Hotels in Aberdeen

Aberdeen: Where Academic Excellence Meets Timeless Heritage

Nestled along Scotland's northeast coast, Aberdeen is a vibrant city that seamlessly blends history with modernity. Known as the Granite City, its stunning architecture, notably the majestic Marischal College and the iconic Aberdeen Harbour, reflects a rich cultural heritage. Stroll along the picturesque Aberdeen Beach, where golden sands meet the North Sea, or delve into the city's fascinating museums and libraries. With its renowned universities, charming city centre, and proximity to dramatic castles like Crathes, Aberdeen offers a unique blend of urban exploration and natural beauty, making it a captivating destination for every traveller.

Top locations to stay in Aberdeen

Some of the best areas to stay in Aberdeen are Aberdeen West End, Bieldside, and Cults. Aberdeen West End offers vibrant city life, while Bieldside is perfect for a romantic getaway. Cults combines a friendly atmosphere with scenic surroundings. For first-time visitors, Aberdeen West End is ideal due to its proximity to key attractions like Aberdeen Harbour and the city centre.

1. Aberdeen West EndOpens in a new window: Aberdeen West End is a vibrant and sophisticated area perfect for those looking to stay in a lively neighbourhood. Known for its charming streets and beautiful parks, you'll find a variety of cultural attractions, including theatres and galleries. The area is also home to a range of shops, making it easy to indulge in a little retail therapy. With excellent transport links, you can easily explore the wider city and its stunning coastline while enjoying the comforts of this welcoming community.
2. BieldsideOpens in a new window: Nestled on the outskirts of Aberdeen, Bieldside offers a romantic and serene escape from the bustling city life. This picturesque area is ideal for couples or anyone seeking a tranquil stay, with scenic views and lovely walking paths along the River Dee. Bieldside's charming local shops and cafes invite you to relax and unwind, while the nearby parks provide great opportunities for leisurely strolls or picnics amidst nature.
3. CultsOpens in a new window: Cults is a delightful residential area that boasts a friendly atmosphere and a sense of community. Known for its lush greenery and beautiful gardens, it's a fantastic choice for those who appreciate a peaceful environment. The area has a variety of local amenities, including quaint shops and cafes, as well as easy access to outdoor activities in the surrounding countryside. Cults is a fantastic spot for anyone wanting to experience the charm of a Scottish village while still being close to the city.

Things to do in Aberdeen

Aberdeen offers a delightful mix of coastal charm and vibrant city life. Stroll along sandy beaches, explore lush parks, or hike through rugged hills. On weekends, the lively city centre buzzes with boutique shopping and theatrical performances, making it a perfect escape for relaxation and recreation.

• Aberdeen City BeachOpens in a new window – Head to Aberdeen City Beach for a refreshing day by the sea. Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the sandy shoreline, where the waves gently lap at your feet. This beach is a popular spot for families and offers a great opportunity to relax, build sandcastles, or simply watch the world go by. With nearby cafés and parks, it's easy to spend a whole day soaking up the sun or enjoying a picnic while taking in stunning coastal views.
• Balmedie BeachOpens in a new window – Just a short drive from the city, Balmedie Beach boasts miles of golden sands and rolling dunes, perfect for a scenic walk or a fun day out with friends and family. The expansive beach offers ample space for beach games or kite flying. Don’t forget your camera, as the natural beauty here is simply breathtaking, especially at sunset. The nearby nature reserve is also ideal for spotting local wildlife and enjoying the tranquillity of the outdoors.

4 tips for savvy savings when booking a hotel in Aberdeen

1. Book for the cheapest times: For those on a budget, the most affordable time to visit Aberdeen is in January, March, and December, when hotel prices tend to be lower. To make the most of your trip, a stay of at least 2 to 3 days is recommended, allowing ample time to discover the city's key landmarks, cultural sites, and historical attractions. Explore the prestigious university, visit the impressive castle, enjoy the vibrant shopping areas, and immerse yourself in the local theatre and museums. With friendly people and a rich maritime history, Aberdeen offers great value for money for those looking to delve into its cultural heritage.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: To discover last-minute deals to Aberdeen, begin by exploring the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute Deals sections on Hotels.com, where you may find discounted rates on hotels close to your travel date. Enabling email alerts or push notifications can keep you informed about any flash sales or special promotions, helping you save on your stay. Additionally, Smart Shopping is a handy comparison tool available via the app, allowing you to compare hotel prices and amenities. With these options, you'll be well-equipped to book a budget-friendly getaway in Aberdeen.
3. Be flexible with dates: Prices can fluctuate based on various factors such as the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year. Therefore, being flexible with your travel dates could help you potentially save on your stay in an Aberdeen hotel. For those seeking a distinctive experience, boutique hotels may provide a more personalised touch and sometimes better value. When you book through Hotels.com, we’ll inform you if the price for your chosen dates is above or below the average. If the price is on the higher end, we’ll suggest alternative dates that may offer more affordable options, helping you to secure the best deal possible.
4. Consider your location: Hotels situated near the city centre generally tend to be more expensive; however, with Aberdeen's outstanding public transport links, you might discover a more affordable independent hotel further afield that remains well connected. For those wishing to explore alternative, less crowded neighbourhoods or even lesser-known nearby towns, there is often excellent value for money to be found. Opting for these alternative destinations could provide a more authentic and budget-friendly experience.

Best time to go to Aberdeen

Aberdeen experiences its lowest average temperature in January, at 38.8°F (3.8°C), while July to August are the hottest months, with an average temperature of 56.7°F (13.7°C). October tends to be the wettest months.The peak travel months to visit Aberdeen are July to September, which see a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is mostly cloudy, accompanied by light rainfall. In contrast, January, February, and December are ideal if you're looking for a calmer vacation, marked by light rainfall and mostly cloudy conditions.