every inch of space under one small roof.

The plasterwork in the Great Hall, the huge Stuart coat-of-arms above the fireplace, and the carvings on the wall paneling were created in Renaissance style. A secret flight of steps leading up to a small room above a window in the Great Hall forms part of a complicated system of stairs within the tower. Notable collections include weapons and armor, artifacts, and artworks. Guided tours are available.

Location: Craigievar, Alford, Scotland

Official site: www.nts.org.uk/property/craigievar-castle/

Queen Elizabeth II's summer residence in Scotland has come to embody the Neo-baronial style of the Victorian era. The estate was first mentioned in documents in 1484, and after Queen Victoria bought it in 1852, she commissioned the Aberdeen architect William Smith to implement plans drawn up by her husband, Prince Albert.

Although located 1.5 hours west of Aberdeen, it's worth visiting on the rare days it's open to the public (and only when the Queen is away). If you do visit, you'll have the chance to catch a glimpse of the Ballroom , with its paintings and other objets d'art, and also a collection of coaches .

The extensive parkland is ideal for a relaxing stroll. The estate can also be explored aboard a fun "Safari Tour" that offers opportunities to see local wildlife — as well as the incredible scenery — up close.

The nearby town of Braemar is lovely to explore and is most famous for its annual sporting event, the Braemar Gathering. Known widely as the Highland Games , this Scottish equivalent of the Olympics has been held here every autumn since 1832. If you can't make it for the games, visit the Braemar Highland Heritage Centre , which has exhibits on the history of the games and Scottish traditional sporting.

Location: Balmoral Estates, Ballater, Aberdeenshire, Scotland

Official site: www.balmoralcastle.com

Located on the King's College campus, Cruickshank Botanic Gardens was established in 1898 and is well worth a visit. Highlights include its displays of interesting alpine and subtropical collections, as well as a delightful rock and water garden.

Also of interest in this peaceful 11-acre site are a sunken garden, rose garden, shrubs, as well as herbaceous borders. There's also an arboretum with a fine collection of more than 2,500 plants.

Address: St. Machar Drive, Aberdeen, Scotland

Official site: www.abdn.ac.uk/botanic-garden/

Re-opened in 2020 after major renovations, the Aberdeen Science Centre is a great place to visit for those traveling with children. Since it opened in 1988, the museum has provided fun learning opportunities for kids of all ages through interactive displays and exhibits.

The museum's upgrades certainly upped the hands-on aspect of its exhibits. These include everything from rock drilling to playing a tune on a fun solar piano, as well as programming a real robot. The newest attraction here is the fascinating OPITO Theatre of Energy, a state-of-the-art immersive theater production offering a variety of unique and fun experiences.

There's also a good café located on-site.

Address: 179 Constitution Street, Aberdeen, Scotland

Official site: https://aberdeensciencecentre.org

Another local attraction worth visiting is the Gordon Highlanders Museum . A celebration of one of Scotland's most famous regiments, the museum's highlights include displays of uniforms, medals, weapons, and models.

Guided tours are available, while those wanting to go it alone can make use of the museum's audio guides. A tearoom and gift shop are located on-site. The gardens are also worth a wander around.

Address: St. Luke's, Viewfield Road, Aberdeen, Scotland

Official site: www.gordonhighlanders.com

While the top attractions in this Scottish port are a bit scattered, most are within walking distance of the ferry landing and rail station. Union is the main street, so any hotel close to it will be handy to restaurants and interesting places to visit. King Street heads north to the university, the botanic gardens, and St. Machar's Cathedral, all within walking distance of Union Street. Here are some highly rated hotels in Aberdeen:

Luxury Hotels :

• The upscale apartment-style accommodations at Skene House Rosemount are perfect for those seeking a quality luxury stay in Aberdeen. In addition to the bright rooms and suites, which range in size from one- to three-bedrooms, complete with kitchens, your stay includes free parking and a hearty breakfast, all just steps from the attractions and entertainment of Union Street.
• For those seeking a boutique-style dose of luxury, book into The Chester Hotel . This chic hotel, set in a charming building dating from the 1800s, features bright, cozy rooms with large bathrooms with separate rainfall showers, separate living spaces, and work desks. A number of suites are also available and feature attractive fireplaces. There's a fine dining restaurant on-site, and a great breakfast is included with your stay (afternoon teas are also available).
• Fancy a little 5-star luxury? Then The Marcliffe Hotel and Spa is your place. Although set in an old manor house a few minutes' drive from the city center, it's a small price to pay for the high-level of luxury at this hotel. A mix of rooms and suites can be booked, with the latter featuring separate lounge areas. Amenities include a restaurant, drawing room, plus the full-service spa.

Mid-Range Hotels :

• A good mid-range hotel is Jurys Inn Aberdeen . Perfectly situated right by the train station and ferry terminal, it's also handy to restaurants; great shopping; and the airport shuttle bus, which stops at the hotel's front door. The good-sized rooms sleep families of up to four, and come with free Wi-Fi (upgrades to posher rooms are available). There's a café on-site, as well as a restaurant, meeting rooms, and a business center.
• Just north of Union Street, the centrally located Holiday Inn Express Aberdeen City Centre has free parking and includes breakfast. Bright rooms come with spacious bathrooms, satellite TV, and comfortable beds. Amenities include two meeting rooms plus a business center, a great free breakfast, luggage storage, and free parking.

Budget Hotels:

• While at the higher-end of the budget hotel category, great hotel deals are often available at the Mercure Aberdeen Caledonian Hotel . Located on Union Terrace close to top attractions such as St. Machar's Cathedral and the university, it's also conveniently close to the heart of the city's shopping area, with numerous restaurants an easy walk away. The rooms are bright, clean, and comfortable.
• Right at the harbor, near the bus and train stations, Ibis Aberdeen Centre is a great choice of budget hotel. Set across the street from the Maritime Museum and a few steps from Union Street shops, it features a good casual restaurant that serves guests a great buffet breakfast.
• The Premier Inn Aberdeen City Centre Hotel , just north of Union Street and near the Tolbooth Museum and Aberdeen Art Gallery, is a good choice for those seeking good quality budget accommodations. Breakfast is available for a fee, while kids can enjoy their own menu items in the on-site restaurant. It's also an easy walk to the railway station.

Thanks to its excellent rail network, Scotland's largest cities – along with a number of remote destinations, too – are easy to get to, no matter where you happen to be based. Traveling from Edinburgh to Aberdeen by train is not only relatively fast and convenient, with frequent departures from Edinburgh Waverley station, it's incredibly scenic.

The just-under-2.5-hour journey begins pretty much at the foot of Edinburgh Castle , which you'll see as you pull out of the station (be sure to sit on the left side of your carriage). Within 30 minutes, you'll then be crossing the spectacular Forth Bridge, a mile-long feat of engineering built in 1890 that's ranked as one of the world's top railway journeys.

From here, it's a mix of spectacular coastline, attractive cities (Dundee), and rolling hills all the way to Aberdeen. And if you're able to book your ticket three months or more in advance, ScotRail offers very heavy ticket discounts .

A journey by road is equally pretty, but with the added benefit of allowing stops at places such as St. Andrews along the way. Expect to spend around 2 hours 20 minutes traveling without breaks — longer, of course, if you stop for some sightseeing. If you're traveling by bus, expect to add at least another hour to the journey.

Our preferred route to get from Glasgow to Aberdeen is via ScotRail . Taking only slightly longer than the journey from Edinburgh by train, it's equally attractive. This time, though, you pass through the town of Stirling, famous for its castle and battlefields (it was here that both William Wallace and Robert the Bruce beat the English).

The fares are equally attractive if booked far enough in advance. And with 20 trains a day departing from Glasgow Queen Street station, there's plenty of flexibility.

If you're traveling by car, expect to spend around the same amount of time getting from Glasgow to Aberdeen. You'll be following pretty much the same route, passing through Stirling, Perth, and Dundee along the way — all well worth a visit in their own right. If you choose to take the bus, expect to add at least another hour to your trip.

