Best 20 things to do in Aberdeen, United Kingdom

Welcome to Aberdeen, where the sound of bagpipes fills the air and the elusive sunshine greets you like a shy Loch Ness monster. If you find yourself in this historic Scottish city, be sure to check out the magnificent Union Street, dubbed as the 'Granite Mile,' where you can admire stunning buildings that have mastered the art of blending in with the clouds. Don't miss the opportunity to visit Footdee, a charming neighborhood that looks like a drunken incarnation of Tetris, offering a delightful mix of colorful houses and fishy aromas.

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1. Seaton Park

4.7 (1890)

Don St, Old Aberdeen, Aberdeen AB24 1XS, UK

Nestled within the vibrant city of Aberdeen lies the charming Seaton Park, a haven for both nature enthusiasts and squirrels with impeccable taste. As you step foot onto the park's lush greenery, prepare to be greeted by an army of dogs, eagerly embracing their mission to sniff out every corner of this sprawling green oasis. With its diverse range of tranquil gardens, majestic views of River Don, and an uncanny ability to make time disappear, Seaton Park is the perfect spot for a leisurely stroll, a botanic picnic, or a desperate attempt to tire out your hyperactive terrier.

aberdeencity.gov.uk

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2. Provost Skene's House

4.7 (252)

Guestrow, Marischal Square, Aberdeen AB10 1AS, UK

Welcome to Provost Skene's House, the historic gem of Aberdeen that boasts more character than your eccentric Aunt Mabel's wacky hat collection. This magnificent 16th-century domicile, nestled in the heart of the Granite City, offers a tantalizing peek into the flamboyant past of Scottish provosts (fancy mayor types). With its hodgepodge of architectural styles, including a touch of medieval mystery, Renaissance flair, and a dash of "Oops, I dropped this here," it's a house that redefines the concept of "charming chaos."

www.aagm.co.uk

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3. Aberdeen Beach

4.5 (1186)

Esplanade, Aberdeen AB24 5QA, UK

Welcome to Aberdeen Beach, where you can bask in the glory of Scotland's answer to tropical paradise without sprouting gills. As you stroll along the sandy shores, be prepared to whip out your trusty sunglasses and shuffle like a true expert to avoid the pebbles that may test your bare feet’s tolerance levels. With the North Sea breeze giving you a free pedicure, don't be surprised to find a rogue seagull gawking at your attempt to sunbathe, thinking it's auditioning for a Hitchcock movie.

www.visitscotland.com

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4. Aberdeen Science Centre

4.4 (562)

179 Constitution St, Aberdeen AB24 5TU, UK

Welcome to the Aberdeen Science Centre, where you can set your inner nerd free and take your scientific curiosity for an adventure-packed joyride! This science haven is like a rollercoaster ride for your brain, filled with mind-boggling exhibits that make you want to apologize to your school science teacher for never paying attention. Prepare to have your mind blown, and maybe even sing "Eureka!" when you encounter the giant hamster wheel that scientifically proves why we humans should leave the hamster-ing around to, well, hamsters.

aberdeensciencecentre.org

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5. Balmedie Beach

4.8 (449)

Balmedie Beach, Aberdeen AB23 8WU, UK

Welcome to Balmedie Beach, a delightful sandy paradise that will turn even the most skeptical sun-worshippers into believers. You'll feel like you've been transported to a Mediterranean resort, only with added tartan, as you soak up the Scottish vibes in all their glory. Don't be surprised if you spot a few lingering ice cream van entrepreneurs in kilts, ready to provide you with a scoop of whisky-infused heaven as the seagulls serenade you with their squawking harmonies.

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6. Duthie Park

4.7 (3607)

Polmuir Road, Aberdeen AB11 7TH, UK

Welcome to Duthie Park, a green oasis in the heart of Aberdeen where you can escape the hustle and bustle of the city, along with the occasional seagull chasing your fish and chips. Take a leisurely stroll through the beautifully manicured gardens while trying to avoid getting tangled in the overenthusiastic hedges that seem to have a vendetta against pedestrians. Don't miss the iconic Winter Gardens, a tropical paradise that's slightly hotter than the North Sea (but with far fewer seals).

www.aberdeencity.gov.uk

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7. Old Aberdeen

Old Aberdeen, Aberdeen, UK

Welcome to Old Aberdeen, where time seems to have taken a nap and forgotten to set an alarm. This charming neighborhood is like a time machine, transporting you back to the medieval era, complete with cobblestone streets and buildings that look like they were carved out of the enchanted imagination of Tolkien himself. Don't be surprised if you spot a knight on his trusty steed around here, or if you accidentally stumble upon a secret potion shop hidden behind a "Ye Olde Fish and Chips" sign.

