Visiting Aberdeen this summer and wondering how to make the most of your time without hiring a car? Good news—you absolutely can!
Whether you’re here for a few days or just a weekend getaway, there’s loads to see and do right here in the city and nearby Aberdeenshire using public transport. From castles and coastlines to galleries, gardens, and historic villages, here’s our guide to the best things to do—no car needed.
1. Explore Aberdeen’s Historic Heart
Start in the city centre and take a wander through Old Aberdeen, where you’ll find cobbled streets, medieval buildings, and the beautiful King’s College Chapel. Don’t miss Footdee (Fittie), a quirky 19th-century fishing village tucked beside the beach promenade. Or take a relaxing stroll along the seafront for a hit of sea air and a chance to spot dolphins near the harbour.
📍 All easily walkable or reachable by local buses.
2. Stroll Through Duthie Park & Winter Gardens
Need some green space? Duthie Park is one of the city’s best-loved parks. It’s great for a walk, a picnic, or a family outing. Tucked inside the park is the David Welch Winter Gardens, packed with tropical plants, exotic blooms, and even a talking cactus!
📍 A short bus ride from the city centre (First Bus 17 or 18).
3. Discover Aberdeen’s Museums & Galleries
On cooler days, pop into the Aberdeen Art Gallery, recently renovated and packed with artworks from local legends and international stars. The Aberdeen Maritime Museum is another favourite, where you’ll learn how the city’s seafaring past shaped its future.
📍 Both are centrally located and free to visit.
4. Take a Trip to Stonehaven & Dunnottar Castle
Hop on a train from Aberdeen and in just 20 minutes, you’ll arrive in the pretty coastal town of Stonehaven. Stroll the harbour, enjoy a famous ice cream, and then walk the cliffside path to Dunnottar Castle—one of the most iconic and photogenic spots in Scotland.
📍 Train from Aberdeen to Stonehaven + 30-min walk to the castle.
5. Explore Royal Deeside by Bus
Jump on the Stagecoach 201 bus and you’re off to Banchory, home to Crathes Castle—a stunning 16th-century tower house with gardens, woodland trails, and family-friendly adventures. Head further west to Aboyne or Ballater to experience true Highland village charm.
📍 Stagecoach 201 from Aberdeen Bus Station. Runs regularly—perfect for a day trip.
6. Ride the Aberdeen Adventurer Open‑Top Bus
A brilliant way to see the city, the Aberdeen Adventurer is an open-top sightseeing bus that covers all the major sights. It’s a 75-minute loop with hop-on-hop-off stops, audio commentary in three languages, and discounts at local attractions and shops included in your ticket.
📍 Runs daily from Broad Street (April–September). Tickets valid all day.
7. Walk the City’s Free Trails
Aberdeen City Council has created 27+ self-guided walking trails, covering everything from historic buildings and public art to green spaces and coastal paths. Top picks include:
- The Granite Trail – Discover why Aberdeen is known as the Granite City.
- Union Terrace Gardens Trail – A short city loop through beautifully restored Victorian gardens.
📍 All trails start in or near the city, accessible by bus or on foot.
8. Spot Seals at Newburgh Beach
Head north by bus to Newburgh and the Ythan Estuary, where you can see wild seals lounging on the sands and catch a glimpse of sea birds in the dunes. It’s a beautiful, less-travelled escape just outside the city.
📍 Bus 61 from Aberdeen to Newburgh (about 40 mins).
⭐️ Looking for a More Personal Experience? Let Us Show You Around!
At Grampian Escapes & Tours, we offer small-group day trips that take you beyond the bus routes—to castles, coastlines, whisky distilleries, wildlife hotspots, and more. If you want to dig a little deeper into local history, culture, and food & drink, come join us on a relaxed and friendly tour. Perfect if you’re travelling solo or with friends!
📍 Pick-up from central Aberdeen, no car required.
🚌 Getting Around Without a Car
Public transport is reliable, affordable, and scenic in the northeast of Scotland. Trains, local buses, and intercity services make it easy to explore Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire. For multiple day trips, look into day tickets or a Grasshopper pass to save money.
There’s so much to see and do in Aberdeen—even without a car. From city sights to coastal castles, charming towns to seal-spotting shores, your summer adventure awaits. And if you’d like to go even further, we’d love to show you the hidden gems with one of our tours.