Aberdeen makes for the perfect jumping-off point from which to explore other Scottish tourist destinations. Visitors traveling north from Edinburgh to Aberdeen along the east coast of Scotland should stop in at Dundee along the way. Scotland's fourth largest city, Dundee is located on the north bank of the Firth of Tay, and is where you'll find the iconic Forth Bridge, one of the top train journey's on the planet.

Nearby St. Andrews will certainly appeal to golfers, and is home to the world's best known golf club: the Royal and Ancient Golf Club of St. Andrews. Head west through the vast and beautiful Cairngorms National Park to reach lovely Inverness , gateway to Scotland's spectacular Highlands, and to the great Glen, a string of lochs that includes the most famous of them, Loch Ness .

More on Scotland

Seven Reasons to visit Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire 

From hiking four of the five highest mountains in the UK, to exploring castles and coastlines by bike, a world of adventure awaits in one of Scotland’s most beautiful counties.

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Whether you prefer charging down a challenging single-track route or scaling the heights of Ben Macdui, paddle-boarding in a picturesque bay or easing out on an e-bike ride in the valley, Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire offers a rich a la carte menu of outdoor activities.

While its beating heart is the thriving city of Aberdeen, the area is also home to rugged, high moorlands and the Cairngorms - arguably the most spectacular mountains in Scotland. And did we mention the castles? There are 263 of them, each one of which would be a good reason to visit Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire in itself. 

Adventure awaits you in Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire, so here are seven excellent reasons to visit one of Scotland’s most exciting regions. 

Explore scenic coastal towns and villages

Enjoy glorious hiking and walking, castles galore, unexpected delights, superb biking, delicious food and drink, nature and wildlife spotting.

While Aberdeen is a magnet for visitors to Aberdeenshire, beyond the city are some of Scotland’s most celebrated towns and villages. Ballater, located at the eastern gateway to Cairngorms National Park, is one of the region’s top visitor spots and a favourite with the Royal Family down the years. Fraserburgh offers plenty to see and do for those looking to discover the north coast, including surfing. Think of it as Scotland’s answer to Santa Cruz, California. 

For sheer charm it’s hard to resist the vertical village of Gardenstown, where the homes rise in tiers from the edge of the sea, or the single street and red phone box in Pennan, made famous in the film Local Hero. And families will love the picturesque charm of Stonehaven, with its scenic harbour, dramatic Dunnottar Castle and for the chance to go paddleboarding and spot some dolphins swimming alongside. 

From Munro-bagging to spectacular coastal hikes or peaceful meanders, Aberdeenshire has a huge range of different walks to meet all levels of fitness. Head out along the 70km-long Deeside Way (you can walk or cycle it and it’s often broken down into four sections), running from the centre of Aberdeen to Ballater in the Cairngorms National Park . Discover legendary climbs and panoramic views as you bag some (or even all!) of the 30 Scottish Munros in Aberdeenshire, including Braeriach (1,296m), Ben Macdui (1,309m) and the famous Lochnagar (1,155) on the majestic Balmoral Estate.

For a gentler urban walk, visit the award-winning picturesque Aberdeen oasis of Johnston Gardens, A small city garden with streams, waterfalls, ponds, rockeries and rustic bridge that help to make this one of the most charming areas in the city. Or try the 45-minute walk up Scolty Hill near the Deeside town of Banchory, where you can climb a 20m viewing tower to enjoy wide-ranging country views.

We've compiled a list of Aberdeenshire’s best walks to give you a flavour of what's on offer.

Perched on cliffs 50 feet above the sea, buried deep in an ancient pine forest, standing firm alongside fast-flowing rivers, jutting out on a high, snowbound mountain passes, or set among rolling farmland, Aberdeenshire’s 263 castles are never anything short of spectacular. Fun fact: there are more castles per acre here than anywhere else in the British Isles. Most you can see, many you can visit, and some you can even stay in. 

Centuries of turbulent history - invasions and war, rebellion and uprising, independence and occupation - have left their mark on this corner of Scotland. From the remains of Iron Age hillforts, to ancient clifftop ruins, medieval fortresses, Scottish baronial castles, Jacobean mansions, and 18th century fortifications, the evidence is everywhere.

Aberdeenshire’s often-extraordinary buildings have inspired famous storytellers such as Robert Louis Stevenson, Bram Stoker, Walt Disney and Franco Zeffirelli. And of course, Aberdeenshire’s most famous castle is Balmoral – the summer residence of the Royal Family since the 19th century. Allegedly Elizabeth II’s favourite royal residence, it was famously described by her great grandmother, Queen Victoria, as ‘my dear paradise in the Highlands’.

For those in search of something a bit different, Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire have some real gems. Old Aberdeen , with its cobbled streets, mature trees and 15th century fortified cathedral is where the city’s first university was founded in 1495. And Footdee – known locally as Fittie – is a quirky fishing quarter at the water’s edge, with squares of tiny cottages and brightly painted outhouses. 

The city centre itself is home to some key museums including the Tolbooth Museum, showcasing the history of crime and punishment, Aberdeen Maritime Museum , the University of Aberdeen Zoology Museum and the 5* Gordon Highlanders Museum , celebrating the history of that proud regiment. 

The Aberdeen Science Centre, Scotland’s first centre of science and discovery, is home to 50 exhibits and live-shows making it a family favourite. There’s also the chance to visit a former Victorian HM Convict Prison in Peterhead, or the Museum of Scottish Lighthouses , and you can step back in time at the Grampian Transport Museum in Alford as you check out legendary supercars and stagecoaches. 

In rural Aberdeenshire, you can step even further back in time, with mysterious standing stones telling a long history of settlement. Stone circles were erected between 2700 – 2000 BC (the Bronze Age) and around 10 percent of the total number of stone circles recorded in Britain can be found in Aberdeenshire.

Whether you prefer to ride on the road, rattle along vertiginous downhill mountain bike trails, or just take a leisurely ride away from traffic, Aberdeenshire offers you countless opportunities to escape on two wheels. 

If you're a keen cyclist, why not try your luck at the Aberdeenshire Ascents ? This new initiative recognises ten of the most challenging cycling routes found in the region. Alternatively, you can head for the region’s mountain biking trails , which take you through in spectacular terrain including Caledonian pine forest, and breath-taking ridge traverses. 

On the road bike you can conquer lung-busting climbs in the Cairngorms National Park, or  if gravel riding is your thing you can take on the hundreds of kilometres of trails through the historic landscape.

We’ve compiled a list of the best road and MTB routes to give you a sense of what’s out there.

Aberdeenshire produces world-class local food and drink, and is home to such famous names as Dean’s rich traditional shortbread and craft beer revolutionaries, Brewdog. Foodie experiences abound. 

Go on a bespoke tour with Bothies & Bannocks and Grampian Escapes & Tours . Perfect the craft of making brioche, fruit buns and other breads on a course with Crannach Bakery . Or become a master chocolatier on a chocolate making class with Cocoa Ooze (Aberdeen’s only purpose-built chocolate workshop centre).

If you’re after a true farm to fork experience then a visit to Aberdeenshire Highland Beef is a must for those looking to get up close to the farming process. You can also explore historic whisky distilleries on a local Whisky Trail .  And in the city centre traditional bars and stylish taverns offer specialised whisky tasting classes. 

Sample fresh seafood including the affectionately named silver darlings (herrings) that are landed every day in harbours and seaports along the 165 miles of Aberdeenshire’s coastline. Recommended places to taste the best range from the prestigious Silver Darling restaurant, with views over Aberdeen quay, to the Seafood Bothy food truck at Stonehaven harbour. Finally, round off your visit with some locally produced Mackie’s ice cream from their first parlour, Mackie’s 19.2, in Aberdeen itself.

Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire offer wonderful opportunities for spotting wildlife. A great way to get up close and personal with the wildlife along the coast is by taking a guided boat trip – perfect for spotting dolphins, minke whales, guillemots and puffins.

At Newburgh Beach  you can see hundreds of sunbathing seals sprawled out on the sands. At the mouth of the Port of Aberdeen you might spot urban dolphins leaping high out the choppy water. Porpoises, and minke whales have also been known to roam the waters near the cliffs at Troup Head . And in spring, the area is vibrant with thousands of butterflies and moths amongst the grassland and wild floras.

The dramatic cliffs at the Bullers of Buchan are where you might be lucky enough to get that little bit closer to Aberdeenshire’s puffins, amongst many other species of seabird found along the coast.

Head inland, to the Cairngorms National Park, and watch red deer as they gather for water at Loch Muick. You might even catch a glimpse of capercaillie in their natural habitat. Observe roe deer in ancient woodland at Den of Maidencraig Local Nature Reserve, or go birdwatching at Loch of Strathbeg. 

Wild Discovery is an award-winning local firm with conservation at its heart that offers a variety of tailor-made nature tours to help you discover all aspects of wildlife in Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire. 

So, no matter what you like to get up to on an active getaway, from discovering historic sites and sampling the local food and drink, to challenging yourself with some hillwalking or spotting rare wildlife, Aberdeenshire is a must-visit. 

For more information about everything this fantastic destination has to offer, go to visitabdn.com

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• Travel Planning Guide

Should You Visit Aberdeen?

• Is Aberdeen Worth Visiting?
• Reasons to Visit Aberdeen
• In the Summer?
• In the Autumn?
• In the Winter?
• In the Spring?

What is Aberdeen most famous for?

• What is Aberdeen most known for?

What is the most famous sight in Aberdeen?

• How touristy is Aberdeen?

How long should I spend in Aberdeen?

Is aberdeen worth visiting.

Yes, Aberdeen is worth visiting for a number of reasons. This is a city that everyone should explore, and we loved our time here.

Whether you're a traveling as a family or a couple, this city has a lot to offer. Any local will tell you what makes it special is the amazing museums & sights and fantastic historical sights.

Aberdeen is rich in history, culture, and even natural beauty. There are sandy beaches, historic landmarks, and many parks and gardens to explore. Golf enthusiasts will also enjoy the many golf courses in the area. Many visitors overlook this hidden gem, so there's a hint of authenticity that you often miss in the more popular destinations.

6 Reasons to Visit Aberdeen

1. museums & sights.

2. Historical Sights

Everything from brunch bistros to fine dining are available in this city. You can enjoy local specialties or international options at any of the unique restaurants around town.

4. Nightlife

The nightlife scene is diverse with whisky dens, local pubs, and even trendy nightclubs to choose from.

5. Shopping

A mix of modern shopping centers, antique vendors, and local boutiques make for an interesting shopping scene. For some of the city's best shopping head to Union Square Shopping Centre, the Trinity Centre, or Bon Accord Aberdeen.

6. Authenticity

Aberdeen has an authentic vibe where you can experience local culture, cuisine, and activities without the large tourist crowds of other popular destinations.

Is Aberdeen worth visiting in the Summer?

The high season for travel in Aberdeen is the summer, so expect to see more tourists than usual. This destination is somewhat touristy, so in the high season it's usually busier.

You'll find the weather to be very nice here during summer with average temperatures around 14°C (58°F).

You'll also find it quite easy to get around on foot, because this is a very walkable city, especially in the nice weather. During this season it's fun to experience the famous sights and museums, the big city activities, and the historic old town. Also, you can enjoy an evening out.

Is Aberdeen worth visiting in the Autumn?

The weather in Aberdeen can be quite cold during autumn, and averages around 9°C (49°F). But be prepared for much lower temperatures, too.

Autumn is the shoulder season for travel in Aberdeen, which means slightly less visitors than in the peak season. This destination is somewhat busy with tourists, but in the shoulder season you'll find less crowds and better deals.

Autumn is a great time of year to explore the numerous museums and landmarks around town. They are fun for the whole family as well great for couples. Soaking up that old town charm in the autumn is one of the favorite activities of visitors. The quaint scenery combined with the weather this time of year is quite nice. This is a great time of year to admire the historic sights, browse the museums, and enjoy the city's energy.

Is Aberdeen worth visiting in the Winter?

Winter is the low season for travel in Aberdeen. This destination is fairly touristy, but in the low season you can find fewer crowds and better deals.

The weather in Aberdeen can be quite cold during winter, and averages around 3°C (38°F). But be prepared for much lower temperatures, too.

You'll find plenty to do during winter, as you'll be able to spend time at the museums, sample the delicious cuisine, and browse around the old town. Also, you'll be able to dance the night away and discover the big city activities.

Is Aberdeen worth visiting in the Spring?

This is the shoulder season for travel in Aberdeen. This destination is somewhat busy with tourists, but in the shoulder season you'll find less crowds and better deals.

The weather in Aberdeen can be quite cold during spring, and averages around 7°C (44°F). But be prepared for much lower temperatures, too.

Soaking up that old town charm in the spring is one of the favorite activities of visitors. The quaint scenery combined with the weather this time of year is quite nice. During this season it's fun to experience shopping, the museums and landmarks, and the historic old town. Also, you can experience the nightlife.

Aberdeen is most famous for its longstanding maritime history and its many cultural sights and activities. The city is very popular for its museums & sights and historical sights. It is also known for its great food, nightlife, and shopping. It is often described as historic, cultural, architectural, and authentic.

The most popular sight in Aberdeen is St Machar's Cathedral Aberdeen . You can see prices and costs for this and other sights in Aberdeen on our travel costs page .

Or, see tickets, activities, and tours for St Machar's Cathedral Aberdeen and other attractions here .

How touristy is Aberdeen? Is it a popular city to visit?

Aberdeen is more popular with local tourists than with international visitors. Here are some of the most popular activities and tours. (Prices in US Dollars)

• 3 hour Gin School Experience in Aberdeen Viator $ 161
• 3 hour Gin School Experience in Aberdeen: $161
• Aberdeen Historical Walking Tour: $63
• St Andrews and Dundee Small-Group Tour from Aberdeen: $71
• Private Aberdeen City Walking Tour: $155
• Aberdeen Tour App, Hidden Gems Game and Big Britain Quiz (1 Day Pass) UK: $20
• Private Aberdeen Street Art Tour: $155
• Art, History, and Hidden Gems: Aberdeen Private Walking Tour: $237
• Taste of Scotland Tour: $175

The ideal length of time for a trip to Aberdeen is two to three days. Since Aberdeen has activities such as museums & sights and historical sights, many visit for up to three days.

If you have a specific amount of time for your trip, see our advice about how much time to spend here: Should I spend 1, 2, or 3 days in Aberdeen? and Should I spend 3, 4, or 5 days in Aberdeen? .

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My little adventures in Scotland and beyond

8 Reasons to visit Aberdeen!

1. Aberdeen's Street Art

2. Footdee (referred to as 'Fittie' by locals)

3. Home to the Most Castles in the UK

5. Vibrant Foodie Scene 

5. Old Aberdeen & Brig o' Balgownie

6. Quirky Museums

7. Whisky Distilleries

8. Foodstory Cafe

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A local's tips for visiting Aberdeen, Scotland

Laura Beattie

United Kingdom

• Aberdeen travel tips

Planning a trip to Aberdeen? Here are our top picks...

Stay: Brewdog Kennels

Walking tour: Aberdeen historical walking tour

Whisky tour: Whisky Distillery Trifecta

Day trip: Loch Ness and the Highlands

Car rental: find competitive rates with Discover Cars

If you’re planning a trip to Scotland , add Aberdeen to your list. Often overshadowed by Edinburgh and Glasgow, it has so much to offer visitors. I’m sharing some local tips so you can make the most out of your visit.

