Aberdeen, Scotland's third-largest city, is known as the Granite City for its distinctive silver-grey granite architecture that sparkles in the sunlight. A historic port city with a rich maritime heritage, Aberdeen combines medieval history, Victorian grandeur and modern energy. This guide covers the essential attractions, from the world's second-largest granite building to a historic fishing village, plus day trips to dramatic castles and Royal Deeside with a private driver-guide.
Marischal College
Marischal College is the second-largest granite building in the world and one of Aberdeen's most iconic landmarks. Built between 1837 and 1906, this magnificent Gothic Revival structure dominates the city centre with its intricate facade of silver-grey granite. The building is part of the University of Aberdeen and houses the university's administration offices and the Marischal Museum. The facade features elaborate carvings, spires and decorative elements that showcase the skill of Aberdeen's granite craftsmen. The building's scale and architectural detail make it one of Scotland's most impressive civic buildings, and it serves as a stunning backdrop to Broad Street, one of Aberdeen's main thoroughfares.
Old Aberdeen & King's College
Old Aberdeen is the city's medieval quarter, a peaceful area that feels worlds away from the modern city centre. At its heart is King's College, founded in 1495 and part of the University of Aberdeen. The King's College Chapel is one of Scotland's finest medieval buildings, with a distinctive crown spire that has become a symbol of the university. The chapel's interior features beautiful stained glass, medieval woodwork and a remarkable 16th-century choir screen. The surrounding area, known as the Aulton, retains its historic character with cobbled streets, ancient buildings and the Seaton Park, which runs alongside the River Don. Old Aberdeen offers a glimpse into Aberdeen's medieval past and provides a tranquil escape from the bustle of the modern city.
Aberdeen Art Gallery
Aberdeen Art Gallery reopened in 2019 after a major £34.6 million renovation that transformed Scotland's oldest public art gallery. The gallery houses an impressive collection spanning from the 18th century to contemporary art, with particular strengths in Scottish art, including works by the Scottish Colourists, the Glasgow Boys and contemporary Scottish artists. The collection also includes international works by artists such as Monet, Degas, Pissarro and Francis Bacon. The renovation created new exhibition spaces, improved accessibility and restored the gallery's original Victorian features, including the beautiful central hall with its glass roof. The gallery's café and shop make it an ideal place to spend a few hours exploring both historic and modern art in a stunning setting.
Footdee (Fittie)
Footdee, locally known as Fittie, is a historic fishing village at the harbour that offers a glimpse into Aberdeen's maritime past. This unique area consists of rows of small, brightly painted cottages arranged around squares, creating a charming and quirky neighbourhood that feels like a village within the city. Originally built in the early 19th century to house fishermen and their families, the cottages were designed to maximise space in a compact area. Today, Footdee retains its historic character while being a residential area, and the colourful houses, narrow lanes and proximity to the harbour make it one of Aberdeen's most photogenic spots. A walk through Footdee takes you back in time and provides a contrast to the grand granite buildings of the city centre.
Dunnottar Castle day trip
Dunnottar Castle, located 15 miles south of Aberdeen, is one of Scotland's most dramatic and photogenic castles. Perched on a clifftop overlooking the North Sea, the castle ruins tell a story of Scottish history, including the hiding of the Scottish Crown Jewels from Oliver Cromwell's army. The approach to the castle involves a walk down a steep path and up to the clifftop, with stunning views of the North Sea and the rugged coastline. The castle's dramatic setting and rich history make it one of Scotland's most visited attractions. The ruins include the keep, chapel, barracks and other buildings that give a sense of the castle's former grandeur. For the full history and visitor information, see our Dunnottar Castle visitor guide.
Royal Deeside & Balmoral
Royal Deeside, the valley of the River Dee west of Aberdeen, is one of Scotland's most beautiful regions and home to Balmoral Castle, the Queen's Scottish residence. The area is known for its stunning scenery, charming villages and royal connections. Balmoral Castle, set in extensive grounds, has been a private residence of the British royal family since 1852. While the castle itself is only open to the public during certain periods, the estate and surrounding area offer beautiful walks and views. The Royal Deeside region also includes charming villages such as Ballater and Braemar, both popular destinations for visitors. For more information, see our Royal Deeside guide and Balmoral Castle visitor guide.
Day trips from Aberdeen
Aberdeen is an excellent base for day trips to castles, distilleries and the surrounding countryside. The most popular options include:
- Dunnottar Castle – dramatic clifftop ruins, 15 miles south
- Royal Deeside – beautiful valley with Balmoral Castle and charming villages
- Glen Garioch Distillery – one of Scotland's oldest distilleries, in Oldmeldrum
- Glendronach Distillery – renowned Speyside distillery known for sherry cask maturation
- Whisky tours from Aberdeen – visit multiple distilleries in Speyside and the surrounding area
We offer private chauffeur tours from Aberdeen and day tours from Aberdeen with a dedicated driver-guide and luxury vehicle.
Frequently asked questions
- How many days do you need in Aberdeen?
- Two to three days covers the main attractions – Marischal College, Old Aberdeen, King's College, Aberdeen Art Gallery and Footdee. Add a fourth day for day trips to Dunnottar Castle, Royal Deeside or nearby whisky distilleries.
- What is the best time to visit Aberdeen?
- May through September offers the best weather and longer daylight hours, making it ideal for exploring the city and day trips to the surrounding countryside. Aberdeen's granite buildings are particularly striking in summer sunlight, and the coastal location means milder temperatures than inland areas.
- What are the best day trips from Aberdeen?
- Popular day trips include Dunnottar Castle (15 miles south, dramatic clifftop ruins), Royal Deeside and Balmoral Castle (the Queen's Scottish residence), and whisky distilleries including Glen Garioch and Glendronach. All are easily accessible with a private driver-guide.
