Things to do in Aberdeen

Activities, attractions and tours

Visit Aberdeen

Types of activities

Where to stay

Aberdeen travel guide

Aberdeen showing a city, a square or plaza and night scenes

Aberdeen featuring interior views and modern architecture

David Welch Winter Gardens showing interior views and a park

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What to do in Aberdeen

Popular places to visit

University of Aberdeen

Enjoy the student vibe when you visit University of Aberdeen during your trip to Aberdeen. Make time to visit the area's shops or simply enjoy its top-notch restaurants.

Aberdeen Harbour

Explore the waterfront in Aberdeen with a trip to Aberdeen Harbour. Discover the area's acclaimed theatre scene and shops.

Codonas Amusement Park

Have a fun-filled day with the family at Codonas Amusement Park during your visit to Aberdeen. Make time to visit the area's shops or simply enjoy its top-notch restaurants.

David Welch Winter Gardens featuring a park

Duthie Park Winter Gardens

Walk amid tropical rainforests or arid displays dotted with cacti at this beautiful garden set within a collection of large glasshouses in a pretty city park.

Cathedral of St. Machar

Cast your eyes up in this magnificent medieval cathedral to see its stunning 16th-century heraldic ceiling and original friezes in the nave.

King's College

Explore the campus of King's College during your trip to Aberdeen. Make time to visit the area's shops or simply enjoy its top-notch restaurants.

Gordon Highlanders Museum

Trace the 200-year history of the Gordon Highlanders from the Napoleonic Wars to today and discover the stories of the soldiers through displays and film.

Aberdeen Arts Centre

Enjoy a performance at Aberdeen Arts Centre, a popular theatre in Aberdeen. Discover the area's acclaimed theatre scene and shops.

Union Square Shopping Centre

During your trip to Aberdeen, you can find the perfect gifts to bring home at Union Square Shopping Centre. Discover the area's top-notch restaurants and its acclaimed theatre scene.

Areas of Aberdeen

Marischal Museum showing heritage elements and heritage architecture

Central Aberdeen

4/5(632 area reviews)

Travellers to Central Aberdeen praise its popular shops. If you've got some more time to explore, be sure to stop by Aberdeen Music Hall and Union Terrace Gardens.

Dyce

4/5(175 area reviews)

Dyce is popular for its abundant dining options, and you can check out Formartine and Buchan Way, a top attraction in the neighbourhood.

Aberdeen West End

Aberdeen West End is known for its abundant dining options, and you can plan a trip to Rubislaw Quarry and Queen Victoria Statue while you're in town.

Hanover

While visiting Hanover, you might make a stop by sights like Codonas Amusement Park and Aberdeen Harbour.

Ferryhill

While Ferryhill isn't home to many top sights, Duthie Park Winter Gardens and Union Square Shopping Centre are some notable places to visit nearby.

Merchant Quarter

If you're spending some time in Merchant Quarter, The Trinity Centre and Aberdeen Maritime Museum are top sights worth seeing.

Dunnottar Castle showing rugged coastline

Stonehaven

Hatton of Fintray

Frequently asked questions

Is Aberdeen worth visiting?

Whether you plan to experience the local charm and cultural hotspots or sample regional foods and explore in nature, there are many things to do in Aberdeen.

How do I spend a day in Aberdeen?

Once you've checked off popular attractions like Aberdeen City Beach and Kartstart Indoor Raceways, spend the rest of your day experiencing the retail and food options in Aberdeen.

What is the top tourist attraction in Aberdeen?

Don't leave without checking out Cathedral of St. Machar, ranked the top tourist attraction in Aberdeen.

Is three days enough to stay in Aberdeen?

Three days will be enough time to check out many city attractions, like Cathedral of St. Machar, Aberdeen City Beach and St. Andrew's Episcopal Cathedral. The average stay in Aberdeen is two days. If you feel the urge to extend your escape, Stonehaven isn't far away.

Is Aberdeen a walkable city?

It depends on what you want to see and do in Aberdeen. Several top sights, such as Cathedral of St. Machar and Aberdeen City Beach, are reachable on foot. If you're up for a wander around some of Aberdeen's neighbourhoods, Aberdeen West End is 3 kilometres away from downtown, while Merchant Quarter is 0.48 kilometres away from the city centre and also within walking distance.

What are some activities to do in Aberdeen with kids?

Whether you're travelling with tiny adventurers or hard-to-please teens, an itinerary filled with fun activities makes all the difference. Browse our recommendations for what to do in Aberdeen with kids.

What to do in Aberdeen for adults?

Whether you're a food lover, culture enthusiast or adventure seeker, there's no shortage of things to do in Aberdeen for adults including King's Museum - Old Town House and Aberdeen Mosque.

Are there free things to do in Aberdeen?

From enjoying parks to strolling around vibrant neighbourhoods, it's simple to find free things to do in Aberdeen. If you need new ideas, get some tips from a local tour guide. Cathedral of St. Machar is a great spot for anyone wanting to save on their sightseeing adventures.

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