2026 Aberdeen Travel Guide: must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transport & travel experiences (updated in February)

Aberdeen, often called the “Granite City,” surprised me with its unique charm, a mix of silver-grey buildings, fresh sea air, and quiet beauty. Though often overlooked, this Scottish city turned out to be one of my favorite day trips. I started the morning at Marischal College, one of the largest granite buildings in the world. Its sharp, gothic spires shimmered in the sunlight—who knew grey could be so beautiful? Just nearby, Aberdeen Art Gallery offered a quiet escape with its collection of Scottish and international art. For lunch, I wandered down Union Street and found a cozy café serving Cullen Skink—a traditional Scottish soup with smoked haddock and potatoes. Warm and comforting, especially in the northern chill. In the afternoon, I took a peaceful walk in Duthie Park, where the Winter Gardens offered a burst of tropical color under glass domes. Outside, locals jogged or walked their dogs along the River Dee. Later, I made my way to Aberdeen Beach. The wind was brisk, but the view of waves crashing against the long, quiet shoreline was worth it. A handful of surfers braved the cold waters, while I just enjoyed the salty breeze. As evening approached, the city seemed to glow under the soft northern light. Aberdeen may be built of stone, but it feels alive—with history, nature, and quiet soul. #postandearn

I struck gold on my recent trip to the UK! Aberdeen is a city full of romance and surprises, and I can't let anyone miss out. Here's my travel guide for you~ Itinerary Day 1: I landed in Aberdeen in the morning and took a taxi straight to my hotel to drop off my luggage. After settling in, I walked to Old Aberdeen. It has a medieval feel, with ancient buildings lining the streets and colorful little houses that are perfect for photos. I spent about 3 hours exploring. Day 2: I took a taxi early in the morning to Dunnottar Castle to watch the sunrise. The castle's ruins evoke a sense of history, and the cliffs against the sea are breathtakingly beautiful. In the afternoon, I took the bus back to the city center and visited the Aberdeen Art Gallery, immersing myself in the world of art for about 2 hours. Day 3: In the morning, I took a train to Stonehaven to visit the fairytale-like Stonehaven Castle by the sea. I strolled along the beach, enjoying a pleasant afternoon for 3 hours. In the afternoon, I returned to Aberdeen to prepare for my departure. Highlights The sunrise at Dunnottar Castle was truly amazing! Standing on the castle perched on the cliff, bathed in golden sunlight, overlooking the vast sea, with waves crashing against the rocks, it was a spectacular sight I'll never forget! The streets of Old Aberdeen also have a unique charm. The ancient St. Machar's Cathedral is solemn and majestic, with colorful stained-glass windows shining in the sunlight. Food Recommendations You must visit the Silver Darling! It's located at Maritime Quay, a fantastic spot where you can dine while enjoying the sea view. Their seafood platter is a must-try. The crab, shrimp, and shellfish are incredibly fresh, bursting with the flavor of the ocean. The smoked salmon is also exquisite, with a delicate texture that melts in your mouth. Accommodation Experience I stayed at the Douglas Hotel in Aberdeen's city center. It's conveniently located just steps away from bus stops and the subway station. The room was cozy, with comfortable bedding, ensuring a good night's sleep. The staff at the front desk were incredibly helpful and always available to assist with any questions. It offered great value for money. Things to Note The road to Dunnottar Castle is a bit rough, so comfortable athletic shoes are recommended. Also, there's no shade at the castle, so be sure to wear sunscreen. Aberdeen's weather can be unpredictable, so it's wise to carry an umbrella. Aberdeen is truly a place full of surprises. Every sight, every bite of food, has left me captivated. I'm sure you'll fall in love with it too. Start planning your trip now!

