Visiting Aberdeen
A blend of rich history, maritime culture and deep connection to the sea
Explore the region to sample rich history, coastal adventures and a deep-rooted connection to the sea.
Aberdeen has its very own historic fishing village? Known locally as Fittie, Footdee homed numerous local fishermen throughout the 19th century. Filled with flair and bursting with character, this residential spot is packed with stories of the sea. Footdee is a residential area, please be respectful when visiting.
Prepare to be inspired
As the region sets sail for its most significant event in decades, the North-East of Scotland is the perfect destination to host The Tall Ships Races.
Aberdeen’s strong maritime history is clear throughout the city, where locals and visitors can step back in time through the cobbled streets and fishing villages. Spot vibrant street art with a nautical theme, splashing the city with colour.
Great celebrations need great food and drink, and what better way to top off the four-day extravaganza than indulging in some of the freshest fish and seafood in the world, produced right here from the harbours of the North-East of Scotland?
Things to do in Aberdeen
The Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire region is famous for its majestic granite architecture, dramatic coastlines, 263 castles, and rolling landscapes of Royal Deeside. But that’s just the beginning.
From award-winning museums and galleries like Aberdeen Art Gallery, to world-class entertainment venues like P&J Live, which hosts the amazing Beyond Van Gogh Immersive Experience this summer. Coupled the Music Hall and His Majesty’s Theatre in the heart of the city and it's clear the region packs a punch.
Explore the area’s history and heritage via the National Trust for Scotland sites and get inspired by the great outdoors with long summer days and starry winter nights occasionally lit by the Northern Lights.
The local culture is vibrant, with the Scots language Doric still spoken, and traditions like highland games season appealing to worldwide audiences.
Find out more about Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire at VisitAberdeenshire and VisitScotland
Accommodation in Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire
Chic city centre boutique hotels, quirky coastal carriages on the impressive Aberdeenshire coast and welcoming B&Bs deep in the Scottish glens.
No matter what your budget, your group size, the purpose of your visit or your plans when you get here - these are just some of the accommodation options on offer in Aberdeen & Aberdeenshire.
Getting here and around
As a natural starting point to the Highlands and just 2.5 hours from Edinburgh or Glasgow, Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire are the perfect places to begin your Scottish adventure.
With the Tall Ships Races on the horizon, it has never been easier to join the excitement. The region is easily accessible by road, rail, sea, and air, making it simple to reach. Once here, getting around is just as easy, with buses, railway stations, and car hire options available.
During the Tall Ships Races, take advantage of the Aberdeen Adventurer open-top tour bus for a fun and flexible way to explore the city and enjoy the event from a unique perspective. Aberdeen’s compact city centre is perfect for exploring on foot, and for those looking to cycle, the Old Deeside railway line offers a scenic route to Royal Deeside, where bike hire and the Deeside Way await.
The Port
Aberdeen has a rich history with The Tall Ships Races, hosting the incredible fleet in 1991 and 1997, and the epic event returns to the city from 19-22 July 2025.
The port’s unique location – in the heart of the city centre – makes it a stunning location to host Europe’s largest free family event. The industrial North Harbour will be transformed from an energy hub into a forest of masts, as it hosts 50 Tall Ships from across the globe.
Port of Aberdeen, previously known as Aberdeen Harbour, was established in 1136 by King David I of Scotland. According to the Guinness Book of Business Records, it is the oldest existing business in Britain, with a history that has spanned almost 900 years.
Aberdeen is Scotland’s biggest and busiest port, handling more than 7,000 vessels annually across 7,600 metres of quayside. It’s world-class infrastructure, strategic location, and expert supply chain make Aberdeen the port-of-choice for energy, trade, and tourism.
In 2023, the port officially opened its £420 million South Harbour development which has transformed its capacity to handle longer, deeper, and wider vessels..
Significant commitments have been made for investment in green infrastructure which will reduce the carbon footprint of both the port and its customers, with the aim of becoming the UK’s first net zero port by 2040.
Host partners
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