Day Trips in Aberdeen

Browse the available activities in this category and open each page for full details.

Balmoral & Royal Deeside TourFrom GBP 104
4.9 7 h 30 min

Balmoral & Royal Deeside Tour

Starting from Aberdeen we trace the river Dee to Balmoral where you can walk in the footsteps of generations of Royals who have called this estate home. *Balmoral Estate is closed from 9th of August 26 until early October 2026. We visit the village of Braemar and optional Braemar Castle. Take a stroll in the charming Victorian village of Ballater, explore the local heritage, the Victorian train station and the views of the area. Next, we visit the iconic Cambus O'May suspension bridge, before we continue our journey to the Tomnavarie Stone Circle. Finally, on our way back to Aberdeen, we stop at Queen Victoria's favourite views of Aberdeenshire.

Dunnottar Castle and Royal Deeside Small-Group Tour from AberdeenFrom GBP 57
4.9 9 h

Dunnottar Castle and Royal Deeside Small-Group Tour from Aberdeen

Combine the majestic heights of Royal Deeside with the epic cliff-top site of Dunnottar Castle. For almost 150 years, the British royal family have travelled to the River Dee for their holidays. With almost unlimited cash and resources, why do they always come here? We think there’s an easy answer. This area encapsulates everything everyone loves about Scotland. You find grand castles enclosed by pine forests. You look up at the highest plateau in Britain in the Cairngorms National Park. And there’s enough nearby distilleries to satisfy any royal event. So, who wouldn’t want to escape to the fresh air of this location? On this tour, we combine her Majesty’s favourite holiday spot with a trip to Dunnottar Castle, one of the most historically important and visually arresting sights in Scotland. Hop aboard this tour, see an epic castle, and discover whether you have the same taste as the royals.

Loch Ness and the Highlands Small-Group Day Tour from AberdeenFrom GBP 95
4.9 12 h

Loch Ness and the Highlands Small-Group Day Tour from Aberdeen

The battles, beauty, and whisky: This is your perfect introduction to Scotland. You shed a tear as you hear the tales and tragedies of Scotland’s Jacobite Rising at the Culloden Battlefield. You try to take your best photo as you pass by Scotland’s famous mountains and castles. And you lick your lips as you drink in the spirit of Scottish whisky in Dufftown, ‘the Whisky Capital of the World’. What’s more, you get as close as possible to the legendary Loch Ness Monster on an optional boat trip. So, take this trip and enjoy the best of Scotland in a day.

Balmoral and Royal Deeside Shore Excursion from AberdeenFrom GBP 100
4.5 6 h 30 min

Balmoral and Royal Deeside Shore Excursion from Aberdeen

Start your day at the Port of Aberdeen, for a journey filled with breathtaking views and captivating stops. Your first destination is the stunning Falls of Feugh, just a short drive away. Stretch your legs and take in the natural beauty of the cascading waters, with a chance to spot salmon swimming upstream, adding to the magical scenery. Next, immerse yourself in the grandeur of Balmoral Castle, one of Scotland’s most iconic landmarks. Wander the castle grounds at your own pace, enjoy a delightful lunch at the Balmoral Café, and dive into the royal history of this majestic residence. From the tranquil gardens to the elegant interiors, Balmoral offers a truly royal experience. Then, head to Ballater, a charming Victorian village nestled in the Cairngorms National Park. Explore quaint streets, browse local shops for handmade crafts, and soak in the peaceful atmosphere. End your day with a scenic drive back to Aberdeen, reflecting on the beauty and history you’ve experienced

6 Hour Private Aberdeenshire Castle and Historic Building TourFrom GBP 248
6 h

6 Hour Private Aberdeenshire Castle and Historic Building Tour

Explore Dunnottar Castle, Crathes Castle & Scotland’s Historic Heartlands. Discover Aberdeenshire’s most spectacular castles and historic sites on a fully guided private tour from Aberdeen. With a private guide, you don’t just see Aberdeenshire—you experience it on a carefully paced private journey designed to help you connect with the places you visit. Dunnottar Castle - One of Scotland’s most iconic castles, dramatically set on an impregnable rocky headland in the North Sea. Crathes Castle and Gardens - A beautifully preserved 16th century castle on Royal Deeside. Lunch at lovely local restaurant. Drum Castle – An impressive 14th century historic medieval stronghold. Old Aberdeen - St Machar’s Cathedral (14th century), and King’s College (15th century) offer a glimpse into Scotland’s academic and religious past. Every tour is exclusive to your group only. Most castle grounds are free to visit, but charge for interior tours. Attractions are subject to seasonal opening times

