Travel to Aberdeen - Scotland | Keytours Vacations

Discover Aberdeen's Wonders

Aberdeen is a lively port city, cosmopolitan and fresh, this charming place is known for their spectacular architecture and high quality of living. Let Aberdeen dazzle you with the excellent restaurants, exciting festivals and concerts, and unique shops. If you're looking for nearby excursions, look no further than some of the spectacular nearby castles: Crathes Castle, Drum Castle, and Dunnotar Castle are all nearby, acessible by either car or bus.

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Description

Built at the mouth of two of Scotland’s major rivers, the Dee and the Don, with the spectacular Grampian Mountains to the west, and miles of unspoiled and beautiful coastline to the east, Aberdeen is a perfect destination for nature lovers. But travellers who would rather stay in urban surroundings will also have plenty to see – despite its northerly location, Aberdeen features splendid architectural delights, a highly cosmopolitan feel, exciting nightlife and a wide variety of cultural sights and events bound to please all. Early Aberdeen consisted of two settlements: one in what is today known as Old Aberdeen, and another on St Katherine’s Hill near the harbour. Modern Aberdeen began to take shape in the late 18th century on St Katherine’s Hill in a development that featured some spectacular engineering projects. Engineering is still a theme in today’s Aberdeen, following the discovery of oil in the North Sea in 1969, which has earned Aberdeen its modern nicknames, the “Oil Capital of Europe” or the “Houston of the North.” The oil has been highly significant for the development of this thriving city, as it has boosted the local economy, resulting in low unemployment rates and a reputation for being one of the most desirable places in Britain to live and work.

Useful information

Population:

229,001

Currency:

British pounds, £1 = 100 pence

Emergency Info:

999 and 112

Opening Hours:

Most shops are open seven days a week, normally from 09.00 to 17.30. On Thursdays major shops and shopping centres are open until 20.00, while on Sundays shops are open from 12.00 to 17.00.

Do & See

Aberdeen Art Gallery

Aberdeen Art Gallery has comprehensive collections with works from the 17th-20th centuries. Both Scottish and international artists are represented, including famous impressionists like Monet and Renoir, as well as local painters like George Jameson, William Dyce, John Philip and Charles Rennie MacKintosh.

Aberdeen Maritime Museum

As one of Britain’s busiest harbours with a rich maritime heritage, a visit to the Maritime Museum with its splendid views of the harbour is a must when visiting Aberdeen. Find out what it is like to work on a North Sea oil rig or explore the hundreds of ship models and exhibits about shipbuilding, whaling, life and work at sea, and learn about Aberdeen’s special relationship with the sea.

Aberdeen Science Centre

The Aberdeen Science Centre is an immensely popular science and technology centre with entertaining, interactive and hands-on exhibits and shows that engage children of all ages and lead them to fascinating discoveries about the world around them.

Brig o'Balgownie

Not far from the picturesque Seaton Park stands Brig o'Balgownie, Scotland's oldest bridge. This simple stone landmark has spanned the width of the River Don since the XIII century and was even referenced by Lord Byron, who briefly studied in the area, in his epic poem Don Juan.

Castle Fraser

Travelers who have time to leave Aberdeen for a day trip should head out to Castle Fraser. A magnificent building dating back to 1575, featuring historic furnishings, paintings and embroidery, the impressive Great Hall, and a library filled with family books, as well as concert space, parks, woodland walks, a tea room and a children’s adventure playroom.

Codona’s Amusement Park

Fun for all ages, Codona’s offers a raft of rides and attractions worthy of the best amusement parks. There is also an indoor entertainment centre available, Sunset Boulevard, and a games and entertainment area called Miami Beach. Both are open year-round.

Craigievar Castle

Craigievar Castle looks like it was taken straight out of a fairy tale. Completed in 1626, it stands as a fine example of Scottish Baronial architecture, and both interior and exterior are jaw-dropping in their beauty, attention to detail and lavishness.