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8. Union Square

4.3 (10422)

Guild St, Aberdeen AB11 5RG, UK

Welcome to Union Square in Aberdeen, where shopping meets dapper Scottish charm. Nestled in the heart of the city, this shopping haven proudly boasts more shops than you can shake a tartan kilt at! With designer brands, quirky boutiques, and enough tempting treats to turn any sensible shopper into a certified shopaholic, Union Square is a retail paradise that even Nessie can't resist. So get your kilt ready (or rent one), your wallet polished, and join this delightful retail extravaganza where shopping is a sport and retail therapy is the cure for any case of the Highland blues.

www.unionsquareaberdeen.com

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9. Fittie

Fittie Gate, 77 Virginia St, Aberdeen AB11 5AX, UK

Nestled on the captivating North Sea coastline, Fittie in Aberdeen is a charming little neighborhood that looks like it escaped from a whimsical painting. With its vibrant and colorful houses, you'll feel like you've stepped into a real-life game of Candyland. Embrace the quirky charm as you explore the narrow streets that seem to be in a constant battle with the relentless winds - be prepared to show off your impressive hairstyle upon departure!

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10. Codonas Amusement Park

4 (2709)

Beach Blvd, Aberdeen AB24 5ED, UK

Welcome to Codonas Amusement Park, where fun and chaos collide in delightful mayhem! Nestled in the beautiful city of Aberdeen, this amusement park is like an adrenaline junkie's dream, with enough rides to make your stomach do somersaults faster than a confused acrobat. Brace yourself as you embark on a roller coaster adventure, where the twists and turns are more unpredictable than the Scottish weather- but maybe that's half the fun!

www.codonas.com

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11. The Gordon Highlanders Museum

4.8 (551)

St. Luke’s, Viewfield Rd, Aberdeen AB15 7XH, UK

Nestled in the enchanting city of Aberdeen, The Gordon Highlanders Museum eagerly awaits to captivate visitors with tales of tartans and triumphs. A treasure trove for history enthusiasts, this charming museum offers a delightful journey through the illustrious military legacy of Scotland's beloved regiment. From curious kilts to valiant war stories, prepare to be whisked away on a Highland adventure that will leave you kilting with excitement!

www.gordonhighlanders.com

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12. Aberdeen Art Gallery

4.6 (985)

Art Gallery, Schoolhill, Aberdeen AB10 1FQ, UK

Step into the vibrant world of the Aberdeen Art Gallery, where masterpieces mingle with quirky exhibits. This delightful haven promises an artistic escapade like no other. Marvel at the priceless paintings that peer down at you with a hint of judgment, as if questioning your fashion choices - fear not, art critiques are silent but opinionated here! Embrace the elegance of the marble pillars and be prepared to engage in a spirited debate with the quirky sculptures, just try not to take any sudden movements, they're a tad touchy.

www.aberdeencity.gov.uk

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13. The Tolbooth Museum

4.4 (284)

Castle St, Aberdeen AB11 5BB, UK

Welcome to The Tolbooth Museum in Aberdeen, where history and hilarity collide! Step into this magnificent building that looks like it swallowed a time machine and find yourself immersed in the quirky past of this vibrant city. From gruesome 17th-century crime stories to ancient artifacts that will make you question our ancestors' fashion choices, this offbeat museum is an absolute must-visit for anyone who's tired of boring history lessons.

www.aberdeencity.gov.uk

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14. Footdee

Footdee, Aberdeen AB11 5DP, UK

Welcome to Footdee, also known as Fittie, where you'll find a charming fisherman's village nestled right in the heart of bustling Aberdeen. Prepare to navigate a maze of cobbled streets that seem to be deliberately designed to confuse even the most skilled explorer (or Google Maps). But fear not! Once you brave the labyrinth, you'll be greeted by quirky cottages that look like they've been borrowed from your grandmother's collection of dollhouses - yes, they are that adorable. Plus, with the occasional random seagull swooping overhead, Footdee offers an authentic Scottish experience, whether you like it or "squawk" it!

