Aberdeen’s walking tours cut straight to the heart of Scotland’s granite city.
The City Centre route stands out for its practical coverage of main landmarks and local haunts in just two hours.
History buffs will appreciate the Historical and Turbulent Times tour, which explores the city’s fascinating medieval past and maritime heritage.
For something different, the street art tours showcase Aberdeen’s modern creative spirit against its classic stone backdrop.
We especially like the Old Aberdeen tour for its perfect mix of ancient university buildings, cobblestone streets, and authentic Scottish atmosphere – all while avoiding the tourist crowds.
The private guided options earn top marks for flexibility and personal attention.
Ready to explore Aberdeen on foot? Check out our favorite tours below.
Key Points
- The Aberdeen City Centre Walking Tour and Daily City Centre Walking Tour offer immersive experiences exploring the city’s history, art, and architecture.
- The Aberdeen Historical Walking Tour and Aberdeen Historical & Turbulent Times Walking Tour explore the city’s rich heritage and captivating dark history.
- Private walking tours, such as the Old Aberdeen Private Walking Tour & Photography Workshop and the Art, History, and Hidden Gems tour, provide personalized experiences catering to diverse interests.
- Many of the walking tours are wheelchair-accessible, making them inclusive for visitors of varying mobility levels.
- The walking tours enhance cultural awareness and appreciation for Aberdeen’s vibrant artistic community and historical legacy.
Aberdeen City Centre Walking Tour
One of the most popular walking tours in Aberdeen is the Aberdeen City Centre Walking Tour. Covering the history, art, and architecture of the city, this 2-hour tour led by passionate local guides receives excellent reviews from travelers.
With a maximum of 20 participants, the small group size allows for a personalized experience. Travelers praise the guides’ enthusiasm and ability to bring the city’s unique stories to life through engaging storytelling.
Whether you’re interested in street art, historical anecdotes, or simply enjoying the beautiful cityscape, this tour provides a rundown and is highly recommended for anyone visiting Aberdeen.
Read our full review: Aberdeen City Centre Walking Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Private Aberdeen City Walking Tour
For travelers seeking a more personalized experience, the Private Aberdeen City Walking Tour offers an intimate and customizable exploration of the city.
Priced at $151.12 for up to 10 people, this tour departs from the VisitScotland Aberdeen iCentre and returns to the same location.
With a perfect 5.0 rating from 3 reviews, the tour is praised for its knowledgeable and pleasant guide, Bronwyn, who brings the city’s history and culture to life with a great sense of humor.
Accessible for wheelchair users and those with strollers, the tour is also conveniently located near public transportation, making it an attractive option for visitors to Aberdeen.
Read our full review: Private Aberdeen City Walking Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Aberdeen Historical Walking Tour
The Aberdeen Historical Walking Tour provides travelers with a captivating exploration of the city’s rich past.
Led by the knowledgeable and engaging guide Malcolm, this 2-hour tour takes visitors through the heart of Old Aberdeen, showcasing the city’s architectural gems and sharing fascinating insights into its history.
From the impressive St. Machar Cathedral to the historic University of Aberdeen, the tour offers a well-rounded perspective on Aberdeen’s development.
With a maximum group size of 12, the experience is personal and flexible, allowing for customized content tailored to participants’ interests.
Although not recommended for those with certain medical conditions, the tour is stroller-accessible, making it suitable for most travelers seeking an enriching glimpse into Aberdeen’s heritage.
Read our full review: Aberdeen Historical Walking Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Aberdeen Historical & Turbulent Times Walking Tour
Aberdeen’s Historical & Turbulent Times Walking Tour allows visitors to explore the city’s dark past, exploring its streets and wynds (narrow alleyways) with a knowledgeable guide.
The tour covers highlights like the city’s witch trials over 500 years ago, stories of medieval corporal punishments, and visits to graveyards associated with body snatchers in the 1800s.
Key sites include St Machar’s Cathedral and Marischal College.
Starting at 10 am, the private guided tour is ideal for first-time visitors seeking insights into Aberdeen’s turbulent history.
Priced from €107.90, it’s a non-refundable experience, though most travelers can participate, barring those with back problems or serious medical conditions.
Read our full review: Aberdeen Historical & Turbulent Times Walking Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Old Aberdeen Private Walking Tour & Photography Workshop
Delving into Old Aberdeen’s historic charm, the Private Walking Tour & Photography Workshop enables visitors to capture the essence of this captivating city.
Led by an award-winning photographer, the tour offers personalized instruction and guidance, suitable for all levels of photographers. Participants can explore the Granite City’s most picturesque historical sites, learning techniques to enhance their photography skills.
The flexible tour options cater to individual preferences, with the option to add a traditional lunch or editing session. Convenient pickup services are available, with additional fees for travel beyond the city limits.
Whether a novice or seasoned shutterbug, this personalized experience promises to deliver a memorable journey through Old Aberdeen.
Read our full review: Old Aberdeen Private Walking Tour & Photography Workshop Review
Book now: Check availability
Private Deeside Walking Tour to Kings Secret Retreat & Castle/Distillery Visit
Embarking on a captivating journey, the Private Deeside Walking Tour takes visitors to the secluded retreat of the Kings and the alluring realm of castles and distilleries.
