If you’re thinking about paying a visit to Aberdeen for our visual art festival, Look Again, then you’re thinking along the right lines… if you need a bit more inspiration, however, why not make a weekend of it and check out some of our famous visitor attractions.

Famous castles and buildings

In the city centre, our most notable building is Marischal College – this is the second largest Granite building in the world! Arguably our most famous attraction is the Royal Family’s summer residence, Balmoral Castle. Queen Victoria famously referred to her castle in Royal Deeside as “my dear paradise in the Highlands”. Dunnottar Castle, found on the coast close to Stonehaven, is famed for its historic Royal connections and today, the castle’s dramatic appeal makes it a popular inspiration to film and story writers; many movies are filmed here too!  

Quirky areas

One of the best things about visiting a new city is discovering hidden gems. Historic Old Aberdeen, with its 15th century fortified cathedral, is where Aberdeen’s first University was founded in 1495. Footdee, next to Aberdeen beach is a quirky fishing quarter, with lots of tiny quirky cottages and brightly painted outhouses!

Well-known local produce

If you’re here to sample our local produce then rest assured that you will never be far for a fine meal and heartening dram. Known for our quality natural resource, our great estates, two rivers and wide seas feed us with fresh seafood, Aberdeen Angus Beef, a wealth of game and venison, whisky and now even BrewDog! Try it for yourself in our fine dining or seafood restaurants, traditional pubs and stylish taverns.

Get to know our city better

You’ll learn lots about the area at Look Again but if you’re intrigued to learn more join a free walking tour that explain our quirky history (https://visitabdn.com/whats-on/aberdeen-free-walking-tour-with-scot-free-tours/).

Check out what else is on….

Filling your evenings with entertainment is important too and luckily for you one of our favourite beer festivals takes place over the Look Again Festival weekend! Try some of the best craft beers, ciders, gin and prosecco on offer at Inverurie Beer Festival – there will be street food and live music too! (https://visitabdn.com/whats-on/inverurie-beer-festival-presents-beer-the-barn-lochter-2017/).

There really is plenty to do during your festival visit. Go to www.visitabdn.com and use the ‘My ABDN’ (https://visitabdn.com/myabdn/) section to plan your trip and make sure you see everything you want to!