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Granite City, Grey City, or the Silver City with Golden Sands—Aberdeen in the northeast of Scotland has many names!
Set your preconceived ideas about this city aside and let us inspire you with our ultimate guide to things to do in Aberdeen.
You may also like our guide to Aberdeenshire.
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Things to Do in Aberdeen
This guide to the city includes activities, festivals, restaurant recommendations and bar/pub suggestions and is mapped which means suggestions are grouped by area.
City Centre
Union Street
Union Street or the ‘Granite Mile’ is the main shopping drag in the city.
Here you can expect shops like Zara, cafes like So…NYC Bagel (fave), and bars like Soul.
Since it has many smaller streets branching from it; it’s a solid starting point.
Union Row Murals
At first, you’ll see offices, but keep walking to discover four huge murals from the annual street art festival, Nuart.
One of the most striking is the Big Trash Animals by Lisbon artist, Bordalo II, take a closer look at the material.
You might think the boy climbing the building looks familiar…
This mural is by Lithuanian-born artist Ernest Zacharevic who also created the famous Little Children on Bicycle in Penang, Malaysia.
The third mural is by Argentinean artist, Milu Correch who migrated from notebook to m2 in 2011.
Finally, my favourite is by Norwegian street art duo, Nimi and RH74 —the girl in the green dress holding Crathes Castle.
I’m drowning in her sadness and love it!
Legend has it that Crathes is haunted by the Green Lady…
What’s your favourite? Tell us in the comments below or in our Facebook group.
Union Terrace Gardens
Union Terrace Gardens is a public garden close to Union Street and Rosemont Viaduct.
The park is surrounded by His Majesty’s Theatre, St Mark’s Church and the Triple Kirks so lots of Aberdeen’s spires!
The Tolbooth Museum
Here, you can climb the tight stairs up to the cells of the 17th-century prison building and learn about the crimes that imprisoned real-life ‘offenders’.
Do you agree with their crimes?
I would be locked up for two!
Can you work out which ones?
The Tolbooth Museum is historically important to Scotland too, many of the Jacobites (supporters of Stuart King James II) were imprisoned here.
It is one of the Aberdeen attractions that can be enjoyed if/when it rains!
The Mercat Cross/Castlegate
You’ll need to put your creativity caps on here and envisage Aberdeen Castle standing tall.
Castlegate used to be known as Castle Hill and was the hub of the city.
Stand in front of the Mercat Cross and imagine stalls all around with wine flowing from the gargoyles’ heads during times of celebration!
Or let a trained storyteller paint a picture for you…
Free Scot Walking Tours Aberdeen
I rate walking tours highly.
It’s usually the first thing I do when I arrive in a new city—it helps me get my bearings, and I love asking locals for tips.
The Aberdeen Free Scot Walking tour is one of the most informative tours I’ve been on and is run by a one (wo)man band.
Lia, the tour guide, walks you through history as you stroll through the streets of Aberdeen discussing war, pirates and of course, granite!
Other tours are also available such as the West End, Old Aberdeen, and Dark History tours.
Marischal College
A beauty to look at from the outside, Marischal College (Broad Street) was once Aberdeen’s second university.
Founded in 1593, nearly 100 years after Aberdeen’s King’s College (in the Old Town), the two colleges amalgamated in 1860 to form the University of Aberdeen.
It is now Aberdeen City Council’s headquarters and locals can get married here.
Robert the Bruce
Alan B. Herriot’s bronze sculptor of King Bruce was commissioned as part of the 700th anniversary of the inauguration of Robert the Bruce.
King Bruce is crowned and clutching the Great Charter of 1319 (which gave Aberdeen the power over the Forest of Stocket area in return for one year’s rent – a thank for you sheltering him as an outlaw).
The winning sculpture was chosen through a public poll and paid for via the Common Good Fund, which was created with the help of Bruce himself.
Interesting full circle!
Oldest Building in Aberdeen
Provost Skene’s House (Guestrow) is striking and an example of the types of buildings that were removed to create the modern Shiprow Street.
