Where to stay

in Aberdeen

Aberdeen's history goes back more than 8,000 years; however, it is perhaps best known today for its off-shore oil industry and cosmopolitan atmosphere. It's sometimes referred to as the "Granite City," named after the grey-stone downtown buildings that seem to sparkle in the sunlight. It has a welcoming tourist infrastructure, including a wealth of great hotels and other accommodations. The neighborhoods maintain a fun, youthful vibe thanks to the city's two universities. Whether you're seeking history, shopping or nature, deciding where to stay is often the best way to begin your Aberdeen, Scotland vacation.

Best Neighborhoods for History

Some of the oldest historic remnants in Aberdeen can be found in Dyce. Accommodations here are located near early medieval sites, including a 7th-century church filled with Pictish stones, carved relics featuring vivid symbols and images. Get a classic UK experience by booking a room close to Old Aberdeen, the heart of the University of Aberdeen. It's here immaculately preserved buildings stand alongside ultramodern facilities. Book a hotel in Footdee at the east end of Aberdeen Harbor to discover a former fishing village bursting with picturesque vistas.
Photo by Rachael Greaves

Dyce

Visitors highly recommend Dyce for its abundant dining options, and you can make a stop by Formartine and Buchan Way while you're in town.
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Footdee

While there might not be top attractions in Footdee, you can explore the larger area and discover places like Aberdeen Harbour and Codonas Amusement Park.
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Aberdeen which includes street scenes as well as a small group of people

Where to Stay for Shopping

Aberdeen's merchant past is alive and well in its Victorian granite buildings; though, be careful because the silver specks have been known to inspire people to buy jewelry. Stay in one of Rosemount's boutique hotels for easy access to some of the best shopping in the city. Get a room in the West End to browse the independent boutiques that flourish due to restrictions on retail chains. To give your credit card a workout then cool down with some fine ales in a nearby pub, book accommodations along the "Granite Mile" in Gilcomston, Aberdeen's downtown neighborhood.
Photo by Julia

Aberdeen West End

Aberdeen West End is popular for its abundant dining options, and if you're looking for more to see and do, you might think about a trip to Rubislaw Quarry or Queen Victoria Statue.
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Best Areas for Nature

Located between the Dee and Don rivers on Scotland's North Sea coast, Aberdeen overflows with opportunities to get outside. Stay in Cove Bay to relax on the beach and immerse yourself in a small, village-like atmosphere. For activities on dry land, book accommodations in Kingswells, offering easy access to walking and biking trails. Aberdeen's Cults neighborhood is known for its family-friendly vibe and historic granite housing, much of it overlooking extensive parklands. Leave the hustle and bustle behind by booking a hotel in Hazlehead, an area which connects the city and countryside.
Photo "Kingswells" by Richard Slessor (CC BY-SA) / Cropped from original

Kingswells

Unique features of Kingswells include the spas and restaurants. Make a stop by Brimmond Hill Country Park or Kirkhill Forest while you're exploring the area.
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Cults

Visitors to Cults appreciate its restaurants. A visit to Hazlehead Park and Gordon Highlanders Museum might round out your trip if you're looking to see more of the area.
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The Robert Gordon University, Aberdeen, Scotland: Garthdee House seen across lawn (to left of monkey puzzle tree). To the right of the tree is the Square Tower student residences.

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