Hey everyone 👋, today I'm going to share a two-day itinerary for exploring Aberdeen, UK 🎉. This place is incredibly charming, boasting rich culture and stunning natural scenery. Follow this guide, and you're guaranteed a fun and fulfilling trip. 🌟 Day 1 Morning: ✈️ Whether you arrive in Aberdeen by plane or train, the first thing to do is find a place to stay. I recommend choosing a hotel in the city center for convenient access to everything 🚶. After dropping off your luggage, head straight to the University of Aberdeen. This is a renowned university city in the UK. As soon as you step onto campus, you'll feel the strong academic atmosphere, with its historic buildings and expansive greenery. Take some photos and soak it all in. Lunch: After a morning of exploring, you're bound to be hungry 😋. Don't hesitate to head to a restaurant in the city center and try traditional Scottish stew. It's rich and flavorful, and pairs perfectly with fresh seafood. After lunch, take a stroll through the city center's shopping malls or bustling markets. Pick up some souvenirs and local specialties to take home for friends. Afternoon: With a full stomach and renewed energy, visit the Aberdeen Art Gallery 🎨. It houses a treasure trove of Scottish art, with exquisite paintings and unique artworks that will surely captivate you. Afterward, head to the Beachfront Park, one of Aberdeen's most popular parks. Take a walk along the coastline, feel the gentle sea breeze, and gaze at the endless ocean. All your worries will melt away as you enjoy the beautiful coastal scenery. Evening: As night falls, find a popular local restaurant and savor Scottish seafood or sizzling barbecue. The taste is unforgettable 👍. After dinner, don't rush back to the hotel. Take a stroll through the city center streets, admire the beautifully lit cityscape, and experience the unique charm of Aberdeen at night. 🌟 Day 2 Morning: Start your second day with a visit to the Glen Garioch Distillery to uncover the secrets of whisky 🎉. Scotland is the home of whisky, and here you can experience the whisky-making process firsthand and learn the story behind every drop. The highlight is the whisky tasting experience. Take a sip, and the rich aroma will spread across your palate. It's an experience you won't want to miss! Lunch: When having lunch at a restaurant near the distillery, be sure to try the local whisky paired with specialty dishes. This unique combination offers a surprisingly rich and unique flavor. After this meal, you'll have a newfound appreciation for Scottish cuisine. Afternoon: After lunch, visit the Robertson Museum and Art Gallery 👀. It showcases the natural history and cultural heritage of Aberdeen and the surrounding areas, offering insights into the region's past. Afterward, head to Grant Park and the Aberdeen Zoo, a paradise for children. Get up close and personal with all sorts of adorable animals. Evening: For dinner, choose a restaurant by the sea and enjoy the ambiance of the city meeting the ocean as the sea breeze gently caresses your face 💕. After dinner, take a walk along the beach and watch the sunset. If you're looking for more entertainment, Aberdeen's bars and nightclubs are also great options. Enjoy your night in Aberdeen! 🤗 Final Recommendations Aberdeen, a beautiful city in Scotland, truly offers a blend of rich cultural heritage and unique natural scenery. I hope this itinerary is helpful, and I wish you a pleasant journey 💖! If you have any other fun or delicious recommendations, feel free to share them in the comments below.