Visit Aberdeen in summer

It’s the best season for good weather, with lesser chances of rain. Aberdeen can get pretty miserable, wet and cold during winter. The trick is to layer your clothing, as encountering four seasons in one day isn’t unheard of.

Public transport in Aberdeen is alright

The public transport in Aberdeen doesn't compare to larger European cities, but it allows you to get around. With the absence of companies like Uber, taxi fares are expensive.

Not renting a car? Take the Jet2 bus from the airport directly into the city. It’s easier and faster during rush hour. The centre (downtown) is very accessible on foot so rent a car for the days you want to explore the surrounding area.

Sample some Scottish Water (aka whisky)

There are countless whisky tours and trails in the Aberdeenshire region. If you’re a novice figuring out your single malts from your blends, or Speysides from Islays, it can get a bit overwhelming.

Before deciding which trail or distillery to visit, or if you’re short on time, head to Aberdeen’s local whisky bar, The Grill. It looks very unassuming from the outside, however you’ll leave armed with a bit of whisky knowledge and some good memories. While navigating your way through the whisky book, you’re sure to strike up some interesting conversations with friendly locals too.

Visit Old Aberdeen

The city has some incredible architecture, but a trip to Old Aberdeen has to be on your itinerary. King’s College, a university founded in 1495, is a highlight for most tourists and be sure to visit Powis Gate Towers just along the road, as well as St Machar’s Cathedral and The Spittal.

Head just a little further out of Old Aberdeen through Seaton Park to a medieval crossing called the Brig O’Balgownie (a brig meaning bridge in Scots). It is a beautiful slice of history tucked away in a suburb and one of Scotland's oldest bridges - very cool!

Walk the Aberdeen Beach Promenade

The beach is a popular tourist area, for good reason, but many tourists miss out Footdee, or ‘Fittie’ as it’s known by locals. During your time in the city, be sure to enjoy a wander around this old fishing village. The homes have different facades and decor, and it’s a truly unique area and unlike anything I’ve seen elsewhere. If you have a car, take a drive from Fittie up to the Torry Battery. It gives a panoramic viewpoint over the North Sea, the harbour, the beach and beyond. If you're lucky you’ll also catch some playful resident dolphins having some fun.

Get out of the city

Last but not least, take the time to get out of the city. The surrounding Aberdeenshire area is a nature lovers' paradise. It’s the gateway to the Highlands, and is home to famous golf courses, medieval castles and several whisky trails. Be sure to plan your time, as it will take you longer to get to places than you think. Google might say 60 minutes, but if you get stuck behind a caravan or a tractor... it’s going to be a while!

Planning a trip to Aberdeen? Stay at Brewdog Kennels for comfortable studios and suites in the city centre. Or for more information on the UK, read our UK travel guide .

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Author - Laura Beattie

Hi I’m Laura, a Scottish freckle-faced expat obsessed with all things travel, food and life abroad. Through years of globe trotting and eating my way through various countries I share destination inspiration, moving abroad advice and gluten free foodie guides.

Last Updated 7 February 2024

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7 Spectacular Things To Do in Aberdeen, Scotland

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Aberdeen wiggled its way onto our radar when we decided to spend a third consecutive summer in Scotland. Although there is little chatter about Aberdeen as a tourist destination, we were enticed by its coastal perch and grandiose architecture. Without delving too deeply into the things to do in Aberdeen, we capriciously booked a month-long stay.

On arrival, we weren’t exactly blown away. Aberdeen is certainly not as captivating as Edinburgh , as charming as Inverness or as dramatic as Isle of Skye . However, Aberdeen has a subtle appeal – and the more we got to know the city, the more enchanted we became.

Put Aberdeen on Your UK Travel Itinerary

Historically, Aberdeen is known for its abundance of granite and the once plentiful North Sea oil fields. It’s also popular for a particular breed of cattle, Aberdeen Angus. The cityscape is almost entirely bedecked in monochrome gray. The often cloudy skies match the colorless motif. Ready to pack your bags?!

While Aberdeen isn’t likely to be crowned belle of the ball, it’s a real city with a (somewhat unattractive) working harbor. A little gritty in places, it is also completely void of kilt-clad bagpipers leading groups of tourists through the streets. Despite all that – or maybe because of it – we think Aberdeen is absolutely worth visiting.

Aberdeen has an enthralling past that stretches back to Roman times. It ranks as the third-largest city in Scotland, hosting several museums and public works of art. The buildings, while uniform in color, are intricately designed. Best of all, Aberdeen boasts sprawling green spaces and an utterly striking coastline.

Inquisitive explorers seeking to get off the beaten path and those looking for solitude along the shore will not be disappointed. With just one day in Aberdeen, visitors can easily take in the top attractions. However, those who can work a longer stay into their Scotland Itinerary can delight in the sights beyond the city center.

Top Things To Do in Aberdeen, Scotland

During our summer trip, we eagerly sought out the best of Aberdeen. Based on our personal experiences and impressions, we created this Things To Do Aberdeen List to help fellow travelers plan their time in the city.

#1 Explore Granite City on Foot

While the city’s gray coloring might look drab at first glance, the architecture is actually exquisite. Aberdeen has long had an abundance of granite – a durable stone suitable for building houses, roads and bridges. The granite industry peaked in the 19th century, but Aberdeen stands as a testament to the once thriving trade.

Simply wandering to see the impressive stone buildings is one of the top Aberdeen things to do. Although the city is awash with granite, there are a few Aberdeen landmarks worth seeking out.

Marischal College

Not to be missed is the elegant Marischal College, which now hosts the Aberdeen City Council. Built in the 1800s, the gorgeous Gothic structure is the 2nd-largest granite edifice in the world.

While admiring the intricate exterior, be sure to check out the statue of Robert the Bruce that sits in front of the ornate building. In the early 1300s, he was King of Scots and a fierce defender of Scottish independence.

Castlegate 

Castlegate is a small square ringed with opulent granite architecture. The stand-out structure is the Salvation Army Citadel (the one with the turret), which was designed to resemble royal Balmoral Castle.

The Mercat Cross that stands in the center is made of sandstone. While it is withering with age, the granite structures that surround it look practically brand new.

Union Street

Dubbed the Granite Mile, Union Street is Aberdeen’s main urban thoroughfare. The mile-long line of gray granite was a huge achievement for city planners. While the street can appear dull on dreary days, it shimmers when the sun is shining.

Kirk of St. Nicholas

Known as Mither Kirk – or Mother Church – St. Nicholas was built using both sandstone and granite. Inside is a Medieval granite chapel, but due to a recent change of ownership, the interior was closed during our stay. Regardless, we were able to stroll through the churchyard and note the difference between the fading sandstone tombstones and the enduring granite markers.

Trip Tip: The Aberdeen City Center is fairly compact and easy to get around on foot. However, for a deeper introduction, join a local for a guided tour. Check times and prices.

#2 Visit Amazing Aberdeen Museums

The museums in Aberdeen are incredible – and the best ones don’t cost a penny! The cultural institutions in the city display wonderful artworks, detail Aberdeen history and track citizens’ achievements.

Aberdeen Art Gallery

While looking for free things to do in Aberdeen, we wandered into the Art Gallery. The recently renovated venue hosts a diverse collection of art, featuring works by both Scottish and international artists. We were most intrigued by the paintings from Claude Monet and the objects displayed in the ‘View of Aberdeen’ Gallery.

Maritime Museum

Hailing as one of the best attractions in Aberdeen, the Maritime Museum traces the city’s impactful seafaring trade and oil and gas industry. Initially thinking we would breeze through in an hour, we ended up spending an entire afternoon taking in the engaging exhibits.

Provost Skene’s House

It was a gloomy day when we ducked into Provost Skene’s House. We weren’t really sure what to expect, but found it to be surprisingly fascinating.

Built in 1545, the dwelling stands as the Oldest House in Aberdeen – but that has little to do with the content inside. The displays are dedicated to Aberdonians credited with remarkable world contributions – celebrating everything from scientific successes to opera singing.

