Known as the Granite City for the silver-grey stone that gives its buildings their sparkle, Aberdeen is Scotland’s third-largest city and a rewarding stop on any East Coast road trip. It pairs a walkable, mural-dotted centre with the medieval cobbles of Old Aberdeen, leafy West End gardens, a long sandy beach and a food-and-drink scene that gave the world BrewDog. This guide breaks the city into five easy areas – explore whichever suits your trip.
Explore Aberdeen by Area
City Centre
Start HereThe heart of the Granite City: Union Street’s granite mile, Nuart street-art murals, Marischal College and free museums, all within easy walking distance.
Old Aberdeen
HistoricThe medieval burgh joined to the city in 1891: King’s College, the Powis Gate, cobbled streets and the striking Sir Duncan Rice Library.
West End
QuieterCathedrals, the moving Piper Alpha Memorial Garden, the Gordon Highlanders Museum and the tucked-away Johnston Gardens – the city’s calmer side.
Food & Drink
Eat & DrinkWhere to eat and drink: local restaurants, beachfront seafood, whisky and cocktail bars, and the craft-beer scene that started BrewDog.
Practical Guide
PlanEverything you need to plan the trip: distances from Edinburgh, Glasgow and Inverness, trains and buses, getting your bearings and where to stay.
Aberdeen at a Glance
| Area | Best For | Highlights | Location |
|---|---|---|---|
| City Centre | First-timers | Union St, Nuart murals, free museums | Central |
| Old Aberdeen | History & architecture | King's College, Rice Library, cobbles | North |
| West End | Gardens & quiet corners | St Machar, Johnston Gardens, museums | West |
| Food & Drink | Eating & nightlife | Craft beer, seafood, cocktail bars | Belmont St |
| Practical Guide | Trip planning | Trains, buses, accommodation | Citywide |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Aberdeen worth visiting?
Yes. Aberdeen blends a walkable granite city centre, a medieval university quarter, a long sandy beach and a lively food-and-drink scene. It also makes an ideal base for an Aberdeenshire road trip out to the region’s castles and coast.
How many days do you need in Aberdeen?
Two days is enough to cover the city centre and Old Aberdeen at a relaxed pace. Add a third day if you want to explore the West End properly or take a day trip into Aberdeenshire.
What is Aberdeen famous for?
Aberdeen is known as the Granite City for its silver-grey stone buildings, as a major North Sea oil and fishing port, as the home of BrewDog, and for local specialities like the Aberdeen buttery.
How do I get to Aberdeen?
Aberdeen is well connected by train and bus. The Edinburgh train takes about two and a half hours; see our practical guide for full distances, times and tips.