3-Day Weekend Guide to Fun-Filled Aberdeen, UK

Discover the granite city – Aberdeen.

22 April 2023

As a tourist in Aberdeen, you can enjoy a blend of culture, history, and natural beauty. The city boasts charming Victorian architecture, museums, and galleries, while also offering easy access to the stunning Scottish countryside. You can explore its rugged coastline, take a day trip to the Cairngorms National Park, or sample the local food and drink, which includes fresh seafood and whisky.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Castles and Coffee

  • Check into the beautiful Malmaison hotel, which blends chic design with Scottish touches.
  • Enjoy a comforting breakfast at the hipster café Books and Beans.
  • Explore the iconic Dunnottar Castle, perched dramatically above the sea and rife with history.
  • Wander around the charming cobbled streets of Old Aberdeen, admiring the historic buildings and quaint shops.
  • Stop at the unique Coffee House on the cobbled Shiprow and sip on a freshly brewed artisanal coffee.
  • Indulge in a hearty Scottish dinner at the cosy The Craftsman Company, which brews its own beer.
Day 2

Whisky and Wildlife

  • Start the day with a filling breakfast at the cheerful and informal Cognito on the Corner.
  • Take a scenic drive or bus ride to the beautiful Cairngorms National Park, known for its stunning landscapes and wildlife.
  • Go on a guided hike or spot red deer, golden eagles and wildcats in the park.
  • Visit the revered Glenlivet Distillery, which produces one of Scotland's finest single malt whiskies and offers tastings and tours.
  • Stop by the rustic Logie Steading café for a wholesome lunch, made with local ingredients.
  • Return to Aberdeen for a memorable fine-dining experience at the sleek Moonfish Café, which showcases Scottish seafood and seasonal produce.
Day 3

Art and Artisanal

  • Have a leisurely breakfast at the charming and colourful Cup Coffee.
  • Spend the morning at the Aberdeen Art Gallery, which boasts an impressive collection of Scottish and international art.
  • Browse the stylish boutiques and galleries in the trendy Rosemount area, such as Seventeen and Gallery Heinzel.
  • Have a light lunch at the quirky Foodstory Café, which serves organic vegetarian and vegan dishes.
  • Visit the fascinating Maritime Museum, which showcases Aberdeen's rich seafaring history.
  • Treat yourself to some handmade chocolates or fudge from the delectable Cocoa Ooze chocolatier, which also hosts chocolate-making classes.

Length of stay

1 day 2 days 3 days 4 days 5 days

Type of trip

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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.

Destination

Aberdeen

If you're a fan of perpetual rain, funny accents, and delicious deep-fried everything, then Aberdeen is the place for you! This city may not be the sunniest, but it's full of character and charm.

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Number of days

1 2 3 4 5

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

More travel plans

Aberdeen Adventures: 5 Days of Fun, Family-Friendly Bliss

Aberdeen, United Kingdom offers a delightful family-friendly trip with its stunning coastline, rich history, and array of activities. Take a leisurely stroll along the sandy beaches, explore the fascinating Maritime Museum, and spot dolphins on a boat tour. The city also boasts beautiful parks, charming cafes, and a range of accommodations suitable for families, making it a perfect destination for a memorable family vacation.

4 Days of Budget-Friendly Fun in Aberdeen, UK

A trip to Aberdeen on a limited budget can be an enriching experience. The city offers free entry to some of its famous attractions such as the St. Machar's Cathedral and the Duthie Park. Cheap accommodations are readily available in the form of hostels and budget hotels.

Discover Aberdeen: A Day of History and Seafood

As a tourist in Aberdeen, visitors can look forward to exploring the city's rich history and fantastic scenery. With attractions such as the stunning Dunnottar Castle and the award-winning beach, there is plenty to see and do. Additionally, the city is known for its delicious seafood and bustling nightlife scene.

Aberdeen Adventure: 3 Days of Scottish Splendor

A trip to Aberdeen on a limited budget can be both enjoyable and affordable. The city offers a variety of free attractions such as the Maritime Museum, Duthie Park, and the picturesque Old Aberdeen area. Budget-friendly accommodation options include hostels and budget hotels, while local pubs and restaurants offer affordable dining options.