Things To Do
in Dundee
Dundee is a compact, waterfront city on the River Tay in Scotland, blending industrial heritage with modern design and culture. Its riverside walkways, galleries, and museums create a walkable core anchored by the V&A Dundee and Discovery Point. The city has a youthful energy from the universities and a growing reputation for cuisine and creative industry.
With easy access to nearby coastal towns and golf courses, Dundee serves as a convenient base for exploring central Scotland and the eastern coast.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the iconic Discovery Point, home to the RRS Discovery. Explore the fascinating exhibits that tell the story of Captain Scott's Antarctic expedition. Enjoy a hearty breakfast at a nearby café, fueling up for your adventures ahead.
Stroll through the historic streets of Dundee, stopping by the McManus Art Gallery & Museum to admire its impressive collection. Afterward, take a leisurely walk along the picturesque waterfront, soaking in the views of the River Tay. For lunch, try some local fare at one of the charming restaurants in the area.
As the sun sets, head to the V&A Dundee, an architectural marvel, to explore its evening exhibitions. Enjoy dinner at a riverside restaurant, savoring fresh seafood while watching the lights dance on the water. Conclude your day with a leisurely walk along the waterfront, taking in the serene atmosphere.
Begin your day at Broughty Ferry Beach, where the golden sands invite you for a refreshing morning walk. Enjoy the cool sea breeze as you explore the nearby Broughty Ferry Castle, a 15th-century fortress overlooking the water. Grab a coffee and pastry at a local café to energize yourself for the beach activities ahead.
Spend your afternoon indulging in various water sports, such as kayaking or paddleboarding, available at the beach. For lunch, picnic on the beach or choose a cozy eatery in Broughty Ferry, sampling local fish and chips. Take some time to relax on the beach, sunbathing or building sandcastles.
As the day winds down, enjoy a scenic sunset over the North Sea from the beach. Dine at one of the charming seaside restaurants, enjoying fresh seafood while listening to the sound of the waves. Wrap up the evening with a leisurely stroll along the promenade, absorbing the tranquil atmosphere.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| ☕Coffee at a café | $3-6 |
| 🥗Lunch for two at mid-range restaurant | $25-40 |
| 🛒Weekly groceries for one | $40-70 |
| 🚆One-day public transit pass | $6-8 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Compact city with a scenic riverfront and strong design heritage
- Top attractions like V&A Dundee and Discovery Point
- Walkable city centre with easy access to parks and museums
- Excellent seafood and Scottish cuisine, plus cosy pubs
- Good base for day trips to Carnoustie, St Andrews, and coastal towns
- Weather can be changeable and damp
- Smaller nightlife compared with Scotland's bigger cities
- Some attractions may be seasonally busy
- Limited direct international flight options from Dundee itself
Places to Visit in Dundee
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic view of the RSS Discovery with the River Tay and city skyline as a backdrop; strong morning light is ideal.
A striking architectural landmark on the waterfront; best photographed from the riverfront or Slessor Gardens at golden hour.
A hilltop vantage point offering panoramic views of the city, River Tay, and Firth of Tay; a rewarding uphill walk.
Coastal scenery with the castle ruins in the distance; ideal for moody seascapes and sunset shots.
Modern urban greenery along the river with views of the V&A Dundee; great for candid street photography and architecture shots.
Food in Dundee
Dundee Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A classic Scottish combination of seasoned sheep's stomach casing (haggis) with mashed turnips (neeps) and potatoes (tatties). Common in pubs and traditional eateries around the city centre.
Must-Try!
Local smoked fish options served as a starter or part of a seafood main, commonly found in waterfront restaurants and seafood cafes.
A warming, whisky-laced chowder featuring local seafood; look for this at seafood-focused venues along the waterfront.
Classic Scottish desserts available in bakeries and cafés across Dundee.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Monthly market in the city centre offering local produce, bread, cheese, and seasonal treats.
Seasonal stalls along the riverfront on weekends, offering a rotating mix of local and regional street food.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Queue patiently in public spaces, greet with a friendly 'hello' or 'hi,' and say please and thank you in everyday interactions.
Respect established queues and avoid loud disruption in quiet places like libraries or museums.
Safety
Tipping in Dundee
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is customary but not obligatory. If service charges are not included, around 10-15% in restaurants is typical in the UK; rounding up at cafes or pubs is common for good service.
Cash and cards are widely accepted; contactless payments, Apple Pay, and other mobile wallets are commonly used in shops, pubs, and restaurants.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Long daylight hours with mild to warm temperatures; occasional showers. Waterfront events and outdoor dining are popular.
Crisp air and colorful foliage in parks like Camperdown and along the river; fewer crowds, good for photography and quiet strolls.
Cool to cold temperatures with short days; occasional frost and wind from the sea. City bridges and lights create atmospheric evening scenes.
Rising temperatures and blooming trees in parks; outdoor seating returns and attractions reopen after winter.
Dundee at Night
Hiking in Dundee
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Rolling uplands a short drive northwest offering scenic hikes and panoramic views.
Woodland and lakeside trails within Camperdown Park, close to the city centre.
A climb to the Law with city and river views; rewarding for a moderate hike.
Gentle woodland trails just outside the city for easy walks and birdwatching.
Airports
How to reach Dundee by plane.
About 60-70 miles from Dundee; excellent rail and road connections via the East Coast Main Line and A90.
Approximately 60-90 miles from Dundee; frequent domestic and international flights; rail connections via Glasgow to Dundee.
Around 110-120 miles from Dundee; serves regional and international flights; reachable by rail and road.
A small regional airport with limited commercial options; check current status for services.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A sizable student population from the University of Dundee and Abertay University contributes to a dynamic, youthful city centre and West End.
Local families and long-term residents form a stable community across the city and nearby suburbs.
A growing international community, including students and professionals from Europe and beyond.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Dundee has two senior clubs, Dundee FC and Dundee United FC, with a passionate local following and derby matches that define the city’s football culture.
World-class golf is nearby, with Carnoustie and St Andrews within easy reach for day trips and spectacular coastal courses.
Local rugby clubs and university matches contribute to the regional sports scene, alongside other amateur and school competitions.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Dundee.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian travelers will find numerous veggie mains in pubs and bistros; many places offer clearly labeled options and can adapt dishes if requested.