Top Aberdeen Sightseeing Tours

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.

Explore Aberdeen at your own pace with this acclaimed self guided audio tour of Aberdeen.  Beginning from Holburn Junction at the west end of Union Street, you'll weave your way through timeless streets while discovering the stories that the city hides in plain sight.  The tour is ready whenever you feel like taking a stroll. It plays audio automatically at exactly the right time and place using your smart phone's GPS and the VoiceMap mobile app, which also works offline. If you've got an hour and want to see all the major historical and cultural themes that Aberdeen has to offer – this is the tour for you!

Step into Aberdeen with a friendly local discovery guide and uncover the Granite City’s character at your pace—choose a focused 1 to 2-hour intro or a rich 6-hour deep dive through elegant squares, cobbled lanes, sea-kissed streets, and story-filled kirkyards. Along the way, enjoy striking granite architecture, lively street scenes, hidden wynds, riverside or harbour viewpoints, and peaceful green spaces—stopping for photos, local tales, and insider tips that bring the city’s history and culture to life. This entirely walkable experience keeps to open-air highlights and public spaces, weaving in street art, centuries-old courtyards, and classic vistas, with time for spontaneous detours that match your interests. Expect a relaxed rhythm, plenty of anecdotes, and a genuinely local welcome—perfect for first-time visitors and curious explorers who want an engaging taste of Aberdeen.

Discover a side to Aberdeen that you won't get on a typical sightseeing tour. This self-guided audio tour takes you through the ancient streets of the Granite City and deep into the depths of its murky past. Hear tales of bodysnatching, witchcrafts trials, and more as you stroll between such historic landmarks as Marischal College and the Mercat Cross.

This guided tour is a great introduction to Scotland and ideal for first-time visitors and those with limited time. You'll pass by some of Scotland's most famous castles and mountains, see the ancient Clava Cairns, learn about the doomed Jacobite Rising at the Culloden Battlefield. You'll also visit the mysterious Loch Ness where you can take an optional boat trip.

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!

Explore the murkier corners of Aberdeen at your own pace with this highly acclaimed self guided audio walking tour of Aberdeen.  Beginning from the Mercat Cross, you'll weave your way through hundreds of years of history while discovering the stories of piracy, slavery, and insurrection that the city hides in plain sight.  Hear about "Indian Pete" and his efforts to banish child slavery.  The tour is ready whenever you feel like taking a stroll. It plays audio automatically at exactly the right time and place using your smart phone's GPS and the VoiceMap mobile app, which also works offline. It does not need a network connection to work. If you've got an hour and want to see some of the grisly and gloomy corners that Aberdeen has to offer – this is the tour for you!

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.

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

The Speyside region of northeast Scotland is renowned for its single malt whiskies, but enjoying them typically requires designating a driver. Skip the hassle on a private tour that allows you to fully immerse yourself in Scotland’s whisky-making history and heritage as you visit three Speyside distilleries in one day. Visit distilleries such as Macallan, Glenfarclas, Glenfiddich, or Aberlour; learn about the whisky-making process; and sample a selection of different whiskies.

Discover Aberdeen's local history and culture on this 1.5 hour walking tour with a local guide, available every day any time. Discover Aberdeen's rich history from being a small fishing settlement to the centre of oil for Europe. Make your way through some of the oldest streets, explore tunnels and retrace the steps of some of Aberdeen's most important figures in our (sometimes very dark) history. You'll also discover the amazing street art that has overtaken Aberdeen and has become a huge part of the culture. 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.

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.

Discover the charm of Aberdeen on tailored city tours that highlight its rich history and modern attractions. From the iconic and stunning architecture of Marischal College to the tranquil Duthie Park & Winter Gardens, each tour offers a unique perspective of this vibrant city. Uncover hidden gems like Fittie, a picturesque fishing village, and admire Aberdeen's most spectacular landmarks. With options to customize your itinerary, these tours are perfect for history buffs and culture enthusiasts. Experience the best of Aberdeen’s history while enjoying unforgettable sights along the way. - Explore the historical city landmarks to the coastal beauty - Tailor your tour to include must-see attractions or hidden gems - Learn fascinating facts about Aberdeen # Vehicle used is fully insured to carry passengers # # Company has PL and EL insurance. # # Aberdeen City Tours Ltd is Companies House registered # # All drivers are advanced drivers and full first aid qualified #

