Discover Aberdeen | A Visitor's Introduction to Aberdeen

Aberdeen's Special Features and Attractions

Aberdeen Maritime Museum: Situated in the heart of the city, the Aberdeen Maritime Museum provides fascinating insights into the city’s long and rich maritime history. The museum covers everything from the shipbuilding and fishing industries to the modern-day oil and gas exploration in the North Sea. Interactive displays, ship models, and historic artifacts make this a must-visit for anyone interested in maritime history.

Union Street and Union Square: Union Street is Aberdeen’s main thoroughfare, bustling with shops, restaurants, and historic buildings. It stretches for nearly a mile and is often referred to as the ‘Granite Mile’. For more contemporary shopping and dining experiences, Union Square Shopping Centre offers a wide range of high-street retailers, eateries, and a cinema.

Aberdeen Art Gallery: The recently renovated Aberdeen Art Gallery is home to an impressive collection of artworks, including pieces by renowned artists such as Monet, Renoir, and Hockney. The gallery also hosts temporary exhibitions and events, making it a lively cultural hub. The building itself is an architectural gem, blending classical and modern styles.

Old Aberdeen and King’s College: A walk through Old Aberdeen is like stepping back in time. This historic area is home to cobbled streets, ancient buildings, and the beautiful King’s College, part of the University of Aberdeen. The college’s crown tower is a notable landmark, and the nearby Cruickshank Botanic Garden offers a peaceful retreat with its diverse plant collections.

Duthie Park and David Welch Winter Gardens: Duthie Park is one of Aberdeen’s most beloved green spaces, offering 44 acres of beautifully maintained gardens, ponds, and recreational areas. The David Welch Winter Gardens, located within the park, is one of Europe’s largest indoor gardens and features a stunning array of tropical plants, cacti, and seasonal displays.

Aberdeen Dining and Nightlife

Aberdeen's dining scene is diverse and dynamic, reflecting its coastal location and multicultural population. For a taste of fresh seafood, The Silver Darling offers exquisite dishes with panoramic views of the harbour. Moonfish Café is another popular spot, known for its innovative menu and extensive gin selection.

For a more casual dining experience, The Machar Bar in Old Aberdeen provides traditional pub fare in a historic setting, while Bread Maker, a community-focused café, offers delicious homemade bread and pastries. Aberdeen also boasts a lively nightlife, with venues like The Tunnels and Underdog hosting live music and DJ sets.

Shopping in Aberdeen

In addition to Union Street and Union Square, Aberdeen offers unique shopping experiences in its independent boutiques and specialty shops. The Academy shopping centre provides a mix of fashion, lifestyle, and dining options in a stylish setting. The Merchant Quarter is known for its eclectic mix of shops, cafes, and restaurants, reflecting the city’s creative and entrepreneurial spirit.

Practical Tips

Transport: Aberdeen is well-connected by public transport. The main railway station, Aberdeen Station, offers regular services to major cities in Scotland and England. The city also has an extensive bus network, and Aberdeen International Airport provides flights to numerous domestic and international destinations.
Accommodation: Aberdeen offers a wide range of accommodation to suit all budgets. The Marcliffe Hotel and Spa provides luxury in a tranquil setting, while Sandman Signature Aberdeen Hotel offers contemporary comforts in the city center. For budget travelers, Holiday Inn Express and Ibis offer affordable and convenient options.
Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Aberdeen is during the summer months (June to August) when the weather is milder and the city’s parks and gardens are in full bloom. However, the city’s festive celebrations, particularly the Winter Festival and Christmas Village, make it a charming destination during the winter months as well.