places to visit north of 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.

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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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15 Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Aberdeen

Written by Bryan Dearsley Updated Dec 22, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

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

1. Visit Historic St. Machar's Cathedral

2. head back to school: visit the university and king's college of aberdeen, 3. cross brig o'balgownie, scotland's oldest bridge, 4. visit the tolbooth museum, aberdeen's most haunted building, 5. see the mercat cross, 6. get your floral fix at duthie park and david welch winter gardens, 7. explore the work of scottish artists at aberdeen art gallery, 8. tour aberdeen's oldest home: provost skene's house, 9. take a drive to crathes castle, 10. aberdeen maritime museum, 11. take a day trip to craigievar castle, 12. see the queen's balmoral castle, 13. follow your green thumb to cruickshank botanic gardens, 14. aberdeen science centre, 15. 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 .

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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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Ancient sites and symbols, mysterious standing stones, towering granite walls and legendary castles mark Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire as a heartland of Scottish history.

The panoramic views and elemental power of our courses can take a golfer’s breath away. We are home to some of the world's most famous and challenging golf courses.

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Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire have long been serving up some of Scotland’s most premium local produce creating a name for itself as an iconic food destination.

From the Turf

Find a restaurant in Aberdeen & Aberdeenshire serving world-class Aberdeen-Angus beef, venison and local wild game.

From the Surf

With our coastal location you can enjoy some of the freshest fish and seafood in the world. Find and book a restaurant in Aberdeen or Aberdeenshire.

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Whatever your reason, if you’re looking for vegetarian or vegan food, we’ve got you covered.

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

Aberdeenshire is leading the craft beer revolution. Here you'll find Brewdog's brewery and flagship bar, and many other bars serving up their very own delicious beers.

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Enjoy stylish bars, traditional Scottish pubs and vibrant nightlife in Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire.

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Satisfy your sweet tooth with stylish afternoon teas, famous ice cream parlours and freshly baked cakes & local delicacies

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If time's against you, try one of these many takeaway options for a hearty and healthy meal on the move.

Sunday Roast

Celebrate the Sunday Roast tradition with your family and friends at a selection of our cafes, restaurants and bistros.

Breakfast & Brunch

Kick start your day with a locally produced breakfast or brunch. It’s the most important meal of the day, after all!

Enjoy a lunch with a view, watch the world go by in a quaint café, or relax alfresco in one of our award winning parks or gardens

Evening Meal

Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire are well known for rich local produce with restaurants serving up fresh seafood, Aberdeen Angus Beef and wild game

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Accommodation in Aberdeen & Aberdeenshire

Stay in quirky coastal carriages, welcoming B&Bs, and chic boutique hotels. We have something to suit all tastes and budgets

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Aberdeen is well connected globally with its own international airport, railway station, ferry terminal and bus station

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Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire can be easily explored by most modes of transport

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Cruise guests

Welcome to Aberdeen - visit unforgettable foodie spots, picturesque landmarks and glorious outdoor spaces while you're in the city.

Things to do

Visit fairy-tale castles, explore culture at Aberdeen Art Gallery, discover royal connections, be inspired by film famous locations and even bag a Scottish Munro!

Enjoy your next city break in Aberdeen, Scotland's third largest city. Aberdeen is a compact city with wide open spaces.

Where to stay

Expect a hotel with its own Picasso, quirky coastal glamping carriages, log cabins in the Scottish glens, boutique hotels and even majestic castles!

Take on the challenge of Munro-bagging as you scale legends, mountain bike extreme terrains or get out on the open waters paddleboarding, surfing and kayaking!

Where to eat and drink

Sample world-famous quality food and drink - Aberdeen Angus Beef, fresh seafood, Scottish whisky and local craft beer including BrewDog.

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Filled with more natural and historical mystique than people, the region is a nature lover’s paradise for those that are willing to travel through its mist, mountains, rocks, and heather. Here you’ll find chambered cairns that are a testament to the skills of prehistoric builders and crag top castles with broken walls that tell the history of the Highlands’ turbulent past. Or you could explore the bigger cities, like Aberdeen, which was fuelled by the riches of North Sea oil and the dozens of whisky distilleries that dot the region.

Adding to the stunning scenery is a warm culture with friendly and engaging people. It is no wonder the northern Scotland region rarely fails to charm its visitors.

Visitors to the region will be welcomed with an array of activities and sights to see from woodland strolls, beachcombing, birdwatching, or sea kayaking – all finished off with an evening of relaxing by the crackling fire of a Highland pub at the end of the day. This region is sure to give you the best look at traditional Scotland and fulfil your dreams of this enchanting land.

Whether you’re visiting for a weekend, a week, or longer, here are eight great places to visit in northern Scotland to experience the best this region has to offer  as recommended by fellow travel bloggers.

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8 great places to visit in northern scotland.

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Places to Visit in Northern Scotland Map

Ullapool is a small picturesque village on the northwest coast of Scotland. It sits in the shores of Loch Broom, surrounded by some of Scotland’s most iconic mountains. The current layout of the original part of the village was designed by Thomas Telford in 1788 at a time when fishing was expanding as the main industry.

Today Ullapool is a popular tourist stop, although it is still renowned for its locally caught seafood. While many use it as a holiday base for exploring the Highlands, others only stop briefly as they make their way around the famous NC500 road route. The village is also home to the ferry port that connects the Scottish Mainland with the Isle of Lewis in the Outer Hebrides.

Its growth as a tourist destination has led to the creation of many independent galleries, shops and cafes. However, it still retains its historical charm.

MUST DO IN ULLAPOOL:

• Ullapool Museum :  Situated within an old church, the museum is a great place to learn about the history and culture of the village. For a small admission charge, you can view a number of exhibitions which include social history and the local industries of fishing and agriculture.
• Summer Isles Cruise : Take a boat trip from Ullapool harbour to the nearby Summer Isles. The archipelago consists of around 20 islands, rocks and skerries. The cruise takes you around the main islands and up close to geological features like ‘Cathedral Cave’. It is also possible to spot marine wildlife.
• Ullapool Hill : Starting at Broom Park in the village, this walk takes you up to the summit of Meal Mor. From the height of 270m, you can enjoy panoramic views over Ullapool, Loch Broom and out to the Summer Isles.

Contribution and Photo from Susanne of Adventures Around Scotland

Reviews of Ullapool Museum   |  Reviews of Summer Isles Cruise   |  Reviews of Ullapool Hill

Aberdeen is a city found in the northeast of Scotland and is often referred to as ‘The Granite City’ because of  the grey stone was used to build many of Aberdeen’s historic buildings. 

Aberdeen is a great base for those who like street art, craft beer and coastal views and there are many things to do in Aberdeen .  This walkable city boasts of parks, bars, shops, theatres and museums but the best museum, in my opinion, is on the city walls for all to see.  Look up at the towering murals by Smug, Zacharevic (pictured) and Helen Bur which are all part of the Aberdeen Nuart festival.

Speaking of festivals, Aberdeen has something happening each month from comedy to dance, tech to boats, there’s plenty of reasons to visit throughout the year.  If craft beer is your calling, Aberdeen is home to the flagship Brewdog beer hall, as well as 6 Degrees North and Fierce taprooms.  Dust the cobwebs away with an Aberdeenshire road trip to Slains Castle and Bullers of Buchan.

MUST DO IN ABERDEEN:

• Take a street art tour in the summer :  This is the best way to see the street art murals around the city as you hear the stories behind the spray.
• Visit the Tollbooth Museum : Step back in time to see how prisoners were treated and the types of convictions they served time for. You may be surprised! 
• Old Aberdeen : Wander the cobbled roads and walk among the university buildings and gardens. Contrast the old with the new at Sir Duncan Rice Library.

Contribution and Photo from Gemma of Two Scots Abroad

Reviews of Tollbooth Museum   |  Reviews of Old Aberdeen

Kirkwall is the capital of the Orkney Islands, a small archipelago located eight miles north of the Scottish mainland. It was first settled about 1000 years ago by Norse adventurers (the Vikings) who named it ‘Kirkjuvagar’ now Kirkwall meaning ‘Church on the bay’.

In the 12th century, the magnificent St Magnus Cathedral was built which is still dominant over the town with its rich stone design. In 1486 the town became a Royal Burgh, but in more recent times Kirkwall and nearby Scapa Flow was a strategic position during World War I and World War II with access to both the North Sea and the North Atlantic.

Today the town is home to about 9,000 people with the influences of the past still strong amongst the traditions of the islands. It has been named the best place to live in Scotland for the last eight years and has Scotland’s ‘Most Beautiful High Street’.

MUST DO IN KIRKWALL:

• St Magnus Cathedral : The cathedral is located in the centre of town and is known as the ‘Light in the North’. It was founded in 1137 by Earl Rognvald a Viking who started it in honour of his uncle, St Magnus, who was martyred in Orkney.
• Bishop’s and Earl’s Palaces : The Bishop’s Palace was built at the same time as St Magnus Cathedral and in the 1600’s Patrick Stewart the Earl of Orkney had the new, ornate Earl’s Palace built. Both are now in ruins.
• Orkney Museum : Orkney Museum is tucked away behind a huge wooden door and archway just across from St Magnus Cathedral. It is a treasure trove of everything Orkney from Neolithic finds to Orkney chairs and everything in between.

Contribution and Photo from Suzanne of Meandering Wild

Reviews of St. Magnus Cathedral   |  Reviews of Bishop’s and Earl’s Palaces   |  Reviews of Orkney Museum

READ MORE:  Looking for more great places to visit in Scotland? Check out these 8 great places to visit in Southeast Scotland !

ISLE OF SKYE

The Isle of Skye is absolutely breathtaking and should be included in any Scotland itinerary . Located off the west coast of Scotland , the Isle of Skye has some of the most impressive scenery in Scotland just waiting to be explored.  Measuring 50 miles in length, the Isle of Skye is the largest of the Hebrides islands and arguably the most impressive.

