Aberdeen is a city that rewards explorers on foot. Its granite architecture, hidden tunnels, and vibrant street art tell stories that are best appreciated through walking. Unlike bus tours, these experiences get you up close — wandering through medieval streets, peeking into secret alleyways, and absorbing the city’s authentic vibe. We’re particularly fond of the Aberdeen City Centre Walking Tour (see details), which offers a lively one-and-a-half hours exploring the core of this port city, highlighting its neo-gothic buildings and uncovering tales of witch trials.
For those interested in a comprehensive look at Aberdeen’s past, the Aberdeen: Historical Walking Tour (see details) offers a small-group atmosphere and visits centuries-old sites like St Machar’s Cathedral and the 15th-century university buildings. If local culture and flavor are your focus, the City Walking and Food Tour (see details) combines tasty samples with a stroll through historic streets. No matter your style, Aberdeen’s walking tours reveal the city’s character one step at a time.
1. Aberdeen City Centre Walking Tour (2pm)
This highly-rated tour (5.0/5 from 156 reviews) is a solid introduction to Aberdeen’s urban landscape and hidden stories. Over approximately 1.5 hours, you’ll walk through Marischal Square, see the Aberdeen Art Gallery, and explore Netherkirkgate’s centuries-old streets. The tour also ventures underneath the streets to explore the maze of tunnels and learn about the notorious witch trials held in the city’s past. It’s perfect for first-time visitors who want a quick yet thorough snapshot of Aberdeen’s essence.
Guided by a local who shares engaging stories, the tour includes stops at prominent sites like Marischal College and St Nicholas’ Kirk, with many of the narratives focusing on the city’s medieval roots and maritime trade. The group size of about 20 keeps it lively without feeling crowded. Reviewers praise its blend of history, art, and local insights, making it a top choice for those wanting an accessible, engaging overview of Aberdeen.
Bottom Line: A well-rounded, affordable tour that introduces you to Aberdeen’s streets, secrets, and stories in a lively 1.5-hour walk, ideal for first-timers.
2. Aberdeen: Daily City Centre Walking Tour (2pm)
This tour (4.6/5 from 83 reviews) promises a relaxed 1.5-hour exploration of Aberdeen’s key attractions. It covers the same main sights—the Marischal College, Art Gallery, Netherkirkgate, and The Green—but emphasizes street art and local culture more prominently. It’s designed to give you a local’s perspective on the city’s most impressive sights and hidden corners.
The tour begins on Broad Street and includes stops at the historic streets, the maritime museum, and the old town, providing a thorough overview of Aberdeen’s cultural fabric. Reviewers appreciate the knowledgeable guides and the chance to see parts of the city they might overlook on their own. Some mention the lack of clear meeting points, so a bit of advance planning helps. This is a balanced, approachable option for travelers seeking a good snapshot of Aberdeen with some local flavor.
Bottom Line: An enjoyable and informative walk that balances sightseeing with local insights, perfect for those who want a relaxed but rundown.
3. Aberdeen Historical Walking Tour
This small-group tour (5.0/5 from 10 reviews) delves deeper into Aberdeen’s medieval and early modern past. Over about two hours, you’ll visit St Machar’s Cathedral, the King’s Museum, and the University’s 15th-century buildings. The guide’s expertise shines as they bring to life tales of William Wallace and secret graveyards few locals know about.
What makes this tour stand out is its focus on hidden stories and lesser-known sites. It appeals to history buffs who enjoy uncovering dark secrets and ancient architecture. The guide’s enthusiasm is evident, and the small group size creates an intimate experience. The cost is higher than the city tours, but the focus on exclusive sites and detailed storytelling offers good value.
Guests have praised the guide’s knowledge, with comments like “Wished we had more time to explore further.” This tour suits those with a genuine interest in deep history and personalized attention.
Bottom Line: For history aficionados wanting a more intimate look at Aberdeen’s past, this tour offers unique stories and detailed sights.
4. Private Aberdeen City Walking Tour
At number 4, this private tour (4.9/5 reviews) offers a personalized 1.5-hour experience tailored to your interests. Led by a local guide, you’ll explore iconic sites like Marischal College, street art, tunnels, and The Green. The tour is flexible — perfect if you want to focus more on art, history, or local stories.
This experience is ideal for small groups or couples wanting a more intimate, customized approach. The guide, Bronwyn, is praised for her passion and knowledge. The price per group (up to 10) makes it a good value for a personalized experience. Reviewers note how Bronwyn’s enthusiasm made the tour memorable, with comments like “she showed us so many interesting facts.”
Bottom Line: Best for those who prefer a private, flexible tour with a local guide eager to share personal insights and tailored stories.
5. Aberdeen: City Walking and Food Tour
This 4-hour tour (4.8/5 reviews) combines sightseeing with tastings. You’ll walk through historic streets, tasting local favorites like buttery rowies and stovies, while hearing stories about Aberdeen’s culinary traditions. It’s a great option for food lovers who want to pair cultural insights with local flavors.
The tour covers areas such as Colorful murals, historic streets, and landmarks, making it both an appetizer and a sightseeing tour. The pace is relaxed, allowing for plenty of tasting stops and photo opportunities. Reviewers love the blend of food and storytelling, though the length may be too much for some with limited time.
