Aberdeen isn’t just a city of striking granite buildings and maritime charm; it’s a place where history, art, and local stories intertwine around every corner. What makes Aberdeen particularly fun for city tours is its mix of old and new — from medieval tunnels and ancient streets to vibrant street art and modern landmarks. One of our favorites is the Aberdeen City Centre Walking Tour, which offers a well-rounded introduction for first-time visitors eager to see the city through a local’s eyes.
If you’re after a rundown, a walking tour that combines history, culture, and some hidden surprises will serve you well. And if your time is limited, a private tour provides an intimate, flexible experience. For those interested in local spirits, the Gin School Experience combines learning and tasting into a memorable afternoon. And for a taste of Aberdeen’s culinary scene, the City Walking and Food Tour offers a delicious way to explore.
1. Aberdeen City Centre Walking Tour (2pm)
This highly-rated, 1.5-hour Aberdeen City Centre Walking Tour takes you through the heart of the city with a knowledgeable guide. With a perfect 5.0/5 rating from 156 reviews, it’s popular for its engaging storytelling and diverse stops. During the tour, you’ll see iconic sites like Marischal College and St Nicholas’ Kirk, along with exploring hidden tunnels that whisper tales of witch trials from the 1500s-1600s.
The tour’s focus on local insights makes it especially appealing for first-timers wanting a solid introduction. The group is small—around 20 people—which fosters a friendly, interactive atmosphere. Walk along historic streets like Netherkirkgate, and discover the old port area, Shiprow, and the Aberdeen Maritime Museum’s impressive exterior. While admission to the sites isn’t included, the real value here is the depth of local knowledge and the chance to see Aberdeen from a local perspective.
Bottom Line: A great pick for those wanting a well-paced, informative tour that covers main sights and lesser-known stories in a friendly group setting.
2. Aberdeen: Daily City Centre Walking Tour (2pm)
This slightly shorter, 1.5-hour Daily City Centre Walking Tour has earned a solid 4.6/5 from 83 reviews. It’s a dependable choice for visitors looking for a structured, daily exploration of Aberdeen’s highlights. The route includes stops at Broad Street, Marischal College, and Aberdeen Art Gallery, making it a good balance between cultural and historic sights.
What sets this tour apart is the focus on street art—a vibrant, ever-changing canvas around the city—and its emphasis on gaining a local perspective. Participants appreciate the stories shared by guides who point out details often missed on your own. Some reviews mention the need for clearer signage about meeting points, but overall, the guide’s storytelling makes up for logistical hiccups.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers who want a reliable, informative tour that balances history, art, and city life with a friendly group atmosphere.
3. Private Aberdeen City Walking Tour
For those seeking a more personalized experience, the Private Aberdeen City Walking Tour offers a tailored 1.5-hour exploration for up to 10 people. Costing around $171.09 per group, it’s excellent for couples, families, or small groups eager to customize their itinerary.
Your private guide will lead you through key sites like Marischal College and The Green, while sharing stories of Aberdeen’s transformation from a humble fishing village to a powerhouse of North Sea oil. The tour’s flexibility allows you to focus on specific interests—art, historical figures, or local legends—making it a highly engaging, intimate experience.
Reviews highlight guides like Bronwyn, who is described as “very kind, knowledgeable, and entertaining,” making the city’s often dark history and colorful street art come alive. The main advantage here is your ability to pace and choose what’s most interesting.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers wanting a private, flexible tour with customized storytelling that dives deeper into Aberdeen’s unique character.
4. Aberdeen: City Walking and Food Tour
This 4-hour City Walking and Food Tour offers a delicious way to explore Aberdeen’s streets and flavors. With a few tasting stops along historic streets, murals, and landmarks, this tour combines culture with cuisine.
You’ll sample local favorites like buttery rowies and traditional stovies, while wandering through vibrant neighborhoods. It’s a slower-paced tour suited for food lovers who want a taste of Aberdonian life, both figuratively and literally. The tour emphasizes hidden corners, historic streets, and local stories, making it a full-bodied experience for those keen on discovering the city through its culinary scene.