You can reach the Isle of Skye from the mainland of Scotland either by car via the Skye Bridge or by ferry from Mallaig to Armadale or Glenelg to Kylerhea. Whether you’re looking for rugged landscapes, picturesque villages, cascading waterfalls or medieval castles , the Isle of Skye has it all.

MUST DO IN ISLE OF SKYE:

• Old Man of Storr :   The ‘Old Man of Storr’ is one of the most photographed places in Scotland, if not the world, and for good reason. Part of the Trotternish Ridge, this spectacular rock formation requires a 45-minute (mostly uphill) hike to reach it but it’s entirely worth it. Walking through these rock pinnacles feels like you’ve been transported to another world. For a truly magical experience, hike up for sunrise where you’ll be rewarded with the most beautiful location for sunrise and experience the Old Man of Storr prior to the hordes of tourists.
• Kilt Rock and Mealt Falls: Kilt Rock is so named due to the basalt columns that give it the pleated appearance of a kilt. At the same viewpoint for Kilt Rock, you will also find Mealt Falls. At approximately 55m in height, this impressive waterfall plunges from the sea cliffs directly onto the beach below, with Kilt Rock as its backdrop.
• Quiraing:  Further north from Kilt Rock and the Old Man of Storr, Quiraing is another spectacular Scottish icon. A walk through Quiraing leads you amongst some of the most stunning scenery in Scotland and is a photographer’s dream.

Contribution and Photo from Sophie of We Dream of Travel

Reviews of Old Man of Storr   |  Reviews of Kilt Rock |  Reviews of Quiraing

The largest city in the Moray Speyside region, Elgin is home to only 23,000 inhabitants. Dating back to 1190 AD, Elgin is a former “royal burgh” (autonomous municipality). Today, Elgin is one of the jumping-off points to explore the Speyside whiskey region.

Located to the south of the River Lossie, Elgin is a quaint Scottish village that features local shops, narrow streets and is home to one of the oldest museums in the UK, the Elgin Museum. The area is known for some of the most traditional Scottish food including the famous Cullen skink.

MUST DO IN ELGIN:

• Gordon & MacPhail : Producers of Benromach and Gordon & MacPhail whiskies, as well as Red Door Gin, Gordon & MacPhail, have been calling Elgin home since 1895. Guests can tour the Benromach to learn the art of distilling whiskey. But the real must-visit is the Gordon & MacPhail shop. Located in Elgin, the shop is a high-quality delicatessen featuring locally produced meats and cheese as well as other edibles. The highlight of the shop is its Whisky Room, which contains over 1000 different single malt whiskies.
• Avva Scottish Gin and El:Gin : In recent years there has been an increase in gin producers across the Moray Speyside region. In Eglin, two producers, Avva Scottish Gin and El:Gin are worth seeking out either at their distilleries for a quick tour and taste or in one of the pubs and restaurants around the region.
• Johnstons of Elgin : Producers of high-quality cashmere since 1797, Johnstons of Elgin is a must-visit during any trip to Elgin. Visitors can take a free tour of Johnston’s to learn how they transform raw wool into fine cashmere. Afterwards, explore their two-story shop that features a variety of cashmere clothes to purchase.

Contribution and Photo from Amber of Food and Drink Destinations

Reviews of Gordon & MacPhail   |  Reviews of Johnstons of Elgin

DRUMNADROCHIT

Drumnadrochit, or Drum as the locals call it, gets its name from the Gaelic Druim na Drochaid  which means ‘Ridge of the Bridge’. The bridge crosses the river and was the reason why it became a settlement in the 17th century.

It is most famously known as the ‘Capital of Loch Ness’ as it lies on the west bank of this famous stretch of water. It sits on the A82 that links Inverness (25-minute drive) in the east with Fort Augustus in the west.

MUST DO IN DRUMNADROCHIT:

• Nessieland :   Drumnadrochit is a tourist honey pot, especially in the summer, with cafes and souvenir shops selling ‘Nessie’ memorabilia. Nessieland is a fabulous stop if you have young children as they can learn about the famous monster and also use up energy in the Nessie playground!  
• Loch Ness Centre and Experience :   Yes, most things in Drumnadrochit concern the Loch Ness Monster and to learn more, visit the Loch Ness Centre and Experience where, during a walking tour you learn everything about Loch Ness – how it was formed, its geology, sedimentation, and all of the scientific explorations since 1930 that have tried to prove/disprove Nessie’s existence. If the weather is good, you should combine this visit with a boat ride on the Loch.
• Urquhart Castle :   This was one of Scotland’s biggest castles, with a very busy history as it switched between English and Scottish control. Built in the 13th century on the grounds of a medieval fortification, it played an important role during the Wars of Scottish Independence. In 1692 it was partially destroyed to prevent the Jacobites from inhabiting it. Today, it is an Instagrammer’s dream on a sunny day … castle ruins with the expanse of the Great Glen and Loch Ness behind it. You can take guided tours, and children can opt to do one of four Discover Missions while they explore the ruins.

Contribution and Photo from Tracey of Pack The PJs

Reviews of Nessieland   |  Reviews of Loch Ness Centre and Experience   |  Reviews of Urquhart Castle

READ MORE: Looking for more great places to visit in Scotland? Check out these 8 great places to visit in Southwest Scotland ! 

Known as the ‘Gateway to the Highlands’, the charming city of Inverness is one of the best places to visit in Scotland. Not only is it one of the best stops to make when driving from Edinburgh to the highlands, but it is also situated within a stone’s throw of some of Scotland’s most iconic natural sites and attractions including Loch Ness, Urquhart Castle, and the Culloden battlefield.

Though many visitors use Inverness as a jumping-off point to explore the surrounding area, the city has a fair amount to offer in and of itself, as well. Often overlooked, Inverness offers a lovely slice of what life is like in a Scottish highland city and is very much worth exploring in its own right.

MUST DO IN INVERNESS:

• Inverness Castle : Though it isn’t as impressive as some of the other castles in Scotland , make sure to take in the Inverness castle, which now functions as the city’s courthouse.
• Ness Islands : You also must make sure to take a stroll along the tranquil River Ness until you reach the Ness Islands, a city park made up of some islands in the river, all connected by footbridges. It is a welcome bit of greenery in the city.
• Hootananny Pub : If you are looking for something fun to occupy yourself in the evening, then head over to the Hootananny Pub, an award-winning establishment known for the nightly traditional Scottish music and it also hosts a weekly ceilidh!

Contribution and Photo from Maggie of The World Was Here First

Reviews of Inverness Castle   |  Reviews of Ness Islands   |  Reviews of Hootananny Pub

Lerwick is the largest town and seaport in the Shetland Islands and also functions as its capital. The Shetland Islands are a small group of islands in the North Sea halfway between Norway and Scotland.

The Shetland Islands have been settled for at least 3,000 years, and there is evidence of habitation in the Lerwick area for that long as well.  Lerwick was founded as a formal settlement in the 17th-century as a seaport providing support to fishermen from the Nordic countries.

The city centre boasts many historic buildings from the 18th-century including the picturesque “Lodberries”, 18th-century warehouses with their foundations in the sea. Lerwick is the commercial centre of the Shetland Islands and is home to approximately 7,000 of the total population of 22,000 living in the Shetland Islands.

MUST DO IN LERWICK:

• Shetland Museum and Archives : With 85,000 visitors a year, the Museum & Archives in Lerwick are a must-see. Learn about the fascinating history of the Shetland Islands with informative displays and interactive exhibits, see how a traditional boat was made, and discover interesting Viking stories.
• “Shetland” TV Series Locations:  Discover the top Shetland location featured in the “Shetland” TV series. Great for fans of the popular TV crime drama, you’ll be able to see some of the best-known locations featured in the series including Jimmy Perez’ home, Sumburgh Head Lighthouse, and Hay’s Dock Café.
• Up Helly Aa :   The most spectacular annual event in Lerwick, this fire festival held in mid-winter is a celebration of Shetland’s Viking history. Likened to a northern version of Mardi Gras and lasting just one day (and all night), this event features squads of heavily disguised men, with the lead squad wearing Viking dress. The evening culminates in the torching of a full-size Viking longship.

Contribution and Photo from Lesley of Freedom 56 Travel

Reviews of Shetland Museum and Archives   

Looking for more information to plan your visit to Scotland? You may find these articles helpful.

8 Great Places to Visit in Southeast Scotland

• Weekend Guide to Edinburgh

Beautiful and Historic Castles to Visit in Scotland

• 17 Weekend Breaks in Scotland

MAP OF PLACES TO VISIT IN NORTHERN SCOTLAND

RESOURCES | PLAN YOUR TRIP TO SCOTLAND

To book flights, rental cars, accommodations, and activities for your trip, please check out our recommended travel providers, favourite apps and websites. 

• Want to visit castles in Scotland? Check out   The Complete Illustrated Guide to Castles, Palaces, and Stately House of Britain and Ireland   and you’re sure to find plenty to explore!
• The Most Amazing Royal Places in Britain   brings British heritage to life with hundreds of ideas for days out to discover castles, grand estates, and the secret hideaways of kings and queens.
• For all things Scotland, you can’t go wrong with Rick Steves! Check out his   Scotland travel guide , full episodes of his   TV show , or download his app for excellent   audio tours .

Some of the links in the post above are affiliate links. This means if you click on the link and purchase the item, we will receive an affiliate commission but this does not affect the price to you. Please read our   full disclosure policy here . 

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Things to do in edinburgh, scotland, weekend breaks in scotland, guide to visiting edinburgh castle.

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Aberdeenshire , Fife , Itineraries

One week in north east scotland: itinerary for aberdeenshire and fife.

The northeast of Scotland boasts stunning castles, endless sandy beaches, picturesque lighthouses and quaint harbour towns like no other region in Scotland. Go off the beaten track with this North East Scotland Itinerary including the best routes for Aberdeenshire and Fife, useful travel tips and plenty of inspiration for your trip.

This post contains affiliate links from which I may make a commission. Find out more here . All opinions are my own.

North East Scotland lies mostly off the beaten track. While the majority of visitors head west and north to discover the Highlands and islands, the east sees significantly fewer visitors.

