Things to Do in
Aberdeen

Visit the stunning Northeast Coast of Aberdeenshire and it will steal your heart. On this tour we will visit some of the region's most dramatic coastline. Taking time to wander through some of the most beautiful fishing villages including Gardenstown and Crovie, to learn about its maritime past and present. Hear stories about a few influential characters and ‘Local Heroes’ who called this countryside home. From working harbours to abandoned castles and tall cliffs where the seabird colonies cling to nest, this tour will immerse you in the heritage of the northeast and its connection to the sea.

Visit the City of Aberdeen Distillery & Gin School - with a double G&T in hand, join us on a Discovery Tour and learn about Aberdeen’s lost distilling heritage, explore the distillery including the restricted production area, find out how you can make your own gin either at the distillery or at home, take part in a Q&A session with the head distiller and finally, enjoy a gin tasting from the range of true Aberdeen gins.

Guided by the Head Distiller, craft and distil your very own 70cl bottle of Scottish Gin. Using premium organic alcohol and botanicals from around the world, including the flavourful Macedonian Juniper, you’ll create a traditional gin recipe before going on to choose from over 100 different botanicals to make a unique gin, designed by you. Discover how Aberdeen Gin is authentically distilled in the heart of the city. Enjoy drinks throughout and taste samples of true small batch artisan gin – both London Dry and Fruit Gins. Finally, choose the strength of your gin. Bottle your gin. Now the tough part…naming your gin. The event concludes with a surprise cocktail to celebrate you have become an Aberdeen Distiller!

Time Exposure Travel will take you on a walking tour round some of the most interesting historical areas of Old Aberdeen. In Old Aberdeen some the areas we will explore include the buildings of the 15th Century University, at 12th Century Cathedral with an amazing heraldic ceiling and a dark secret, other fascinating areas and even visit a secret graveyard very few locals even know about. Tours can be tailored to suit. Please note access to the Chapel interiors is subject to availability and seasonal opening times. Please contact us for details. Time Exposure Travel are members of ABTOT (No.5419) which provides protection for customers’ prepayments.

Aberdeenshire has many treasures to offer, and we take you on a fabulous private tour to amazing castles, historic areas and a whisky distillery in areas that are stunning as they are interesting. All the castles, are different to each other and cover 1000’s of years of history. This is a private tour for your group only. Suggested itinerary -Dunnottar Castle - one of the world's' most iconic -Crathes Castle - 16th century masterpiece & amazing gardens -Lunch at nice restaurant -Royal Lochnagar Distillery/Glen Garioch Distillery/Fettercairn Distillery for a tasting Tasting tour -Instead of a distillery, Balmoral Castle may be an option (contact us) -Old Aberdeen - Fascinating medieval history Pick up/drop off is included. Access to the castle interiors and Distillery Tasting Tours are subject to seasonal opening times. Access to most castles grounds is free, except Balmoral. You must be over 18 to taste the whisky during the Distillery tour but younger people are welcome.

In this tutored gin tasting, led by the Head Distiller, you’ll have the opportunity taste the traditional gin botanicals (Juniper, Coriander, Angelica, Orris) as single distillates, training your palette to the individual flavours that make gin…gin. This is an essential skill for any gin connoisseur! Sample the range of small batch Aberdeen Gin expressions (London Dry and Fruit gins). Challenge yourself with the mystery single distillate – will you be the first to guess the botanical? The event concludes with a G&T of your choice – choose any gin from the range or perhaps one of the single distillates you’ve enjoyed during the event. All of the distillates / gins have been crafted using premium organic alcohol – luxuriously smooth. Once you’ve finished the tasting you’ll gain the ability to recognise the flavours that make up gin. Take this knowledge home, explore your gin shelves and enjoy your very own tasting with the skills you’ve learned during this Gin Tasting Masterclass.

