Discover Aberdeen | A Visitor's Introduction to Aberdeen

Why is Aberdeen Worth a Visit?

Aberdeen is worth visiting for its unique combination of history, stunning coastal beauty, and vibrant cultural scene. The city’s granite architecture gives it a distinctive look, and its rich history, from the days of its medieval university to its modern role as the energy capital of Europe, is woven into the fabric of the city. Visitors can explore its charming old town, beautiful parks, and excellent museums, or enjoy a seaside stroll along its golden beaches. Aberdeen also serves as a gateway to the surrounding countryside, with its castles, distilleries, and the dramatic landscapes of Royal Deeside and the Cairngorms National Park. Whether you're interested in exploring Scottish history, tasting local whisky, or enjoying coastal walks, Aberdeen is an exciting and diverse destination.

Aberdeen Highlights: Things to See and Do in Aberdeen

1. Aberdeen Maritime Museum

Located near the bustling harbour, the Aberdeen Maritime Museum tells the story of the city’s long relationship with the sea, from its historic fishing industry to its more recent role in the North Sea oil industry. The museum is housed in a beautiful old building and features interactive exhibits, ship models, and a collection of artefacts related to Aberdeen’s seafaring past. One of the museum’s highlights is its detailed explanation of the offshore oil industry, with displays of oil rigs and subsea technology, offering a fascinating insight into the industry that has shaped modern Aberdeen.

2. Old Aberdeen

A walk through Old Aberdeen feels like stepping back in time. This historic district is home to the beautiful King’s College, part of the University of Aberdeen, which dates back to 1495 and features a stunning crown steeple. The cobbled streets are lined with ancient buildings, including the impressive St Machar’s Cathedral, a striking 12th-century church with distinctive twin towers. Old Aberdeen’s peaceful atmosphere makes it a perfect place to wander and soak up the city’s medieval history.

3. Duthie Park and the David Welch Winter Gardens

Duthie Park is one of Aberdeen’s most beloved green spaces, offering beautifully landscaped gardens, open lawns, and a boating pond. At the heart of the park are the David Welch Winter Gardens, one of the largest indoor gardens in Europe, home to an impressive collection of exotic plants, cacti, and tropical species. The glasshouse is a peaceful retreat and a perfect place to explore in any weather. The park also hosts regular events and activities, making it a great spot for families.

4. Aberdeen Art Gallery

Recently refurbished, the Aberdeen Art Gallery is one of Scotland’s top cultural attractions, housing an impressive collection of fine art, sculptures, and contemporary works. The gallery’s collection spans over 700 years, with pieces by famous artists such as Monet, Renoir, and Tracey Emin. The building itself is a work of art, with its stunning architecture blending the old and the new. The gallery also offers temporary exhibitions, making it a dynamic cultural hub in the city centre.

5. Footdee (Fittie)

Tucked away at the far end of Aberdeen’s beach is the charming historic fishing village of Footdee, known locally as Fittie. This quirky area is a hidden gem, with small, brightly painted cottages arranged around courtyards, giving it a distinct village feel. Originally designed as housing for local fishermen in the 19th century, Footdee’s colourful homes and quaint atmosphere make it a peaceful spot for a stroll, offering a contrast to the modern city just minutes away.

6. Aberdeen Beach

Aberdeen Beach is a long, sandy stretch of coastline just a short walk from the city centre. It’s a popular spot for locals and visitors alike, offering a variety of activities including water sports, beachside cafés, and an amusement park. The Esplanade is perfect for a seaside walk, with stunning views of the North Sea. Aberdeen Beach is also known for its dramatic sunrises, and on a clear day, you can even spot dolphins swimming near the harbour.

7. Crathes Castle

A short drive from Aberdeen, Crathes Castle is one of the most beautiful castles in Scotland, surrounded by stunning formal gardens and ancient woodland. The castle, with its fairy-tale turrets and striking stonework, dates back to the 16th century and is full of fascinating period features, including painted ceilings and antique furniture. The grounds offer plenty of opportunities for walks and picnics, and the castle is located on the edge of the Royal Deeside area, making it a great stop on a tour of the region.

8. The Gordon Highlanders Museum

For military history enthusiasts, the Gordon Highlanders Museum offers a fascinating insight into the history of this famous Scottish regiment. The museum covers 200 years of military history, including stories from the Napoleonic Wars to the World Wars, with exhibits featuring uniforms, medals, and personal stories of the soldiers. The museum is set in a former Victorian mansion, with lovely gardens where you can enjoy tea and cakes in the café.