Dunnottar Castle

Few places evoke the spirit of the Scottish highlands as poignantly as Dunnottar Castle, a ruined fortress perched atop rugged rocky cliffs overlooking the North Sea, just 3 kilometres away from the town of Stonehaven. The buildings that remain date from the 15th and 16th centuries, and the combination of ruins and setting make for a memorable feeling and experience.

Dining

Aperitivo

Aperitivo strives to bring a slice of Italian life to Aberdeen, celebrating the spirit of the eponymous 'aperitivo', a chance to catch up with friends and unwind after a long day over a glass of wine and some home-made cooking. This restaurant offers a taste of southern Italy using only the very best local produce.

Goulash

Described as a “wonderful little gem of a restaurant” by locals, this Hungarian eatery offers great value for money with a wide range of Hungarian specialities on the menu which will satisfy vegetarians, children and all the customers´ tastes. It is not the largest of restaurants in the city, so make sure to book a table in advance.

Moonfish Cafe

With unbeatable views of the 12th-century Kirk of St Nicholas, in the heart of Aberdeen's Merchant Quarter, Moonfish Cafe features an ever-evolving menu full of creative and innovative British dishes, all made with local and seasonal produce. Special attention is given to the selection of the restaurant's impressive gin list.

Silver Darling

Named after the local term for herring, the Silver Darling offers a wide selection of the best the sea can offer, in a location with wonderful views of the fishing village of Footdea on one side and the harbour and beach on the other. It is absolutely the place to go if you want to take advantage of high quality food, a stunning view and a very kind staff.

The Ashvale

Believed by many to have the very best Fish and Chips in Great Britain, The Ashvale Fish Restaurant is an Aberdeen institution, receiving over 30,000 visitors each week. The speciality of the house is seafood, but the menu is actually quite varied and includes steak and vegetarian options, among many others.

The Lodge On The Loch

For a truly unique dining experience, head to the Lodge of the Loch. They offer everything from bar suppers, to three-course dinners and a blend of traditional and modern dishes. All food is freshly prepared with local products. The restaurant is located in amazing surroundings, overlooking the splendour and beauty of Cairngorm National Park.

Yorokobi by CJ

Yorokobi by Chef Jang offers perhaps the best East Asian cuisine in Aberdeen. Very affordable Japanese and Korean specialty dishes feature prominently on an extensive menu composed entirely of high-quality ingredients.

Cafes

Books and Beans

Books and Beans, the first independent fair trade coffee shop in Aberdeen, serves light meals and snacks, homemade soups, sandwiches, salads and panini, as well as a range of excellent fair trade coffee, tea and chocolate. The second floor houses a second-hand bookstore and internet cafe.

Cafe 52

This café is a central meeting point in the city both for locals and tourists. They serve delicious seasonal food, lighter meals like soups and salads, and also tapas and cocktails. The cafe is small and quaint, but full of style and personality.

Café Bohème

Both traditional and modern French cuisine with an innovative twist are showcased in this elegant and cosy restaurant and café, including confit de canard and white wine mussels. Visitors would also be wise to try the desserts, such as lemon-raspberry creme brûlée and profiteroles.

Contour Cafe

Contour Cafe is a young, independently-run Aberdeen business whose website says it all: "Good coffee. Awesome sandwiches. Nice folk." Their coffee is 100% fair trade Arabica beans from South America, and their sandwiches can be ordered just the way you want them: plain, spicy "or just downright weird".

Cup

Cup is an elegant tea salon that is as famous for its great selection of artisan teas and high-quality Italian gourmet coffees as it is for its delicious and decadent desserts, among which visitors can find cupcakes, pastries, cakes, muffins and many more.

Foodstory Cafe

Foodstory Cafe believes in bringing people together. They take pride in providing not only a place to eat great, healthy food, but where people can feel like part of a community through art and music. The furniture that fills this cosy space was all donated or built from salvaged parts and is thus completely unique, and helps give the place its one-of-a-kind vibe.

The Coffee House

The Coffee House is a spacious but cosy cafe that hosts all manner of great concerts and events. There is a live acoustic night every Friday, and there are plenty of other concerts and dance performances. Some nights even the audience gets involved with Latin dancing or open mic nights.

