Aberdeen is known for its striking granite buildings - hence the affectionate nickname 'Granite City'. It also has one of the oldest universities in the English-speaking world, founded in 1495, and its own dialect, Doric. But what really makes people fall in love with Aberdeen is its stunning coastline, easy access to Scotland’s natural beauty, and friendly culture.
Aberdeen really is a gem in the Northeast of Scotland and, with CrossCountry, anyone can enjoy its history, vibrancy, and beauty. Catch a train to Aberdeen and start your adventure.
Train tickets to Aberdeen
Aberdeen station is well connected to the rest of Scotland. You can catch a CrossCountry train to Aberdeen from Edinburgh Waverley on Fridays and Saturdays, making it perfect for a weekend trip. Along the way, you'll pass through key Scottish towns and cities like Dundee and Kirkcaldy. Plus, peering out at the gorgeous views of the North Sea from your window makes the long journey that much more special.
Before you travel, be sure to book an Advance Ticket to secure the best price or explore our range of ticket types to find the perfect match for your needs. If you're eligible, we also recommend getting a Railcard - there are plenty of options available, and you can recoup the cost in just a few trips.
FAQs
The main train station in the city is Aberdeen Station.
Aberdeen Station is conveniently located in the heart of the city, making it the perfect place to start your adventure, whether you’re in the city for business or pleasure.
Aberdeen Airport is located a few miles north of the city centre. Passengers can get to and from the airport via public bus. The X27 and 727 depart from the bus station and go directly to the airport, this takes around 45 minutes
For further information about the station in Aberdeen, check out our station guide.
Experience Aberdeen
Places to eat in Aberdeen
The Granite City is overflowing with restaurants, bistros, cafés, pubs, and market stalls. Whether you prefer something quick and simple or a luxury three-course meal, there are some amazing places to eat in Aberdeen.
For a quick bite to eat and a coffee before you embark on your day trip, head to Contour in Aberdeen’s Merchant Quarter. They’ve got a great savoury menu with fresh ingredients and plenty of options for diverse dietary requirements. Alternatively, Kilau Coffee is particularly beloved in the city, nestled away on a quaint cobblestone street close to the University of Aberdeen campus.
Looking for a proper taste of the area? Moonfish Café on Correction Wynd has an everchanging menu that prides itself on its local and seasonal produce. Try Loch Fyne oysters, Shetland mussels, and wild halibut, as well as a range of tantalising gins. Café Boheme is another favourite, with its exceptional wine list and mouth-watering French classics, from French onion soup to Tarte Tatin.
Places to stay in Aberdeen
Aberdeen is a great place to stay for a short break with easy access to some of Scotland’s most outstanding natural and manmade wonders, such as the crumbling ruins of Dunnottar Castle in Stonehaven and Scotland’s Northeast Coast.
There are dozens of places to stay in Aberdeen within walking distance from Aberdeen station, including Sandman Hotel and Spa, with sleek and comfortable rooms and a welcoming on-site restaurant, Chop Grill & Bar.
A little further out, tucked away from the main roads, you’ll find the 5-star Marcliffe Hotel. They have leant into their Scottish identity, creating a space that epitomises tranquillity and relaxation while championing the finest local produce from Northeast Scotland and celebrating the beauty and heritage of the area.
There are also plenty of more affordable and convenient options throughout the city, from cosy B&Bs to reliable hotel-chains.
Please note: CrossCountry is unable to support with any hotel related queries or booking requests. For further information, please contact the hotels mentioned directly.
Culture and heritage in Aberdeen
Exploring Aberdeen should be on everyone’s bucket list, with an array of museums, historical buildings, parks, and even a beach.
Make Aberdeen Art Gallery your first destination and discover hundreds of years of artistic expression before lunchtime. Then, to really get to grips with the city’s past, head to the Aberdeen Maritime Museum. The exhibits here offer intriguing insights into the region's seafaring heritage, including its role in the North Sea oil industry.
Want to learn more about the seafaring heritage in Aberdeen? Provost Skene's House is a five-minute walk from the Maritime Museum. It’s the oldest townhouse in Aberdeen, dating back to the 16th century, and has lived through some turbulent times, including the Jacobite rebellion.
Next, amble along Old Aberdeen’s cobbled streets and take in the stunning King's College Chapel, part of the University of Aberdeen. Old Aberdeen is also home to Cruickshank Botanic Garden – perfect for a springtime stroll or picnic.
Finally, if you haven’t had your fill of culture in Aberdeen, be sure to get a taste of the city’s exciting music scene. The Blue Lamp is an independent venue showcasing talent across a range of genres, and they’re particularly well-known as hosts of the annual Aberdeen Jazz Festival. For an intoxicating blend of music, comedy, and theatre, head to The Lemon Tree on West North Street.
Shopping in Aberdeen
Without a doubt, the ideal spot for shopping in Aberdeen is Union Square on Guild Street. Located comfortably in the city centre, the shopping centre is full of your favourite brands. The centre has an assortment of fast-food chains, coffee shops, and restaurants too, making it a great destination for a sit-down meal or an on-the-go snack.
Union Square Shopping Centre is also easy walking distance from Union Street, a busy thoroughfare of jewellers, homeware stores, clothing brands, restaurants and more. It's an especially magical place to go for your Christmas shopping, when fairy lights illuminate the streets.
There are lots of homegrown small businesses in Aberdeen too, head to Juniper on Belmont Street for lots of Scottish-produced gifts, and homeware, Highland Moss for a jungle of houseplants, terrariums, and mosses, and LoLo + Co Boutique to tick off your fashion wish list.