The house is named after one of Aberdeen’s most famous citizens, Lord Provost George Skene.
Poised Statue, Marischal Square
Do you recognise the material?
Yes!
Poised is by the same artist who created The Kelpies in Falkirk.
This time Andy Scott has created a two-ton lurking leopard who elegantly hangs above you at Marischal Square.
Why a leopard?
Look at the Aberdeen crest!
Also, take note of the city motto as you will see it used often too.
I love how this modern piece of art is next to the oldest building in the city; it sums up Aberdeenshire’s outlook to me – embracing the past but leaping to the future.
Ice Cream
It would be rude not to grab a milkshake, float, waffle or ice cream at the busiest parlour in town, Mackies 19.2 (7 Marischal Square).
Russell Head
If it hadn’t been for the walking tour of Aberdeen, I would have walked right past this.
The Russell Head is an angry face built into Provost Skene’s House just before Mackie 19.2.
The story goes that George Russell thought that his neighbour told the council that his bakery was functioning next to a sewer and when it was shut down he attached this gargoyle to the neighbour’s home on Ragg’s Lane out of anger.
Ragg’s Lane was demolished in 1959 so now the angry head lives here.
Maritime Museum
There is no denying the importance of the North Sea for Aberdeen.
‘Working offshore’, fishing and shipping are a part of everyday life for Aberdeenshire families and you can find out more about it at the Maritime Museum on Shiprow.
There is also a nice viewpoint of Aberdeen Harbour from the top of the museum.
Next door to the museum, look out for the 16th-century Provost Ross House.
Catch a Film
We found ourselves walking through Belmont Street often during our four days in Aberdeenshire and stumbled upon the charming Belmont Filmhouse (49 Belmont St).
In addition to modern movies, it also screens classic films, often tied to seasonal themes or city events.
The Green
Head downstairs from Union Street to The Green to explore the painted doors.
There are 24 doors decorated with different designs around the city.
Check this map for the pins.
Craft Beer Pints
The brewery pub Six Degrees North (6 Littlejohn St) is a relaxed, airy bar with a smoked food menu.
Catch a Comedy Show
If you get a kick out of comedy, consider visiting during the Comedy Festival.
The annual event schedules 50 shows over two weeks.
Acts take the stage at a variety of venues, including the gorgeous Tivoli Theatre and the purpose-built Breakneck Comedy Club.
Not visiting during the festival?
Check out what’s on at the Breakneck all year round.
Aberdeen Afternoon Tea
There are quite a few options for afternoon tea in Aberdeen.
- 1906 Restaurant at His Majesty’s Theatre
- 210 Cafe Bistro
- Carmelite in the heart of the Merchant Quarter
Aberdeen Beach
The best cities have a beach close to them and Aberdeen’s Beach is a mere 11-minute drive.
There is a stretch of path to walk along while you watch the dogs playing in the sea.
Aberdeen Fairground
Directly across from the beach is Codona’s Aberdeen (Beach Blvd).
We call the fairground ‘the shows’ in Scotland.
The shows in Aberdeen have a big wheel, rollercoaster and log flume.
If it’s raining you can check out the indoor bowling alley and amusement park – fun things to do in Aberdeen for big kids and wee kids.
Footdee (Fittie)
Say Footdee to a local and they’ll reply Fittie!
Nosing around the gardens and colourful doors of Aberdeen’s fishing village may initially feel strange but the locals don’t seem to mind!
The name Footdee comes from the village’s position at the “foot” of the River Dee.
There’s a reason Fittie is so photogenic; the same architect who designed the Balmoral Castle also worked on some of the houses here.
Things to Do at Christmas in Aberdeen
Aberdeen has a variety of events during Christmas including the fabulous lights switch-on and parade, food festivals, craft fayres, wreath making and of course the Aberdeen Christmas market.
Expect gluhwein and festive gift buys.
