Top places to explore in Aberdeen

5 views 10:37 am 0 Comments October 21, 2025

Physiotherapy student Lorynne shares her top places to explore in Aberdeen as an international student at RGU, from things to do to places to eat!

Activities

Codona’s Amusement Park

Codona’s has many fun things to do throughout the year! During the summer you can enjoy the many attractions that Codona’s has to offer including the Ferris wheel, mini golf, go-kart racetrack, among other rides.

Indoor activities offered include bowling, laser tag, and an arcade. This is the perfect place to get together with friends, and it’s located right on the beach!

Old Aberdeen

Take a walk through history in Old Aberdeen. This area of the city makes you feel like you’ve been taken back in time. Check out the University of Aberdeen Campus, St. Machar’s Cathedral, and Seaton Park.

Top tip #1: While in Seaton Park, take a walk through the Walled Garden. My favourite time to visit is March/April when the flowers are in full bloom!

Top tip #2: Catch a candlelight concert at St Machar’s cathedral. This is a really serene, beautiful way to enjoy your favourite music! I went to a concert where a string quartet performed covers of Ed Sheeran and Coldplay.

Aberdeen Beach

Aberdeen beach is one of my favourite places in Aberdeen. If you’re brave, I recommend going for a cold dip and warming up in one of the saunas located along the beach after!

There are many food trucks located along the beach so it’s the perfect place to spend the day. Once you’ve grabbed a bite to eat, head down to Footdee (pronounce Fittie) to check out a really unique and fun neighbourhood.

Why not try something new? Surfing lessons are offered at the beach, and if you’re lucky you might even spot some dolphins while you’re at it!

Food

For a coffee, go to:

  • Cult of Coffee
  • Mount (great views of Marishcal college!)
  • Grounded
  • Bagel Society

For a sweet treat:

  • Mackie’s
  • Crolla’s
  • Fat Batch
  • Little Molly’s Cheesecake (they also have a food truck by the beach)

To have a meal:

  • Amarone
  • Tartan Pig
  • Sushi Den

By Bus

Johnston Gardens

For a fairy-tale like escape from the city, head to Johnston Gardens. Take the number 15 or 11 bus from Union Street to reach this destination. These routes may offer student discounts on passes through First Bus!

Dunnottar Castle in Stonehaven

Take the X7 (Stonehaven) from Union Street to Stonehaven. Make sure to try some fish and chips and enjoy it by the water. From the town you can take the X7 (Montrose) to Dunnottar Castle. It is free to roam the grounds, however tickets are required to enter the castle itself.

Aberdeen Coastal Path

Take the 3A route by FirstBus to Cove Bay. You get off at the Marchmont Street stop and walk 10 minutes to access the coastal path. Bring a picnic and enjoy the beautiful views of the North Sea!

Lorynne Dowling

Related blogs

A Student’s Guide to Lunch: Top Spots in Aberdeen

The best places to explore as a student in Aberdeen

So you’re looking to explore Aberdeenshire?

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