Tolbooth Museum

The Aberdeen Tolbooth was one of the attractions we knew about before arriving. A former prison, the museum details the history of crime and punishment and is rated as one of the best free things to do in Aberdeen. Unfortunately, it was closed for the summer due to maintenance. Hopefully it will reopen for tours soon!

Trip Planning Tip: In addition to the Aberdeen free museums, there are ticketed institutions as well. The Aberdeen Science Center is great for families and the Gordon Highlanders Museum is interesting for history and military buffs ( Find tickets ).

#3 Relax in an Aberdeen City Park

While granite structures take center stage, the area’s green spaces are Aberdeen attractions, too. Parks are located in the city center and surrounds, adding a splash of color to the scenery.

Union Terrace Gardens

A gorgeous sunken park right in the heart of Aberdeen, Union Terrace Gardens is a sensational public space.

Featuring commemorative statues, intriguing artworks, curving pathways, colorful flowerbeds and even Victorian-era toilets, it’s one of the best places to see in Aberdeen. Plus, if you are looking for things to with kids in Aberdeen, UTG has an excellent playground!

David Welch Winter Gardens and Duthie Park

A bit of a trek from the city center, but especially worth it for flower enthusiasts, the David Welch Winter Gardens are phenomenal. The expansive greenhouse complex is a sumptuous oasis of blossoming plants – from tropical species to prickly cactus.

The adjoining Duthie Park, which features a Victorian bandstand, model boat lake and an obelisk, is a popular spot for dog walkers and cricket clubs. From here, you can also set off on a walk along the River Dee and stop by the Allenvale Cemetery across the street.

Seaton Park and Donmouth Nature Reserve

A stunningly beautiful site in Old Aberdeen, Seaton Park occupies land that was formerly part of the Seaton Estate. The spacious grounds feature formal gardens along the Cathedral Walk, trails through the forested riverside and the remains of a walled garden.

To the east, Donmouth Local Nature Reserve follows the River Don from the magnificent Bridge of Balgownie (the oldest bridge in Scotland) to where it meets the North Sea. One of the fun things to do at the Aberdeen nature reserve is to look for seals basking in the sun on the river islet!

Tip for your Travels: Nature lovers will want to seek out two more green spaces, Hazelhead Park and Johnston Gardens. Both are situated on the west side of Aberdeen. Travelers without a car – like us – can use public transport to reach these two spots.

#4 Embark on an Aberdeen Coastal Walk

It’s actually true, there are many things to see and do in Aberdeen. However, the highlight of our visit was the scenic shoreline. Extending for miles from Aberdeen City Centre, the coast is the best place to spend a sunny day.

Footdee to Donmouth 

Walking the Esplanade from Footdee (aka Fittie) to the mouth of the River Don is a superb way to spend a few hours in Aberdeen. Footdee is an old, picturesque fisherman’s village that sits at the entrance to Aberdeen Harbour. For here, a paved path leads north, running alongside Aberdeen Beach and continuing to the mouth of the Don River.

The southern section of the pathway is lined with food trucks. The red, double-decker Highlander Cafe Bus can’t be missed! Attractions along the route include Codona’s Amusement Park (a top pick for family entertainment) and the Beach Ballroom (a music venue where a very young Beatles once played).

Torry to Cove Bay

Sitting on the south side of the harbor, the Torry peninsula is fun place to explore. A walking path curves along the shoreline, passing Torry Battery, South Pier and the Girdle Ness Lighthouse and Foghorn.

Once past the Aberdeen South Harbour, a trail follows the carved coastline and offers phenomenal panoramic views out to sea. The scenic path is not only ideal for walking, but also for dolphin spotting and bird watching!

Tip for Trip Planning: We share more details – plus highlight other regional treks – in our Aberdeen Coastal Walks Guide.

#5 Wander through Old Aberdeen

Idyllic, quaint and steeped in academic history, Old Aberdeen is a fabulous place to wander. While visiting Aberdeen, we returned here time and time again, savoring the scenic cobblestone streets of the serene college campus.

Most of the sights in Old Aberdeen are located along High Street. The extravagant King’s College is easily recognizable by its unique Crown Tower. Visitors are invited to step inside the historic chapel.

At the north end of High Street is The Chanonry, a lane that leads to the magnificent St. Machar’s Cathedral. We highly recommend taking time to tour this beautiful church, which dates to the year 1380. (Free self-guided tour pamphlets are available at the entrance.)

Between King’s College and St. Machar’s are a handful of sights that are worth seeing, too. Grant’s Place (a pretty lane), Old Aberdeen Town House (a historic Georgian building) and Cruickshank Botanic Garden (free to visit) are top attractions.

Just a block west of High Street is the ultra-modern University of Aberdeen Sir Duncan Rice Library. Visitors might also want to check out the Zoology Museum, where taxidermized animals and skeletons are on display.

For more information about the history of Old Aberdeen, use this helpful guide . 

Traveler Tip: If you have worked up a thirst while touring Old Aberdeen, head for St. Machar Bar. The old school pub, which is known for their robust whisky selection, has an eclectic crowd of students, locals and tourists.

#6 Try Local Aberdeen Beer

We don’t often pass up the chance to sample craft beer – and there are a number of local breweries in Aberdeen and the surrounding Aberdeenshire. 

The award-winning Fierce Beer was born – and is still brewed – in Aberdeen. The actual brewery is outside of the city center and is open on a limited basis for tours. However, their Fierce Bar taproom is located near Castlegate and is open daily. (The Rhubarb Pale Ale is very interesting!)

BrewDog, founded in Fraserburgh, Scotland and currently headquartered in nearby Ellon, is a global brand. The very first BrewDog Bar opened in Aberdeen in 2010.

The cozy flagship Gallowgate location is still pouring pints and cooking up pizzas and hot dogs. That said, there are two more BrewDog bars in Aberdeen; one at Castlegate and one inside the Union Square Shopping Centre. (Hazy Jane is our favorite!)

Six Degrees North hails from Stonehaven – which is just south of Aberdeen. The centrally located Smoke and Soul BBQ restaurant pours their beers in the bright, 2-story space. (Try the Velodrome!)

Brew Toon, which is produced in Peterhead, doesn’t have a taproom in Aberdeen. However, you can often find their beers on tap at CASC Bar or on the shelves at ASDA supermarkets. (The Trawlerman Hazy Pale Ale is superb!)

Top Tip : Beer isn’t all that is brewing! Aberdeen has a long history in distilling, too. Visitors can learn more on a local gin distillery tour. Get the details!

#7 Seek Out Aberdeen Street Art

We love seeking out public art – and Aberdeen has plenty of it! From awe-inspiring sculptures to thought-provoking street murals, artistic works dot the landscape. Many artworks are on full display, while others are hidden in courtyards or found down quiet alleys.

The Sculpture and Curios Trail, which was created by the Aberdeen City Council, highlights some of the historic and modern art that can be found around the city. Get the online version.

Alternatively, those looking for unique things to do in Aberdeen, Scotland can embark on a self-guided street art tour.

Since 2017, Aberdeen has hosted the annual Nuart Festival, which brings together talented artists to paint murals on buildings around the city. Using this online guide , the curious can wind their way through the streets to find their favorites. Our top pick is the 2019 mural by Glasgow artist Smug.

Top Aberdeen Travel Tip : There are many self-guided walks suggested by the City Council. Find more Aberdeen Trails here .

Aberdeen, Scotland Restaurants

The restaurants in Aberdeen aim to please every palate and budget! We are highlighting a few of the best places to eat.

Fine Dining

The Silver Darling is a top pick for fresh seafood. It’s located on the North Pier in Footdee, offering gorgeous views while you dine. For a steak dinner, however, Miller and Carter is a top pick.

Casual Fare

For a bite of traditional Scottish pub grub, we recommend Old Blackfriars. The atmosphere is spot on, and they host traditional live music on Thursdays.

