Scotland’s third-largest city embraces a strong coastal culture. Torry Battery, a 19th-century artillery battery, offers one of the UK’s best places to spot bottlenose dolphins. The region’s maritime history is on full display at the quaint former fishing district of Footdee, where narrow lanes between stone cottages lead to a surfing hotspot, Aberdeen Beach. In the heart of the city, with its thriving culinary scene, artisanal producers are flourishing; two of Aberdeen’s best-loved are Mackie’s ice cream and Six North, one of Scotland’s leading craft brewers.
Shore Excursions
Shore excursions vary by each itinerary and are subject to change.
Aberdeen Highlights
See Aberdeen’s best-known landmarks, visit an award-winning beachfront and explore a historic fishing village.
The City of Aberdeen & Duthie Park
See some of Aberdeen’s most famous landmarks and explore the Victorian-era Duthie Park.
Drum Castle, Garden & Estate
Visit one of Scotland’s oldest tower houses with a spectacular walled garden surrounded by ancient oak trees.
Dunnottar Castle & Stonehaven Cliff Walk
See medieval fortress ruins on a spectacular cliffside in the North Sea before visiting a pretty harbor town.
Scottish Whisky & Cheese Tasting
Visit one of Scotland’s oldest distilleries and taste single malt whiskies paired with local cheese.
Balmoral Castle Estate & Land Rover Exploration
Explore the Royal Family’s Scottish residence where the late Queen Elizabeth II spent her final days.
Aberdeen Seabird Safari
Watch for marine life and various seabirds during a three-hour coastal walk with a countryside ranger.
Castles & Casks
Visit a 16th-century castle, savor lunch at a converted farmstead and taste whisky at an ancient distillery.
Barra Berries & Garioch Heritage
Learn local history and culture before touring a family-run fruit farm on the grounds of a 16th-century castle.
Heritage, Highland Malts & the Cairngorms
Admire Scotland’s famous pink castle, savor lunch at a local pub and visit a renowned distillery.
St. Cyrus, House of Dun & Distillery
Witness a stunning landscape rich in birdlife, tour a Georgian manor and enjoy lunch with artisanal spirits.
Aberdeenshire Highland Cattle Farm
Meet a prize-winning herd of Highland cows at a working farmstead then taste premium beef with local refreshments.
Pitmedden Garden & Afternoon Tea at Meldrum House
See grand walled gardens, learn about early 20th-century farming and enjoy tea at a stunning 800-year-old estate.