The Ultimate 4-Day Adventure in Aberdeen, UK!

Discover the beauty of Aberdeen, where history meets modernity.

22 April 2023

Aberdeen, the oil capital, is a beautiful city located in the northeast of Scotland, catering to tourists seeking unique experiences. It boasts fascinating museums, the largest single span granite arch in the world called Marischal college, and pristine beaches. Tourists can also explore the city's rich cultural heritage by visiting Aberdeen's famous castle and taking part in several festivals, including the Aberdeen Jazz festival.

Travel plan

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Day 1

Discovering Aberdeen's Charm

  • Stay at the Malmaison Aberdeen hotel, an elegant boutique hotel in the heart of the city.
  • Explore the Beach Boulevard, the lively Dock area and the stunning Marischal College, the second-largest granite building in the world.
  • Visit the award-winning Tolbooth Museum, showcasing the city's historical journey, and the St Machar's Cathedral, a stunning medieval church with a unique Celtic cross.
  • Grab lunch at The Adelphi Kitchen, famous for its seafood and local produce, and have a refreshing pint at the iconic Brewdog bar.
  • End the day with a relaxing walk in the serene Duthie Park, home to lush gardens, a boating lake and a tropical winter garden.
Day 2

Whisky Tasting and Coastal Scenery

  • Take a scenic drive along the stunning Scottish coastline to the Glen Garioch Distillery, one of the oldest distilleries in Scotland, for a whisky tasting tour.
  • Enjoy lunch at the picturesque village of Stonehaven, famous for its seafood and the picturesque Dunnottar Castle, perched on a cliff over the sea.
  • Take a walk along the dramatic footpath that runs from Stonehaven to Catterline, passing beautiful coves, cliffs and breathtaking views of the sea.
  • End the day with a cosy pint of ale and live music at the Ma Cameron's pub in the city centre.
Day 3

Art, Nature and Local Flavors

  • Start the day with a visit to the Aberdeen Art Gallery, a stunning Victorian building hosting an impressive collection of Scottish, British and European art.
  • Visit the unique Cruickshank Botanic Garden, a peaceful oasis within the city, showcasing a variety of plants from all over the world.
  • Explore the trendy West End of Aberdeen, home to independent shops, cafes and restaurants. Stop for lunch at Café 52, famous for its locally sourced, seasonal menu.
  • In the afternoon, take a short drive to the tranquil village of Banchory, nestled in the heart of the picturesque Dee Valley. Visit the Falls of Feugh, a stunning waterfall, and have a drink at the stylish Inchmarlo Golf Resort.
Day 4

Castles, Gardens and Highland Hospitality

  • Visit the majestic Castle Fraser, a grand baronial castle surrounded by beautiful gardens and woodlands.
  • Enjoy lunch at the charming Oldmeldrum, a quaint village with traditional architecture and local shops.
  • Visit the mystical and atmospheric ruins of the Dunnideer Castle, an ancient fortress overlooking an impressive landscape of rolling hills and vast skies.
  • End the day with a traditional Scottish dinner at The Brucklay Arms, a historic inn serving delicious local dishes, and share a dram of whisky with the friendly locals.

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.

More travel plans

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: A Romantic Escape for Two

Aberdeen is a quaint coastal city located in the northeast of Scotland, known for its picturesque landscapes and historic architecture. This charming destination offers cozy cafes, whisky distilleries, and the iconic Marischal College campus, perfect for scenic strolls with your loved one. A visit to Aberdeen promises a blend of romance, adventure, and relaxation, making it an ideal location for a romantic getaway.

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.

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.