3-Day Itinerary in Aberdeen, Scotland: Explore History and Nature

Day 1: Historical Highlights

Aberdeen, Scotland

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Coffee House

Start your day with a hearty Scottish breakfast at The Coffee House, where you'll enjoy the fresh and local flavors of Aberdeenshire.
Walking distance from your accommodation in the city center.
GBP12, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Marischal College

Tour the stunning Marischal College, one of the largest granite buildings in the world and a symbol of Aberdeen's rich educational history.
10-minute walk from The Coffee House.
Free, 1 hour

11:00AM

Aberdeen Maritime Museum

Explore the Aberdeen Maritime Museum, which tells the fascinating story of the city's connection to the sea.
5-minute walk from Marischal College.
Free, 1.5 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at The Moorings Bistro

This lovely bistro offers fantastic seafood options, perfect for refueling after your exploration of the museum.
15-minute walk from the Maritime Museum.
GBP20, 1 hour

2:00PM

Duthie Park

Stroll through Duthie Park, a beautiful green space featuring the stunning Rose Garden and the Winter Gardens conservatory.
Take bus 1 or 2 from The Moorings Bistro for a short ride.
Free, 2 hours

4:30PM

St. Machar's Cathedral

Visit the historic St. Machar's Cathedral, an architectural gem with a stunning medieval interior.
Bus back to city center, then a 10-minute walk.
GBP5, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at The Silver Darling

End your day with a fine dining experience at The Silver Darling, where you can enjoy fresh seafood with a view of the harbor.
20-minute walk from St. Machar's Cathedral.
GBP35, 2 hours
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Day 2: Countryside Adventures

Aberdeenshire, Scotland

7:30AM

Breakfast at Bread and Butter

Indulge in breakfast at Bread and Butter, known for its scrumptious pastries and artisanal bread.
Walking distance from the hotel.
GBP10, 1 hour

9:00AM

Travel to Crathes Castle

Take the bus toward Banchory to explore the glorious Crathes Castle, a beautiful 16th-century building surrounded by stunning gardens.
Take bus number 201 from Aberdeen bus station.
GBP12, 1 hour

10:00AM

Crathes Castle Tour

Enjoy a guided tour of the spectacular Crathes Castle, where history, art, and craftsmanship come together beautifully.
Located within the grounds of Crathes Castle.
GBP15, 1.5 hours

11:30AM

Wander the Gardens

After the castle tour, take time to roam around the stunning gardens, designed over centuries, showcasing vibrant flowers and lush greenery.
Walking within Crathes Castle grounds.
Included in castle ticket, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at The Bothy

This cozy bistro offers locally sourced dishes and a delightful atmosphere to relax and sip on some locally brewed beer.
Bus back to Banchory from Crathes Castle then a short walk.
GBP18, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Visit Balmoral Castle

Take a scenic drive (or bus) to Balmoral Castle, the beautiful summer residence of the British royal family where you can explore the gardens and grounds.
Catch the bus toward Ballater.
GBP15, 2.5 hours

5:00PM

Return to Aberdeen

Head back to Aberdeen and unwind after a day of exploration.
Take the same route back to the bus stop.
GBP5, 1 hour

6:30PM

Dinner at The Ashvale

Dig into some traditional fish and chips at The Ashvale, a beloved local institution.
Short taxi ride or 15-minute walk.
GBP25, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Coastal Exploration

Aberdeen, Scotland

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Globe Inn

Start your day off right with a traditional Scottish breakfast at The Globe Inn, renowned for its warm atmosphere.
Walking distance from your accommodation.
GBP10, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Footdee (Fittie)

Explore the picturesque fishing village of Footdee, known for its charming cottages and harbor views, located right by the coastline.
20-minute walk from The Globe Inn.
Free, 1 hour

11:00AM

Aberdeen Beach Walk

Enjoy a leisurely walk along Aberdeen Beach, where you can breathe in the sea air and perhaps stop by the beach cafés.
5-minute walk from Footdee.
Free, 1.5 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Café 52

Savor delicious homemade dishes at Café 52, offering varied options reflecting the vibrant local food scene.
Head back towards Union Square for a short bus ride.
GBP15, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit The Gordon Highlanders Museum

Explore the military history of the Gordon Highlanders and discover fascinating artifacts within the museum's exhibits.
20-minute walk or bus ride from Café 52.
GBP10, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Explore the Old Aberdeen

Walk through Old Aberdeen's cobbled streets and discover its historical buildings, including King's College and St. Machar's Cathedral.
Take bus 20 or a short walk.
Free, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at The Prince of Wales

Wrap up your trip with a delightful meal at The Prince of Wales, offering great local dishes in a cozy setting.
Walking distance from Old Aberdeen.
GBP30, 2 hours
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