Coastal Villages of AberdeenshireFrom GBP 104
5.0 8 h

Coastal Villages of Aberdeenshire

Visit the stunning Northeast Coast of Aberdeenshire and it will steal your heart. On this tour we will visit some of the region's most dramatic coastline. Taking time to wander through some of the most beautiful fishing villages including Gardenstown and Crovie, to learn about its maritime past and present. Hear stories about a few influential characters and ‘Local Heroes’ who called this countryside home. From working harbours to abandoned castles and tall cliffs where the seabird colonies cling to nest, this tour will immerse you in the heritage of the northeast and its connection to the sea.

Dunnottar Castle and Coastal HeritageFrom GBP 104
4.8 7 h 30 min

Dunnottar Castle and Coastal Heritage

Join us for a scenic day exploring Aberdeenshire's beautiful and diverse landscape and get a real taste of the region. From rural country life to dramatic castles and the stunning coastline. We’ll visit the iconic Dunnottar Castle, perched on a cliff with sweeping views of the North Sea, and the gorgeous village of Stonehaven with it's many temping offers. In the afternoon we head over to Mill of Benholm a real hidden gem in the Mearns and finish at Greyhope Bay, and the mouth of the River Dee to try and spot some wildlife. Along the way, you’ll get to sample some of the local experience with a tasting of regional treats. This relaxed and friendly tour is perfect for travellers who want to discover the natural beauty, rich history, and unique tastes of Aberdeenshire.

Aberdeen Half Day: Dunnottar Castle & Highland Boundary GeologyFrom GBP 80
5.0 5 h

Aberdeen Half Day: Dunnottar Castle & Highland Boundary Geology

Discover one of Scotland's most iconic castles and the great geological fault that shaped its dramatic setting — all in a single half-day from Aberdeen. This relaxed half-day tour from Aberdeen (with convenient cruise ship pickup at South Harbour) takes you to Dunnottar Castle, the spectacular clifftop fortress that protected Scotland's Crown Jewels. Along the way you'll walk metamorphosed ocean-floor rocks more than 600 million years old, take in panoramic views across the Highland Boundary Fault, and explore Stonehaven's coastal geology — volcanic flows and ancient river deposits side by side. Your guide is Steve Adams, a working geologist with 45 years of experience and a knack for making rocks come alive. He'll show you why Dunnottar stands exactly where it does and how Scotland's contrasting landscapes were forged along this single great fault line. No geology background needed. Most of our guests don't have one.

North East Coastal Trail Small Group Day Tour from AberdeenFrom GBP 58
4.8 9 h

North East Coastal Trail Small Group Day Tour from Aberdeen

Look out for sea creatures, ancient castles, and beautiful beaches on this tour along Scotland’s North East Coast. On this tour, you venture from Aberdeen and travel along Scotland’s North East Coast. You stumble upon strange caves and rock formations, spot dolphins at sea, and admire a grand castle that inspired scenes from Bram Stoker’s Dracula. Your driver-guide keeps you entertained with stories from the past and will even recommend their favourite place to taste traditional Scottish Cullen Skink soup at your lunch stop in Cullen. Join this tour, explore the shores, and discover the wonders of North East Scotland.

Aberdeen Shore Excursion - Private TourFrom GBP 950
7 h

Aberdeen Shore Excursion - Private Tour

Discover the beauty of Aberdeenshire on a personalized private tour tailored just for you. With a dedicated driver-guide, explore the region at your own pace and choose your must-see destinations. Benefit from your guide’s local insights and knowledge to create an unforgettable experience. Whether you want to visit historic castles, stunning coastlines, or charming villages, this tour offers the flexibility to craft your ideal day out in Aberdeenshire. - Enjoy a fully customizable itinerary based on your interests - Private driver-guide ensures a personal and intimate experience - Explore Aberdeenshire at your own pace with expert local advice - Ideal for solo travelers, couples, or small groups looking for adventure