Top reasons to visit Aberdeen
- Stunning Beaches: Enjoy a delightful day at Aberdeen Beach, known for its sandy shores and vibrant atmosphere.
- Cultural Experiences: Immerse yourself in local heritage through audio tours and visits to historical sites in the city centre.
- Whisky Distilleries: Savour Scotland's renowned spirits by touring local distilleries for a taste of authentic whisky.
- Scenic Royal Deeside: Explore the picturesque countryside, perfect for family outings and relaxation.
- Diverse Accommodation: Choose from charming guesthouses to modern hotels, catering to all types of travellers.
Find great hotels in Aberdeen
Discover a range of accommodation options in Aberdeen, from charming guesthouses to modern hotels, ensuring a perfect stay for every type of traveller. Whether you're seeking pet-friendly facilities, a welcoming environment for LGBTQIA guests, or a convenient base for business travel, Aberdeen's hotels cater to your needs. With top choices like Travelodge Aberdeen Central, you're sure to find the ideal spot for your Scottish adventure.
- Leonardo Hotel Aberdeen: This eco-certified 4-star hotel boasts a contemporary design and a commitment to sustainability, making it an excellent choice for environmentally conscious travellers. With a guest rating of 8.6 out of 10, the Leonardo Hotel Aberdeen offers modern amenities that enhance both comfort and eco-friendliness. Guests can enjoy stylish rooms equipped with essential features, a welcoming atmosphere, and easy access to local attractions. The hotel’s focus on sustainability ensures that your stay is not only enjoyable but also responsible.
- The Aberdeen Altens Hotel: Another eco-certified 4-star option, The Aberdeen Altens Hotel is tailored for both business and leisure travellers, also rated at 8.6 out of 10. This property combines modern conveniences with a professional environment, making it ideal for business trips while still appealing to those seeking eco-friendly accommodations. Guests benefit from spacious rooms, advanced meeting facilities, and a restaurant offering locally sourced cuisine. The hotel’s dedication to sustainability and high-quality service provides a balanced experience for all visitors.
- Sandman Signature Aberdeen Hotel & Spa: This 3.5-star hotel and spa, rated 8.8 out of 10, caters to families and business travellers alike, making it a versatile choice for your stay in Aberdeen. The Sandman Signature offers an array of family-friendly amenities including travel cribs and breakfast options for children, while also being pet-friendly, allowing your furry friends to join the adventure. The hotel's spa facilities provide an ideal place to unwind after a day of exploring, creating a welcoming environment for relaxation and leisure.
Where to stay in Aberdeen
Aberdeen offers a delightful blend of experiences for every traveller. Explore the vibrant city centre, where trendy shops and historical sites abound. Venture into the picturesque Royal Deeside for a touch of romance and relaxation, perfect for family outings. With its friendly atmosphere and prime location, Aberdeen serves as an ideal leisure destination, making your vacation both enjoyable and memorable.
- Central Aberdeen: Central Aberdeen is the vibrant heart of the city, offering a mix of culture, commerce, and community. Situated close to the beach, this area is ideal for those looking for a city-themed experience. Visitors can enjoy a wide array of shopping options, from large shopping centres to charming boutiques. Notable landmarks include the event conference venue and convention centre, making it a hub for business travellers. The local theatre provides entertainment, while the scenic beach offers a relaxing escape. With peak visitor numbers from July to September, Central Aberdeen buzzes with activity during the summer months.
- Dyce: Located just a short distance from the airport, Dyce is a convenient neighbourhood for both business and leisure travellers. With a focus on outdoor activities and family experiences, Dyce features parks that are perfect for picnics and leisurely strolls. The area boasts shopping centres and educational institutions, catering to diverse interests. Peak visitor numbers occur in winter, particularly from December to February, making it an inviting destination during the colder months. Dyce’s proximity to the event conference venue and convention centre adds to its appeal for business visitors.
- Aberdeen West End: The Aberdeen West End is a delightful neighbourhood known for its family-friendly atmosphere and outdoor spaces. Visitors can explore trails and parks, making it an excellent choice for those who enjoy nature. The area features a variety of shopping centres and access to urban parks, creating an engaging environment for all ages. Like Central Aberdeen, visitor numbers peak in the summer months, particularly from July to September, providing a lively atmosphere. The urban park and local streets are perfect for leisurely walks and family outings.
