Things to do in Aberdeen

Activities, attractions and tours

Visit Aberdeen

Types of activities

Where to stay

Aberdeen Travel Guide

Aberdeen showing a city, night scenes and a square or plaza

Aberdeen featuring interior views and modern architecture

Marischal Museum featuring a city, heritage architecture and street scenes

Aberdeen showing night scenes, a city and heritage elements

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What to do in Aberdeen

Popular places to visit

Union Square Shopping Centre

During your trip to Aberdeen, you can search for that perfect souvenir at Union Square Shopping Centre. Discover the area's top-notch restaurants and its acclaimed theater scene.

Aberdeen University King's College building captured on a beautiful late summer morning. Founded in 1495 this is one of Scotland's oldest universities; the crown tower and chapel date from 1500.; Shut

University of Aberdeen

Explore the campus of University of Aberdeen, during your trip to Aberdeen. Make time to visit the area's shops, or simply enjoy its top-notch restaurants.

Part of the #lookagainfestival in Aberdeen. Making you think about the city around you.

His Majesty's Theatre

You can get tickets for a performance at His Majesty's Theatre during your stay in Aberdeen. Discover the area's top-notch restaurants and its acclaimed theater scene.

View of Aberdeen skyline from inside the docks or harbor area

Aberdeen Harbour

Explore the waterfront in Aberdeen with a trip to Aberdeen Harbour. Discover the area's acclaimed theater scene and shops.

Aberdeen Royal Infirmary

Though Aberdeen Royal Infirmary might be what brings you to town, perhaps you'll have a chance to explore more of Aberdeen while you are here.

Duthie Park Winter Gardens

Walk amid tropical rainforests or arid displays dotted with cacti at this beautiful garden set within a collection of large glasshouses in a pretty city park.

Robert Gordon University

Enjoy the collegiate vibe when you visit Robert Gordon University, during your travels in Aberdeen. Stroll along the waterfront or visit the shops in the area.

Royal Aberdeen Golf Club

Enjoy a round of golf in Aberdeen at Royal Aberdeen Golf Club. Make time to visit the area's shops, or simply enjoy its lively bars.

Aberdeen Arts Centre

Get tickets for a show at Aberdeen Arts Centre, a storied theater in Aberdeen. Discover the area's acclaimed theater scene and shops.

Areas of Aberdeen

Marischal Museum showing heritage elements and heritage architecture

Central Aberdeen

Travelers to Central Aberdeen praise its popular shops. If you've got some more time to explore, be sure to make a stop by Aberdeen Music Hall and His Majesty's Theatre.

Dyce

Visitors highly recommend Dyce for its abundant dining options, and you can make a stop by Formartine and Buchan Way while you're in town.

IMO: 9636254 MMSI: 235096339 Call Sign: 2GCZ3 Flag: United Kingdom

Hanover

If you're spending some time in Hanover, Codonas Amusement Park and Aberdeen Harbour are top sights worth seeing.

Queen's Cross, Aberdeen. This statue of Queen Victoria was moved here in 1964 having previously stood in St. Nicholas Street, in the city centre.

Aberdeen West End

Aberdeen West End is popular for its abundant dining options, and if you're looking for more to see and do, you might think about a trip to Queen Victoria Statue or Rubislaw Quarry.

Autumn colours at Brig o' Balgownie, Aberdeen, Scotland

Bucksburn

You'll enjoy the breweries and golf courses in Bucksburn. You might want to make time for a stop at P&J Live or Auchmill Golf Course.

I love the Winter Gardens in Aberdeen. Constantly changing throughout the year. This is the fern house in April 2015. There's lots of information about the different plants and why they are grown too.

Ferryhill

While there might not be top attractions in Ferryhill, you can explore the larger area and discover places like Duthie Park Winter Gardens and Union Square Shopping Centre.

Banchory

Dunnottar Castle featuring rugged coastline

Stonehaven

Frequently asked questions

Is Aberdeen worth visiting?

Whether you plan to experience the local charm and cultural hotspots or sample regional foods and explore in nature, there are many things to do in Aberdeen.

How do I spend a day in Aberdeen?

Once you've checked off popular attractions like Aberdeen City Beach and Kartstart Indoor Raceways, spend the rest of your day experiencing the retail and food options in Aberdeen.

What is the top tourist attraction in Aberdeen?

Don't leave without checking out Cathedral of St. Machar, ranked the top tourist attraction in Aberdeen.

Is three days enough to stay in Aberdeen?

Three days will be enough time to check out many city attractions, like Cathedral of St. Machar, Aberdeen City Beach and St. Andrew's Episcopal Cathedral. The average stay in Aberdeen is two days. If you feel the urge to extend your escape, Stonehaven isn't far away.

Is Aberdeen a walkable city?

It depends on what you want to see and do in Aberdeen. Several top sights, such as Cathedral of St. Machar and Aberdeen City Beach, are reachable on foot. If you're up for a wander around some of Aberdeen's neighborhoods, Aberdeen West End is 3 kilometers away from downtown, while Merchant Quarter is 0.48 kilometers away from the city center and also within walking distance.

What are some activities to do in Aberdeen with kids?

Whether you're traveling with tiny adventurers or hard-to-please teens, an itinerary filled with fun activities makes all the difference. Browse our recommendations for what to do in Aberdeen with kids.

What to do in Aberdeen for adults?

Whether you're a food lover, culture enthusiast or adventure seeker, there's no shortage of things to do in Aberdeen for adults including King's Museum - Old Town House and Aberdeen Mosque.

Are there free things to do in Aberdeen?

From enjoying parks to strolling around vibrant neighborhoods, it's simple to find free things to do in Aberdeen. If you need new ideas, get some tips from a local tour guide. Cathedral of St. Machar is a great spot for anyone wanting to save on their sightseeing adventures.