Ma Cameron’s, which boasts both an open-air rooftop and a historic snug, offers good pub food, too. The Fish and Chips are the star of the menu – but check to see if Cullen Skink (one of my favorite Scottish Foods ) is offered as a daily special.

For burgers, wings and fries, BrewDog Castlegate is always a good bet! They offer vegan options, too.

The long standing and much loved Thain’s Bakery is a no-nonsense establishment for savory pies and baked goods. If you are up for a carb-a-licious bite, try the Mac and Cheese pie. It’s takeaway only – and they are open late.

Burrito & Shawarma is another one of our favorite spots for inexpensive food. The tasty and filling wraps are well-priced and good quality.

Map of Aberdeen Tourist Attractions

Travel Tips for Aberdeen, United Kingdom

Now that you know what to do in Aberdeen, let’s talk logistics. We know that there is a lot more to planning a trip to Scotland than deciding what to see – and we’re here to help.

Trip Planning and Organization

Planning a trip to the United Kingdom – especially from abroad – can be a big task. As you begin to make reservations and create an itinerary, staying organized is key. Use our Travel Planning Printables  to stay on top of all the details!

How To Get to Aberdeen

Aberdeen, Scotland can be reached by plane, train, bus or car. How you get to Aberdeen will likely depend on where you’re coming from.

The Aberdeen Airport (ABZ) is located 6 miles northwest of the city center. However, flights are mostly limited to the UK and Ireland. There are no non-stop flights between Aberdeen and the United States. Read our Tips on Finding Cheap Airfare , then check available routes on Skyscanner

Both the train and bus station in Aberdeen are located in the heart of the city. Trains from Edinburgh take about 2.5 hours; buses take 3 hours or longer (but will likely be cheaper). Once in the city, there is a fairly robust network of public transit for travelers without a car.

Where To Stay

For our Aberdeen trip, we stayed in an Airbnb apartment situated between downtown and Old Aberdeen. While it worked great for our long visit, those staying for 1 or 2 days would be better off in a hotel.

The Ibis Quayside offers clean and comfortable rooms in an extremely central location. The property is modern with minimalist décor and offers a buffet breakfast (for an additional cost). Check availability for your stay!

The Globe Inn, situated above a pub, offers inexpensive rooms in a good location. Plus, the made-to-order breakfast is included in the price. Just be aware that the pub can be noisy at night. Check rates for your trip!

What To Pack

Our final tips are all about what to pack in your suitcase or backpack . Now grab your FREE Packing Checklist and let’s go to Scotland!

Comfy Shoes: Whether visiting museums or hitting the trails, you will want a good pair of versatile shoes. Find out what we wear in our article, Best Shoes for Travelers .

Travel Camera: The beauty of Aberdeen is in the details, and you will want a good camera to capture it! We use a Canon Rebel ; it’s one of the best cameras for budget-conscious travelers . Be sure to pack a pair of binoculars for coastline viewing, as well!

Weather Gear: The weather in Scotland is crazy. Make certain you are prepared with a good raincoat and a solid travel umbrella .

Day Pack: When out sightseeing, it’s best to carry a good travel day bag . We use these small backpacks (with zippered compartments to deter pickpockets ).

Travel Insurance : As well as you plan your vacation, things can go wrong. If you haven’t insured your trip, check the rates and coverage at World Nomads .

Fun Facts about Aberdeen

Before you travel to Aberdeen, we have a few fun and interesting facts to share about the city.

• Some locals speak a dialect of Scottish known as Doric. “Fit Like” and “Foos Yer Doos” both can mean, “Hello, how are you?”
• Bon Accord – Good Agreement in French – is the official Aberdeen motto. It dates to the 14th century when it was used as a password by Scottish soldiers during the Wars of Scottish Independence.
• Aberdeen’s best-known nickname is Granite City. However, it is often referred to as Silver City because the granite sparkles in the sunshine.
• Aberdeen, Scotland is the first known city to have this name, but Scottish immigrants have bestowed the title on cities around the world. In fact, there are 18 cities named Aberdeen in the United States!

Start planning your trip to the UK ! Search for the lowest airfares , the best accommodations and fun things to do …then start packing !   Want more travel tips? Head over to our Travel Planning Page for more advice – and for country-specific information, take a look at our Travel Guides Page !

More UK and Scotland Travel Guides

• 1 Day in Glasgow
• What To Do in Plockton
• Things To See in Dunbar
• Walking the West Highland Way
• Visiting Isle of Skye
• 3 Day London Itinerary and our Top Budget Tips
• What To See in Bristol or Bath
• 3 Days in Belfast, Northern Ireland
• One Day in Cardiff, Wales

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Posted by Maris on 8th Jul 2024

10 Reasons to Visit Aberdeen at Least Once

Aberdeen is the third largest city in Scotland. It has a long and fascinating history, an enviable location, and many things to see and do. There is so much to recommend about the Granite City that it often surprises people. Here are 10 reasons you absolutely must visit!

The History

The first people to live, or at least visit, what is now Aberdeen were Stone Age hunter-gatherers around 8,000 years ago. Since then, various tribes and groups of Celts and Picts called the area home, and the Romans sent an army of tens of thousands of men into battle near here. In 580 A.D. a disciple of Columba, Saint Machar, arrived to convert the Picts to Christianity, founding a church that eventually was given his name and forming the basis of the settlement of Old Aberdeen. Aberdeen is blessed with several excellent museums, some of which tell the story of the area's history (and prehistory). Aberdeen was to reach its heyday in the late 18th and then 19th centuries, when huge public building schemes were funded, creating the Granite City we see today.

Marischal College and the City’s Architecture

This building is a must-see, especially now it has been cleaned and revitalised. It is the second-largest granite building in the world and a masterpiece of Gothic Revival architecture, replacing an earlier university building on the site. Still owned by the University of Aberdeen it is presently leased to the City Council. Following restoration the building’s granite once more sparkles in the sunlight. Throughout the city there is a wealth of stunning architecture to be seen and a walking tour of some of these sites is highly recommended to the visitor.

Golf Courses

Scotland is the ancestral home of golf, and Aberdeenshire features several legendary golf courses. The city itself is home to the sixth oldest club in the world, the Royal Aberdeen which was founded in 1780 along the links behind the beach to the north. Golf was played along the dunes around the city since the 1600s, and this depth of history and the challenging courses bring players from across the globe to the city. The beach is also worth a mention, as few such large UK cities play host to such a stretch of sand.

Parks and Gardens

Not all the green spaces in Aberdeen are golf-related, however. There are several remarkable parks and gardens throughout the city’s boundaries, 45 to be precise! These include the vast Hazlehead Park, the beautiful Johnston Gardens, and an array of others. With all these flowers and greenery, it is perhaps unsurprising to learn that Aberdeen has enjoyed considerable success in the annual horticultural contest of Britain in Bloom, winning no fewer than 11 times, most recently in 2016!

The University and Old Aberdeen

Up until 1891, Aberdeen was actually two Royal Burghs: Aberdeen and Old Aberdeen. The latter is quite different in character, centred around the High Kirk of St Machar and the University of Aberdeen. This is the third oldest university in Scotland and the fifth oldest in the UK, and it has played a huge role in the city ever since its foundation in 1495. Old Aberdeen is definitely worth a visit, with King’s College chapel and the new Sir Duncan Rice library being just two of the outstanding buildings.

Aberdeen has a vibrant and flourishing food scene, centred around ideas of sustainability, using the best of seasonal and, where possible, locally grown produce. This is especially true in the city’s cafés, where the quality is second to none. As expected, locally caught seafood and fish feature heavily on the city’s restaurant menus, as does the world-renowned Aberdeen Angus beef.