Today, we want to introduce you to a little-known but absolutely stunning travel destination: Aberdeen. Located on the east coast of Scotland, this city is like a forgotten gem, radiating a unique charm!✨🏴 # Why Choose Aberdeen? 1. Stunning Coastline: Aberdeen boasts a magnificent coastline, with golden sandy beaches and azure waters that are sure to take your breath away! 🌊🏖️ Whether you're taking a stroll or snapping photos, it's the perfect choice! 2. History and Culture: As the third-largest city in Scotland, Aberdeen is rich in history and cultural heritage. A walk through the old town feels like a journey back to the Middle Ages! 🏰📜 3. Unique Architecture: Known as the "Granite City," Aberdeen's buildings are mostly made of granite, giving the city a unique gray tone that exudes a sense of stability and elegance! 🪨🏛️ 4. Abundant Outdoor Activities: Outdoor enthusiasts, don't miss out! The area around Aberdeen is home to numerous national parks and nature reserves, perfect for hiking, cycling, birdwatching, and more! 🚴‍♀️🏞️ Must-Visit Attractions 1. Aberdeen Beach: With its golden sands and azure waters, it's the perfect place to relax and unwind! 🌊🌞 2. University of Aberdeen: With over 500 years of history, this university's campus is steeped in academic and historical atmosphere! 🎓📚 3. Aberdeen Botanic Garden: A paradise for plant lovers, with a dazzling array of exotic plants! 🌸🌿 4. Footdee: Traditional fishing village-style architecture, with colorful cottages and fishing boats, creating a beautiful picture! 🎣🏠 5. Aberdeen Art Gallery & Museums: A treasure trove of art collections and historical artifacts that will leave you captivated! 🖼️🏛️ Food Recommendations - Traditional Scottish Cuisine: Be sure to try Scotland's signature dishes, such as haggis and Scottish beef! 🍖🥩 - Seafood Feast: As a coastal city, Aberdeen offers fresh and delicious seafood, especially lobster and crab, which are sure to satisfy your taste buds! 🦞🦀 - Local Beer: Enjoy a pint of authentic Scottish beer and savor the unique local flavors! 🍺 Accommodation Recommendations - City Center Hotels: Convenient for visiting major attractions, shopping, and dining! 🏨 - Seaside Resorts: Enjoy a tranquil seaside life, waking up to the sound of the waves in the morning, it's pure bliss! 🌊🌅 Transportation Information - Self-Drive: Renting a car is the best way to explore Aberdeen and its surroundings, allowing you to plan your itinerary freely! 🚗 - Public Transport: Aberdeen has a well-developed bus system, and you can also choose to explore by taxi or on foot! 🚌🚶‍♀️

On the northeast coast of Great Britain, there is a city that has been gently treated by time - Aberdeen. When the morning light quietly shines on the ancient buildings, a romantic journey begins. In the morning, step into the old town of Aberdeen. The ancient granite buildings shine with a unique luster in the morning light, as if whispering the past of the city. The St. Machar's Cathedral on the street is like a wise man who has experienced the vicissitudes of life, standing quietly. The spire pierces the sky, and the Gothic carvings are exquisite. Every line is full of historical charm. Walking into the church, the solemn atmosphere envelops you, and the sunlight shines through the stained glass, painting a colorful picture on the ground. At that moment, time seems to stand still, and the soul finds a place to rest. Leaving the church, head to Union Street, the bustling center of Aberdeen. The street is lined with shops, and the windows are filled with a dazzling array of goods, exuding the vitality of a modern city. I stopped at a café on the street, ordered a cup of fragrant coffee, sat by the window, watched the people in a hurry, and felt the fireworks of the city. In the afternoon, I came to the seaside of Aberdeen. The sea breeze with a salty smell blows on my face, and the waves gently pat the beach, making a pleasant sound. The oil rigs in the distance are looming on the sea, telling the glory of the city as the oil capital. Walking along the seaside, enjoying the endless sea, the troubles in my heart are also taken away by the waves. In the evening, the afterglow of the sunset dyed the whole city orange-red. I came to the banks of the River Dee, and the river was sparkling in the afterglow. The bridges across the river connect the past and present of the city. The aroma of food wafts from the restaurants by the river. I found a place to sit down and taste the local seafood, which was the perfect end to my day in Aberdeen.