Given the longer duration, it’s ideal for travelers who prefer to savor their experience rather than rush through. Reviewers appreciate the blend of storytelling and tasting, making it a memorable, immersive outing.
Bottom Line: Best suited for those who enjoy combining food, culture, and walking at a relaxed pace.
5. City of Aberdeen Distillery: Gin School Experience
For a different kind of city tour, the Gin School Experience blends education with hands-on fun. This 2-hour experience lets you learn how to craft your own 70cl bottle of Scottish gin, guided by the head distiller.
The experience kicks off with a welcome double G&T, then moves on to a detailed breakdown of distillation techniques and flavor profiles. You get to sample various gins, enjoy Prosecco and berry cocktails, and walk away with a personal bottle of your creation. With a perfect 5/5 rating from 2 reviews, it’s clear this experience makes for a memorable, authentic taste of local craftsmanship.
This tour is ideal for spirits enthusiasts or anyone looking for a fun, interactive activity that offers a unique souvenir. The main consideration is the price, but most find the hands-on experience and quality gins worth the cost.
Bottom Line: A top choice for those interested in Scottish spirits and wanting a fun, educational, and tasty experience.
6. Private Aberdeen City Highlights Tour
This private option offers a customized 1.5-hour tour designed to suit your pace and interests. Focused on highlighting Aberdeen’s key sights, like Old Aberdeen and Witch Trials tunnels, it provides a flexible way to explore with your own guide.
The main benefit here is the personalized attention—your guide will tailor their stories based on what interests you most. This is perfect if you want to combine history, legends, and local anecdotes without the constraints of a group. Many reviews mention guides who are knowledgeable and engaging, making sure you see the city’s highlights while learning stories that only a private guide can offer.
While the price is not listed, expect it to be a good value considering the personalized experience. It’s best suited for travelers who want an exclusive, flexible, and in-depth exploration.
Bottom Line: Great for visitors who prefer a private, customized tour that focuses on the sights and stories that matter most to them.
7. Aberdeen: City Center and Old Aberdeen Walking Tour
This 2-hour tour combines the best of both worlds—City Center and Old Aberdeen. While reviews are not provided, the itinerary promises visits to granite buildings, hidden courtyards, and landmarks like Marischal College.
Expect to stroll through the historic streets of Old Aberdeen, discovering how merchant wealth has shaped the city’s architecture. This tour is straightforward, making it good for those who want a solid overview of Aberdeen’s architectural and historic highlights without the fuss of a private setting.
This is a practical choice for travelers on a tight schedule who want to see a mix of old and new, with plenty of photo opportunities.
Bottom Line: Suitable for those who want an efficient, group walking tour with a focus on history and architecture.
$94 per person
How to Choose the Right Aberdeen City Tour
When deciding among these options, consider your budget, time, and interests. For a full culture, the City Walking and Food Tour offers a leisurely, flavorful experience. If you prefer personalized attention, the Private Tours or Highlights Tour might be best. History buffs will appreciate the Walking Tour with Tunnel and Witch Trial stories, especially for its engaging storytelling. Spirits enthusiasts should not miss the Gin School, which offers a hands-on experience and a unique souvenir.
Booking early is advised during peak seasons, especially for private experiences or popular group tours. Also, check the tour times and availability in advance, so your sightseeing fits smoothly into your schedule.
Final Thoughts
Aberdeen offers a variety of city tours that cater to different interests—whether you’re into history, art, food, or spirits. Our top recommendations include the Aberdeen City Centre Walking Tour for a detailed group experience, and the Private Aberdeen City Walking Tour if you want a more personalized touch. For a taste of local craftsmanship, the Gin School stands out as a fun and memorable activity.
No matter which tour you choose, Aberdeen’s blend of history, architecture, and lively streets promises a rewarding city exploration. Book your preferred experience early to ensure you get the timing you want—and get ready to fall in love with this vibrant port city.