Aberdeen

Visit Scotland’s third most populous city which is known as the Granite City or Silver City, thanks to much of the city’s architecture being constructed of locally quarried grey granite.

Scotland’s third most populous city, Aberdeen is known as the Granite City or Silver City, thanks to much of the city’s architecture being constructed of locally quarried grey granite that can shimmer like silver in the sun. Aberdeen’s quarry was once the largest open hole in all of Europe, though today the city has more to be known for.

In addition to being the hub of Scotland’s booming North Sea oil industry, Aberdeen is a historically and socially rich metropolis, with many museums, shops, restaurants and bars. The city boasts a stretch of central Union Street affectionately called the Granite Mile that is home to over 800 boutiques, eateries and bars. Being a 13-time winner of the Britain in Bloom award, Aberdeen also features an abundance of flower-filled parks that are enjoyed by locals and visitors alike.

Culture-seekers will enjoy the grand Aberdeen Art Gallery featuring the works of noted Scottish painters Gwen Hardie, Stephen Conroy and Trevor Sutton, among others.

The award-winning Aberdeen Maritime Museum is also an exciting stop for those interested in the city’s rich sea-faring history. Visitors can learn about the North Sea, its ships and the offshore oil industry.

Admission to both the Art Gallery and Maritime Museum is free of charge.