9. Union Street and the City Centre

Union Street is the main thoroughfare of Aberdeen, lined with impressive granite buildings, shops, restaurants, and bars. It’s a great place to experience the city’s vibrant atmosphere and offers excellent shopping, from high-street brands to independent boutiques. Nearby, Belmont Street is home to a range of quirky shops, cafés, and the Belmont Filmhouse, an independent cinema that screens a mix of classic films and the latest releases.

10. Day Trip to Royal Deeside

Royal Deeside, located to the west of Aberdeen, is a stunning region known for its castles, forests, and scenic river valleys. It’s also the location of the Balmoral Castle, the Scottish residence of the Royal Family. While Balmoral itself is open to the public only at certain times of the year, the surrounding area is perfect for exploring, with walking trails, quaint villages like Ballater, and attractions like Loch Muick offering beautiful landscapes and wildlife.

Practical Advice for Visitors

Getting There:

Aberdeen is easily accessible by air, rail, and road. Aberdeen International Airport is located just 7 miles from the city centre, with regular flights from major UK and European cities. The Aberdeen Railway Station offers direct services to Edinburgh, Glasgow, and London, with the Caledonian Sleeper providing an overnight option from London. If you're driving, Aberdeen is connected via the A90 from Edinburgh and Dundee, and the A96 from Inverness.

Getting Around:

Aberdeen’s city centre is compact and walkable, with most attractions within easy reach of each other. For longer journeys, the city has an extensive bus network operated by First Aberdeen, with buses running frequently to all parts of the city and beyond. Taxis are widely available, and cycling is a great option, with several dedicated cycle paths around the city.

Parking:

There are several car parks located throughout the city centre, including Union Square Car Park, Trinity Centre Car Park, and Gallowgate Car Park, all offering convenient access to major attractions. On-street parking is available but can be limited during peak times, so it’s advisable to use car parks if you’re visiting the city centre.

Dining:

Aberdeen’s dining scene is diverse, with everything from traditional Scottish fare to modern international cuisine. For a true taste of the region, try Moonfish Café, known for its seafood dishes, or The Silver Darling, which offers fantastic views of the harbour and locally sourced seafood. For a more casual meal, Foodstory is a popular café with a focus on organic, vegetarian, and vegan options. If you're craving something traditional, head to The Grill, an Aberdeen institution serving a fine selection of whisky and hearty Scottish meals.

Shopping:

Aberdeen offers a great mix of high-street shopping and unique local finds. Union Square is the city’s main shopping mall, home to well-known brands and a variety of restaurants. For more independent shops, head to The Academy and Belmont Street, where you’ll find quirky boutiques, artisan goods, and vintage clothing. Don’t miss The Aberdeen Country Fair, held monthly on Belmont Street, where you can pick up local produce, crafts, and gifts.

When to Visit:

Aberdeen is a year-round destination, though the best time to visit is during the warmer months between May and September, when the weather is mild, and outdoor activities are in full swing. Spring and summer are perfect for enjoying Aberdeen’s parks, beaches, and nearby countryside. Winter in Aberdeen can be cold and windy, but the city’s festive Christmas lights, markets, and cosy pubs create a magical atmosphere during the holiday season.

Local Events:

Aberdeen hosts a number of events throughout the year. The Aberdeen International Youth Festival, held every summer, showcases talented young performers from around the world in music, dance, and theatre. The Spectra Festival of Light, held in February, transforms the city with stunning light installations and visual art. Aberdeen Restaurant Week is another highlight, giving visitors the chance to sample the best of the city's cuisine with special menus and events at top restaurants.

Exploring Beyond Aberdeen:

Aberdeen is the perfect base for exploring the wider region of Aberdeenshire and the Scottish Highlands. Just an hour’s drive away is Cairngorms National Park, offering breathtaking landscapes and outdoor activities such as hiking, skiing, and wildlife spotting. Dunnottar Castle, located near Stonehaven, is a dramatic cliff-top fortress offering spectacular views of the North Sea. Whisky lovers can take a tour along the Malt Whisky Trail, visiting some of Scotland’s finest distilleries in the nearby Speyside region.