This itinerary for North East Scotland covers Aberdeenshire , Fife , Dundee and parts of Perthshire . I followed this itinerary on a road trip with my mum in June 2016, but have added a few more tips and stops since returning to some of the locations.

Using this itienrary, you will…

• visit some of Scotland’s exciting cities (Aberdeen + Dundee),
• and relaxed seaside towns such as St Andrews, Stonehaven and Crovie,
• hike in the Cairngorms National Park,
• discover the Fife coast,
• follow the Scottish Castle Trail and
• visit an official Royal Residence in the Royal Deeside .

All in one week!

If you love going off the beaten path, you will love this road trip to North East Scotland. Let’s go!

Travelling to Scotland? Get in touch and let me help you plan a trip that is 100% YOU!

Table of Contents

North East Scotland Map

Scotland’s east coast has a lot to offer. Up and down the coast, there are fairytale castles and vast sandy beaches, colourful lighthouses and quaint harbour towns, beautiful hiking areas and lots of habitat for Scottish wildlife.

Further inland, the Cairngorm mountains frame lush valleys and serene lochs, farmers grow strawberries and big estates offer castles, adventure parks and tranquil woodlands.

Check the map below for all the scenic stops, activities and places mentioned in this post.

Travel Guide: North East Scotland

Getting around north east scotland.

The best way to explore the northeast of Scotland is by car . It gives you more flexibility and allows you to reach even the most remote beaches, hikes and villages.

However, it is possible to explore Scotland’s northeast coast by public transport too – you might just have to slow down a little and choose places that are easy to reach.

The train lines that connect Aberdeen with Edinburgh, Glasgow and Aberdeen stop for example in Leuchars (near St Andrews), Dundee, Stonehaven and Elgin, which are all beautiful places to visit.

There is also an extensive bus network in Aberdeenshire and Fife, which makes it possible to explore further off the beaten track.

You could also spend a few days in Aberdeen and book guided day trips to visit castles and other sites in the area with tour companies like Rabbie’s .

Nervous about driving? Learn about UK traffic rules & etiquette with the useful online guide by Tripiamo .

How many days do you need in North East Scotland?

This itinerary covers one week (7 days) which is a good amount of time to get an overview of what the northeast of Scotland has to offer.

If you can, I recommend spending a few additional days to explore more in-depth. 

For example, if you have 8 days in Scotland, add a day in northern Aberdeenshire (Banff), spend a night in Aberdeen to explore the city more in-depth or add a night in Edinburgh if you’ve never been before.

While distances are not incredibly overwhelming, driving can take up a significant amount of time, as many of the minor roads are winding and narrow. You will find yourself stop a lot for sights along the way.

You might also like:  How to plan the perfect trip to Scotland

Why should you visit Scotland’s northeast?

Let me ask you: why not? 

The west of Scotland is without a doubt the more famous part of the country – who has not heard about Loch Ness, Glencoe , the Jacobite Steam Train or the Isle of Skye ? But these regions can also be incredibly busy, especially during the summer.

The east coast offers a lot more tranquillity and a feeling of exploring off the beaten path.

The mountains in the west work their magic on the east – the east coast is blessed with a much drier climate, lush and fertile landscapes and beautiful sandy beaches.

Here are some of the highlights you can expect on the northeast coast of Scotland:

• Less rain , drier climate.
• The Scottish Castle Trail with 19 castles & many more castles on top of that.
• Endless sandy beaches along the Aberdeenshire Coastal Trail and the Fife Coastal Path.
• Stunning lighthouses with a fascinating history .
• Delicious whisky from the Speyside whisky distilleries .
• Hiking for all levels in the Cairngorms National Park .
• Golf and history in  St Andrews .  
• The freshest produce from local farmers .
• Thriving cities like Aberdeen and Dundee .
• Quaint seaside towns and fishing villages up and down the coast.
• Lovely locals who are passionate about their beautiful regions.

I could go on and on! Many of these things are reasons to visit all of Scotland, but why not try something new and go off the beaten track?

Not sure if this is the best itinerary for you? Find out how to choose the ideal Scotland itinerary !

One Week Itinerary for North East Scotland

Day 1: from glasgow the royal deeside.

Our journey began in Glasgow, although you could just as easily leave from Edinburgh or either of the airports. If you leave in the late morning or early afternoon, you will have plenty of time for stops on the way to the Royal Deeside.

We made our way through Perthshire and the southern Cairngorms to the lush valley of the Royal Deeside.

Stop 1: Dunkeld

The Highland village of Dunkeld is a popular stop along the A9 road. There are several bakeries and restaurants in the village – I recommend the Atholl Arms Hotel for great vegan options. 

The grounds of Dunkeld Cathedral make for a lovely walk, but the real highlight is The Hermitage just outside the village (£3 parking fee, FREE for National Trust for Scotland members. Join here! ). A 15-minute walk from the car park leads you to the stunning Black Linn Falls which look particularly stunning from the balcony of Ossian’s Hall – an Outlander site in the Highlands .

Stop 2: Detour to Pitlochry

A little further up the A9, stop in Pitlochry, a bustling Victorian town with a lively high street, two nearby whisky distilleries ( Blair Atholl and Edradour ) and lovely walks along the River Tummel. For tea and cakes head to Hettie’s Tearoom .

Nearby Blair Castle & Gardens is well worth the detour (£14 Castle + Gardens, £7.70 Gardens only).

Plan a trip to  Perthshire to see the autumn colours !

Stop 3: Into the Cairngorms National Park

From Pitlochry make your way through the hills towards Glenshee and the Cairnwell Pass road – one of the highest mountain roads in the UK.

Stop to see the iconic Devil’s Elbow hairpin bend which is still visible next to the main road about 1 km south of the Glenshee ski centre. 

You are now deep in the Cairngorm mountains and thus the Cairngorms National Park. The road descends down at the other side of the pass and soon you will reach the beautiful valley of the Royal Deeside.

Overnight in Dinnet (2 nights)

We booked 2 nights at the Loch Kinord Hotel in Dinnet, a traditional Scottish hotel with a lovely beer garden and an on-site restaurant.

Royal Deeside Travel Essentials Where to stay: Loch Kinord Hotel in Dinnet, from £95 per double room, Book it here ! Food & drink: Light lunches from The Bothy in Ballater, dinner at the on-site restaurant at Loch Kinord Hotel and picnic supplies from Deeside Deli Shop and Chalmers Bakery in Ballater.  Things to do: Balmoral Castle , Muir of Dinnet walking trails, hiking in the Cairngorms National Park , bicycle hire , other castles on the Scottish Castle Trail .

Day 2: Explore the Royal Deeside

We spent a whole day discovering the Royal Deeside, the lush valley along the River Dee. 

Stop 1: Balmoral Castle

Balmoral Castle has been an official Royal Residence since 1852 when Prince Albert bought the estate and re-modelled the castle for Queen Victoria. 

She had fallen in love with Scotland and particularly this region on her trips north, and together they built a stunning castle with many fascinating gardens (flowers, vegetables, leisure).

I highly recommend visiting first thing in the morning to beat the crowds (£12). You can’t visit the inside of the castle, but the audio-guided tour leads around the beautiful castle gardens and to a ballroom in a side-wing of the castle. 

Find out what else to consider & expect when visiting Balmoral Castle . 

Stop 2: Lunch in Ballater

Back in the day, Queen Victoria would have arrived in the charming village of Ballater on the train from Aberdeen and taken a coach from there to her castle. Naturally, Ballater became a popular holiday town for anyone who wanted to spend their summers near the Queen.

We visited Ballater for a short walk through the village and lunch at The Bothy .

We also picked up treats from Deeside Deli and Chalmers Bakery for the afternoon.

Stop 3: Muir of Dinnet Nature Reserve

The Muir of Dinnet National Nature Reserve near the village of Dinnet offers many family-friendly trails and picnic areas. 

Loch Kinord Trail is around 4 miles long and very easy to walk. It circuits the lake, leads through bright birch woodlands, up and down the gentle hills of the lakeshore, and across gorgeous meadows covered in flower carpets and rabbit burrows.

Another popular like at the Muir of Dinnet leads to Burn o Vat, a deep “bowl” that was carved by rain and water over thousands of years. You can enter the bowl through a short tunnel and inside you’ll find a hidden waterfall. It’s truly a hidden gem.

Other Things to do in the Royal Deeside

Scottish Castle Trail: You could visit more castles on the Scottish Castle Trail. From Ballater, it is a 35-minute drive to Craigievar Castle (£14.50) or 45 minutes to Crathes Castle (£14.50), which are both FREE for National Trust for Scotland members – join here !

Cairngorms National Park: For more strenuous hikes with more rewarding views, choose a more challenging trail in the Cairngorms National Park . 

Hire Bikes: Rent bicycles from one of the bike rental shops in Ballater ( Bike Station or Cycle Highlands ) and follow the trail along the old railway which brought Queen Victoria and the British aristocracy to Ballater in the 1850s.

Day 3: Road trip along the East Coast

Instead of taking the fastest route to our next stop on the northeast coast, we opted for the longer, yet much more scenic drive along the Aberdeenshire Coastal Trail. 

The coast of North East Scotland is dotted with beautiful beaches and picturesque lighthouses, a real paradise for beach bums and photographers. We spend the entire day on the road with multiple stops.

Stop 1: Old Aberdeen

Aberdeen is a bustling city – the third biggest in Scotland. You could spend an entire day here – and I highly encourage you to do so, if you can add another day to your Scotland trip. There is a lot to do and see, but because this itinerary focuses more on scenery and small towns, we decided to only include a short stop in Old Aberdeen.

Old Aberdeen is a historic part of Aberdeen and home to the main campus of the University of Aberdeen.

While the buildings of the university are beautiful to look at, it is also important to acknowledge the ways in which the institution has benefitted from wealth related to historic slavery. You read more about this here and here .

Park your car near St Machar’s Cathedral (paid street parking), a marvellous Gothic church with twin towers and a beautiful nave. From there, take a walk down to the main building of the University and discover the small cobbled lanes around the campus. 