Door to door pick up/drop off & Private Tour with driver/guide. Aberdeenshire has many treasures to offer, and we take you on a private tour to some amazing castles and areas that are stunning as they are interesting. Our suggested itinerary covers four castles, all very different to each other and 1000’s of years of history. -Crathes Castle–A 16thC marvel with amazing gardens -Balmoral Castle–The Scottish home to the Royal Family (not open all year) -Lunch at lovely restaurant -Craigievar Castle–The iconic Pink Disney Castle -Dunnottar Castle-one of the world's most iconic and a must see Whisky distillery Tasting Tour option - contact us. We are happy to change the itinerary to suit you and route may depend on hotel location. Most castles are free to see from the outside, except Balmoral. Interior tours are chargeable and subject to seasonal opening times. Contact us for details. Please note Balmoral is not open all year. Alternative castles & attractions can be visited.

Delve into the rich history of Aberdeen's Old Harbour, a vibrant nexus of commerce and adventure. This walking tour reveals the harbour's intriguing past, covering everything from Vikings to the modern day oil industry - and, of course, with a health dose of pirates along the way! Over the course of about two hours, wander through this historic area and uncover the stories that shaped the city. - Two-hour walking tour, covering 1.5 miles - Not suitable for wheelchair users; comfortable walking shoes recommended

We offer a private tour to the heart of whisky country. Visit any Whisky Distilleries you want, and an example itinerary is in the Tour Details. All are subject to availability and most distilleries require advance booking for a Guided Tasting Tour, but not for just a tasting. On a Distillery Tasting Tour you will learn the secrets of how Scotland's most famous drink is crafted and then you have the opportunity to sample the beautiful offerings. We can recommend which distilleries to visit if required, but wherever we take you, you know you can sit back and relax and let us do the driving. Some of the most popular distilleries on Speyside are Macallan, Glenfiddich, Glenlivet, Aberlour, Glenfarclas, Ballindalloch, Balvenie and GlenAllachie. We will book the internal guided tasting tours for you and invoice you separately via PayPal. We will also book you in to a great local restaurant for lunch. Option to include a Castle or Cooperage Tour. Please contact us for details.

A truly amazing day out visiting some of the most stunning, famous & iconic castles in Scotland, Crathes, Balmoral, Glamis & Dunnottar. (Aberdeenshire is spoilt with castles). The day is fully guided by your driver/guide and or castle staff. Lunch is in superb local restaurant. This is a private tour for your party & includes pick up/drop off. The route and itinerary can be changed to suit. Please advise us of any changes. Balmoral have extended their opening dates from Oct to Aug. Glamis is open Spring to Winter. Contact us for details. If you would like to visit a distillery instead of a castle, let us know so we can book a tasting tour. Advance booking required for distilleries. Most castles grounds are free to access (except Balmoral & Glamis) but all charge for internal tours. All attractions subject to seasonal opening times. Please contact us for details. Please note at Dunnottar there is a gentle slope from carpark to see it, but to go inside there is a long staircase.

Discover the captivating Buchan coast on a private tour through Scotland's lesser-known wonders. This journey takes you to quaint fishing villages like Gardenstown, Crovie, and Pennan, offering a glimpse into Scotland’s maritime history. Gain insights into the colossal fishing towns of Fraserburgh and Peterhead, and explore historic castles and scenic nature reserves along the way. With options to visit stunning sites like Troup Head and Slains Castle, this 8.5-hour tour is perfect for those seeking authentic experiences in a small group setting. - Fully Qualified Tour Guide - Private tour accommodating up to 7 people for a personalized experience - Scenic routes through historic fishing villages and towns - Opportunity to see wildlife, including puffins during the right season - Lunch break and various optional attractions available

Begin your journey in Royal Deeside at the Rob Roy McGregor statue, where the story of Scotland’s legendary outlaw sets the scene for your adventure. Travel through the stunning Aberdeenshire into the Cairngorms National Park, surrounded by mountains, forests, and timeless Highland scenery. Your highlight is Balmoral Castle, the Royal Family’s beloved summer retreat. Wander the beautiful grounds, explore the estate at your own pace, and soak in the atmosphere of this iconic royal residence. This private tour is designed for up to six guests and shaped around your interests. With a friendly, knowledgeable driver‑guide and a flexible itinerary, you’ll enjoy an authentic Scottish experience filled with history, landscapes, and unforgettable moments. Our mission is to create authentic, memorable tours and adventures.

