10 things to do in Aberdeen this Winter
2 November 2018
Aberdeen is a cosmopolitan and connected place, that looks and feels quite different. The city’s streets are lined with classic granite buildings making it architecturally distinctive. And its proximity to the sea, as well as its long history and characteristic culture, makes it the ideal city break.
Fly direct to Aberdeen from Bergen or Stavanger and experience winter in Scotland’s third largest city. Your next city break is just one hour away, so here are 10 things you’ve got to do when you visit Aberdeen:
1. Shop till you drop
Christmas shopping or catching the January sales? Either way you’ll be spoilt for choice with five shopping centres, the ‘Granite Mile’ shopping street, boutiques and independent retailers found across the city centre.
2. Join in with unique traditions
To really experience Scotland during your trip make sure to add a festival or event to your ‘must-do’ list. In winter you can attend one of our most famous events - the Stonehaven Fireballs Ceremony on Hogmanay (New Year’s Eve). Make sure to enjoy the festivities at our Christmas Village, carol concerts and pantomime’s too!
3. Warm up with local food
Of course this is close to the top of the list! Whether in a quirky seaside cafe, stylish Michelin Guide restaurant or in a traditional pub in front of a roaring fireplace … this is your chance to sample our finest local produce including freshly caught seafood and Aberdeen Angus Beef.
4. Visit an enchanting old town
With its quaint cobbled roads, historic buildings, picturesque park and distinctive library, get ready to take a frosty step back in time as you explore beautiful Old Aberdeen. Top tip: download the ‘Discover Old Aberdeen’ walking app to find out even more about your surroundings.
5. Explore a vibrant art trail
As that low winter sun shines through Aberdeen’s sparkling historic streets, discover some of our brightest buildings! These painted walls make up the Nuart Aberdeen street art trail - and along the way you will also spot our very ‘Instagrammable’ Painted Doors.
6. Capture famous sights
Recognised by The Scotsman as “one of the most architecturally distinctive cities in Europe”, make sure to pack your cosy boots as you sightsee this renowned Granite City by foot! You’ll see the world’s largest grey granite building – Marischal College, visit the historic Merchant Quarter and Mercat Cross, as well as spot many statues of famous historic figures along the way.
7. Deep a little deeper
Find out a little more about the culture, history and heritage of this Scottish city at one of our museums found across Aberdeen. Visit top museums like the Tolbooth Museum, Aberdeen Maritime Museum and the Zoology Museum, as well as independent art galleries.
8. Chill out at the beach
Watch the snowflakes drop as you cosy up with a hot chocolate and a ‘fine piece’ (Doric for cake) at a quaint seaside café, have lunch on a double decker bus, or enjoy a brisk walk along the frosted seafront.
9. Visit a quirky fishing quarter
Wrap up warm for that fresh North Sea breeze in Footdee (pronounced ‘Fittie’ by locals). This charming 19th century fishing village, found at the end of our mile-long beach, is even prettier when covered with a layer of snow!
10. Go dolphin spotting
Aberdeen’s two rivers and North Sea are so well stocked that even dolphins have found a home here and they can be spotted in the city’s working harbour. Here they find their feed and put on an animated display for visitors!
For more information about what there is to do in Aberdeen, just go to https://www.visitabdn.com/what-to-do/aberdeen. To book you flights direct to Aberdeen from Bergen or Stanvanger just head over to https://www.wideroe.no/visitabz?to=ABZ. And don’t forget to use the hashtag #winterABDN on social media when you’re here!
All information is correct at the time of publishing, we recommend that you check opening times and information for individual places before visiting.