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15. Aberdeen Exhibition and Conference Centre

4.4 (1215)

E Burn Rd, Aberdeen AB21 9FX, UK

Welcome to the Aberdeen Exhibition and Conference Centre, where business and pleasure collide in the most unexpected ways! Marvel at the architectural wonder that blends the pizzazz of a spaceship with the charm of a Scottish castle – you'll be convinced that Hogwarts students relocated to outer space for their annual magical conferences. With halls so vast they could make a Texan feel inadequate, this place is perfect for hosting anything from an international summit to a competitive battle of the world's longest indoor curling match – the possibilities are endless! So, grab your kilt, a pocketful of haggis, and embark on a journey to experience the quirky magnificence of Aberdeen's very own space-age manor!

www.pandjlive.com

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16. Craigievar Castle

4.5 (848)

Craigievar, Alford AB33 8JF, UK

Nestled in the stunning countryside of Aberdeen, Craigievar Castle proudly stands like a fairytale fortress awaiting the arrival of its devoted visitors. With its whimsical pink façade, it's hard not to imagine unicorns and singing birds fluttering around the elegant turrets. Step inside, and be prepared to transport yourself back in time, where you can almost hear the faint whispers of dashing knights and melodramatic castle drama echoing through the halls.

www.nts.org.uk

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17. Cruickshank Botanic Garden

4.6 (329)

St Machar Dr, Aberdeen AB24 3UU, UK

Step inside the whimsical wonderland known as Cruickshank Botanic Garden in Aberdeen, where flowers and plants dance like teenagers at a wild disco. Prepare to be enchanted by a kaleidoscope of colors, as if nature fell into a paint pot filled with joy and spilled it all over the place. With each step, you'll encounter botanical treasures that are so fragrant, the bees queue up for a sniff like puppy-eyed bouncers outside a trendy floral nightclub.

www.abdn.ac.uk

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18. Marischal College

4.5 (105)

Broad St, Aberdeen AB10 1AB, UK

Welcome to Marischal College, the majestic crown jewel of Aberdeen! As you stroll through its grand halls, be prepared to feel like you've accidentally stumbled into the setting of a Harry Potter movie - minus the magic, unfortunately. This colossal granite masterpiece boasts stunning architecture that will have you questioning if you took a wrong turn and ended up at Hogwarts instead of a university.

www.abdn.ac.uk

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19. His Majesty's Theatre

4.6 (1979)

Rosemount Viaduct, Aberdeen AB25 1GL, UK

Welcome to His Majesty's Theatre in Aberdeen, where the royal touch shines on the performing arts like a fancy tiara on a Corgi's head. This historical gem brings together elegance and entertainment in a way that would make Shakespeare himself give a round of applause...if he were still alive, of course. So buckle up, my theatre-loving wanderer, and prepare for a royal extravaganza that'll make your face light up like a disco ball at a royal ball.

www.aberdeenperformingarts.com

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20. Aberdeen Maritime Museum

4.6 (2011)

Shiprow, Aberdeen AB11 5BY, UK

Nestled amidst the salty sea breeze and seagull symphonies, the Aberdeen Maritime Museum stands tall like a seasoned sailor boasting tales as deep as the North Sea. Prepare to embark on a captivating adventure through time, discovering Aberdeen's maritime past through an eccentric ensemble of exhibits that will surely float your boat. From formidable fishing vessels to whimsical whale skeletons and everything in between, this nautical treasure trove is bound to keep even the most landlubbing tourists from walking the plank.

www.aberdeencity.gov.uk

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How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Aberdeen by plane is to fly into Aberdeen International Airport, which is located approximately 7 miles northwest of the city center. Airlines such as British Airways, Ryanair, and EasyJet offer frequent flights to and from major cities across the UK and Europe.

Car

Driving to Aberdeen is relatively straightforward, with the A90 and A96 being the main roads linking Aberdeen to other major cities within the UK. It is advisable to check traffic updates prior to the journey and parking is available throughout the city center of Aberdeen.

Train

There are several train services that run to Aberdeen, with frequent services operated by ScotRail, Virgin Trains, and CrossCountry. The main train station in Aberdeen is Aberdeen station, which is located in the city center and provides easy access to the rest of the city.

Boat

Ferry services run to and from Aberdeen to locations across Northern and Western Scotland. The harbor in Aberdeen is located near the city center and a popular ferry operator is Northlink. These ferry services are recommended if you want to see some of Scotland's best coastal scenery and islands.

Bus

One of the easiest ways to get to Aberdeen by bus is through the national bus network which has services to Aberdeen from many cities across the UK. Scottish Citylink and Megabus are the popular bus services. The main bus station in Aberdeen is the Union Square bus station, which is located in the city center.

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