We will take you on a fantastic guided walking tour round some of the most interesting historical areas of Old Aberdeen. We will explore include the buildings of the fascinating 15th Century University, a stunning 12th Century Cathedral with an amazing heraldic ceiling and a dark secret, other fascinating areas and a secret graveyard. Tours can be tailored to suit. Please note access to the Chapel interiors is subject to availability and seasonal opening times. Please contact us for details. At the end of the tour, we visit the very traditional Scottish Bar, St Machar’s, which opened in the 19th Century and has won many awards. Here you will have an opportunity to try a plate of the famous and delicious Scottish dish of Stovies (beef, potatoes and onions) and you can also choose a Scottish pint of beer or a single malt whisky (or another spirit) or a soft drink from the large selection. Vegetarian sides are available. Over 18's only.

Explore a different side of Aberdeen and discover the amazing Street Art and graffiti that can be found on every corner of the city. Although Aberdeen is known for its granite buildings, the colourful murals stand out and have given the city an incredible reputation that attracts some of the best artists in the world. Aberdeen is rapidly becoming Scotland’s biggest city for street art bringing artists from all over the country and from around the world every year during the Nuart Aberdeen festival to brighten up the city's grey granite streets. The city is filled with art, from small corners to grand buildings, and your expert guide knows where to find it all, creating unique tours with the route constantly changing to include new artwork!

Journey through the enchanting landscapes of Royal Deeside, starting in Aberdeen and venturing into the stunning Highlands. Visit the majestic Balmoral Castle Estate, the royal family’s cherished retreat, and enjoy a scenic drive that includes the captivating Falls of Feugh. Explore the picturesque village of Ballater, nestled in Cairngorms National Park, and discover the rich history and natural beauty of the region. With opportunities for optional hikes and visits to unique sites, this 8-hour adventure unfolds the secrets of Scotland's royal heritage. - Duration: 8 hours, starting at 09:00 - Enjoy a visit to Balmoral Castle (entry fee not included) - Scenic drive with stops at Falls of Feugh and Ballater - Optional hikes and historical site visits available

Self-guided Tour & Treasure Hunt Travel App Experience - Over 100 destinations & challenges to explore - Kid friendly & great for avoiding crowds - Flexible anytime start - 100% free cancellation up to 24hrs before - Just 1 Ticket for your whole group!! (with our great value device sharing ticket) The smartphone travel tool that helps you discover the great outdoors & connect with the world around you. Utilising seamless GPS technology, it takes you off-the-beaten-track to discover hidden gems & incredible places you may never find alone. As you travel you earn points by visiting destinations, solving clues & completing challenges. The Travel League lets you compete with fellow explorers. Each season win amazing prizes & become the UK’s Greatest Explorer! Whether exploring by car, on foot around town, or hiking across the countryside, our GPS technology guides you every step of the way. Take the stress out of planning trips with this perfect blend of challenge, fun & learning

This full-day GeoTour explores Scotland’s Old Red Sandstone (ORS) world — an arid landscape shaped by ancient rivers, lakes and floodplains — before finishing with a field-to-bottle gin experience at Arbikie Distillery, home of the world’s first climate-positive gins and vodkas. Led by Steve Adams, founder of Balgownie Geoscience with over 45 years of academic, industry and field experience, this tour offers a completely different 'On The Rocks' experience — combining deep-time geology, coastal scenery, climate innovation, and modern Scottish spirit craftsmanship.

Book your Private Arrival Transfer from Aberdeen Dyce Airport (ABZ) to Aberdeen hotel or address. Don't go through all the hassle of waiting in a long taxi or shared shuttles queues and use our private, door to door airport transfer. Your driver will be waiting for you at a scheduled time and you will travel comfortably to your destination. • Meeting with a Nameplate • We track your Flight • Door-to-door Service • No Hidden Charges • Clean cars & Professional drivers

Come and explore the dark side of Aberdeen with a local guide! Walk in the footsteps of murderers, slave owners and witches on this Dark Side tour of Aberdeen. This 1.5 hour walking tour will bring our dark past into light as you discover the truth behind Aberdeen's dark history. From body snatching, to kidnappers and public executions, the truth of Aberdeen's dark history will shock you on this unique walking tour of Aberdeen.