Things to do in Aberdeen
Shopping
Aberdeen offers a delightful shopping experience, with Union Square at its heart, featuring a range of high-street brands and eateries. For unique finds, visit the historic Aberdeen Market, where local crafts and produce abound. If you're up for a drive, the nearby Portlethen Retail Park hosts larger stores for added variety.
Recreation
In Aberdeen, indulge in rejuvenating treatments at The Chester Hotel's spa, featuring a serene atmosphere and personalised therapies. Alternatively, explore the tranquil surroundings of the Hilton Aberdeen Treetops, where you can enjoy a range of wellness facilities, including a fitness centre and swimming pool for relaxation and rejuvenation.
Adventure
In Aberdeen, explore the rugged coastline by taking a thrilling kayak tour along the North Sea, where you might spot seals and diverse marine life. Alternatively, venture to the Cairngorms National Park for exhilarating mountain biking trails and breathtaking views of Scotland's stunning landscapes.
Nightlife
In Aberdeen, The Lemon Tree offers a lively atmosphere with live music performances, while the OGV Taproom is ideal for craft beer enthusiasts. For a more relaxed vibe, head to The College Cafe, where you can enjoy cocktails and conversation in a charming setting.
*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Aberdeen
Aberdeen provides various ways to explore the city on a budget. Enjoy free attractions such as Aberdeen Harbour, Hazlehead Park, and Robert Gordon University. For transport, consider using the bus service, which is cost-effective. The best time to visit for savings is from March to January, especially Fridays, while Tuesdays are pricier. Use Expedia to find hotel deals, and consider combining your accommodation with flights and activities for further discounts. Look for eco-certified hotels for sustainable options and check for local deals to maximise your savings.
- The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Aberdeen are March and December to January, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to May to June and September, where prices are slightly higher.
- The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Aberdeen is Friday. The most expensive day to stay in Aberdeen is Tuesday.
- Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia's search tool enables you to specify your budget, desired location, and additional preferences. You can arrange your results to display prices from the lowest to highest, ensuring you see the most affordable hotels first. Additionally, you have the option to refine your search by hotel type; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels that you can book.
- Consider bundling your trip: You can potentially save money by combining your hotel booking in Aberdeen with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.
Find the best attractions in Aberdeen
Aberdeen is a fantastic destination for business, family, and city-themed holidays. With a variety of attractions such as urban parks, nature reserves, and the bustling harbour, it caters to those seeking cultural, family-friendly, and outdoor experiences. Don't miss a visit to Aberdeen Beach for a delightful day out. Explore the charm of Aberdeen, Scotland, and immerse yourself in its unique offerings.
- Cathedral of St. Machar: This stunning cathedral showcases impressive Gothic architecture and rich history, making it a significant cultural landmark in Aberdeen. Explore its beautiful stained glass windows and serene atmosphere, offering a glimpse into the city's spiritual heritage.
- Aberdeen Maritime Museum: Dive into the fascinating maritime history of Aberdeen at this engaging museum. Featuring exhibits on shipbuilding, oil exploration, and the North Sea, it provides a unique perspective on how the sea has shaped the city’s identity.
- Johnston Gardens: A peaceful urban park, Johnston Gardens is adorned with vibrant flora, tranquil ponds, and charming pathways. It's an ideal spot for families and anyone seeking a leisurely outdoor experience amidst the beauty of nature.
Best time to go to Aberdeen
The best time to visit Aberdeen can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Aberdeen falls in July and August. August has slightly high visitor numbers and mostly cloudy weather. The coolest average temperature in Aberdeen falls in January, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.
The nearest major airports for your trip to Aberdeen
Travelling to Aberdeen is convenient with multiple airport options. Aberdeen International Airport (ABZ) is only 8km away from the city, with excellent hotels nearby, such as the 5-star Marcliffe and the 4-star Leonardo Hotel, both 10km from the airport. EDInburgh Airport (EDI), located 154km away, has notable hotels like the 5.5-star Crescent House and the 5-star Virgin Hotels Edinburgh, both around 11km from the airport. Lastly, INVerness Airport (INV) is situated 126km from Aberdeen, with luxurious stays like Ness Walk and Rocpool Reserve, both 13km from INV. Transportation services are readily available from these hotels to their respective airports.