For a small scenic detour, drive on to the Brig o’ Balgownie which lies in a charming historic village within Aberdeen.

Stop 2: Balmedie Beach

Balmedie Beach lies just north of Aberdeen and is easily accessible by car. We made our way to the sea through the high sand dunes and spent some time walking up and down the beach, watching dogs play in the waves and digging our toes into the sand.

Stop 3: Rattray Head Lighthouse

The iconic Rattray Head Lighthouse had been on my bucket list for ages. Technically, it is a “rock house”, built on a rock off the shore. 

During high tide (which we were lucky enough to witness), the lighthouse is surrounded by the crashing waves of the Atlantic – it’s a brilliant photo op! At low tide, you can walk much closer to the lighthouse.

To reach Rattray Head you definitely need a car and some guts, as the beach’s lies at the end of a very bumpy single track road with huge potholes and few passing places. The view was worth the effort though!

Stop 4: The Museum of Scottish Lighthouses

The Museum of Scottish Lighthouses is located in the small fishing town of Fraserburgh which sits at the north-easternmost point of Scotland (£8.80). 

The museum exhibits an impressive collection of lighthouse lenses, some twice as wide in diameter as I am tall, and tells the story of the Stevenson family who built over 93 lighthouses in 150 years. 

Make sure you join a tour of the old lighthouse of Kinnaird Head which is included in your museum ticket – they begin every hour between 11 am and 4 pm during the summer. 

From the top of the lighthouse, you don’t only get an amazing view, but you also learn more about the hard labour it took to keep the ships at sea safe before lighthouses were automated.

Overnight in Banff (1 night)

We arrived in Banff just in time for a wander through the historic town centre, sunset at the harbour and a well-deserved dinner after a packed day on the road.

We spent only one night in Banff, but if you can, I recommend staying two. 

That would give you more time to visit local attractions such as Duff House (£9, FREE for Historic Environment Scotland members & Explorer Pass holders) with or the Museum of Banff .

You would also have an additional day to explore the north coast of Aberdeenshire, the Moray Coast and the Speyside. You could visit scenic places such as Portsoy, Cullen and Bow Fiddle Rock in Portknockie.

Banff Travel Essentials Where to stay: Carmelite House Hotel , from £75 per small double room, Book it here ! Food & drink: The Aul’ Fife (Scottish cuisine) Things to do: Duff House , Museum of Banff , Crovie , Cullen and Bow Fiddle Rock on the Moray Coast .

Day 4: From Banff to St Andrews

Time to head south again and make our way to the final region on our itinerary – the Kingdom of Fife. But first, a few more iconic landmarks in Aberdeenshire.

Stop 1: Crovie

Crovie is a tiny village nestled against the cliffs of northern Aberdeenshire. And when I say “nestled against the cliffs”, I mean literally clinging on to the steep rocks. 

The village is built on a very narrow strip of land between the cliffs and the sea. There is a narrow road that leads down to the small pier (only to be used by locals), but there is no road in the village – just a narrow footpath in front of the houses.

That makes a trip to Crovie a true adventure not to be missed.

Stop 2: Stonehaven + Dunnottar Castle

Dunnottar Castle is an iconic ruin on the Scottish Castle Trail. It sits on a headland that is connected to the mainland by just a narrow strip of land. On the other three sides, it is surrounded by the sea. 

The cliffs of the headland are steep and waves crash relentlessly against them – the castle seems impenetrable. 

Yet, the ruin is open to the public (£7) and one of the most fascinating castles to visit in Scotland.

The best way to reach the castle is on foot from the nearby seaside town of Stonehaven. The walk along the coast to Dunnottar Castle takes about 40 minutes to one hour.

Before or after,  stop for lunch at Molly’s Cafe Bar and ice cream from Aunt Betty’s (vegan options available at both).

You might also like:  15 awesome things to do in Stonehaven

Stop 3: Dundee

Dundee is an underdog among Scottish cities, but ever since the opening of the V&A Dundee no one can argue any longer – it is a great idea to stop in Dundee. If only for a few hours.

Visit the V&A Dundee (FREE) and the RRS Discovery (£11.50), follow the open/close street art trail and grab some coffee and cake at one of the many cafes in town.

From Dundee, it’s a half-hour drive to St Andrews.

Overnight in St Andrews (2 nights)

We stayed in my partner’s family’s caravan at East Sands. Caravans are available to rent at the St Andrews Holiday Park, but there is a 4-night minimum. There are many hotels and B&Bs around St Andrews that also provide shorter stays.

St Andrews Travel Essentials Where to stay: St Andrews Holiday Park (min. stay 4 nights from £147); Find more accommodation in St Andrews ! Food & drink: Doll’s House (French-Scottish cuisine), Zizzi (Italian), St Andrews Brewing Company (burgers), Fisher & Donaldson (patisserie – fudge doughnuts), Jannetta’s (ice cream), Keys Bar (traditional pub), The Cellar Bar (bar & live music). Things to do: St Andrews Cathedral and Castle , St Rule’s Tower , East Sands beach, historic Old Course .

Day 5: Explore St Andrews and Fife

There are many things to do in St Andrews – it definitely pays off looking at my travel guide for St Andrews for a full list of options.

I recommend spending half the day exploring St Andrews and then heading to the fishing villages on the East Neuk of Fife in the afternoon.

Things to do in St Andrews

Highlights in St Andrews include the ruins of the Cathedral (£6, FREE for Historic Environment Scotland members &  Explorer Pass holders), climbing St Rule’s Tower for views of the town, St Andrews Castle (£9, FREE for Historic Environment Scotland members &  Explorer Pass holders), grabbing a fudge doughnut from Fisher & Donaldson or ice cream from Jannetta’s  and heading to East Sands beach for a wander. 

If you love gold, make sure to also visit the historic Old Course .

East Neuk of Fife

The fishing villages on the East Neuk are Crail, Anstruther, Pittenweem, St Monans and Elie – and one is more scenic than the other. Here you will find fresh fish & chips (for example at the Anstruther Fish Bar), scenic harbours with colourful boats, ruins like Newark Castle or Lady Janet Anstruther’s Tower and endless beautiful beaches between.

You can even walk from Elie to Anstruther in 2-3 hours in order to experience the Fife Coastal Path at its best.

Listen to ‘Step by Step’ – a travel story about hiking from Elie to Anstruther!

Other things to do in Fife

Of course, there are many more things to do in Fife and near St Andrews, such as visiting a whisky distillery ( Kingsbarns or Eden Mill ), visiting Outlander sites such as Falkland or hiking in the Lomond Hills Regional Park.

Day 6: St Andrews to South Queensferry

South Queensferry is a great place to end this itinerary. From there, it is an easy journey into central Edinburgh if you have time left at the end of your trip. Or just a 15-minute drive to Edinburgh airport – handy for those pesky early morning flights.

Even though it takes just one hour to drive from St Andrews to South Queensferry, I recommend spending the majority of the day “on the road” – there is plenty to do and see.

Stop 1: Isle of May Boat Trip

During the summer (mid-April to mid-August), I highly recommend you return to Anstruther in order to join a boat trip to the Isle of May . The island is home to a thriving puffin colony.

Standard trips take 4 to 4.5 hours and include 2.5 to 3 hours on the island, which is plenty of time to see puffins and take a million photos.

Stop 2: Dunfermline

Dunfermline is the ancient capital of Scotland and Scottish Kings were crowned and buried here for centuries.

The last King to be buried in Dunfermline was Robert the Bruce, whose grave can be visited at Dunfermline Abbey . Legend has it that his heart, however, was buried at Melrose Abbey in the Scottish Borders.

Take some time for a walk at Pittencrieff Park, stop for afternoon tea at the Carnegie Library and Galleries and explore the old Abbey (FREE).

Listen to ‘ Yours to Explore ‘ – my travel podcast about Dunfermline and West Fife.

Stop 3: South Queensferry

Eventually, you will cross the new Firth Road Bridge and reach South Queensferry. 

The new road bridge only opened in 2017 (hence it’s still in construction on our photos), but the most iconic one might just be the bright red railway bridge, which is a masterpiece of Scottish engineering. 

We spent the late afternoon strolling through the quaint village of South Queensferry and dipped in and out of bars and restaurants along the High Street which all offered magnificent views of the bridges.

Overnight in South Queensferry (1 night)

We booked a night at the Dakota which lies just outside the village centre, but still in easy walking distance to the high street. 

From here it was just a 15-minute drive to Edinburgh Airport, which made it the perfect final hotel before my mum’s flight home.

Listen to ‘ Icons of the Kingdom ‘ – my travel podcast about a winter trip to Fife .

South Queensferry Travel Essentials Where to stay: Dakota Hotel , from £80 per double room, Book it here , Parkhead House B&B in Newton Food & Drink: Antico Bar at Orocco Pier Hotel has a lovely view of the bridges and lovely food (incl. a vegan menu). Also, check out The Little Bakery, Scotts Restaurant by the marina or The Fat Pheasant in Newton.

Day 7: Departure Day

Time to pack your bags and head back to the airport – or maybe you have some more time to explore Scotland a bit longer? 

How to extend this trip:

Day 8: Extend your stay in Banff to 2 nights in order to explore more of northern Aberdeenshire, the Moray Coast or the Speyside.

Day 9: Spend a night in Aberdeen to see more of the city.

Day 10: Visit Edinburgh or other nearby hidden gems such as Linlithgow Palace, the Kelpies or Blackness Castle (Outlander site).

A trip to Scotland does not necessarily have to visit the Highlands and Islands. Exploring North East Scotland can be just as rewarding and beautiful as a road trip on the west coast. 

Aberdeenshire and Fife have so much to offer and you will experience a completely different side to Scotland. With this itinerary and plenty of ideas for things to do and see, all that is left to do is to book your flight and go!

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Disclaimer: VisitScotland provided my mum and me with a rental car free of charge and two ASVA cards which grant free entrance to many of Scotland’s visitor attractions, including Balmoral Castle, St Andrews Cathedral & Castle and the Lighthouse museum in Fraserburgh.