Explore the highlights of beautiful, vibrant Aberdeen on this fascinating two-hour private walking tour with an expert local guide. As a port city, Aberdeen has a fascinating maritime history, a scenic coastline, and an interesting history. Also known as the Granite City, for its imposing and historic architecture, Aberdeen was built at the convergence of the Don and Dee rivers where they meet the Atlantic. The name translates as 'mouth of the river Don' - aber is a Pictish word meaning river mouth, and the Don is named after the Gallo Roman goddess of springs and Rivers, Divona. Today it is famous as the off-shore capital of Europe, but prehistoric settlements and villages show the area has been inhabited for over 8000 years. There are also a fantastic 45 green parks for walking and relaxing - as well as the nearby international golf courses and of course many, many historic whiskey distilleries - Scotland's national tipple!

Food tells the real story of Aberdeen. On this guided walking tour, you’ll discover how the city was shaped by fishing, brewing, baking and trade — and by the people who worked in these industries every day. Starting near the harbour, you’ll hear about herring fishing, salmon rivers and overnight fish trains to London. Walk through historic streets where women once dominated brewing and alehouses, and learn why oats, rowies and smoked fish became staples of local life. Along the way, your guide will point out historic wells, markets, food streets and buildings that reveal how Aberdeen fed itself for centuries.

Discover one of Scotland's most beautiful castles and gardens, paired with the geological story of the Dee Valley and Highland Boundary — all in a single half-day from Aberdeen. This relaxed half-day tour (with convenient cruise pickup at Aberdeen South Harbour) takes you to Crathes Castle, the 16th-century tower house at the gateway to Royal Deeside, with its famous walled gardens and ancient yew hedges. Along the way you'll walk metamorphosed ocean-floor rocks more than 600 million years old, see panoramic views across the Highland Boundary Fault, and explore Stonehaven's coastal geology. Your guide is Steve Adams, a geologist with 45 years of experience and a knack for making rocks come alive. He'll show you why Royal Deeside looks the way it does — how the River Dee carved its valley, why Crathes stands exactly where it does, and how Scotland's contrasting landscapes were forged along this single great fault line. No geology background needed. Most of our guests don't have one.

Step into a story older than the United States. On this premium private tour from Aberdeen, your local guide reveals Scotland’s profound cultural heritage and raw natural beauty. Begin at Dunnottar Castle—a medieval fortress perched on dramatic cliffs. Its architectural grandeur and role in Scottish civilization will leave you awestruck. Continue to Banchory, where historic streets along the River Dee whisper tales of ancient clans and transformation. Then, lose yourself in the Muir of Dinnet National Nature Reserve—a heritage landscape shaped by ice and time, teeming with wildlife. Here, classical tranquility meets archaeological echoes of the past. Every stop honors Scotland’s cultural depth and legacy, from UNESCO-worthy views to stories of resilience. Travel in comfort, guided by deep knowledge and respect for this land. This is not just a day trip—it’s an inspiring journey through historic Scotland, where nature and old town charm live as one. Book with confidence.

Deep in the stunning Ballochbuie Forest (part of the Kings’ Balmoral Estate) lies the “Honka House”. This log cabin was a gift from Finland for the Queens silver wedding anniversary and has been a favourite picnic spot for the Royal's ever since. Near the retreat are the stunning Falls of Garbh Allt, over which Queen Victoria had a beautiful iron bridge installed in 1878 and it is still in use today. The tour will be set at your own pace and there will opportunities to stop and admire the views. Our tour also takes us over the famous 18thC Invercauld Bridge. After the walk the can visit the amazing Fife Arms Hotel for lunch. The hotel is an attraction in itself. After lunch we can visit Balmoral Castle depending on seasonal open times and if time, the stunning Crathes Castle. Please contact us re dates. The walk is available all year, even if the Royal Family are in residence. Please note the walk is an approx 4.5 miles long on well maintained and mostly gentle paths.

