Aberdeen, widely known as the "Granite City," offers a robust and striking urban landscape built from locally quarried grey stone that seems to sparkle after the rain. Set against the rugged North Sea coastline, the city serves as a fantastic gateway to the Scottish Highlands. It provides a unique mix of maritime history, historic university architecture, and easy access to dramatic cliffside castles and coastal nature reserves.
Highlights from Our Days in Aberdeen
Exploring the Granite City: Walking through the city center to take in the imposing, silver-grey granite architecture, particularly along Union Street and around Marischal College, one of the largest granite buildings in the world.
Old Aberdeen and the University: Wandering through the historic cobbled streets of Old Aberdeen, admiring the stunning 15th-century architecture of King's College and St Machar's Cathedral.
The Maritime Heritage: Visiting the bustling Aberdeen Harbour and the Maritime Museum to understand the city's deep connection to the North Sea, from early fishing and shipbuilding to the modern offshore energy industry.
Coastal Escapes: Taking short trips out of the city center to explore the dramatic coastline, including the towering ruins of Dunnottar Castle perched on a rocky headland just south of the city.
Footdee (Fittie): Walking down to the mouth of the harbor to explore this charming, historic fishing village, characterized by its tightly packed, quirky cottages designed to protect against the harsh sea winds.
