Aberdeen in 3 Days: Family Fun on a Budget
Discover Aberdeen's magic with your loved ones in this family-friendly adventure.
19 July 2023
Lucie Collins
UK Travel Writer
Aberdeen, located on the stunning northeast coast of Scotland, offers a fantastic destination for a family-friendly trip. With its rich history, vibrant culture, and beautiful landscapes, there is something for everyone to enjoy. From exploring the famous Aberdeen Maritime Museum and beautiful parks like Duthie Park, to visiting nearby castles and enjoying the stunning coastline, Aberdeen promises an unforgettable family adventure.
Travel plan
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- Check into the enchanting Skene House Rosemount, a family-friendly hotel bursting with Scottish charm.
- Explore the awe-inspiring Aberdeen Maritime Museum, showcasing the city's maritime heritage.
- Take a stroll along the iconic Beach Esplanade and marvel at the grandeur of the Aberdeen Beach Ballroom.
- Wander through the enchanting David Welch Winter Gardens, a haven of exotic plants and colorful blooms.
- Indulge in a traditional Scottish meal at Moonfish Café, known for its fresh seafood and warm atmosphere.
- End the day with a magical sunset walk along the golden sands of Balmedie Beach, just a short drive from the city.
- Gear up for an adventurous day with a wholesome breakfast at The Cults Hotel, a comfortable haven for families.
- Discover the wonders of nature at the Aberdeen Science Centre, where science becomes an interactive playground for all ages.
- Embark on a thrilling dolphin-spotting boat tour from Aberdeen Harbor and watch these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat.
- Unleash your inner archaeologist at the fascinating Tolbooth Museum, delving into Aberdeen's intriguing past.
- Head to Moonlit Adventures for some family-friendly indoor mini-golf and bowling, keeping the fun rolling all day long.
- Savor a delightful dinner at Nargile Restaurant, where Middle Eastern flavors meet Scottish hospitality.
- Begin the day with a scrumptious breakfast at Macdonald Norwood Hall Hotel, an elegant retreat oozing with history.
- Explore the majestic Dunnottar Castle, perched dramatically on a cliff overlooking the North Sea.
- Bask in the natural beauty of Duthie Park, where colorful flower beds, a boating pond, and play areas await your family.
- Embark on a magical tour of Footdee, a charming fishing village filled with quirky houses and enchanting tales.
- Enjoy a delicious lunch at Foodstory Café, a vibrant spot offering tasty vegetarian and vegan delights.
- End your adventure with a visit to the Maritime Trail and soak in the stories woven into the historic streets of Old Aberdeen.
Length of stay
Type of trip
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.