✨Discover the magical Aberdeen with Revolution Aberdeen.Palm Court Hotel - Your Dream Destination!🏰 🌈Looking for a spontaneous adventure in Aberdeen? Let Revolution Aberdeen.Palm Court Hotel be the starting point of your journey! Located in the heart of the city, you can easily reach the Aberdeen Art Gallery and the vibrant city center. 🏨【Luxury in the Heart of the City】 Imagine stepping out of the hotel and into the bustling streets of Aberdeen. Shopping havens and the train station are just a stone's throw away, making every trip a breeze. 🌆【A Perfect Blend of Classic and Modern】 Step into the hotel and feel like you've traveled through time. The high ceilings and sparkling chandeliers create an elegant atmosphere, blending the charm of old-world aristocracy with modern comfort. Every detail in the guest rooms has been carefully designed to provide you with a warm and welcoming home away from home. 🏊‍♂️💪【Leisure Time Full of Energy】 Whether you're swimming in the hotel's pool or working out in the gym, Revolution Aberdeen can fulfill all your energy needs. The SPA center also offers professional massages to help you unwind and rejuvenate. 👶🎈【Family Fun】 No need to worry about boredom for your children. The hotel's dedicated children's play area allows them to laugh and play to their hearts' content. 🍽️【A Culinary Journey】 The hotel's restaurant offers a culinary journey around the world. From authentic Scottish smoked salmon sandwiches to international cuisine, every dish is a tempting treat for your taste buds. Enjoy a feast for both your eyes and your stomach in an elegant setting. 🗓️【A Perfect Itinerary】 🌅Take a morning stroll to the Aberdeen Art Gallery and let the artistic atmosphere awaken your senses. 🍽️Have lunch at a nearby cafe and enjoy a delicious sandwich. 🌳In the afternoon, visit Hazlehead Park and embrace nature, or explore the Maritime Museum and listen to the call of the sea. 🌃As night falls, return to the hotel and enjoy a sumptuous dinner. Then, sip on a genuine Scottish whisky at the bar and end your perfect day. 🧳【Travel Tips for a Perfect Trip】 👗Pack clothes according to the weather forecast. Aberdeen's weather is unpredictable, so a versatile umbrella is a must-have. 📸Bring your camera and capture every beautiful moment to make your memories even more vivid. 👟Wear comfortable shoes so you can walk freely. 💰Don't forget to bring enough cash and ID with you. 💡【Additional Tips for a Smooth Trip】 📅Book your hotel and restaurants online in advance to secure your desired location. 🚌🚇Take advantage of Aberdeen's convenient bus and subway system. A day pass allows you to travel all over the city. 🍳Don't forget to enjoy the free breakfast and fuel up for a day of adventure. 🎧Rent an audio guide at the Aberdeen Art Gallery and let the charm of art touch your heart. Revolution Aberdeen.Palm Court Hotel, we look forward to welcoming you on your unforgettable Aberdeen adventure!🌟

Getting There - Flixbus or you can take Train ScotRail from Glasgow to Aberdeen Attractions - Art gallery Hotels - N/A Food & Restaurants - Cup Shopping - city centre This was a lovely day in Aberdeen. It took me four hours to go there by bus. I like to enjoy the view while taking the bus. Would recommend people who don’t have motion sickness take the bus rather than the train. The café is lovely and spacious. Love the vibe there.

#bucketlist Aberdeen Sports Village is the premier sports facility in the North East of Scotland. It is open to students, staff and the public with& facilities for athletics, football, swimming, hockey, squash, martial arts and boxing. #bucketlist

• Spectra 2026 ✨ Aberdeen’s annual festival of light •📍 Aberdeen City Centre, Scotland • 🗓 5–8 February 2026 • ⏰ 5:30pm–10:00pm (final entry at 9:30pm) • 💡 The city centre transforms into immersive light installations after dark • 🎨 A free, open-air festival blending art, light, and technology • 🌙✨ A winter night experience not to be missed • 🧥☔ Tip: Dress warmly and wear a waterproof jacket. It’s cold and rain is common #travel2026 #travel #uk #festival #scotland #aberdeen

Celebrating 761 days of travelling with Trip.com: Together, we've explored 28 cities worldwide; in 2025, I unlocked 24 new cities and was honoured with the title of Voyage Virtuoso#2025travelstory

Wandering through the colorful cottages of Fittie and watching the North Sea roll in. #Footdee #Fittie #Aberdeen Beach #CoastalLife #Scotland

📅 Itinerary Day1： Day2: Day3: 🏨 Accommodation 🍴 Food Recommendations 📌 Tips

snow hit so a cosy cheap bed for the night added bonus lovely breakfast and carparking in city centre

I fell in love with this part of Scotland. Tap water is better than bottled water in England. I love Scotland, Rooting for Scotts in World Cup 2026.

