Aberdeen

When to go: Summer Light

Summer (May to August) is best. The days are incredibly long (it stays light until 11 PM in June), and the weather is milder. However, it's always windy.

Winter is dark and short, but cozy if you stick to pubs and museums.

• Summer: Long days, festivals.
• Spring: Daffodils and castles opening up.
• Winter: Dark, windy, but good for whisky tasting.

Getting there: The Jet Bus

Aberdeen Airport (ABZ) is about 6 miles northwest of the city. The 'Jet Service 727' bus is excellent—it runs frequently, has luggage racks, and takes you straight to Union Square (bus/train station) in about 30 minutes.

Taxis are available but cost significantly more (£20-25).

• Bus 727: Fast, cheap, reliable.
• Taxi: Convenient but pricey.
• Train: Dyce station is near the airport, but the bus is usually easier.

Where to stay: Union Street or Old Town

Union Street is the main artery. Staying near here puts you close to transport and shops. The West End has nicer, boutique hotels.

For atmosphere, look for places near Old Aberdeen (the university area), though it's a bit further from the city center.

• City Center: Convenient for transport.
• West End: Upscale and quieter.
• Old Aberdeen: Historic charm.

What to see: Granite and Sea

Marischal College is the second-largest granite building in the world—it's stunning. Head to the Maritime Museum to learn about the city's relationship with the sea, from fishing to oil.

Don't miss Footdee (known as 'Fittie'), a quirky old fishing village at the end of the beach with tiny cottages and colorful sheds.

• Marischal College: Architectural highlight.
• Maritime Museum: Free and fascinating.
• Fittie: charming fishing village.
• Duthie Park: Winter Gardens (indoor plants).

Food: Angus Beef and Seafood

You are in prime beef country. Try an Aberdeen Angus steak. Seafood is also excellent, especially haddock and chips.

For a local snack, try a 'Rowie' or 'Buttery'—a salty, flaky bread roll. It's heavy but delicious.

• Aberdeen Angus: World-famous beef.
• Rowie/Buttery: Local salty pastry.
• Silver Darling: Top seafood with a view.

Getting around: Walk and Bus

The city center is walkable, though Union Street is very long. First Bus operates the local network. You can pay with contactless card on the bus.

To visit castles like Dunnottar or Crathes, you can take a train or a regional bus (Stagecoach).

• Walking: Good for the center.
• First Bus: City transport.
• Train/Stagecoach: Regional trips.

Budget: Oil prices

Aberdeen can be expensive due to the oil industry, but hotel prices often drop on weekends when business travelers leave.

Many museums (like the Maritime Museum and Art Gallery) are free.

• Weekends: Often cheaper for hotels.
• Museums: Mostly free.
• Food: Standard UK prices.

3 Days in Aberdeen

Mix the city's industrial history with its stunning coastline. A trip to Stonehaven to see Dunnottar Castle is essential.

Spend time walking the beach to clear your head.

• Day 1: Maritime Museum, Marischal College, and dinner in the city.
• Day 2: Walk along the beach to Fittie, spot dolphins at Torry Battery.
• Day 3: Train to Stonehaven and hike to Dunnottar Castle.

FAQ