Castles, Highland Cows, culture, beautiful scenery, monsters, boat cruise, great food, shopping, Palaces & Whisky tasting are part of this amazing 3-day private tour. Day 1. Pick up from your Aberdeen Hotel and we head to Inverness via Royal Deeside. We visit iconic castles, Highland Cow Farm and then visit Balmoral Castle or The Royal Lochnagar Distillery, before driving through the Cairngorm Mountains to Inverness. Day 2. We hunt for the Loch Ness monster before making our way to Pitlochry, with stops at the House of Bruar store and the stunning Blair Castle. Day 3. After a walking tour around Pitlochry, we head to the stunning Queens View and then to the iconic Scone Palace. Then we head to Edinburgh for drop off at your hotel. Accommodation not included. We can make recommendations and offer a hotel booking service. Please contact us. This is a private tour for your group only and route/itinerary can be changed to suit. Attractions are subject to seasonal opening.

Discover one of Scotland's most iconic castles and the great geological fault that shaped its dramatic setting — all in a single half-day from Aberdeen. This relaxed half-day tour from Aberdeen (with convenient cruise ship pickup at South Harbour) takes you to Dunnottar Castle, the spectacular clifftop fortress that protected Scotland's Crown Jewels. Along the way you'll walk metamorphosed ocean-floor rocks more than 600 million years old, take in panoramic views across the Highland Boundary Fault, and explore Stonehaven's coastal geology — volcanic flows and ancient river deposits side by side. Your guide is Steve Adams, a working geologist with 45 years of experience and a knack for making rocks come alive. He'll show you why Dunnottar stands exactly where it does and how Scotland's contrasting landscapes were forged along this single great fault line. No geology background needed. Most of our guests don't have one.

Discover Aberdeen through its striking granite streets and rich history on a guided walking tour led by a guide. From the medieval charm of the Kirk of St. Nicholas to the grandeur of Marischal College and the stories behind Provost Skene’s House, you’ll uncover how the “Granite City” evolved through centuries of trade, academia, and maritime power. Along the way, you’ll hear engaging stories, local legends, and hidden details that most visitors miss, bringing the city’s past and present to life. This is a relaxed, informative experience perfect for first-time visitors or anyone wanting a deeper understanding of Aberdeen beyond the surface.

Discover a different side to Aberdeen on this street art walking tour. On this 1.5 hour you’ll meander down alleys and under bridges to uncover some of the city’s most beautiful pieces of art that are taking over the walls by storm. All with a local, expert guide. From unassuming corners to major buildings, there’s art around every turn and your guide knows just where to find the best of the best. Each tour is unique, with the route constantly being updated to include new pieces of art! Among the 10+ murals you will see include: Man & Dog - Smug Lego Wall - Jan Vormann Side Profile - Alice Pasquini Unicorn - Bordalo

Aberdeen's granite streets have been holding stories for 6,000 years — now it's your turn to find them. This app-led scavenger hunt takes you through the Granite City on foot, following phone-based riddles from one landmark to the next. No guide, no fixed start time. • Spot the Music Hall, Aberdeen Maritime Museum, and Aberdeen Art Gallery up close — with clues that reveal what the signs don't say • Start whenever suits you, go at your own pace, and take as long as you like — there's no time limit • Great for families, friend groups, and colleagues; photo challenges guarantee some memorable group moments Available in 24 languages including English, French, German, Spanish, Italian — see the full list when booking and choose yours when you start the game in the app. Around 2 hours - any group size. Aberdeen has been hiding stories in plain sight for centuries — your phone has the first one.

Embark on a premium, exclusive walking tour through the heart of historic Aberdeen. Led by a knowledgeable private guide, you will uncover a profound cultural depth and a rich heritage steeped in a history older than the United States. Stroll through the medieval pathways of Netherkirkgate and discover “The Green,” an ancient civic heart where captivating stories of civilization and urban transformation come to life. As you wander along Shiprow, marvel at the sweeping architectural and classical influence of Marischal College, standing as a proud testament to the city’s enduring legacy. While passing the Aberdeen Maritime Museum, you will connect with the deep nautical roots that shaped this remarkable Scottish old town. From its striking granite facades to its centuries-old streets, your guide will share inspiring insights into Aberdeen’s art, trade, and architectural triumphs. Experience the prestige and legacy of Aberdeen on this unforgettable journey