The Pavilion Cafe

The Pavilion Cafe boasts one of the best locations in the city, right on the esplanade, overlooking the North Sea. Enjoy a hot cup of coffee topped with a mountain of whipped cream and a fresh crepe or waffle along with the beautiful view of the sea.

Bars & Nightlife

Breakneck Comedy Club

For a bit of a different night out, check out the Breakneck Comedy Club. They host weekly comedy shows where both local and international comedians perform. The club also promotes young and new comics, inviting them to try out their material.

BrewDog Aberdeen

BrewDog Aberdeen was the original flagship pub of a now huge international chain. They brew their own lines of fantastic craft beers, and the knowledgeable staff are happy to guide you through a tour of their many varieties. Come with your friends and with your dogs. Both are always welcome in BrewDog.

His Majesty's Theatre

Aberdeen is a culturally vibrant city, and His Majesty's Theatre is one of the major proponents. Seating over 1,400, the breathtaking auditorium regularly hosts performances of award-winning plays and musicals, as well as musical and other acts. Check the website to find out what's happening during your stay.

Krakatoa

Formerly known as the Moorings Bar, a rock bar with frequent live performances very popular among locals, this establishment has undergone a huge transformation, reinventing itself now as Krakatoa, a colourful and vibrant tiki dive bar with wacky decor and plenty of personality.

Revolution Aberdeen

With nearly a hundred different vodkas as well as cocktails, beer and other spirits on offer, Revolution is the perfect place to prepare for a night out or simply to just enjoy a drink. The music is house-orientated with a jazzy edge that normally gets the crowd moving. The place also offers food, and features a decked terrace overlooking the Union Terrace gardens.

Siberia Vodka Bar

One of the hottest hangouts in Aberdeen, Siberia is a spacious and a bright venue, perfectly suited for a relaxing drink – particularly vodka – or just a fun night out. They offer food, and the place also features a heated and covered balcony and pool tables.

Sing City

Sing City is widely accepted as Aberdeen's best karaoke bar, featuring numerous private rooms that can fit up to 30 people for parties and events. The facilities are top-notch, and the service and hospitality of the staff are renowned.

Soul Bar

Soul is without a doubt one of the most unique bars in Aberdeen, located as it is in a beautiful old church. It still retains many of the original features, like the stained-glass windows, ornate decor, and even the old pulpit, from where the DJ spins his tracks.

Shopping

Aberdeen Football Club Shop

Aberdeen Football Club's fervent supporters get their kits and gear here. If you catch the city's football fever during your visit, be sure to check this shop out and take home a jersey or souvenir.

Beach Boulevard Retail Park

For shopping near the Esplanade, right by the North Sea, visit the Beach Boulevard Retail Park, a strip-mall where numerous shops can be found, including a fitness shop, home furnishing, toys, the supermarket Aldi and a large ASDA.

Geek Bothy

Geek Bothy is a family-run store providing a wide selection of geeky products, many of which by Scottish creators. The high quality clothing and accessories are sold along with the amazing licensed Star Wars or Disney products.

Juniper

Juniper is a charming independent, family-run business that offers a large variety of traditional and contemporary accessories and items, including jewellery, gifts, homeware, pictures and furniture. They specialise in Scottish and British products, though their ample selection includes international products, as well.

McCalls Highlandwear

McCalls has been the region's leading supplier of highland formal wear since it began operation in 1887 due to their renowned craftsmanship, quality and attention to detail. They provide traditional highland attire for special occasions, such as weddings, for both sale and hire.

Scotland's Bothy

Scotland's Bothy specialises in traditional and modern Scottish products, including handmade crafts, souvenirs and gift ideas, tartan kilts and highland-wear, jewellery, clothing items, such as custom print t-shirts, and much more.

Teasel & Tweed

Teasel & Tweed sells charming and unique handcrafted souvenirs and decorative items for the home, including paintings, knick-knacks and even specially-commissioned products like whisky cask cabinets. It is a great alternative for home accessories and unusual gifts, and doubles as a small and adorable tea house.