Things to Do in Old Aberdeen
Aberdeen used to be two separate areas – Aberdeen and Old Aberdeen.
In 1891, the two joined and luckily for us, they are only 35 minutes walk apart or a 20-minute drive/bus journey.
Powis Gate
Hmm, has Walt Disney been here?
Powis Gate looks similar to something out of a fairytale!
Limited information online states that Powis Gate was built in 1834 by Alexander Fraser for John Leslie of Powis.
The Gates are a magnificent entry to Old Aberdeen.
King’s College
King’s College (69 University Rd) in Aberdeen is especially glorious in autumn with the red climbers taking over the ends of the building.
Built in 1495, the University still uses its rooms to teach Divinity/Theology, History of Art and Religious Studies.
Sir Duncan Rice Library
Contrast the old against the new at Sir Duncan Rice Library (75 Bedford Rd).
The distinctive modern building stands out against the historic Old Aberdeen.
Be sure to nip inside to take a look at the interior spiral of the upper floors!
What to See in Aberdeen: West End
Aberdeen Cathedrals
St Machar’s Cathedral (The Chanonry) is one of three cathedrals in the city.
This west-end place of worship, and its famous ceiling with 48 heraldic shields, dates back to the 15th century.
The other two cathedrals are St. Mary of the Assumption Cathedral (16-20 Huntly St) and St Andrew’s Cathedral (28 King St).
Piper Alpha Memorial Garden, Hazlehead Park
On 6th July 1988, 167 men lost their lives during a series of gas explosions at an offshore platform 120 miles northeast of Aberdeenshire.
Only 61 men survived by jumping into the North Sea.
The impact on the region was and still is today, catastrophic.
The event still haunts many of the men who survived, the guilt, the worry and the nightmares.
In 1991, a memorial by Sue Jane Taylor was unveiled at the North Sea Memorial Rose Garden in Hazlehead Park.
The memorial consists of three workers, one of which is modelled on survivor, Bill Barron.
Why was Taylor selected to create the piece?
She has and continues to, work closely with the offshore energy sector, documenting the relationship between art, environment and industry.
Taylor had also previously spent one week photographing and sketching the workers of Piper Alpha which were displayed in her own exhibition, Oil Worker Scotland.
The Gordon Highlanders Museum
Winston Churchill described them as ‘The Finest Regiment in the World’ and you can see if you agree at The Gordon Highlanders Museum (St. Luke’s, Viewfield Rd).
The museum displays exhibitions which detail the Gordon Highlanders regiment action around the world, their weapons and also its silver!
This Aberdeen activity gets 4.5/5 on Tripadvisor.
Johnston Gardens
The city has many green spaces and one close to The Gordon Highlanders Museum is Johnston Gardens (Viewfield Rd).
This small public garden is award-winning, picking up a first prize in the Britain in Bloom competition several times.
Expect to see spring bulbs, heathers, ponds with irises, Muscovy ducks and the occasional wedding photoshoot!
Read next: How to plan three days in Aberdeenshire.
Food in Aberdeen
There are a variety of restaurants for every budget including the following which was recommended to us by locals.
Don’t forget to pick up an Aberdeen buttery (sometimes known as a Rowe) from the bakers.
The salty breaded snack is an Aberdeen favourite.
- Madame Mews – 7 Summer St. – Cheap, huge plates of Thai food.
- Foodstory 13-15 Thistle St. – Popular vegetarian cafe.
- Cafe Harmony 21 Bon-Accord Terrace – Italian.
- Mackies 9.12 ice cream 7, Marischal Square.
- 6 Degrees North 6 Littlejohn St. – Beer soup in roll bowl.
- Cafe 52 at The Green – Lunch, alfresco with heaters.
- Moonfish Cafe 9 Correction Wynd – Upmarket.
- The Pier (beach) – Busy on sunny weekends.
- The Silver Darling (beach) – Nice views.
Takeaway Lunches
- So…NYC Bagels & Brew – 269 Union St – Towering, fresh bagels.