Entertainment

Aberdeen has a long history of being a centre for the arts, with live music and entertainment eclectic enough to suit all tastes. Famous names to have performed in the city include Alec Guinness, Vivien Leigh, Charlie Chaplin, Cream, The Beatles, Pink Floyd, and many others. However, it’s not all famous names. The city has a habit of producing homegrown underground talent, with bands often cutting their teeth at venues such as The Lemon Tree, Café Drummond, or The Tunnels.

Galleries and Public Art

It can be said that Aberdeen has so much art all over the city, unable to be contained within the walls of the excellent galleries on offer. The renowned Aberdeen Art Gallery has been undergoing extensive renovations and repairs and is due to reopen in winter 2017. With public art dotted all over the buildings and streets of the city, as well as innovative arts festivals, Aberdeen continues to flourish as a vibrant home for diverse arts and artists.

Whisky and Bars

It should come as no surprise that Aberdeen has some excellent bars. While most pubs sell a range of whiskies, some stand out as truly special, such as The Grill, where you can choose from over 600 malts in a beautiful setting. This bar is considered one of the best whisky bars in the world, but Aberdeen drinking establishments are not solely dedicated to the famous Scottish spirit. In recent years locally distilled gins have returned, and cocktail bars are also popular in the city. Whatever your tipple, you will find it here.

One of the excellent things about the Granite City is not just the city itself, but the broader area in which it sits. Throughout Aberdeenshire and even further afield, most of the big roads head to the city, as does the railways, making it a perfect place to explore this corner of Scotland. From mountains to iconic castles, there is something for everyone here, all within easy reach of the city and its comfortable hotels. Add to this the port and airport, and communication with the wider world is easy.

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10 Reasons Why You Need To Visit Aberdeen Over Edinburgh

Although Edinburgh, Scotia’s darling seat, deserves a standing ovation for numerous reasons, it’s important not to let smaller cities slip through the cracks of our fingers. Aberdeen, graced with grey architecture and filled with history, is quite the international hub. From two popular universities and jaw dropping architecture to the beautiful Old College, the city is inundated with a myriad of fun things to see and do. Here are the top reasons why you need to visit Aberdeen over Edinburgh.

The buildings sparkle in the sunlight.

It’s true. Aberdeen is known as ‘The Granite City’ due to the many buildings composed of locally quarried grey granite. Some view the swathes of grey as depressing, but those with a discerning eye for architecture and optimism will note that they appear silver due to the high mica content. Such buildings were constructed during the mid-18th to the mid-20th centuries and are responsible for making Aberdeen stand out from the crowd. Marischal College , which was opened by King Edward VII in 1906, is one of the largest granite buildings in the world.

Flowers Exist In Abundance

Amidst the glorious display of grey sits an impressive amount of flowers, each sporting a kaleidoscope of colours. From two million roses and 11 million daffodils to three million crocuses, Aberdeen has been bestowed with numerous accolades for its citywide floral displays. Unsurprisingly, Aberdeen has been granted the ‘Best City’ award for the Royal Horticultural Society Britain In Bloom competition 10 times, won Scotland in Bloom 20 times and the large city category since 1968 each year.

It’s Scotland’s ‘Sun City’

Due to its dull status as the grey city, Aberdeen gets lost in preconceived notions and false perceptions. In reality, it’s one of the sunniest cities in Scotland, receiving a much higher percentage of sun than other surrounding places. This sunny deposition, combined with the fact that it boasts 45 parks and gardens, makes it almost too good to be true. Sunglasses are advised for those majestic moments when the resplendent rays bounce off the sparkling granite buildings.

There’s A Strong Chance Of Witnessing Marine Life

Like many areas of Scotland, Aberdeen is home to a superb wildlife community. From all sorts of sea birds to vast amount of large bottlenose dolphins, it’s quite the haven for nature enthusiasts. Dolphin sightings are most common from Aberdeen Beach, Torry Battery and the harbour.

The Food Is Exciting and Varied

Catering to all types of foodies, Aberdeen is graced with some fantastic little eateries, many of which are hidden away from the naked eye. For a cracking gin selection and understated chic local cuisine and seafood, look no further than Moonfish , a stone’s throw away from Union Street. Those with a penchant for ethical eateries and intimate vibes will adore the vegetarian dishes at Food Story . Folk who favour fancy and cocktails will gravitate to the eclectic eats at Fusion Bar & Bistro .

The Surfing Is An Adventure Junkie’s Dream

Believe it or not, The Deen is a dynamite spot for surfing. After all, along with tumultuous weather come enticing waves. It may not be Thurso, Scotland’s surfing capital, but it certainly possesses some surfing pizzazz. The unpredictable elements and glacial temperatures make Aberdeen Beach a rite of passage for any adventurer.

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The Nightlife Is On Point

From indie venues such as The Tunnels and Drummonds hosting a string of live bands, to hip arty hangouts with fine Scottish cuisine and boozy tendencies like Musa , suave watering holes like The Albyn, and buzzing beats and live DJs at Paramount , Aberdeen is a diamond in the rough when it comes to epic nights out. You may not remember it the next day, yet this fact alone places it into the ‘memorable’ category!

It’s A Perfect Place For A Game Of Golf

It seems only fitting to play a round of golf when in Aberdeen. After all, Scotland is the birthplace of the sport. Royal Aberdeen Golf Club , with its exciting traditional links course and North Shore views, has been around since 1780 and is known as the sixth oldest club in the world. Alternatively, serious golf fanatics must venture a short car drive from Aberdeen to experience the cult classic course at Cruden Bay, with its seaside holes, par-4 14th and renowned green.

They Have Their Own Dialect

Doric, sing-songy and soothing to the soul, is the traditional local dialect in Aberdeen, along with many other parts of north-east Scotland. Although not as common as it used to be, it is still used today, with the annual Doric Festival taking place in Aberdeenshire. Those lucky enough to witness it should savour it.

The Maritime Museum Is Worth A Visit

Situated in the heart of the city, the Aberdeen Maritime Museum hosts a splendid array of exhibitions, interactive displays and multimedia presentations, all of which tell the important story of the North Sea. From truths about offshore oil and fishing, to shipping, and life at sea, the multitude of collections, paintings and objects provide a riveting educational experience.

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Heather in vivid bloom in the Cairngorms / Image: Adobe Stock

7 reasons to fly to Aberdeen

The Scottish 'Granite City' is handsome, compact and a great base for visiting the wild countryside and coast. Here's how to feast on the riches of the northeast

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Words by Euan Ferguson

1. The city is an underappreciated gem

In Scotland, the magical Edinburgh and the culturally overachieving Glasgow often hog the city-break limelight, leaving Aberdeen, the country’s third-biggest, somewhat in the wings. That’s a shame – it’s got a character all its own, and makes a great spot for a memorable weekend. It’s known as ‘the Granite City’: the stone used in its grand streets and buildings sparkle on a sunny day and look moody and imposing the rest of the time. The North Sea’s on the doorstep, so Aberdeen's nautical connections are everywhere (sail over to the Maritime Museum in Shiprow for a primer). With two universities, great galleries and museums, and a certain affluence thanks to all the offshore oil companies present, the city has an understated sophistication that rewards the inquisitive visitor.

2. It's got the coast with the most

Fancy a sandy beach to rival the Caribbean? You’ll find it in Aberdeenshire, even if it doesn’t come with the same balmy temperatures. The city itself has a lovely one, but make the short jaunt to the dunes of Balmedie Country Park or the Sands of Forvie for emptier, grander sweeps. Quaint fishing villages abound too, like Cornwall without the crowds: set the satnav for Gardenstown, Portsoy or Pennan, which was made famous in the Mark Knopfler-scored Local Hero (of 1983). And the hardy can get even closer to the brine: in places the waves are very surfable, plus the town of Stonehaven has a delightful heated, open-air pool that’s kept swimmers happy since the 1930s.

