10 Essential Tips For Visiting Aberdeen
Apr 16, 20252.2K Shares42.4K Views
Visiting the Granite City?
While it doesn’t have the same prestige as Edinburgh or Glasgow, Aberdeen’s underrated.
Tons of history, great food and plenty of nightlife - plus, it’s the gateway to Shetland and Orkney.
Here’s all you need to know about visiting Aberdeen!
1. Walk, But Be Prepared For Hills And Wind
Aberdeen’s city centre is compact and walkable, but the granite buildings don’t block much wind! Plus, its northern location means that it can be chilly even when the rest of the UK basks in sunshine.
So bring layers - even in summer - and expect a noticeable breeze near the harbour and beach.
Comfortable footwear is useful, especially if you're heading out to Old Aberdeen or Footdee.
2. Sundays Are Quiet - Plan Accordingly
Many cafes, shops and even some museums open late or are closed entirely on Sundays.
If you're planning a weekend trip, use Sunday for walks by the coast or visiting open-air areas like Duthie Park or Seaton Park. Saturday is perfect day to see the museums (as long as the weather permits, of course!).
3. Buy A Grasshopper Pass If Using Buses Often
Stagecoach and First buses operate in the city and the wider region.
If you’re planning some day trips (e.g. to Stonehaven or Crathes Castle), the Grasshopper travel passallows travelling across both companies and can be cheaper than individual fares.
Every day and week offer many available options.
However, you may prefer to go by train - there are regular connections between Aberdeen and Stonehaven.
4. Time Your Beach Visit For Dolphin Sightings
You can often spot dolphins from the shoreline beside the harbour entrance. You can most likely see them during calm mornings - so if you’re out on a calm morning, head to the shore!
The breakwater beside the lighthouse at the end of Footdee is a reliable spot - locals tend to gather there with binoculars.
5. For Budget Meals, Look Near The University
The Old Aberdeen area close to the university is separate from the rest of the city, and cafes and small restaurants around tend to be priced with students in mind.
It’s also an enchanting area of the city to explore, with a Harry Potter-like university campus and narrow cobbled streets.
6. Book Ferry Tickets In Advance, Especially In Summer
If you’re planning to travel to Orkney or Shetland, book ferry tickets early—cabins sell out quickly during high season - and it’s a very bumpy ride, so you may need the more comfortable option!
NorthLink Ferriesalso offers “sleeping pods” as a cheaper option, but they’re limited and book up fast. Their reviews also aren’t amazing, with some travellers commenting that you’re better off in the normal seats!
7. Visit Footdee During Daylight
Footdee (or “Fittee”) is a charming fishing village on a peninsula just south of the city centre. It doesn’t have street lighting in the same way as the main streets.
Go during the day to get the most from the quirky decorations and small details on each cottage.
Many houses are privately owned, so respect signs and don’t enter courtyards.
8. Do A Walking Tour To Learn About The City
One of the best ways to learn about any city is by a walking tour.
Aberdeen Walking tours…offer 1.5 hour tours around the city centre, along with street art tours and dark side to Aberdeen tours. They’re an essential way to get tips from a local and introduce Aberdeen!
9. Choose Accommodation Near Union Street Or The Train Station
Staying within 5–10 minutes of Union Street makes it easier to reach shops, nightlife and transport links. This is especially important if you’re taking the train to or from Aberdeen or around Aberdeenshire!
Areas further out - such as Dyce or Bridge of Don - can be cheaper but involve more reliance on buses or taxis. If you have your own vehicle, accommodation here could be a good money-saving option, but if not, you may find yourself spending the same amount of money on buses and taxis.
10. Be Prepared For Surprisingly Good Nightlife
With everything from laid-back bars and craft beer (it’s the home of Brewdog, after all!), to glitzy clubs and high-end casinos, Aberdeen’s nightlife is underrated!
It might not be as renowned as Glasgow’s, but thanks to its university scene, you can absolutely have a great night out here.
Aberdeen hosts SPECTRA (a winter light festival), Nuart street art events, and regular gigs tied to the university calendar. Student term times affect prices and crowd levels, especially in pubs and late-night venues. Check what's going on during your visit—tickets for some events sell out in advance.
Final Thoughts
Aberdeen might not be the first place you think of when you’re planning a UK city break, but it’s the kind of city that grows on you. With maritime history and impressive architecture, the Granite City has plenty to offer - and if you follow these tips, your visit will be seamless!
Jump to
1. Walk, But Be Prepared For Hills And Wind
2. Sundays Are Quiet - Plan Accordingly
3. Buy A Grasshopper Pass If Using Buses Often
4. Time Your Beach Visit For Dolphin Sightings
5. For Budget Meals, Look Near The University
6. Book Ferry Tickets In Advance, Especially In Summer
7. Visit Footdee During Daylight
8. Do A Walking Tour To Learn About The City
9. Choose Accommodation Near Union Street Or The Train Station
10. Be Prepared For Surprisingly Good Nightlife
Final Thoughts
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