Discover the true spirit of Speyside on a private journey through one of Scotland’s most iconic whisky regions. Follow the River Spey as it winds past historic bridges, rolling hills, and world‑famous distilleries. Your day centres around an immersive Glenfiddich Explorer experience, where you’ll step behind the scenes, wander through atmospheric warehouses, and enjoy expertly guided tastings that reveal how craftsmanship, tradition, and time shape every drop of Glenfiddich... This tour blends whisky heritage with the beauty of Speyside—passing through Dufftown, Craigellachie Bridge, and the River Spey itself. Along the way, you’ll explore charming villages and scenic viewpoints that capture the essence of the Highlands. With private transportation, an English‑speaking driver‑guide, and admission to the Glenfiddich Distillery included, this is the ideal tour for whisky lovers, curious travellers, and anyone seeking a truly Scottish experience

Start your day at the Port of Aberdeen, where you’ll board your transport at South Harbour for a scenic journey through Royal Deeside. Your first stop is the beautiful Falls of Feugh, known for its cascading waters and leaping salmon during spawning season. Next, explore Balmoral Castle, the royal family's summer residence. Stroll through its gardens, visit the 2025 exhibition in the Castle Ballroom, and enjoy lunch at the Balmoral Café. Then head to Ballater, a charming Victorian village with quaint shops and stunning views of the Cairngorms. After a relaxed afternoon, return to Aberdeen, taking in the serene Highland scenery along the way.

Discover the rugged coast and royal heritage of Aberdeenshire on this private tour that is fully customized to your own interests. Explore the "granite city" of Aberdeen, admire the atmospheric Dunnottar Castle, perched on the edge of the North Sea, and sample a "wee dram" at the Royal Lochnagar Distillery at the foot of the Cairngorm Mountains.

Small-Group Guided Walk at Linn of Quoich in the Cairngorm National Park. Discover one of Royal Deeside’s most beautiful riverside walks on this guided walk to the Linn of Quoich and Punch Bowl. Ideal for visitors who want an easy-to-moderate hike with big scenery, this experience combines rushing water, Caledonian pine forest, Highland history, and the chance to spot local wildlife. With a qualified mountain leader guiding the route, you can enjoy the landscape at a relaxed pace while learning about the area’s natural and royal heritage.

Aberdeenshire is known for its density of castles and historic buildings but, without your own transportation, getting around can be tricky. Skip the hassle of navigating public transit with this private tour. In the company of just your group and a guide, explore the history-rich region and enjoy the flexibility of adapting the itinerary to your specific interests.

Join an exciting 60-minute walking journey through Aberdeen. Learn all the key facts about the city, dive into the local lifestyle, and feel its unique culture. From Marischal College to the Aberdeen Harbour, get to discover the city's most defining landmarks. Your Local will also share insider tips on the best cafes, restaurants, and lively bars in Aberdeen to ensure you get the most out of your stay. • See Aberdeen through a local's eyes, uncovering the city's true essence. • Discover Aberdeen's sparkling granite skyline and scenic coast. • Get top local tips on the best bars, cafes, and restaurants to visit. • Maximize your time, discovering more of Aberdeen in less time. • Enjoy the intimacy of a small group, with a maximum of 8 travellers.

This half-day tour is an excellent choice for travelers keen to see the magnificent castles of Scotland. Benefit from the luxury of a private tour that’s just for your personal group, which means a flexible itinerary and timings to suit your preferred schedule. Sample stops along the way include the 13th-century Drum Castle, the 16th-century Crathes Castle, and the magnificent fortified Dunnottar Castle.

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.

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

Explore Dunnottar Castle, Crathes Castle & Scotland’s Historic Heartlands. Discover Aberdeenshire’s most spectacular castles and historic sites on a fully guided private tour from Aberdeen. With a private guide, you don’t just see Aberdeenshire—you experience it on a carefully paced private journey designed to help you connect with the places you visit. Dunnottar Castle - One of Scotland’s most iconic castles, dramatically set on an impregnable rocky headland in the North Sea. Crathes Castle and Gardens - A beautifully preserved 16th century castle on Royal Deeside. Lunch at lovely local restaurant. Drum Castle – An impressive 14th century historic medieval stronghold. Old Aberdeen - St Machar’s Cathedral (14th century), and King’s College (15th century) offer a glimpse into Scotland’s academic and religious past. Every tour is exclusive to your group only. Most castle grounds are free to visit, but charge for interior tours. Attractions are subject to seasonal opening times