3. It’s near the wild and beautiful Cairngorms

One of Europe’s most dramatically unspoilt landscapes, the Cairngorms National Park is only 90 minutes’ drive from Aberdeen and is heaven for outdoorsy types. Some of the UK’s highest peaks are here, providing skiing (when there's enough snow), hiking, mountaineering, rambling and even dog sledding. The park has a plethora of wildlife, from mountain hares and red squirrels to golden eagles and ospreys. But if you just want to admire it from a car window or cosy hotel, the scenery is endlessly invigorating, with craggy outcrops, forested hills, tumbling rivers and desolate moors. At its heart is Braemar, the perfect Highland village, home to the Fife Arms, the perfect Highland hotel.

4. The whole region's a foodie treat

With the North Sea a constant neighbour, the fish round here is off the scale – the Bay in Stonehaven has some of the finest haddock and chips you’ll taste anywhere, and Fraserburgh is the biggest shellfish port in Europe: mussel in on the action at the Captain’s Table, where everything comes straight off the boats. Ever heard of Aberdeen Angus? Those famous cows hail from here originally, so the beef in these parts is top class. Try Vovem in Aberdeen, where the steaks are proudly local. And in the town of Ellon, just north of the city, is the Brewdog HQ, from where a microbrewery grew into a global craft beer behemoth.   Visit the taproom and drink from the source.

5. It’s a swinger's paradise

In Aberdeenshire, golfers are in battle with the elements as well as their own handicaps, but that means the clubs in the region are beloved of true connoisseurs of the game. The many links courses here often back on to the sea and are hilly, windy, bumpy challenges (book a round at Royal Aberdeen or Murcar Links). Inland you’ll find the 18-hole Ballater Golf Club, in the heart of the Cairngorms – possibly the most scenic course in Britain. 

6. History is around every corner

Dunnottar Castle, perched romantically on a green promontory on the edge of the grey North Sea, is possibly the most-photographed ruin in Scotland. It’s just one of hundreds of stately piles that dot this shire in various states of repair, from the inhabited to the crumbling (the atmospheric New Slains Castle at Cruden Bay apparently inspired Bram Stoker, writer of Dracula ). The most famous castle here is of course Balmoral, purchased by Queen Victoria and now a northern holiday home for the Windsors; their longstanding presence gives the stunning Royal Deeside area its name. You can visit the grounds and gardens for a slightly better idea of how HM holidays.

7. It flows with the finest whisky

Speyside has more distilleries than any other whisky region of Scotland, thanks to its proximity to barley farms and the soft waters of the Spey. Its malts are praised for their smooth, sweet, easy-drinking style, and the world’s biggest selling Scotches, Glenlivet and Glenfiddich, are local. But look further and you’ll find some real aficionado's drams, including those from Benromach, An Cnoc and Tamdhu – its Single Cask Distillery Manager's Edition was declared the world's best in a prestigious awards ceremony last year. Most distilleries have tours which, thankfully, include a tasting: the City of Aberdeen Distillery is the first whisky-maker there for 80 years, and is a modern foil to the traditions of Speyside; for an even more upstart experience, Brewdog threw a cat among the pigeons when it started distilling in Ellon, Aberdeenshire. 

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Think road trips with coastal views, walking tours taking in iconic city centre sites, incredible cycling paths that run through Royal Deeside - there’s a route with your name on it.

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Discover the “The Secret Malts of Aberdeenshire”, produced by distilleries dating from the 18th and 19th centuries

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8 reasons to visit Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire this winter

10 August 2018

Thinking about your winter trip already? The year is passing quickly; we’ll be talking snow, Christmas presents, winter markets, New Year celebrations mulled wine and of course, food, before you know it!. Get inspired to wrap up cosy and embrace the crisp, fresh, magical wintry feel in North-east Scotland. A visit to Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire is different at every time of year but for many winter holds a special magical place in their hearts.

Winter sun is a thing of the past, here’s 8 reasons to visit Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire this winter:

1. The dark nights allow for spectacular light festivals and ceremonies , not to mention stargazing

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2. Our castles look magical as ever

3. our wildlife laps up the snow, 4. the outdoor adventure scene adapts beautifully... mountaineering anyone, 5. the snow roads driving route, 6. our winter village brings out the child within, 7. old aberdeen somehow becomes even more idyllic, 8. the region generally just looks beautiful dusted in snow.

Get into the spirit of Christmas with our Festive Season events calendar .

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The Language Learning Specialists

10 reasons to visit….. Aberdeen

I recently spent a lovely weekend in the sunny seaside port of Aberdeen. Well, maybe not that sunny (in fact I recommend a very wooly hat), but I still have a strong top 10 things to do there:

• The Maritime Museum

   Far and away the best thing to do with your time in Aberdeen- and it’s free! And it’s open on a Sunday! The focus is largely on the oil industry (and when you’re wandering round Aberdeen you find yourself asking all sorts of questions about rigs and life aboard, which are all answered in the museum). As you wind your way up to the impressive viewing platform on the top floor, you’ll not only pass plenty of interesting displays on diving vessels, safety standards, drilling techniques and the various types of oil rig, but also have chance to get really involved in some of the techniques yourself, thanks to the interactive games. Just elbow the kids out of the way (I’m pretty sure these games are for adults too) and then have a go at manoeuvring a diving vessel through the murky water to locate an oil leak, or trying to guide a huge virtual ship into dock in Aberdeen harbour.

• The Ashvale Whale

Just out of the centre is a famed Fish N Chip restaurant, The Ashvale. Order an Ashvale Whale and take on the challenge to defeat the whale- by eating it. Winners are rewarded with the offer of a second, free Whale (really?) or a free desert, as well as a certificate testifying that you did, in fact, eat the said whale (actually a pretty huge bit of fish, for all of those who are worried!).

Local to Aberdeen is the ‘buttery’, or ‘butt’ as I heard it called, a very flat bread roll sold in most bakeries for around 30p a piece. Very salty and chewy, they were originally made as a food for fishermen- something that wouldn’t go stale at sea.

• Macaroni Cheese Pie

Whilst ordering your butts, add a cheeky macaroni cheese pie to your basket. More local to Scotland than specifically Aberdeen, the macaroni cheese pie is absolutely the best combination of two wonderful foods (macaroni cheese and pie!) in one handily pocket-sized snack

  If you walk all the way around the town to the northern headland, through all the desolate rubble of the working harbour, you’ll quite suddenly find yourself in the little oasis of Footdee (Fittie to locals). This tiny fishing village, moved repeatedly as the harbour expanded, is a grid-work of incredibly well-kept cottages, all looking inwards on each other, with beautiful courtyards and pristine allotments

• Marischal College

Often referred to as the granite city, Aberdeen is full of imposing, giant buildings, and the main street is one very long testament to granite. Make sure you walk by Marischal College, the second biggest granite building in the world and the most stunning building in Aberdeen, with its intricately decorative granite spires.

• Some very varied and old pubs

There are, of course, plenty of pubs in Aberdeen- this is a student town and a working port. Ma Cameron’s, a rabbit-warren of a pub with a very cosy ‘snug’ bar tempting you in from the street, is highly recommended.

• Doric Scots

Aberdeenshire is famous for its own language, Doric Scots. Don’t be too alarmed if you’re addressed with the phrase ‘Fit like?’, (‘How are you?’) and proceed to be slightly baffled by the rest of the conversation. To learn some essential Scots phrases, get uTalk .

• Whisky tour

In Aberdeenshire, you’re spoilt for choice when it comes to distilleries. Although you have to go a couple of miles out of the town to get to one, the region is scattered with distilleries both big and tiny, and it would be a shame to visit the town without making time for a tour and learning a little bit more about how the water of life is made.

10.  Aberdeen harbour

The harbour at Aberdeen is endlessly fascinating and there is a fairly constant activity of large ships and pilot boats. To see the comings and goings of the ships, I recommend walking around to the southern peninsula, via Greyhope Road- a very relaxing afternoon stroll- where you’ll get a clear view over Fittie and the harbour mouth.

Have you ever been to Aberdeen and tried any of the local delicacies? We want to hear about your experience.

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