9 Best Things to Do in Aberdeen

Stretching for almost 3.5 km between the mouth of the Don River and the fishing pier, Aberdeen Beach is a popular spot hosting a cool choice of activities. The promenade along the beach is perfect for leisurely strolls, jogs or cycling, while the beach itself is always popular with children who can play in its golden sand.

The beach esplanade is lined with a variety of bars and restaurants that cater to different tastes and budgets. Another major attraction is the Codona’s Amusement Park, a fun-filled park offering numerous rides and games.

Housing a quarter of the famous William Wallace within its walls, St. Machar’s Cathedral is a stunning historical church that sits to the north of the inner city. The actual edifice was built between the 14th and 15th centuries in the form of a fortified kirk (the Scottish name for a church).

Despite its later construction, St. Machar’s Cathedral retains earlier architectural elements, creating a unique blend of styles. You’ll really feel like you’ve stepped back in time in this impressive building of grey stones and warm-coloured woods.

The GlenDronach distillery, founded in 1826, is a must-visit when you're in Scotland to learn about the production of the national drink. Nestled in the village of Forgue, it’s about an hour’s drive northwest of Aberdeen through the picturesque Scottish countryside.

Take the informative tour of this historical distillery, discover how the type of wood used for the casks plays a crucial role in the creation of first-class whiskeys, then sample a few of their best products. At the end of the visit, you can purchase a few bottles at the shop.

Dunnottar Castle is a ruined medieval fortress perched on a rocky headland overlooking the North Sea, 23 km south of Aberdeen. Originally built in the early Middle Ages, the remaining buildings date back to the 15th and 16th centuries.

The castle and its surroundings are simply stunning. You feel like you are in a historical movie and would not be surprised to see knights in armours riding their horses next to the fortress. Be aware that you need to climb a lot of steps to get up to the castle.

While it may seem unusual to join the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds to go dolphin spotting, they do offer just that. At Torry Battery, just south of the River Dee’s mouth, RSPB organizes guided 1-hour tours for you to see the bottlenose dolphins and sometimes other marine mammals such as seals or even whales swimming in the North Sea.

Top-notch binoculars are provided for the best viewing experience, though you are welcome to bring your own. A pair of good walking shoes and warm, waterproof clothing are all that you need to enjoy this great encounter with wildlife.

The Aberdeen Maritime Museum, located in the historical neighbourhood of Shiprow, right next to the harbour, offers captivating insights into shipbuilding, fishing, the North Sea oil industry and port history. Housed within a cluster of vintage buildings, including a former church, this award-winning museum is a must-visit. Its modern, glass-fronted entrance, framed by heritage grey granite structures, is impossible to miss.

The entrance is free, though donations are welcome. After exploring the diverse collections, you can unwind with drinks and snacks at the friendly onsite restaurant.

Feasting on seafood by the Aberdeen Harbour is an unforgettable experience, given the vast array of marine delicacies that the 170 km Aberdeenshire coastline offers. From succulent scallops and prawns to flavorful herring and mussels, this region is a seafood lover's haven, offering some of the freshest and most varied seafood in the region.

Among the many dining options, The Silver Darling, a long-established modern restaurant in a vintage building on Pocra Quay in the old fishing village of Footdee, stands out. Moonfish Café is a quaint seafood brasserie on Correction Wynd, and Bistro Verde is a cool seafood bistro on The Green, known for its excellent service and unpretentious atmosphere.

Originally built in 1822, the Music Hall Aberdeen is a 1,300-seat concert hall at which you can see a great range of shows. Located in the bustling city centre, it regularly hosts large orchestras such as the Royal Scottish National Orchestra, but you also can attend comedy shows, pop/rock concerts and musical theatre shows here.

Featuring lovely architectural details and excellent acoustics, the size of the venue makes it intimate enough to properly see the stage and fully enjoy the shows. A coffee shop is available inside the venue.

Aberdeen Old Town hosts a buzzing bar scene. One of the most intriguing venues in town is Slains Castle on Belmont Street. This vampire-themed bar and restaurant is installed in a former Gothic church, offering great décor and a cool atmosphere. About 400 meters away, on Union Street, you’ll find BrewDog Castlegate. This pub specialises in local craft beers.

Last but not least, if you’re into quality cigars, ale, scotch and coffee, you should head to CASC on Stirling Street. Named after the goods it has on offer, CASC is a stylish and friendly place to enjoy a nightcap.