Things to See & Do in Aberdeen

A newly refurbished member of Aberdeen's arts and culture scene, Aberdeen Art Gallery is bursting at the seams with some of the finest collections in the UK. Pay a visit and browse the incredible array of works of art, design, paintings and more, showcasing a range of artists including Joan Eardley, Samuel Peploe, and Rachel McLean, as well as nationally and internationally-acclaimed artists including Barbara Hepworth, Francis Bacon, and Claude Monet.

Dive into the city's longstanding history with the sea at Aberdeen Maritime Museum. Here you can browse unique collections and displays that uncover shipbuilding, fast sailing ships, fishing, the history of ports and more. You can also see an incredible range of maritime paintings and artefacts, with touch screen consoles, computer visual databases, an education room and hands-on exhibits.

Head to the south side of Aberdeen for a day out in Duthie Park - Scotland's third most visited garden. Explore the David Welch Winter Gardens, one of the largest indoor gardens in Europe, admire the range of exotic plants, let the kids run wild in the family play areas, enjoy the boating ponds and sports fields, and marvel at the Victorian design features.

Head the opposite way to the north side of the city centre where the grandeur of St Machar's Cathedral awaits. Located in the former burgh of Old Aberdeen, St Machar's is part of the Church of Scotland and dates back to 12th century, featuring a mesmerising and unique heraldic ceiling and fortified west front. The cathedral is an ancient site and continues to be a living place of worship today.

Speaking of Old Aberdeen, why not wander through the streets of the city's former burgh? With cobbled roads, intricate architecture, ancient buildings and a trip back in time, there are dozens of hidden gems to be found here. Explore the historic sites, walk through the characterful Chanonry, admire the architecturally distinctive Sir Duncan Rice Library, venture through Seaton Park and visit the Brig o' Balgownie, which is believed to date back to the late 13th or early 14th century.

This coastal city means you have hundreds of seaside locations, clifftop adventures and hidden coves on your doorstep, but we think having a beach just a stone's throw away makes for a great day out! A popular spot for visitors and locals alike, Aberdeen Beach boasts a beautiful stretch of sandy shore - perfect for building sandcastles and dipping your toes in the water on a sunny day. The beach is also well known for its sports area and attractions nearby too, including a leisure centre, Linx Ice Area, a range of cafes, restaurants and a family fun fair. There is also a cinema, retail park and a gym too.

Scotland is famed as the Home of Golf with hundreds of courses across the country, including Aberdeen. If you fancy teeing off with stunning coastal seascapes as your backdrop, you're in the right place! Head to championship courses such as Royal Aberdeen or Trump International, or try out some of the region's links courses, including Cruden Bay and Murcar Links. Aberdeenshire is also home to two of the top 10 oldest courses in the world!

One you may not have heard of, Provost Skene's House celebrates the pioneering people of Aberdeen who have not only shaped the city, but have also helped transform the world. Delve into the stories and achievements of over 100 people that were born and raised in this north-east corner of Scotland. From innovators, scientists, writers and sporting champions, to those who made it to the big screen and beyond, there are some pretty remarkable people to learn about here.

Provost Skene's House is also the oldest surviving town house in Aberdeen.

This incredible 5-star attraction tells you the enticing 200 year old story of the historic Gordon Highlanders, from the Napoleonic Wars, through to the present day. Immerse yourself in the educational displays, films, and an amazing replica WW1 trench, which explores the 'Finest Regiment in the World' and gives you the chance to ask the knowledgeable guides any questions you have to find out more.