Aberdeen is a city on the North Sea coast of Scotland, in the United Kingdom. It is often called the "Granite City" for its distinctive silvery-grey stone buildings, which give its streets a crisp, polished look, especially when the light catches them.
What the city offers
Aberdeen combines historic character with coastal scenery. Visitors can walk through the medieval Old Town, where older streets and stone buildings reflect the city's long past, and spend time by the harbour, where the working waterfront sits beside the open sea.
- The harbour and waterfront, with views out over the North Sea
- The medieval Old Town and its granite streets
- Several castles in the surrounding countryside
As a base for wider travel
Aberdeen works well as a gateway. From the city you can reach the Scottish Highlands, and it is also the starting point for the Malt Whisky Trail, a route through the whisky-producing country of the north-east. Many visitors use the city for a few days and set out from there each day to explore further afield.
Is it right for your visit?
If you enjoy a city with a strong sense of its own history, a working harbour and easy access to countryside, Aberdeen is a good choice. It suits travellers who want to combine time in town with day trips to castles, distilleries and the Highlands. Check current opening times and transport links before you travel, as these can change.