Operated by Time Exposure Travel in Aberdeen, Scotland, this private tour offers an exclusive exploration of Balmoral Castle and the Queen’s Secret Cabin.
With a duration of approximately 6-8 hours, including travel time, the tour can be booked for a starting price of $348.24 per person, subject to group size.
Though lunch isn’t included, the tour provides a convenient pickup service from various locations in the Aberdeen area.
While the castles offer free access to their grounds, the distillery tours come at an additional cost, starting at £17.50 per person.
Read our full review: Private Deeside Walking Tour to Kings Secret Retreat & Castle/Distillery Visit Review
Book now: Check availability
Welcome to Aberdeen: Private 2-hour Highlights Walking Tour
Exploring the vibrant heart of Aberdeen, the Private 2-hour Highlights Walking Tour showcases the city’s rich history and captivating attractions.
Conducted by the travel experts at Travel Curious, the tour provides an immersive experience, led by a knowledgeable, English-speaking guide. Visitors can expect to see the city’s top sights, capture memorable photos, and receive recommendations for local dining and drinks.
The tour is wheelchair-accessible and well-suited for moderate fitness levels, with transportation included. Guests can conveniently meet at the VisitScotland Aberdeen iCentre and end at the Castlegate Square, where the guide will assist with journey advice.
Priced from $135 per person, this private tour ensures a personalized and flexible experience.
Read our full review: Welcome to Aberdeen: Private 2-hour Highlights Walking Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Art, History, and Hidden Gems: Aberdeen Private Walking Tour
Amid the captivating blend of art, history, and hidden gems, the Aberdeen Private Walking Tour offers an immersive journey through the city’s rich cultural tapestry.
This private experience, priced from $227.14, invites guests to explore Aberdeen’s highlights with a professional local guide. The tour starts at the Aberdeen Art Gallery and concludes at the Aberdeen Maritime Museum, providing a well-rounded exploration of the city’s art, history, and maritime heritage.
With its non-wheelchair accessible nature and proximity to public transportation, this tour caters to those seeking a personalized exploration of Aberdeen’s treasures.
Based on 5-star reviews, this tour is a must-consider for those seeking an enriching cultural adventure.
Read our full review: Art, History, and Hidden Gems: Aberdeen Private Walking Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Aberdeen: Dark History Self-Guided Smartphone Walking Tour
The Aberdeen: Dark History Self-Guided Smartphone Walking Tour invites travelers to uncover the city’s grim past at their own pace.
This 1.5-hour private tour, priced from $145.20 for up to 6 people, delves into Aberdeen’s sinister history. Visitors can explore the city’s dark side, learning about infamous crimes, supernatural occurrences, and grisly tales.
The self-guided nature allows for flexibility, while the smartphone app provides an immersive experience with curated content and navigation.
This tour appeals to those interested in the macabre, providing a thought-provoking look at Aberdeen’s lesser-known history.
With a 5-star rating from reviewers, the Dark History tour offers a unique and captivating way to experience the city.
Read our full review: Aberdeen: Dark History Self-Guided Smartphone Walking Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Aberdeen: Private Street Art Guided Walking Tour
For those who prefer an insider’s look at Aberdeen’s vibrant street art scene, the Private Street Art Guided Walking Tour offers a captivating experience.
Led by local experts, this 1.5-hour tour takes visitors on a journey through the city’s hidden gems, unveiling the stories behind the colorful murals and thought-provoking pieces.
Participants will gain a deeper appreciation for the artistic talent and cultural significance of Aberdeen’s street art.
With a focus on personalized attention, the tour can be tailored to individual interests, making it a unique and memorable way to explore the city’s creative side.
Priced at $145.20 per group (up to 6 people), this tour provides an exclusive and immersive encounter with Aberdeen’s thriving artistic community.
Read our full review: Aberdeen: Private Street Art Guided Walking Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Aberdeen: Daily City Centre Walking Tour (2pm)
Discover the vibrant heart of Aberdeen on the captivating Daily City Centre Walking Tour, offered at 2pm.
This 1.5-hour tour showcases the city’s rich history, diverse architecture, and lively cultural scene. Led by knowledgeable local guides, you’ll explore iconic landmarks like St Machar’s Cathedral and the historic Aberdeen Market, while uncovering hidden gems and learning about the city’s fascinating past.
With convenient availability and an affordable price point from €32.37 per person, this walking tour is an excellent way to explore the charming city of Aberdeen.
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a local, this tour is a must-do activity to truly experience the essence of the Granite City.
Read our full review: Aberdeen: Daily City Centre Walking Tour (2pm) Review
Book now: Check availability
Break Down
Aberdeen offers a range of walking tours that showcase the city’s rich history, vibrant culture, and hidden gems. From guided city center tours to private photography workshops, visitors can explore Aberdeen’s old town, discover its street art, and explore its dark past. These diverse walking experiences provide an engaging and immersive way to experience the Scottish city.