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52 thoughts on “ One week in North East Scotland: Itinerary for Aberdeenshire and Fife ”

I am so thrilled to have found your blog. My daughter and I are visiting Scotland (we are from New Zealand so about as far away as you can get!) in July for 8 days and we had already decided to concentrate on the East Coast. Having read all your posts and seen the photos I am so glad this is going to be the area we explore. I can feel it beckoning us. We will be arriving in Edinburgh and departing from Glasgow and so hope to do a bit of a loop but not quite sure what route we should take? We have a car. I have accommodation booked in Edinburgh, Aberdeen and Glasgow but have 1 night yet unbooked. Any suggestions? Thanks so much

Hi Louise, I really enjoyed the route I describe in this post. We started and finished in Glasgow, but you can do the same if you start in Edinburgh. Take a look at this post also: https://watchmesee.com/blog/aberdeenshire-itinerary-three-days/ You could add a stay on the way from Edinburgh to Aberdeen – somewhere in Fife or near Dundee; or on the way from Aberdeen towards Glasgow, maybe around Aviemore, Pitlochry or even Stirling. I hope you have a fantastic trip to the north east of Scotland 🙂

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I’m so glad I stumbled on your blog… I’m planning my fantasy road trip to Scotland and am trying to combine some ancestor research while there, which means north and east coasts. Will have to include the castle trail for me, and the distillery stops for Dear Husband. Thank you!

It’s a great area – and the weather is usually better! I just returned from a week in the Speyside area – definitely try to visit Cullen and Aberlour! Delnashaugh Hotel by Ballindalloch was my favourite! Have fantastic trip!!

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Oh my gosh, east Scotland looks beautiful! Also, this itinerary is SO detailed, I couldn’t believe it. Thanks for creating your own interactive map – I’ll definitely be returning to this post when I make it up to Scotland!

Let me know when you’re up that way – would be lovely to connect!

I’m Scottish but have never gone further up that coast than Aberdeen. I need to set that right – and I like the sound of less rain!

It’s so beautiful up there! I can’t wait to return to the north coast this June, and hoping to do another road trip around the North East 250 soon too!! It’s definitely worth checking out – even for Scots!

Sounds amazing. I’ve been wanting to go to Scotland for a while. Will have to get there.

I would love to see more of Scotland so this sounds like a great way to spend a week. It’s nice to know that the east is less rainy and less touristy, but there is still a lot to see

It definitely shows you a different side of Scotland, and leads you to areas not many people will know. You get it all to yourself!!

The East and North coasts of Scotland get neglected by tourists. It’s a shame because there are so many nice places to see, but also rather good because it means I get them to myself!

True – that’s the sunny flipside of everyone blindly migrating to Skye and Loch Ness (also pretty places, just way too busy during the summer)!

I love this post – I’d have never thought to do a road trip through the North East. I’m getting married just outside Edinburgh in September and have been looking for a good road trip itinerary not too far away as we only have around a week to enjoy our honeymoon. Will definitely keep this in mind!

I think your honeymoon would be the perfect occasion to drive this route! With all the castles, sandy beaches and quaint little towns, it’s super romantic 🙂 Have a fab wedding and honeymoon!!

Errr those beach shots! Wow, would have guessed they were anywhere but Scotland. Keep doing what you do Kathi 🙂

I know, it looks nothing like the typical image of Scotland! That’s what I love about this route so much 🙂

I hope you had fun in Scotland <3 Beautiful country indeed <3

Your photos are stunning! I still haven’t been to Scotland so I’ll save this for later. I was planning to go there when I went to Northern Ireland but then decided to leave it. Next time!

Sometimes it’s better to just focus on one destination – even if it looks so close 😉 You’ll have to come back though – it’s too beautiful to miss!!

God, Scotland is so beautiful. I’ve never thought about doing this route before – hadn’t heard of the castle trail either, so I’ll have to look into it more. Such a shame that people who live in the UK (i.e. me) don’t explore more in our own backyard. Thanks for this great post!

That side of the country is brilliant – not many tourists, but so much to do!! Definitely check it out – it’s like its own little world!

This looks awesome, Kathi! I am not quite ready to return to Scotland yet but I can start to see another trip on the horizon. If only so we can finally meet 🙂

We should drive the North East 250 together!!!

I did a more typically touristic month in Scotland a couple years ago. It was magnificent. And now you’ve made me want to go back even more and see the other side of the country! What a gorgeous looking trip. Thanks for all the inspiring photos and helpful tips!

I’m glad you enjoyed it! The west of Scotland is gorgeous – but yeah, to be more off the beaten track, the east is inevitable! It’s so different, but so beautiful!

Fantastic Itinerary! Will be saving this for later as I want to do this maybe this year!

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Thank you for this! My son is starting university at Aberdeen in September, so I’ll have four years of opportunities to explore Scotland. I’m so looking forward to it!

All the best for your son – studying Aberdeen university is great, and so beautiful 🙂 Hope you get to visit often and see as much as you can!

Beautifully written!.. Duntottar Castle seems very interesting to me. Do you think I would get good views of the castle with drone?..

Oh, absolutely! It’s right by the coast, almost like a little island – I could imagine aerial views are amazing! Make sure you’re allowed to use drones in the area, but I think it’s fine!

Absolutely loved the places you have highlighted. I have been to Scotland twice, once to the Inverness region and once to Isle of Skye after spending a few days in Edinburgh. Now looking at your pictures, I can’t wait to go back again but this time to the North East.

Love to hear that you’d like to come back! There’s just never enough time to see everything. Let me know of you need any more tips!

Great post! There’s so much to see here, I’m so glad you liked it!

This is awesome! It never occurred to me that there were beautiful beaches in Scotland, and Duntottar Castle looks absolutely amazing. I would definitely go to these places. Nice to see another side of Scotland.

There are so many beaches here – not like, sunbathing beaches, but warm enough for a barefoot walk! The islands on the west coast also have beaches, that look almost Caribbean in the sunshine, but the weather is definitely more predictable on the east coast!

Great post for learning more about off-the-beaten-path Scotland. It sounds like you had a few long driving days on this itinerary — what was your typical amount of time in the car each day?

Hm, that’s a good question. I’d say it wasn’t so bad; driving from the Royal Deeside to Banff definitely felt the longest, but we stopped in three locations on the way and spend at least an hour in each. The drive to Rattray Head off the main road took about 45 minutes each way because it was a rather adventurous dirt road for most of the way… I was knackered in the evening, hence no sunset pictures at Bowfiddle Rock… I think no day was more than 3.5-4 hours pure driving time! You could probably drive faster routes, but we drove along a lot of little country roads to see more of the landscape!

Great post! I really love how you focused on the Northeastern coast of Scotland! Like you said yourself, people usually hear a lot about the Highlands and Isles, so thank you for showing me more of Scotland! Your photos are wonderful!

I’m glad I could show you a corner of Scotland you don’t know so much about – that’s exactly what I hope to do more 🙂 Thanks for taking the time to stop by!

What an epic way to see Scotland! Makes me sad to see how many amazing areas that I missed on my Scotland road trip.

One trip is never enough <3

Think you need some proof reading on your article!! It’s a MINE under the Castle in St.Andrews, not a MIN! And to say there is not much to do in Anstruther….did you miss the extremely interesting Scottish Fisheries Museum at the harbour?? It’s not even the best Fish and Chips. Cromars in St.Andrews takes some beating but the Anstruther Fish Bar is still very popular, granted! Queensferry… It’s the Forth BRIDGES, not BRIDES!! I’m sure you will be back in Fife at some point. Kellie Castle outside Pittenweem and Falkland Palace in Falkland are both stunner Haste Ye back!

Thank you for pointing out the two typos – I don’t always catch them all, seeing that I run this blog in my spare time while working two jobs and English isn’t my first language. Thanks also for the tips regarding Kellie Castle and Falkland Palace – I hope to return to Fife at some point!

However, I think you need to consider how your comment comes across. Just because you don’t think they’re the best fish & chips (which I never said, if you read my words carefully), doesn’t make the one in Anstruther any worse in my partner’s experience (who recommended this particular place). I haven’t personally tasted either chippy in the area as I was vegetarian at the time of the trip. I am vegan now. You can maybe understand that a fisheries museum wouldn’t be something I would necessarily put on my itinerary considering my dietary choices – I found walking by the crab traps bad enough…

Awwww!! This post makes me miss home! Next time your up that way head to Portsoy for the best ice cream you will ever eat! 🙂

Will add that to my ever growing bucket list for Scotland 🙂 Thanks!

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A guide to Aberdeen, Scotland's surprising 'Granite City' by the sea

Scotland’s ‘granite city’ is full of surprises, with transformed spaces, artisanal brewing and surfing by the beach.

For a place long associated with heavy industry, Aberdeen is certainly easy on the eye. Scotland’s third-largest city enjoys a spectacular location, fringed by the North Sea and framed to the south and north by the rivers Dee and Don. Elegant granite architecture is warmed by pockets of flora. And, however much oil and gas continue to bring in business, the city has invested heavily in its museums and parks, with new and improved spaces to explore.

Old and new gloriously intertwine at Aberdeen Art Gallery . Inaugurated in 1885, this old dame reopened in 2019 following a four-year, multi-million-pound facelift; so brilliant was its reinvention, it was named Scotland’s building of the year in 2021. It has 18 permanent collections, plus a cafe, and there are viewing terraces on its new visually striking, copper-topped roof. Make your way up to survey the city, but for better brews, head outside to the tram-shaped Books and Beans cafe in Union Terrace Gardens, which reopened in 2022 after a £28m upgrade.    

At the gardens’ southern fringe lies Union Street . Many of its retail units have struggled to bounce back since 2020, but recent additions have included Six by Nico restaurant. It serves a tasting menu with a twist: the six courses change every six weeks, and dishes are always inspired by a different theme or destination.  

