Things To Do
in Aberdeen
Aberdeen, known as the Granite City, sits on the North Sea coast of northeast Scotland. Its streets gleam with imposing granite buildings that catch the light after rain and give the city a distinctive character. The waterfront, maritime history, and vibrant cultural scene blend into a compact, walkable center with easy access to castles, glens, and beaches.
A university-driven energy and friendly locals give Aberdeen a welcoming, practical base for exploring northeast Scotland.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a visit to the magnificent Marischal College, the second-largest granite building in the world. Stroll through the nearby Union Square, where you can enjoy a leisurely breakfast at one of the charming cafes. As you explore the historic architecture, take in the rich history that has shaped this vibrant city.
In the afternoon, head to the Aberdeen Maritime Museum to discover the city's maritime heritage, featuring engaging exhibits on shipbuilding and the North Sea oil industry. Afterward, take a walk along the picturesque waterfront, enjoying the fresh sea breeze and scenic views of the harbor. Stop by one of the local fish and chip shops for a classic Aberdeen lunch.
As the sun sets, enjoy a lovely dinner at a traditional Scottish restaurant in the city center, savoring local delicacies such as haggis or Cullen skink. After your meal, consider catching a live performance at His Majesty’s Theatre, where you can experience the vibrant arts scene of Aberdeen. Conclude your evening with a peaceful walk along the river, soaking in the tranquil atmosphere.
Start your morning with a hearty breakfast at a local cafe, then make your way to the picturesque coast of Aberdeen. Walk along the sandy beaches of Aberdeen, taking in the stunning views of the North Sea and the iconic lighthouse at Girdleness. The fresh ocean air will invigorate you as you enjoy the natural beauty of this coastal gem.
After your coastal walk, have a picnic lunch at Torry Battery, a historic site with panoramic views of the harbor and city. Spend the afternoon exploring the nearby Duthie Park, where you can admire beautiful gardens and even visit the Winter Gardens, which hosts a variety of tropical plants. Enjoy a leisurely stroll or find a cozy spot to relax and soak up the serenity of nature.
As evening approaches, head to one of the seaside restaurants for a fresh seafood dinner, where you can enjoy the day’s catch while listening to the waves. After dinner, take a leisurely stroll along the promenade, watching the sunset cast colorful hues over the horizon. Wrap up your day with a nightcap at a cozy pub, enjoying the local atmosphere.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-15 |
| ☕Coffee | $3-5 |
| 🍽️Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $40-60 |
| 🚆Public transit day pass | $6-9 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $100-180 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Coastal city with distinctive granite architecture and a short walk to the sea
- Strong seafood scene, easy access to the countryside and Royal Deeside
- Windy conditions can be chilly even in summer
- Some central sights can be busy during peak tourist seasons
Places to Visit in Aberdeen
Visit one of these nice places.
One of the world’s largest granite buildings; dramatic facades and sharp urban lines perfect for architectural photography.
Quaint, colorful cottages and harbor views create charming, postcard-worthy scenes.
A historic stretch with bold granite architecture and lively urban energy.
Wide sandy shoreline and broad skies offer striking seaside light and sunset opportunities.
Lush glasshouse setting with vibrant plant life and seasonal floral displays.
Food in Aberdeen
Aberdeen Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A creamy smoked haddock soup from nearby coastal towns; try it in coastal pubs and seafood restaurants.
Must-Try!
Smoked haddock prepared in a simple, smoky style; often served as a plate, sandwich, or starter in local eateries.
Classic Scottish dish offering a hearty introduction to local flavors; widely available in pubs and bistros.
Charles-based beef renowned for its flavor; found in grills, pubs, and modern Scottish restaurants.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal market in the city center offering seafood, cheeses, baked goods, and seasonal produce; great for sampling local flavors.
Occasional street food stalls around the harbor area offering fresh seafood bites, pies, and quick lunches.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Polite greetings are appreciated; British-style queuing is observed in shops, cafés, and public transport.
Be considerate in quiet residential areas and historic sites; keep noise reasonable and follow local guidelines at venues and venues.
Dress in layers and be prepared for wind and rain, especially near the coast and at sea.
Safety
Tipping in Aberdeen
Ensure a smooth experience
In the UK, tips are customary but not mandatory. If a service charge isn’t included, 10-15% is common in restaurants; small tips for good service in pubs or cafes are appreciated but not expected.
Card payments (including contactless) are widely accepted; cash is still useful for smaller vendors and markets.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Long daylight hours with mild, breezy days; sea breezes keep temperatures comfortable. Pack layers for variable conditions and enjoy outdoor dining and coastal walks.
Cooler temperatures with frequent showers; vibrant coastal scenery and autumn markets—great for photography and city walks.
Typically cool and windy with occasional snowfall; days are shorter, but city lights and harbor views are dramatic.
Rising daylight and budding gardens; mild temperatures with a mix of sun and showers—perfect for outdoor exploration.
Aberdeen at Night
Hiking in Aberdeen
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A popular hill near Inverurie offering panoramic views and well-marked trails through historic landscape.
A long-distance trail along the River Dee from Aberdeen to Ballater with varied scenery.
Stunning lake and mountain scenery within the Cairngorms National Park; fantastic for day hikes.
Airports
How to reach Aberdeen by plane.
Located about 6 miles from the city center; easy to reach by road, bus, or taxi.
Approximately 110 miles north; useful for accessing the Highlands and Cairngorms.
A major international hub about 140 miles south; connections by train or road via central Scotland.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A sizable student presence from the University of Aberdeen and Robert Gordon University shapes the local vibe and nightlife.
Many work in education, healthcare, and energy sectors with growing start-up scenes.
Diverse neighborhoods with a mix of urban amenities and quieter residential areas.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Supporters cheer local teams; Pittodrie Stadium hosts league matches and matches with a strong community following.
Several top courses nearby including Royal Aberdeen and Cruden Bay for scenic rounds.
Active amateur clubs and winter curling culture in the region.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Aberdeen.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many Aberdeen venues offer meat-free options and veggie specials; ask about soups, veggie mains, and salads. Look for fish-free options if needed and consider building a custom plate from sides and mains.
Most pubs and cafes can accommodate gluten-free needs; request clearly in menus and consider dishes built from vegetables, meats, and gluten-free grains (e.g., GF bread, oats).