The Aberdeen Whisky Shop

For the best of Scotch whisky (not whiskey), be sure to check out The Aberdeen Whisky Shop. Besides the wonderful selection of only the choicest whiskys, they also occasionally host Aroma Academy, workshops that teach you to appreciate the subtleties of different varieties of whisky so that you know what to look for in the future.

Tourist Information

Best Time to Visit

As as typical in Britain, the weather in Aberdeen is often changeable, which means that even a very sunny day could suddenly turn into a cloudy one. However, if you want to play it safest, the best period to visit this city is summer, particularly from June to August, when the temperatures are warmer and the risk of seeing the sun disappear is lower.

Passport & Visa

For travel to the UK, citizens of the EU, EEA, and Switzerland (except Irish citizens) need an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA). However, those planning to work or study in the UK for more than six months will need to obtain the appropriate visa. Additionally, residents of nine other countries — including Australia, Canada, Hong Kong, Japan, Malaysia, New Zealand, Singapore, South Korea, and the United States — can also visit the UK for up to six months without a visa, but they will still need an ETA. To ensure a smooth journey, it is advisable to consult the UK government website for any specific visa requirements or regulations.

Airport

Aberdeen International Airport is located 7 miles from the city centre, and getting to/from the airport is easy thanks to a wide range of transport facilities. Regular city buses run regularly from the city centre, including Bluebird services 80, 727 and 747, as well as First Bus service 27. Additionally, the Aberdeen train service stops at the local station of Dyce, which is only a short distance from the airport.

Public Transport

Getting around the city is easy, as First Aberdeen operates an extensive bus network. Bus drivers will demand the exact fare, so make sure you have change, or buy a Farecard (valid for one day, one week or one month) in one of the local shops.

Taxi

There are several taxi companies in Aberdeen, but prices tend to be quite high. Below is a few options: Aberdeen Airport Taxis +44 1224 775 555 www.aberdeenairport.com/transport-and-directions/taxis/ Central Taxi +44 1224 898989

Electricity

220-240 V/50 Hz Sockets: Type G

Pharmacy

Rosemount Pharmacy is an independent pharmacy in Aberdeen and it offers fast services to every costumer! Apart from medication items, here you can take advantage of other services such as NHS Stop Smoking service, ailments service and also a travel vaccination service:

Post

Berryden Post Office is the leading financial services chain in the UK and it provides more than 170 different services for its customers including mails, retail, financial services, telecoms, life insurance, travel insurance and so many more!

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the must-see attractions in Aberdeen?

Aberdeen is known for its stunning architecture, including Marischal College and the Aberdeen Maritime Museum. Don't miss a stroll through Duthie Park and a visit to the historic St. Machar's Cathedral.

When is the best time to visit Aberdeen?

The best time to visit Aberdeen is between May and September when the weather is milder and the city hosts various festivals and events, such as the Aberdeen International Youth Festival.

What local dishes should I try in Aberdeen?

In Aberdeen, try local specialties like Cullen skink, a creamy smoked haddock soup, and Aberdeen Angus beef. For a sweet treat, sample some buttery rowies, a type of flaky bread roll.

How can I get around Aberdeen?

Aberdeen is a compact city, making it easy to explore on foot. For longer distances, the local bus service operated by First Aberdeen is reliable, and taxis are readily available.

What are some good day trips from Aberdeen?

Consider visiting Dunnottar Castle, located just south of Aberdeen, or take a scenic drive to the Cairngorms National Park for hiking and wildlife watching. The Royal Deeside area is also a popular choice, known for its beautiful landscapes and Balmoral Castle.

Where should I stay in Aberdeen?

The city center is a convenient area to stay, offering easy access to attractions, dining, and shopping. For a quieter experience, consider the West End, which boasts charming streets and parks.

How many days should I plan to spend in Aberdeen?

A stay of two to three days is ideal to explore Aberdeen's main attractions, enjoy its local cuisine, and take a day trip to nearby sights.

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