The high street leads to Marischal Square quarter , which has been spruced up in recent years. A highlight is Mackie’s ice cream parlour, where tablet (a sugary Scottish confection) is the flavour of choice. For stronger stuff, Six°North is an artisanal Aberdeenshire brewer that’s still relatively under the radar. Nearby 16th-century Provost Skene’s House , one of Aberdeen’s oldest buildings, has been reborn as a museum telling the city’s story through local luminaries, including singer Annie Lennox and Nobel Laureate Lord Boyd-Orr.    

Hulking ships busy around at the Port of Aberdeen — the ideal setting for the Aberdeen Maritime Museum . It explores the city’s ties to the North Sea, from the early days of trading to its fossil fuels and the green energies Scotland is transitioning towards. After learning about the sea, visitors can enjoy its bounty at The Silver Darling , tucking into boat-fresh seafood landed north of the city.

Many leave the harbour without realising Aberdeen has a beach — a three-mile swathe stretching from the River Dee to the Don. En route to the sands is Footdee (‘Fittie’ to Aberdonians), the old fisherman’s quarter. Here, grey stone cottages are now home to artists and creatives, who’ve splashed the walls with colours. Scot Surf School offers lessons on the water, while the beachfront Esplanade has a host of food vans for a sweet treat; the cheesecake eclairs at Little Molly’s come especially recommended.  

It’s possible to see Aberdeen’s pod of bottlenose dolphins from the beach, but savvy spotters head south to Torry Battery , an old artillery station that overlooks the harbour from a headland. Opened next to it in 2022, Greyhope Bay Centre provides the ideal viewing spot, with a cafe and glass walls to take in the coast and its marine wildlife.

Legend has it that Aberdeen was so successful in the Britain in Bloom competition, it was banned from entering. True or not, it’s easy to believe, with green pockets around the city lovingly tended to as a riposte to all the granite. Among them, Seaton Park feels gloriously rural — otters have been spotted on the banks of the Don here. Duthie Park is a noteworthy alternative; it’s the start of the 41-mile Deeside Way , which sweeps deep into Royal Deeside towards King Charles III’s palatial getaway at Balmoral.

For Hungry Minds

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Savvy Travel Advice

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

Last updated: December 18, 2023 - 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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8 Top Things to Do in Aberdeen, Scotland

Aberdeen, known as the Granite City because of its predominant grey stone building material, is anything but grey. The center of Scotland's North Sea Oil Industry, it attracts well-heeled visitors from all over the world for business and pleasure. And it treats them to exciting museums, historic architecture and medieval districts to explore as well as some of the best—and most expensive—boutique fashion shopping in Scotland. Cruises from the busy port take visitors to spot marine wildlife as well as some of the most awe-inspiring offshore engineering sites in Europe.

Discover the City on a Free Walking Tour

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Aberdeen's city center is studded with 18th-century architecture, and north of it, Old Aberdeen is laced with narrow, cobbled Medieval lanes. It's also packed with stories of ghosts, pirates, scientific discoveries, murders, poets, and magic. The guides for Scot Free Tours are amazing and entertaining sources of the local knowledge that brings Scotland's grey lady to life. The two and a half hour tours set off from the Mercat Cross in Castlegate, at the eastern end of Union Street, every Friday at 2 p.m. and Saturday at 1 p.m. And, as the name suggests, they're free - though donations are never refused. You can walk up and join the tour at the starting point, but the organizers encourage you to book to guarantee a place . The same group also offers a Great Scot, a free walking tour of Old Aberdeen, Fridays, Saturdays and selected Sundays listed on their website.

Learn About Aberdeen's Maritime History in a Fabulous Museum with a View

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The Aberdeen Maritime Museum wraps a corner of granite Shiprow in modern blue glass. But at its heart, this museum is built around a Provost's house built in 1593. This is where you can find out all about Aberdeen's shipbuilding, fast sailing ships, and the history of the port. Since a multi-million pound refurbishment and expansion toward the end of the 20th century, the museum's paintings and historical objects have been enriched with touch screen consoles that access extensive visual databases. The Maritime Museum is also is the only place in the UK where you can immerse yourself in the story of the North Sea oil and gas industries with interactive displays and multi-media presentations. And the museum's harbor viewpoint is one of the best spots in the city to watch the action of this busy, industrial harbor. The museum has a cafe that's highly rated and a gift shop with unusual nautical items. Admission is free.

Explore the History of Crime and Punishment at the Tolbooth Museum

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If you have an interest in the darker sides of history, particularly the history of crime and punishment, you'll swoon over the Tolbooth Museum. Housed in one of Aberdeen's oldest buildings, this is probably the best-preserved 17th-century jail (or gaol as the Scots prefer) in Scotland. The displays of local history emphasize centuries of developments in penal theories and the criminal practices they were meant to combat. It's a spooky place to visit. Reputedly it is haunted. But even without ghosts, the 17th and 18th-century cells, complete with original doors and barred windows, that house the exhibits are genuinely creepy. And if that doesn't creep you out enough, you can have a look at the Iron Maiden and the blade of the city's 17th-century guillotine. Beyond criminals, this prison-house offers an insight into what faced those 17th-century irregulars and nobles who rose up against the king and the established order.

Play a Round at the Royal Aberdeen Golf Club

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The Royal Aberdeen was founded in 1790—not as old as St Andrews perhaps but pretty august. They moved to their present location (Balgownie Links, north of the River Don) in 1888. It's a challenging and beautifully designed course where you can enjoy the salt air and pit your handicap against the sea breezes. But you'd better be good enough. To play as a visitor on this course, you need to have a handicap of no higher than 24 (men and women both). Don't worry though, if you don't yet make the grade—there are plenty of other public courses where you can pay a greens fee and book time on a course. Golf Aberdeen, part of Sport Aberdeen, manages four public golf courses, including the King's Links, just north of the city. Though you can join these clubs, visitors are also welcome, and the "pay as you play" greens fees are remarkably reasonable.

Tour an Offshore Windfarm

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Greenhowe Marine Services, who operate crew transfer vessels for the North Sea oil platforms, also offer a range of harbor and North Sea tours. One of the most exciting is a visit to Aberdeen's offshore wind farm. There are 11 gigantic wind turbines, about two miles offshore. This may not be the biggest number of wind turbines in a wind farm, but they are considered among the most powerful in the world, capable of providing more than 70 percent of Aberdeen's domestic energy needs.

Taking this 90-minute cruise on the company's Dolphin Cruise boat is a bit of an adventure. Since they have no quayside office, after booking, you join a crew member at a safe meeting place near Commercial Quay, who then leads you on a safe path through this highly industrialized port to the boarding point.

The company also offers shorter dolphin watch and wildlife cruises that take you out among the North Sea oil industry service vessels where dolphins are known to frolic.

Dolphin Watch from Torry Battery

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Aberdeen Harbour is one of the United Kingdom's oldest ports. The Romans were the first traders to visit it, and according to the Guinness Book of Business Records, it is the U.K.'s oldest established business. Torry Battery, at the southern side of the mouth of the harbor, was once fortified for protection in wartime. These days it's a park, and its car park is one of the best onshore places to watch Aberdeen's resident dolphin population along with the occasional sea otter. If you find going out into the unpredictable North Sea to watch wildlife a bit intimidating, or if (more likely) weather and sea conditions mean your harbor cruise is canceled. It's less than 10 minutes, by car or taxi from the city center or take the number 59 Northfield bus to the St Fitticks Road and walk about 15 minutes on the path along the edge of bluffs to the car park facing out into the sea.

Feel the Spirit of William Wallace at St. Machar's Cathedral

St. Machar's Cathedral, on the edge of Old Aberdeen, is a 12th-century church notable for its stained glass and its unusual heraldic ceiling. It has a flat, wooden ceiling studded with 48 heraldic shields. The shields represent the arms of a Pope, bishops, the Holy Roman Emperor, and even Henry VIII. This ancient church is also notable for a legend (unproven) associated with it. When William Wallace was executed in London by being hung, drawn, and quartered, they say his body was distributed to different parts of Scotland as a warning to other would-be Scots who might want to take on the king of England. Some believe his arm was sent to St. Machar's and is incorporated somewhere in the fabric of the church. If you visit, perhaps you'll sense his spirit there.

Shop for Luxuries

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The North Sea oil industry brought plenty of money to Aberdeen and loads of well-heeled visitors connected with it. As a result, for a small city, Aberdeen has some excellent shopping. There are several shopping malls filled with British and international brands. But Union Street, the city's main shopping area, also has several fabulous—and expensive—fashion boutiques, especially boutiques for men. Cruise , a designer boutique for men, women, and children, carries some seriously heavy-hitting labels—Burberry, Valentino, Jimmy Choo, Vivienne Westwood, among them. They outfit men in Vilebrequin, Gucci, Burberry, and Versace. Men's fashions at Kafka Mercantile, on Alford Place near the end of Union Street, include shirts by Engineered Garments of New York, modern casuals from Pure Indigo Blue Blue of Japan, and more cutting edge styles for young male fashionistos. Amble down Union Street and the nearby side streets and poke your nose into the small boutiques. Just make sure your plastic is very flexible.

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Aberdeen is northeast Scotland's powerhouse, fuelled by the North Sea petroleum industry. Oil money made the city as expensive as London, with prices charged to match the depth of oil-wealthy pockets, though regular downturns in the industry see prices fall. Fortunately, most cultural attractions, such as the Maritime Museum and Aberdeen Art Gallery, are free.

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St Machar's Cathedral

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Aberdeen boasts free museums, historic cobbled streets and stunning natural attractions – this is our pick of the best things to see when you visit.

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The 15 Best Things to do in Aberdeen, Scotland

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Long sandy beaches, magnificent granite architecture, and thousands of years of history ensure that Aberdeen is one of the best city break destinations in Scotland . 

This is Scotland’s third-largest urban area, but the “Granite City,” as Aberdeen is better known, sees just a fraction of the visitor numbers that descend on Edinburgh throughout the year. We hope it stays that way, too, because Aberdeen is best enjoyed without the crowds. 

