Aberdeen Adventures: 5 Days of Fun, Family-Friendly Bliss
Explore family fun in Aberdeen, where adventure awaits in the heart of Scotland.
19 July 2023
Lucie Collins
UK Travel Writer
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.
Travel plan
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- Start your day with a hearty breakfast at the quirky Mad Hatter's Cafe, fueling up for a day of adventure.
- Embark on a journey back in time at the fascinating Aberdeen Maritime Museum, housing treasures from the city's seafaring past.
- Wander through the cobbled streets of Old Aberdeen, admiring the stunning architecture of King's College and the charming Old Town House.
- Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the golden sandy beach of Aberdeen, breathing in the salty sea breeze and taking in panoramic views of the North Sea.
- Indulge in a delectable seafood feast at The Silver Darling, while gazing out at the twinkling lights of the harbor.
- End the day with a leisurely walk along The Green, a picturesque park with vibrant flower displays, perfect for a relaxing evening.
- Begin your day with a traditional Scottish breakfast at the cozy Books and Beans, ready to tackle the adventures ahead.
- Embark on an enchanting journey to the past at the majestic Dunnottar Castle, perched dramatically on a cliff edge overlooking the North Sea.
- Unleash your inner whisky connoisseur with a visit to the Glenfiddich Distillery, where you can experience a guided tour and indulge in a wee dram or two.
- Immerse yourself in the rugged beauty of the Cairngorms National Park with a scenic drive, and perhaps even spot some Highland wildlife.
- Wrap up the day with a delicious dinner at The Globe, a charming pub renowned for its traditional Scottish fare and warm ambiance.
- Start your day with a lovely walk through the beautiful Duthie Park, home to magnificent floral displays, tranquil ponds, and a charming winter garden.
- Dive into the local arts scene at the Aberdeen Art Gallery, housing an eclectic mix of contemporary and traditional masterpieces.
- Indulge your taste buds at Foodstory, a vibrant vegetarian cafe where creativity and sustainability meet to create tantalizing dishes.
- Take a leisurely stroll along Union Street, Aberdeen's bustling main thoroughfare, and soak in the vibrant atmosphere of the city center.
- Conclude the day with dinner at Moonfish Cafe, a hidden gem offering an ever-changing menu of fresh, locally sourced seafood in a cozy setting.
- Embark on a scenic drive along the stunning coast to the picturesque fishing village of Stonehaven, where you can explore Dunnottar Castle.
- Join a guided tour with RSPB Dolphinwatch and be enchanted by playful dolphins leaping in the sparkling waters of the North Sea.
- Discover the mythical world of folklore at Slains Castle, a hauntingly beautiful ruin that supposedly inspired Bram Stoker's Dracula.
- Enjoy a traditional Scottish afternoon tea at The Marcliffe Hotel and Spa, surrounded by lush gardens and exquisite Victorian architecture.
- Savor a delightful dinner at The Royal Thai, blending authentic flavors with a warm Scottish welcome for a unique culinary experience.
- Begin your day with a delicious breakfast at Foodstory Cafe, where vegan delights and fair-trade coffee are served with an extra dose of hippie vibes.
- Embark on a retail therapy extravaganza at the trendy Union Square Shopping Centre, home to an array of high-street shops and designer boutiques.
- Enjoy a leisurely walk through the picturesque Johnston Gardens, a hidden gem filled with charming bridges, flowing streams, and vibrant flowers.
- Treat yourself to a sumptuous farewell lunch at The Cup, a cozy tearoom offering an irresistible selection of homemade cakes and scones.
- Bid farewell to Aberdeen, packed with memories and a newfound love for this unique Scottish city. Safe travels!
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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.