📍 Itinerary Overview Explore Aberdeen’s coastal charm, historic streets, and granite architecture. 🚩 Sightseeing Route City Centre → Old Aberdeen → Aberdeen Beach → Footdee (Fittie) 🏖️ Must-Visit Attractions Old Aberdeen, St Machar’s Cathedral, Aberdeen Beach, Duthie Park 🚇 Transportation Easy bus routes, walkable city centre, taxis readily available 📷 Photo Spots Footdee village, Beach Esplanade, Seaton Park, Old Town streets 🍜 Local Cuisine Fresh seafood, Cullen skink, Aberdeen Angus beef 🏠 Accommodation City centre hotels or cosy seaside stays 💡 Tips Pack layers, check coastal weather, book early in summer

#chinaadventures

#hellochristmas ✨ Majestic History at King’s College Chapel ⛪📜 Walking into King’s College Chapel feels like stepping back in time. Built during the 15th and 16th centuries, this iconic chapel showcases the pinnacle of English Gothic architecture. Its towering fan-vaulted ceiling, delicate stone carvings, and stained-glass windows depicting biblical scenes are breathtaking. Every corner tells a story of craftsmanship and devotion, reflecting centuries of royal and academic history. Visitors can admire the choir stalls, intricately designed woodwork, and the large organ that has echoed through centuries of services. The chapel has survived wars, restorations, and the passage of time, yet its elegance and grandeur remain intact. Walking through its aisles, you can feel the weight of history and the spiritual significance that has inspired generations. Whether you’re an architecture enthusiast, history lover, or simply seeking a serene space, King’s College Chapel is a must-see. Every visit leaves a lasting impression of beauty and heritage. ✨📖🕯️

#hellochristmas 🌟 Visiting King’s College Chapel – An Unforgettable Experience 🎶🏰 Visiting King’s College Chapel is a magical experience for anyone exploring Cambridge. The moment you step inside, the soaring fan-vaulted ceilings and vibrant stained glass immediately captivate your eyes. The chapel is not only a historic treasure but also a living center of music and culture. Listening to the famous choir rehearse or performing during a service adds a layer of emotion that makes the visit unforgettable. Every window tells a story, and the detailed wood carvings and sculptures provide fascinating insights into medieval artistry. Photography enthusiasts will find endless inspiration in the way light filters through the stained glass, casting colorful reflections across the stone floors. Walking around the chapel grounds and exploring the nearby college buildings further enhances the sense of history and academia that Cambridge embodies. A visit here isn’t just about seeing a building – it’s about experiencing centuries of culture, devotion, and human creativity. 🕊️🎨🎶

#hellochristmas#travel

🏖️ Must-Visit Attractions Codonas is fantastic!!! street life museum is full of amazing history REVS amazing atmosphere and tasty drinks beautiful little farm GG? JJ Ross cafe is sooo tasty definitely recommend can’t go wrong with a scottish breakfast at spoons Forest farm is a MUST incredible pizza 🍕 so many ice cream options 🍨 and delicious milkshakes with many flavours to choose from 🥛#forest farm #couplestrip

Having been a resident of Aberdeen for many years it is now nice after leaving 20 years ago to visit as see such beautiful buldings and areas rejuvenated like Broad St while staying at Residence Inn by Marriot. The city offers many lovely dining experiences and yes it still needs worn but it is all progress and what is currently there needs supported. Also worth a visit is Almodine - if you like a sweet treat

#travel #scenic

Donemouth

Aberdeen - Footdee

📅 Itinerary Day1：travel up Day2: university Day3: gym 🍴 Food Recommendations greggs I’m a broke student 😭🤣 📌 Tips plan in advance!!