Our Aberdeen Travel Essentials lays out the essential information you need to help you plan your trip to one of the most popular destinations in the UK. No matter how frequently you travel, some questions will always need answers: What’s the weather like? How can I get from Aberdeen International Airport to my hotel? What currency and type of plug do I need?
We have all these answers plus other basic info about the best time to go, getting there, getting around, and a few useful travel tips. You’ll also learn about the most popular landmarks in Aberdeen such as Aberdeen Beach, St. Machar’s Cathedral, and Dunnottar Castle. It’s all compiled in this Aberdeen Travel Essentials. After reading this short and easy-to-read guide, you will be a little more prepared to start your trip to Aberdeen.
When is the best time to travel to Aberdeen?
- Aberdeen is right by the North Sea, with a relatively mild climate that’s slightly colder than Britain’s average. You can expect average temperatures ranging from -0.1°C in winter to 18°C in summer.
- January is the wettest month in Aberdeen, and you can expect rainfall even in its driest months – it’s among the UK’s top 20 wettest cities.
- Aberdeen’s short summers last between July and August, with July being the warmest month of the year.
- Even if the summers are short, the days are long during the period. You may also want to visit Aberdeen earlier in spring when it’s at its prettiest. From March through May, the parks and gardens come into full bloom.
Aberdeen basics
- Plug type: G
- Electricity: 220 - 240 V
- Currency: Pound Sterling (£)
- International dialling code: +44 (0)1224
- Emergency telephone number: 999
How to get to my hotel in Aberdeen?
Most travellers from major cities in Europe and the UK fly directly into Aberdeen International Airport (ABZ). You can also reach Aberdeen from England by train with a few direct, 7-hour rides from London King's Cross each day.
Aberdeen International Airport (ABZ)
Located in the Dyce suburb, Aberdeen International Airport (ABZ) is a 20-minute drive southeast of the Aberdeen city centre. There are about 15 airlines that link Aberdeen to major cities throughout the UK and Europe.
Bus operator Stagecoach, which serves Aberdeen, Moray and Aberdeenshire, has its 727 bus services that take you from Aberdeen International Airport to the city centre.
You can head for the taxi rank of the official Aberdeen Airport taxi, right in front of the terminal. Simply state your destination to the coordinator and he’ll sort your ride out.
If you’re planning to drive throughout your visit, there are major car rental companies just a short walk outside the main terminal via the airport’s covered walkway.
Aberdeen Railway Station
Aberdeen Railway Station is the city’s only railway station, which you can find on Guild Street in the town centre.
From London, there are about 6 trains that head to Aberdeen regularly and it’s about a 7-hour ride with transit at Edinburg Waverley. Trains run regularly from Inverness to Aberdeen every 2 hours, with rides taking the same duration.
Aberdeen Harbour
The historic Aberdeen Harbour is a main feature of the city, stretching from Union Square in the heart of the city and down to the mouth of the River Dee. It was a driving factor behind Aberdeen's growing fishing industry, but now serves ferries to and from the Northern Isles – Orkney and Shetland. The terminal is just off Market Street.
How to get around Aberdeen?
Travel tips
The harbour city of Aberdeen extends for 71.7 sq miles, but the city centre itself is quite compact. Walking is the best way to get around, allowing you to take in the marvellous sights of the Granite City. There are First Aberdeen buses that conveniently take you around the city centre, too.
Taking a taxi
Ridesharing apps like Uber aren’t available in Aberdeen. However, you can use a similar app for the city’s local taxi service, Aberdeen Taxis. They operate similarly, are available 24/7, and can provide you with a ride around the city.
Travelling by bus
First Bus Aberdeen is the city’s local bus service that can take you around the historic city centre. They operate 23 buses including a Park and Ride bus service that can get you to Aberdeen’s beautiful parks. Buses run regularly throughout the city and surrounding areas.
Renting a car in Aberdeen
Driving in Aberdeen, or Scotland in general, is relatively easy. There are plenty of car rentals available including Enterprise, which has a wide range of models as well as pickup and drop-off services. Driving on your own lets you explore Aberdeen at your own pace. You can even enjoy attractions outside the city, such as Cairngorms National Park, which is 2 hours’ drive away. Standard UK speed limits apply in Aberdeen and an International Driving Permit is required.
What are the main annual events in Aberdeen?
Aberdeen Highland Games
- June
- A summer festival celebrating traditional Scottish Highland culture.
- Where: Hazelhead Park
Aberdeen Jazz Festival
- March
- Live jazz performances featuring international performers.
- Where: Various venues
May Festival
- Late May
- A fun festival covering various topics from science to Gaelic culture.
- Where: University of Aberdeen campus and various locations
What are the main landmarks in Aberdeen?
Aberdeen Beach
Aberdeen’s popular 2-mile coast with golden sand and an esplanade.
St. Machar’s Cathedral
A stunning medieval church housing some of the remains of William Wallace.
Dunnottar Castle
A ruined medieval fortress on a rocky headland overlooking the North Sea.
Aberdeen Maritime Museum
Exhibits on shipbuilding, fishing, and the oil industry inside vintage buildings.
Music Hall Aberdeen
A 1,300-seat concert hall that has hosted shows since 1822.
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