Is Aberdeen worth visiting?
Yes, Aberdeen is worth visiting for a number of reasons. This is a city that everyone should explore, and we loved our time here.
Whether you're a traveling as a family or a couple, this city has a lot to offer. Any local will tell you what makes it special is the amazing museums & sights and fantastic historical sights.
Aberdeen is rich in history, culture, and even natural beauty. There are sandy beaches, historic landmarks, and many parks and gardens to explore. Golf enthusiasts will also enjoy the many golf courses in the area. Many visitors overlook this hidden gem, so there's a hint of authenticity that you often miss in the more popular destinations.
Aberdeen Train Station, Scotland, United Kingdom
6 Reasons to Visit Aberdeen
1. Museums & Sights
The city's long running history means that there are plenty of sights and museums worth exploring. Highlights include St. Machar's Cathedral, the University and King's College of Aberdeen, Brig o'Balgownie, and the Tolbooth Museum.
2. Historical Sights
This city's old town is a hidden gem in Scotland. The cobblestone streets and long history make for a fascinating place to explore.
3. Food
Everything from brunch bistros to fine dining are available in this city. You can enjoy local specialties or international options at any of the unique restaurants around town.
4. Nightlife
The nightlife scene is diverse with whisky dens, local pubs, and even trendy nightclubs to choose from.
5. Shopping
A mix of modern shopping centers, antique vendors, and local boutiques make for an interesting shopping scene. For some of the city's best shopping head to Union Square Shopping Centre, the Trinity Centre, or Bon Accord Aberdeen.
6. Authenticity
Aberdeen has an authentic vibe where you can experience local culture, cuisine, and activities without the large tourist crowds of other popular destinations.
Is Aberdeen worth visiting in the Summer?
The high season for travel in Aberdeen is the summer, so expect to see more tourists than usual. This destination is somewhat touristy, so in the high season it's usually busier.
You'll find the weather to be very nice here during summer with average temperatures around 14°C (58°F).
You'll also find it quite easy to get around on foot, because this is a very walkable city, especially in the nice weather. During this season it's fun to experience the famous sights and museums, the big city activities, and the historic old town. Also, you can enjoy an evening out.
Summer Weather in Aberdeen
| Avg Temp (°C/°F) |
Avg Rain (mm/inches) |
|
| July | 14°C (58°F) | 60 mm (2.4 in) |
| August | 14°C (57°F) | 75 mm (3 in) |
| September | 12°C (54°F) | 68 mm (2.7 in) |
Is Aberdeen worth visiting in the Autumn?
The weather in Aberdeen can be quite cold during autumn, and averages around 9°C (49°F). But be prepared for much lower temperatures, too.
Autumn is the shoulder season for travel in Aberdeen, which means slightly less visitors than in the peak season. This destination is somewhat busy with tourists, but in the shoulder season you'll find less crowds and better deals.
Autumn is a great time of year to explore the numerous museums and landmarks around town. They are fun for the whole family as well great for couples. Soaking up that old town charm in the autumn is one of the favorite activities of visitors. The quaint scenery combined with the weather this time of year is quite nice. This is a great time of year to admire the historic sights, browse the museums, and enjoy the city's energy.
Autumn Weather in Aberdeen
| Avg Temp (°C/°F) |
Avg Rain (mm/inches) |
|
| October | 9°C (49°F) | 77 mm (3 in) |
| November | 5°C (42°F) | 75 mm (3 in) |
| December | 4°C (39°F) | 73 mm (2.9 in) |
Is Aberdeen worth visiting in the Winter?
Winter is the low season for travel in Aberdeen. This destination is fairly touristy, but in the low season you can find fewer crowds and better deals.
The weather in Aberdeen can be quite cold during winter, and averages around 3°C (38°F). But be prepared for much lower temperatures, too.
You'll find plenty to do during winter, as you'll be able to spend time at the museums, sample the delicious cuisine, and browse around the old town. Also, you'll be able to dance the night away and discover the big city activities.
Winter Weather in Aberdeen
| Avg Temp (°C/°F) |
Avg Rain (mm/inches) |
|
| January | 3°C (38°F) | 81 mm (3.2 in) |
| February | 3°C (38°F) | 51 mm (2 in) |
| March | 5°C (41°F) | 58 mm (2.3 in) |
Is Aberdeen worth visiting in the Spring?
This is the shoulder season for travel in Aberdeen. This destination is somewhat busy with tourists, but in the shoulder season you'll find less crowds and better deals.
The weather in Aberdeen can be quite cold during spring, and averages around 7°C (44°F). But be prepared for much lower temperatures, too.
Soaking up that old town charm in the spring is one of the favorite activities of visitors. The quaint scenery combined with the weather this time of year is quite nice. During this season it's fun to experience shopping, the museums and landmarks, and the historic old town. Also, you can experience the nightlife.
Spring Weather in Aberdeen
| Avg Temp (°C/°F) |
Avg Rain (mm/inches) |
|
| April | 7°C (44°F) | 53 mm (2.1 in) |
| May | 9°C (49°F) | 59 mm (2.3 in) |
| June | 13°C (55°F) | 53 mm (2.1 in) |
Related
What is Aberdeen most famous for?
Aberdeen is most famous for its longstanding maritime history and its many cultural sights and activities. The city is very popular for its museums & sights and historical sights. It is also known for its great food, nightlife, and shopping. It is often described as historic, cultural, architectural, and authentic.
What is the most famous sight in Aberdeen?
The most popular sight in Aberdeen is St Machar's Cathedral Aberdeen. You can see prices and costs for this and other sights in Aberdeen on our travel costs page.
Or, see tickets, activities, and tours for St Machar's Cathedral Aberdeen and other attractions here.
How touristy is Aberdeen? Is it a popular city to visit?
Aberdeen is more popular with local tourists than with international visitors. Here are some of the most popular activities and tours. (Prices in US Dollars)
- 3 hour Gin School Experience in Aberdeen: $160
- St Andrews and Dundee Small-Group Tour from Aberdeen: $70
- Private Aberdeen City Walking Tour: $154
- Aberdeen Tour App, Hidden Gems Game and Big Britain Quiz (1 Day Pass) UK: $20
- Private Aberdeen Street Art Tour: $154
- Art, History, and Hidden Gems: Aberdeen Private Walking Tour: $234
- Taste of Scotland Tour: $174
- Dunnottar Castle and Royal Deeside Small-Group Tour from Aberdeen: $72
How long should I spend in Aberdeen?
The ideal length of time for a trip to Aberdeen is two to three days. Since Aberdeen has activities such as museums & sights and historical sights, many visit for up to three days.
If you have a specific amount of time for your trip, see our advice about how much time to spend here: Should I spend 1, 2, or 3 days in Aberdeen? and Should I spend 3, 4, or 5 days in Aberdeen?.
Budget Your Trip is all about finding out how much everything costs so that you can travel cheaper and longer. Created by avid travelers Laurie and Bryan, our goal is to help you plan your next trip on the right budget. With average daily travel costs that are calculated from the budgets of real travelers, plus an analysis of hotel and tour prices, you can find out how much money you need to plan your next adventure. We also have plenty of travel advice, accommodation reviews, and activity suggestions.