- Grub Fresh Food – various locations – Sandwiches.
- The Pigs Wings – 22 Upperkirkgate – Sandwiches.
- Ross Bakery – 44 Chapel St – Tasty pies served most of the night.
Pubs
- Soul 333 – Union St – Cocktails in a converted church.
- 6 Degrees North 6 – Littlejohn St. – Craft beer brewery.
- Casc – 7 Stirling St. – Whisky.
- Under the Hammer – 11 N Silver St. – Basement bar, craft beers.
- Brewdog – various locations – Craig’s favourite craft beer.
- Fierce – 4-6 Exchequer Row – Really neat craft pub with other drinks.
- The Grill – 213 Union St. – Whisky.
- The Stag – 6 Crown St. – Nice decor, old man’s pub(ish).
- Blue Lamp – 121 Gallowgate – Off the beaten track.
- Ma Cameron’s – 6-8 Little Belmont St. – Beer garden ‘Aberdeen’s best-kept secret’ at 300 years old.
Cocktails
- Ninety – Nine – 1 Back Wynd – Relaxed.
- The Tippling House – 4 Belmont St – Cellar bar.
- Dusk – 45 Langstane Pl. – Bar to be seen at yet low light.
- Orchid – 51 Langstane Pl. – Huge bar with live music.
General Information
Where is Aberdeen?
Aberdeen is a city in the northeast of Scotland.
It is 127 miles from the capital of Scotland, Edinburgh, 149 miles from Glasgow, and 66 miles from Dundee, making it a perfect stop for any East Coast Scotland road trip.
Inverness, the gateway to the Highlands, is 103 miles from Aberdeen City.
Getting to Aberdeen
Aberdeen is easily reached by train and bus from the bigger Scotland cities like Edinburgh and Glasgow.
The Edinburgh to Aberdeen train takes just over two and a half hours whereas the Glasgow to Aberdeen train can take an hour longer.
There is a direct link between the Aberdeen to Inverness train routes.
It takes just over two hours.
Aberdeen Railway Station is the only train station in Aberdeen and can be found at Guild St, Aberdeen AB11 6FD.
There is a cafe, bar and shop at the station as well as toilet facilities and public WiFi.
Megabus operates in Scotland as a cheaper alternative to the train.
The Edinburgh to Aberdeen bus takes around three hours, and Glasgow to Aberdeen is just a little over three hours.
The Aberdeen to Inverness bus takes five to six hours.
Although there are public transport connections, it is ideal to have a car in Aberdeen so you can take an Aberdeenshire road trip.
Get Your Bearings
- Union Street is a long shopping street with Mercat Cross the Castlegate at the end.
- From here, take Broad Street to see Marischal College (or Shiprow to lead you down to the River Dee) then Upperkirkgate to Backwynd for The Green (cafes, shops and painted doors).
- Union Terrace Gardens is very close by if you are looking for green space in the city.
- Old Aberdeen is a thirty-five-minute walk from The Green. The walk is pretty industrial which makes the Old Aberdeen appear even more majestic!
- Aberdeen’s west end is a 40-minute walk from Union Street.
- Alternatively, use Google Maps to get about.
Aberdeen Accommodation
We stayed at Skene House Rosemount (96 Rosemount Viaduct, Aberdeen AB25 1NX) which is brilliantly located close to Union Street (7 minutes walk) and Aberdeen’s top attractions.
The room itself was actually three rooms – a spacious apartment in the city.
This is great if you are looking to keep costs down as there is a small kitchen.
Continental and hot breakfasts are available each morning.
Private parking is included in the room rate which is great if you are off to do an Aberdeenshire road trip as we did!
Any questions or comments?
Tell us below.
Thanks to Visit Aberdeenshire for working with us at Two Scots Abroad where this guide was originally posted.
We really had a brilliant time rediscovering Aberdeen City while discovering new areas in Aberdeenshire and the Royal Deeside.
As east coasters, we love having the opportunity to promote the lesser-known side of the country!