This is where the Scotland of old meets the fiery confidence of the modern Scottish nation. Stroll through the cobbled streets of Old Aberdeen, and you can discover centuries of history written in the stone walls, townhouses, and cathedrals. 

Down at Aberdeen Harbour, you can immerse yourself in maritime history while also seeing first-hand how the city’s offshore oil and gas wealth has transformed Aberdeen into a contemporary commercial center. 

Then, further afield, you’ll find that Aberdeen is a great launchpad for exploring the castles and nature reserves along Scotland’s northeast coastline. Cairngorms National Park is just a short drive away, while beautiful coastal towns like Stonehaven offer a welcome escape from the city. 

With so many things to see and do, you might not know where to start. That’s why we’ve compiled our list of the absolute best things to do in Aberdeen for you. Try these fun and unique Aberdeen bucket list recommendations, and there’s no doubt you’ll have an exceptional time exploring this fantastic Scottish city!

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase or booking through one of our links we may earn a small commission (don’t worry, it’s at no extra cost to you).

15 Fun and Unique Things to do in Aberdeen

1. delve into local history on a walking tour of aberdeen.

Aberdeen is a city that’s steeped in history. Archeological finds in the area suggest that people have lived here for as long as 8,000 years, while the city itself was first granted a charter almost 1,000 years ago in 1179 AD.

You can explore this rich heritage on a walking tour of Aberdeen’s main city center sights , where a local Aberdonian will lead you through centuries of history. Tours start at the Mercat Cross, a unique symbol of the city that dates back to 1686. The cross is said to mark the traditional center of the “Royal Burgh,” which forms the historic heart of Aberdeen.

From the Mercat Cross, you’ll stroll into Castlegate, which today is a serious blend of the old and the new. Castlegate is where Aberdeen’s medieval castle once stood (it’s now been demolished, unfortunately), and you’ll learn how the city was often caught up in the endless wars between the English and Scots in the medieval period. 

The history doesn’t end there, and you’ll swiftly move on to Marischal College, where students have been educated since at least the 16th century. Marischal College is a stunning example of Aberdonian architecture, and the college is often cited as a granite landmark of the “Granite City.” 

Sights abound in Aberdeen’s city center, and walking tours might also lead you to Provost Skene’s House, a remarkably well-preserved Tudor-era mansion, or down to Aberdeen Harbour, which has been the focal point of the city’s maritime trade and history since the 12th century AD. 

Book a Street Art Guided Walking Tour

2. Explore Old Aberdeen by foot

Aberdeen is a curious place to explore, and you might be intrigued to learn that until 1891, the city was divided into two distinct parts. In fact, there were two cities (or Burghs , in Scots) next to each other until an Act of Parliament officially joined them together. 

The first city you’ve already seen if you’ve explored Aberdeen’s city center area. The area around Castlegate was known as New Aberdeen, and it functioned independently. The second city was named Old Aberdeen, and you’ll find it to the north of New Aberdeen.

Old Aberdeen grew around St Machar’s Cathedral, which was founded sometime in the 6th century AD by its namesake, Saint Machar. The area grew into a city proper from the 14th century onwards, when Old Aberdeen became an important ecclesiastical center. This attracted traders and merchants from far afield, who turned the city into a wealthy mercantile hub. 

Today, you’ll find that Old Aberdeen’s charming cobbled streets and stone walls (many of the walls were stacked by hand, centuries prior) combine to create a wonderful place to explore on foot. Take in historic sights like St Machar’s Cathedral and the Old Town House, and enjoy the pleasant surroundings of Seaton Park and Cruickshank Botanic Gardens. 

3. Delve into local legend at St Machar’s Cathedral 

While you’re exploring Old Aberdeen, we highly recommend going into St Machar’s Cathedral for a closer look at this historic place of worship. Named for St Machar, who supposedly accompanied St Columba into Scotland in the 6th century AD to spread the word of Christianity, the cathedral is steeped in local legend and lore. 

It’s difficult to separate fact from reality, and it’s possible that the church itself was founded by St Machar, who is said to have visited here in 580 AD. The original church was built over, time and time again, and it’s said that beneath the walls lie part of the remains of the legendary Scottish independence fighter William Wallace, whose body was quartered and sent to different parts of Britain after his execution. 

Step inside, and you’ll love the layers of history and heritage within. But intriguingly, St Machar’s Cathedral is no longer actually a cathedral. It’s technically known as a “High Kirk” because after the Scottish Reformation in the 16th century, the catholic cathedrals were dissolved. 

4. Visit Provost Skene’s House – Aberdeen’s oldest townhouse

A visit to Provost Skene’s House is one of the top things to do in Aberdeen. This remarkable building dates back to 1545, making it the oldest townhouse in Aberdeen. The house is named for Sir George Skene, the Provost of Aberdeen who lived here in the 17th century, and inside you’ll be able to find out what life was like in centuries past for Aberdonian citizens. 

The house was often slated for demolition, but it’s always clung on, and in 2019 it underwent a huge refurbishment that cemented its place on Aberdeen’s skyline – hopefully for many more centuries to come. 

The refurbishment involved the creation of a wonderful new exhibition space that’s devoted to telling the stories of famous Aberdonians past and present. In the Hall of Heroes, you can learn more about the past occupants of Provost Skene’s House (who tended to be wealthy, elite Aberdonians, of course), as well as local heroes like Lord Boyd Ord (a Nobel laureate) and footballing legend Denis Law, the only Scottish player to ever win the legendary Ballon d’Or award (which is given to the best player in the world!).  

5. Admire the city’s artistic side at Aberdeen Art Gallery

One of the best Aberdeen attractions is the Aberdeen Art Gallery . This prestigious institution is home to a “Recognized Collection of National Significance,” which features an extensive collection of artwork the city has been collecting since the gallery first opened its doors in 1885. 

Aberdeen Art Gallery is home to hundreds of works of art spread across a total of 18 exhibitions. The artwork spans some seven centuries of art history and includes works by artists such as Barbara Hepworth and Henry Raeburn. The exhibitions are divided into unique topics and areas of historical interest, covering periods like the “Art of Empowerment,” “French Impressions,” and the “First World War Remembered.” 

You’ll find the Aberdeen Art Gallery is located within one of the city’s finest granite buildings too, which anyone with a love of architecture would also consider to be a work of art in itself. The building dates back to the 19th century, and the original granite exterior has been extended through multiple additions and conversions. The most recent was a four-year-long refurbishment between 2015 and 2019 which brought Aberdeen Art Gallery into the modern era. 

6. Learn about Aberdeen’s military history at The Gordon Highlanders Museum

If you’re a history lover wondering what to do in Aberdeen, then plan a visit to The Gordon Highlanders Museum . Aberdeenshire, with its rugged mountains and windswept coastline, has long been known for producing some of Britain’s hardiest soldiers, and few have claimed so much glory as the Gordon Highlanders.

The Gordon Highlanders were formed from Aberdeenshire recruits by the Duke of Gordon in 1794, and they’ve since become an enduring symbol of Aberdeen. This infamous army regiment has over 200 years of history, and they’ve served everywhere, from France and Spain to India and Afghanistan. Their legacy continues to this day, although the modern regiment is now an amalgamation of the Gordon highlanders and several other historical regiments from northern Scotland. 

You can find out more in the excellent Gordon Highlanders Museum, which explores the history of Aberdeen’s local regiment, its victories, and defeats through the stories of those who served and fought. 

7. Be shocked by the history of crime and punishment at The Tolbooth Museum

The Tolbooth Museum is one of the darker things to see in Aberdeen, but this unusual attraction is a must-see if you’re fascinated by crime and punishment. The Tolbooth Museum is set within Aberdeen’s former prison, or “gaol.” 

The building itself is another example of the city’s fine architecture, and with a history dating back to the 1600s, it’s also one of the oldest buildings in Aberdeen. But the magnificent exterior hides a troubled past. Venture inside the museum, you’ll learn more about the many unfortunate prisoners who were held here in centuries past. 

The Tolbooth Museum is set within the restored prison cells of the gaol, where you’ll hear the moving first-hand stories of prisoners, including those who were tried and often executed for witchcraft in the 17th century. You’ll also learn about the Jacobites, a group of rebels who tried to overthrow the monarchy in 1715, then again in 1745, before you’re then shocked by the instruments of torture and execution on display in the old cells. 

8. Explore Aberdeen Harbour and Aberdeen Maritime Museum

Aberdeen’s coastal location means that the city is inextricably linked to the North Sea. The Aberdeen Harbour is the largest seaport in Scotland, and for centuries, it’s linked the city to trade routes across the world. 

The harbor dates back to 1136 AD, but it’s very much modern and in use today. Head down to the wharves, and you never know which ships you’ll see calling into port, while the harbor area is a lively, history-laden destination offering a glimpse into Aberdeen, old and new. 

To learn more about Aberdeen’s rich maritime history, then you’ll also want to visit the Aberdeen Maritime Museum . Located on Shiprow, the most historic part of the harbor, Aberdeen Maritime Museum is set over four floors of detailed and interesting exhibitions. 

You’ll learn about the earliest shipbuilding techniques and fishing industries that developed in Aberdeen many centuries ago before seeing how the harbor developed into a shipbuilding center from the 16th century onwards. The top floor offers superb views over Aberdeen Harbour, while the latest galleries offer a modern insight into the offshore oil and gas trade that’s made Aberdeen rich. 

9. Enjoy the golden sands of Aberdeen Beach

Aberdeen is a coastal city, and the golden sands of Aberdeen Beach are one of the city’s best natural attractions. Coastal cities aren’t rare in the United Kingdom, but it is rare to find such a long, sandy beach so close to such an extensive urban area. 

Aberdeen Beach starts by Aberdeen Harbour, from where it gently curves its way north toward the River Don. The long road that runs parallel to the seafront is known simply as The Esplanade, and it’s lined with shops and leisure parks and busy with sightseers, joggers, hikers, and cyclists. 

In summer, the beach is glorious, but remember, this is the North Sea. If you’re not used to the chill, then it’s going to feel cold all year round. That doesn’t stop the locals from jumping in, though, and there’s even an annual Boxing Day Swim on December 26.

