8 Fun Things To Do In Aberdeen In 2023

Known as the ‘Granite City’ due to its many grey-stone buildings, Aberdeen is home to many students from all over the world. 

Aberdeen is home to some stunning views with lots of activities to do to keep you entertained. 

This creative and ambitious city is known for its charm and beautiful countryside, so you definitely won’t be bored! 

To help you out we’ve put together this list of 8 fun things to in Aberdeen in 2023… 

1. Learn At The Aberdeen Maritime Museum

The Aberdeen Maritime Museum situated on the historic Shiprow near the harbour tells the story of the city’s long relationship with the sea.

The museum has a collection of covering shipbuilding, fast sailing ships, as well as fishing and port history.

Interestingly, this museum is the only place in the UK where you can see displays on the North Sea oil and gas industry.

This fascinating museum is a great place to explore on a rainy day.

And, you can even grab yourself a bite to eat in the café if you’re feeling hungry during your visit.

It also has a viewpoint so you can look out onto the harbour and witness some incredible views.

Address: Shiprow, Aberdeen AB11 5BY

2. Step Back In Time At Slains Castle

Erected in 1597, Slains Castle is a must-see if you fancy a scenic walk, there are some stunning coastal views on offer from the cliff walk to The Bullars of Buchan.

This place offers some great photo opportunities, but be careful, as there are quite a few trip hazards.

This castle was said to have been used by Bram Staker as inspiration for the castle of Count Dracula, which is no surprise due to its authentic, creepy aesthetic.

There are so many different rooms to explore and the tower still has its staircase which is a must see attribute.

Just a 35-minute drive up from the A90 from Aberdeen, the ruins are completely free to explore.

You can even take the bus from Aberdeen that takes just over an hour. 

To plan your visit or get more information, check out their website. 

Address: A975, Cruden Bay, Peterhead AB42 0NE

3. Experience A Stroll In Footdee 

This quaint former fishing village pronounced ‘Fittie’ is a must see if you’re studying here in Aberdeen.

Half a mile east from the city centre, Footdee is tucked away off the main tourist route and quite easy to miss.

The idyllic area has had a settlement as far back as Medieval times, with the first recorded reference to the area as early as the year 1398.

No two buildings are the same in this village, the styles range from tiny little houses with cute gardens to structures made of materials that don’t look steady at all.

There’s a very nautical theme throughout Footdee, with thousands of small unique details to take note of whilst enjoying your stroll.

Initially there were suggestions that the houses would have two storeys, but fishermen refused to live upstairs because they were superstitious!

Extra houses were added in 1837 and 1855 with around 80 homes present day.

We’d definitely recommend a visit here, there’s so much to see and it’s super unique! 

Address: AB11

4. Walk Around Old Aberdeen

Exploring the cobbled streets of Old Aberdeen is a must if you want to find out more about the history of the city. 

It’s packed with museums, parks, and gardens with some lovely little places to grab a coffee.

You can visit the medieval Cathedral, a late 15^th century college, and even the late medieval bridge.

We’d recommend taking a relaxing stroll around Seaton Park in Old Aberdeen.

At 27 hectares; it’s one of the largest public green spaces in the city and stretches from St Machar’s all the way to the banks of the River Don. 

Powis Gate back in the centre of Old Aberdeen won’t disappoint. These towers look like they’ve been taken straight out of a Disney film with their magical appearance.

They once flanked the entrance to Powis House, which was built from 1833 to 1834.

Unique in design, the towers were recently restored by the University of Aberdeen! 

Address: AB24

5. Go Dolphin & Whale Spotting

Did you know Aberdeen is one of the best places to see bottlenose dolphins in Europe?

Torry Battery is a great place to watch dolphins dance majestically though the water.

Dolphin watch is a project funded by the ScottishPower Foundation and National Lottery Heritage fund, led by RSPB Scotland. 

RSBP provides binoculars, spotting scopes, and loads of information to kick start your day, just make sure you wrap up warm because it can be blustery.

One of the best places is between the orange breakwater wall and the lighthouse during summer, where the dolphins can sometimes be seen feeding.

You may even be lucky enough to see other marine wildlife, such as seabirds, otters, whales and seals.

6. Visit Books And Beans

Books and coffee together in one venue, what more could you want?

Based on Belmont Street, Books and Beans is a coffee shop, café and second-hand book store all in one, and is the place to be for delicious coffees and a relaxing atmosphere. 

If you fancy a break from studying or want to get lost in a book, this quaint bookshop has a lot of charm. 

They even offer delivery so you can enjoy your lunchtime favourites from your comfy Aberdeen based student accommodation.

Address: 22 Belmont St, Aberdeen AB10 1JH

7. Sunbathe At Aberdeen Beach

Fancy a day at the beach? Aberdeen Beach is just a short distance from the city centre and is perfect for a trip after lectures. 

The beach offers a lovely, calming atmosphere which is ideal for spending a summer’s day with friends. 

You can even go for a nice walk along the promenade, or a quick paddle in the sea. 

There’s even the beach leisure centre, Linx Ice Area, with a range of cafes and restaurants for when you fancy a bite to eat.

Or, pack up a picnic and enjoy some alfresco food and drink! 

Address: Sea Beach, Aberdeen, AB24 5NR

8. Art & Culture At Aberdeen Art Gallery  

If you’re looking for free things to do, Aberdeen Art Gallery is as aesthetically pleasing on the outside as well as the inside.

Founded in 1884, it’s the main visual arts exhibition in Aberdeen and is regarded as one of the UK’s finest. 

The art collection spans over 700 years and includes an amazing range of works by Scottish artists, designers, and makers.

There’s also a little café to stop for some lunch and a museum shop if you fancy taking some memorabilia home with you.

Be sure to check out the collection of stunning watercolours at the gallery! 

Address: Art Gallery, Schoolhill, Aberdeen AB10 1FQ

So there we have it, our guide of the 8 top fun things to do in Aberdeen in 2023. 

What will you be getting upto on your big move to The Granite City?! We’re sure you’ll make the most of our recommendations. 

Read next: How To Create A Career Plan After Graduation.

[UPDATED 2023]