Still wondering what to do in Aberdeen? Opodo has the top must-see plans so you won't miss a thing. Find everything you need to know before picking your stay in Aberdeen and book your hotel today!
Aberdeen, proudly known as the 'Granite City', is a distinctive and highly walkable city in North-East Scotland. The town is famous for its sparkling grey granite architecture, which gives the city a unique, dazzling appearance, particularly in the sunshine. The city is a wonderful blend of maritime history and academic heritage.
You can wander through Old Aberdeen, home to the ancient King's College Chapel and the historic St Machar's Cathedral. The modern city centre features the huge, gothic-revival Marischal College and the bustling retail hub known as the Granite Mile along Union Street. Explore the Aberdeen Maritime Museum to learn about the city's relationship with the North Sea, and don't miss the picturesque fishing village of Footdee (Fittie) with its quirky cottages. Aberdeen also serves as a gateway to the famous Castle Trail and Royal Deeside.
The best location for your Aberdeen hotel is the City Centre, which provides the easiest access to the main shopping, culture, and transport links. The city centre is compact and highly walkable.
Hotels near Union Street and the Union Square shopping centre offer the most convenient choice. Staying here places you steps away from the Granite Mile, the Aberdeen Art Gallery, and the main dining and nightlife options. This is the ideal hub for first-time visitors who want to be in the middle of the action.
For visitors prioritising history and a quieter atmosphere, consider accommodation in the area of Old Aberdeen, close to the University of Aberdeen and St Machar's Cathedral. This is a beautiful, historic area with a more sedate feel, requiring a short bus ride or walk to reach the modern city centre.
Aberdeen International Airport (ABZ) is located a short distance away, with simple transfers via the frequent bus service or taxi. The central Aberdeen Railway Station is located right next to the Union Square shopping centre. Local bus services are excellent and necessary for reaching the more remote attractions, such as Duthie Park or the charming village of Footdee.
Hotel prices in Aberdeen are highly susceptible to the schedule of the North Sea oil and gas industry and its related business travel. Prices are typically at their highest during the mid-week, from Monday to Thursday, and during major energy conferences and exhibitions.
The best value is consistently found over the weekend, particularly a Sunday night, when business travel drops off significantly. The peak tourist season is the summer, June to August. A unique tip for Aberdeen is to check the local university calendar. The start and end of university terms can affect hotel rates, and booking during the quieter summer holidays often yields better rates than the rest of the year.