10. Admire the views from the Girdle Ness Peninsula

The Girdle Ness Peninsula overlooks the mouth of the River Dee, the natural entrance to Aberdeen Harbour. One of the most fun things to do in Aberdeen is to admire the views from the eastern end of this landmark location!

The peninsula’s strategic location means it’s long been the first and last marker for ships leaving or entering the harbor. Overlooking the blustery North Sea coastline, it’s not hard to imagine how many ships were lost on the rocks here, even so close to home. 

To make things safer, the 37-meter-tall Girdle Ness Lighthouse was designed and built by Robert Stevenson in 1833. The lighthouse is now fully automated, and you’ll love how the lighthouse keeper’s cottages can be rented out by tourists!

A short walk along the peninsula from Girdle Ness Lighthouse brings you to another of the best sights in Aberdeen. Since 1860, the Torry Battery has overlooked the entrance to Aberdeen Harbour, and while the guns have long since been removed, the ruins are an important “scheduled monument.” 

11. Join a harbor and dolphin cruise

The North Sea is a vital link to Aberdeen’s heritage, and there’s no better way to experience this force of nature than by joining a harbor and dolphin cruise during your stay in the city. 

Cruises run almost all year round, but remember, they are weather dependent. This is Aberdeen, though, and the captains will go out even if it does seem a little blustery to visitors (they’re used to it!). A typical cruise lasts one hour, starting with a tour of Aberdeen Harbour before venturing out into the North Sea. 

This is prime dolphin watching territory, and if you’re lucky, you’ll spot these wonderful marine mammals feeding in the bay. There’s a resident pod of dolphins that live in the area, so the chances are high that your captain will find them. 

Interestingly, you can also join an offshore wind farm tour. This cruise also departs from Aberdeen Harbour and takes you into Aberdeen Bay, where you’ll sail among the monstrous wind turbines providing power for the mainland. 

12. Visit Stonehaven (on Hogmanay, if you can!)

A 30-minute drive south of Aberdeen brings you to the coastal town of Stonehaven, which we think you’ll agree is by far one of the prettiest destinations in Aberdeenshire. Stonehaven is a typically rustic harbor town, and it’s thought that the small fishing port here has been used since the Iron Age. 

You’ll love the fresh sea air when you stand down by the quay, while the tidal beach is always awash with boats and fishermen sorting their catch or preparing for the next outing. Take a two-mile walk south of Stonehaven Harbour, and you’ll then come to Dunnottar Castle. Here, you’ll be awed by the dramatic ruins of a medieval castle precariously perched on a rocky peninsula jutting out into the North Sea. It truly is a sight to behold and one of the very best sights in the Aberdeen area.

While Stonehaven makes for a fantastic visit any time of the year, it really comes into its own during the New Year. The town is famed for its Hogmanay celebrations, when locals prepare giant fireballs, set them alight, and march through the streets of Stonehaven swinging them before throwing them into the harbor. 

Book a Dunnottar Castle Day Tour

13. Enjoy a wee dram of gin at the City of Aberdeen Distillery

After all that Aberdeen sightseeing, there’s nothing better than winding down with a wee dram of the local gin!

This is Scotland, and although Aberdeenshire is home to some of the most iconic single malt whiskey distilleries in the world, we recommend visiting the City Of Aberdeen Distillery for its gin. In a country dominated by whiskey, founders Dan and Alan have spiced up the drinks trade with an impressive range of locally distilled gins.

The City of Aberdeen Distillery was the first distillery to open within the city limits for some eight decades, and since they started distilling their gin just five years ago, they’ve made a name for themselves as one of the best local producers in Scotland. 

They’ve been refining their craft and products ever since, and on a gin tour of the distillery, you can try their Scottish Bramble Gin, Thyme for Rosemary Gin, or their signature Aberdeen Gin (which is the “Official Gin of Aberdeen City”).

14. Take an adventurous road trip to Cairngorms National Park

Follow the A93 highway west of Aberdeen, and within an hour’s drive, you’ll reach the edge of Cairngorms National Park. This is one of the most underrated road trips in Scotland, as this old military road takes you through some of the best scenery and landmarks in Britain’s most northerly national park.

Traveling from Aberdeen, you can stop to cross the Cambus o’ May Suspension Bridge on foot, over the River Dee. Pictish Stones await you in Milton of Tullich, before you pass Balmoral Castle, which is the Royal Family’s personal highland estate. Braemar Castle is a marvelous example of highland defensive architecture, and marvelous views await you as the road traverses high passes toward Glenshee. 

You can turn around and drive back along the A93 to Aberdeen, or you can continue south toward Perth, then join main roads heading back north to turn your road trip into a circular loop. 

15. Explore the Aberdeen Coastal Trail

The Aberdeen Coastal Trail is a glorious road trip that traverses 165 miles of spectacular coastal scenery. This is one of the must-do things in Aberdeen, although you’ll need at least four days to really experience all the stops on the route.

The Aberdeen Coastal Trail starts in St Cyrus, to the south of Aberdeen. Explore beaches and coastal scenery as you drive north to Stonehaven, then onwards to Aberdeen. 

From the city, you’ll continue north along the coast, stopping at Cruden Bay and Slain’s Castle (a supposed inspiration for Dracula’s castle), then onto the Banffshire Coast, where you’ll call into Crimond, Fraserburgh, and Macduff. The road trip ends in Portsoy, a harbor town known for its ice cream, salmon, and yearly boat festival. 

There you have it! The 15 best things to do in Aberdeen. What’s your favorite thing to do in Aberdeen?

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About the Author:

Richard is an award-winning travel writer based in Southwest England who’s addicted to traveling off the beaten track. He’s traveled to 75 countries and counting in search of intriguing stories, unusual destinations, and cultural curiosities. Richard loves traveling the long way round over land and sea, and you’ll find him visiting quirky micronations and breakaway territories as often as he’s found lounging on a beach (which is a lot). When he’s not writing for BBC Travel, National Geographic, or Lonely Planet, you can find Richard writing for the Wandering Wheatleys or updating his off-beat travel blog, Travel Tramp.

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11 Hidden Gems in Aberdeen

Find the best hidden gems in Aberdeen on your next city break. Explore beautiful gardens, head out for a delicious meal and try a locally-made gin.

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Gin School Experience

© City of Aberdeen Distillery Ltd

Hidden within a historic railway arch in the heart of the city, this is Aberdeen's first distillery for over 75 years and first ever gin school! Sample the delightful gins produced on a tour and masterclasses. Don't miss a chance to try the Rhubarb Gin!

• Accessible toilets
• Level Access

Johnston Gardens Aberdeen

Johnston Gardens

© @carlottaschwertel.photography

Experience a taste of Japanese culture, colours and blooming flowers in the peaceful Johnston Gardens. The gardens have won the prestigious Britain in Bloom award numerous times and feature a stunning waterfall, glistening streams, and a rustic bridge.

Dolphin Spotting Aberdeen

Aberdeen harbour

Head down to  Aberdeen's harbour  to hop aboard a sea cruise, or visit the Greyhope Bay Centre , the no.1 spot in the UK to see dolphins, which offers stunning views and a chance to learn more about these majestic creatures up close. Common sightings include bottlenose dolphins, white beaked dolphins, risso dolphins and even minke whales.

The nearby Torry Battery is a popular viewing spot too, where you can get an exquisite view of the resident marine life feeding in the harbour mouth.

St Machar's Cathedral Aberdeen

St Machar's Cathedral

If there’s one thing Aberdeen is known for, it’s unbelievable architecture. St Machar’s Cathedral is a striking place of worship. From the curious question of whether William Wallace’s arm remains within the walls to the age-old debate over whether it is a true cathedral, this building is full of mystery.

Books and Beans Aberdeen

Books and Beans, a cafe and book shop in Aberdeen

For a quiet moment to yourself, head to 22 Belmont Street and settle down inside this quirky second-hand book shop. Find a new book to get lost in and catch up on some reading, and enjoy the tasty lunch menu.

Seaton Park Aberdeen

Seaton Park

Let the stresses of the modern world drift away with a trip to Seaton Park, one of Aberdeen's most tranquil hideaways. Lose yourself amid the leafy pathways and grassy expanses.

Silver Darling, Footdee Aberdeen

Silver Darling Restaurant

This restaurant has an incredible view overlooking the entrance to Aberdeen Harbour. Silver Darling is a must-visit spot, specialising in seafood with a French twist. With a passion for local produce, the menus are filled with traditional fish and shellfish dishes as well as meat and seasonal game favourites.

Brig O' Balgownie Aberdeen

Brig o’ Balgownie

© VisitAberdeenshire

This medieval crossing is somewhat legendary in Aberdeen. It dates back to the 13th century, lies over a mystical deep pool known as the Black Neuk, and it was famously immortalised in Lord Byron’s poem  Don Juan . Nowadays, it’s a fierce contender for the title of the ‘oldest bridge in Scotland’.

Old Aberdeen Aberdeen

High Street in Old Aberdeen.

The weaving, windy streets of Old Aberdeen have seen their fair share of politics, education and culture throughout the ages. There are incredible imposing buildings, lots of student haunts, budget eateries and artisan coffee shops.

Aberdeen Beach Aberdeen

Aberdeen Beach and Queens Links is famous for its golden sand and its long curved length between the harbour and the River Dons mouth.

© Kenny Lam, VisitScotland. All rights reserved.

Only a short distance from the city centre lies a classic beachfront, complete with an esplanade featuring shops, cafés and an art-deco style ballroom. Stop for an ice-cream and look out towards the swirling North Sea, or embrace the salty sea air on a brisk walk along the promenade, all the way from Footdee to the River Don.

King's College, University of Aberdeen Aberdeen

Kings College Chapel.

The King's College Chapel is hauntingly beautiful, with its stained glass windows, tall ceilings, sloping archways and intricate carvings. Follow the Old Aberdeen Heritage Trail | PDF 4.2MB to see more classical period features in the city.

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