Transportation in Aberdeen
Nestling by the sea in a gloriously green corner of Scotland, Aberdeen is compact and easily navigable by foot. Hiring a car is the way to go for exploring the surrounding glens and dramatic coastline. Most attractions are clustered in the centre and in Old Aberdeen. With everything only a short distance away, getting around is easy for even the first-timer. Union Street in the centre is bursting with hundreds of shops, restaurants, pubs, and most of the cultural venues. A few kilometres north lies Old Aberdeen, the River Don, and the 260km Coastal Trail. Travel east to the busy beach and Footdee, or west by car for the Cairngorm Mountains and the verdant glen of Royal Deeside.
Read more about transport from and to the airport
Foot
Aberdeen is designed to be seen on (a comfortably-shod) foot, weather permitting. Even the most sedentary person can get around its level and compact centre. Outside the city, walking trails abound in the hills and along the coastline.
Car
It makes sense to hire a car for exploring beyond the city. Watch your intake if you're doing the Whisky and Castle Trail.
Bus
A hop-on, hop-off bus tour takes visitors to Aberdeen's main sights. First Aberdeen and Stagecoach Bluebird run services throughout the city and beyond.
Taxi
Plentiful and reasonably priced, taxis can be hailed on the street or at ranks dotted about the centre.
Rent your car
Although Aberdeen isn’t the largest or the busiest city in Scotland, there are two park and ride sites that allow you to leave your car safely while you explore on foot. Alternatively, there are a number of council-owned car parks in the heart of the Granite City that charge around £1.60 for two hours.
Transportation Tips
Driving in the centre is easy and generally congestion-free. However, parking can be problematic as well as pricey, so the bus is often a better bet. The MegaRider ticket offers seven days' unlimited travel on Aberdeen buses. An Explorer ticket allows travel with some restrictions for 3, 5 or 8 days on Scottish Citylink services. The Flexirider or Commutercard is better value for longer stays.
Special Transportation
Bike
A popular and relatively safe way of getting around the city and into the nearby countryside. There are several bike hire shops.