Bottom Line: A tasty, leisurely way to explore Aberdeen’s streets and savor its local dishes, ideal for travelers who enjoy food and culture combined.
6. Art, History, and Hidden Gems: Aberdeen Private Walking Tour
This private tour (5.0/5 from 1 review) is designed for those who want an exclusive, personalized experience. Over about 90 minutes, your guide will take you through Netherkirkgate, The Green, and past Marischal College, sharing stories of the city’s past and artistic highlights.
It’s a good fit for travelers seeking depth and intimacy without the crowds. The guide focuses on hidden gems like secret alleyways and lesser-known stories, making it perfect for those who want to explore off the tourist trail. The guide’s enthusiasm and local knowledge shine through.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers who want a curated, exclusive experience focusing on hidden stories and local art.
$216.89 per person
7. Best of Aberdeen: Private Walking Tour with a Local
This flexible private tour (4.7/5 reviews) ranges from 2 to 6 hours, depending on your interests. Led by a passionate local, you’ll explore neighborhoods, hidden corners, and famous landmarks like Union Street and Marischal College. The tour adapts to your pace and preferences.
Guests rave about the enthusiasm and personal touches of guides like Zayn, who shares stories about Aberdeen’s culture and current life. It’s suited for travelers who want a custom experience tailored to their specific interests, whether that’s history, art, or local recommendations.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers wanting an in-depth, personalized exploration of Aberdeen with a local guide who truly knows the city.
8. Aberdeen: Guided Walking Tour
For a straightforward introduction, this guided walking tour (4/5 from 4 reviews) offers a 2-hour walk through key sites. It covers granite architecture, Old Aberdeen, and Union Street, with a focus on notable buildings and stories.
While it’s a more traditional tour, it’s praised for its clear structure and informative narration. It’s suitable for travelers who want a structured overview but don’t mind a standard format. The guide’s explanations help paint a picture of Aberdeen’s development over centuries.
Bottom Line: A dependable, informative tour that’s good for those seeking a classic city walk with solid commentary.
9. Aberdeen: Express Walk with a Local
This shorter, 1-2 hour walk (4.8/5 reviews) is perfect if time is tight. Led by a local, you’ll see city landmarks, granite skyline, and scenic coastlines while getting top tips on best cafes and bars. It’s a quick crash course in Aberdeen’s must-see sights.
Guests mention how informative and friendly the guide is, making this a great option for a condensed but personal experience. It suits busy travelers who want a taste of Aberdeen in a short time.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those with limited time who want a personalized, insider’s view of Aberdeen.
10. Aberdeen: Private Dark Side Walking Tour
For those who like their history with a side of spooky tales, this private tour (5/5 reviews) reveals Aberdeen’s darker stories. Over 1.5 hours, you’ll visit sites linked to murders, witchcraft, and public executions. Led by Kirsty, the guide’s passion makes the stories come alive.
Highlights include gallows locations and tales of famous witch trials. It’s perfect for history lovers who enjoy storytelling with a twist of the macabre. Reviewers note how much they learned about Aberdeen’s shadowy past and appreciated the engaging storytelling.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers interested in the darker side of Aberdeen’s history and ghostly tales.
$168 per group up to 6
11. Aberdeen: City Center and Old Aberdeen Walking Tour
This traditional 2-hour tour covers both City Center and Old Aberdeen. You’ll see granite buildings, hidden courtyards, and famous landmarks like Marischal College. Its broad scope makes it a convenient way to cover major sights in a short time.
While it’s less detailed than some private options, it provides a balanced overview suitable for those wanting a quick orientation. It’s a good choice if you’re on a tight schedule but still want to get a sense of Aberdeen’s architectural beauty.
Bottom Line: A straightforward, efficient way to see the main sights of Aberdeen’s city and historic district.
$94 per person
How to Choose Your Perfect Walking Tour
Picking the right walking tour in Aberdeen depends on your interests, budget, and time. For a general overview, the Aberdeen City Centre Walking Tour offers great value. If history is your passion, the Aberdeen: Historical Walking Tour provides detailed stories and access to lesser-known sites. For a personalized experience, the Private Aberdeen City Walking Tour (see details) or the Best of Aberdeen (see details) can be tailored to your preferences.
If you’re a foodie, the City Walking and Food Tour combines tasty bites with sightseeing. For those intrigued by darker tales, the Dark Side Walking Tour promises a spine-tingling experience. Consider your fitness level and available time—some tours are shorter, others more in-depth—then book early, especially in peak season, to lock in your preferred time.
Final Thoughts
Aberdeen’s walking tours range from quick snapshots to immersive deep dives. Whether you’re fascinated by medieval architecture, want to explore secret tunnels, or enjoy local food and stories, there’s an option just right for you. For first-timers, the City Centre Walking Tour offers a lively introduction. History lovers will appreciate the small-group historical tour, while those seeking personalized attention might prefer a private guide.
Don’t wait too long to book — Aberdeen is popular, and these tours fill up quickly, especially in the summer months. Lace up your shoes, bring your curiosity, and get ready to see Aberdeen from a whole new perspective.