Neighborhoods of Aberdeen: A Guide for Students

Meet Aberdeen, a city set on the rugged northeastern coast of Scotland. It’s known as the “Granite City” for its granite architecture that shimmers in the northern light. There’s plenty to explore, from the medieval towers of Old Aberdeen to the creative arts energy near the waterfront. Like most cities, each neighborhood that makes up Aberdeen is a little different and has its own role in shaping the city’s character. 

If you’re studying abroad in Aberdeen, here’s a breakdown of what to expect from nine neighborhoods to give you an idea of where you might see yourself hanging out, studying, or exploring.

OLD ABERDEEN

Here, you’ll feel like you’re stepping back in time. Old Aberdeen is a place for academia and history. You’ll find yourself walking on cobblestone streets, past centuries-old architecture, and strolling through tranquil green spaces like Seaton Park which is a great place for a study break. 

THE CITY CENTRE

This is the bustling heart of Aberdeen where you’ll find some great restaurants and cultural venues. The center of it all is Union Street where you can find plenty of shops and cozy cafes. Also in this neighborhood, you’ll find the Aberdeen Art Gallery and the Maritime Museum which are both fun to explore.

ROSEMOUNT

Boutique shops, bakeries and independent cafes set the vibe in charming Rosemount, an area often considered one of the city’s best to live in. It’s a place to relax, wander through local markets, and grab a coffee with friends. 

FERRYHILL

Just south of the center of Aberdeen, you’ll find yourself in slower-paced Ferryhill with its calming, tree-lined streets and Victorian houses. Duthrie Park is great for a walk and the winter gardens here are a hidden gem with exotic plants and quiet spots to sit. 

FOOTDEE (“FITTIE”)

The locals call this area near the harbor “Fittie” and it’s one of Aberdeen’s quirkiest neighborhoods. A former fishing village, it’s full of charming colorful little cottages and there’s a sense of community here that you don’t come across everywhere. Lots of local history to soak in.

ABERDEEN BEACH

Yes, this is a city with a beach. You’ll find a stunning stretch of sand and sea here that’s popular for morning jogs, evening bonfires, or just chilling by the water. There’s a beachfront promenade where you can buy coffee and ice cream, and play in the amusement arcades. 

THE WEST END

This is another quieter, more residential, upscale neighborhood with elegant Victorian homes and streets that are lined with trees. There are restaurants and cafes here, as well as the Gordon Highlander Museum. 

TORRY

Head over the River Dee to the south side and you’ll come across Torry, a diverse, up-and-coming area with great views of the city skyline. This off-the-beaten-path neighborhood was once a small fishing community. You’ll find parks and walking paths and local life away from the buzz of the center.

BRIDGE OF DON

North of Old Aberdeen, there’s another large residential area called Bridge of Don with a more suburban vibe. In fact, it’s the largest suburb in Europe! It has lots of green spaces, golf courses, and scenic walks along the River Don. 

Aberdeen is a city full of contrasts, so whether you’re wandering through the historic streets of Old Aberdeen, catching a sunset at Aberdeen Beach or grabbing a coffee in your new favorite spot in Rosemount, there’s plenty to explore and discover while you’re studying abroad here. It’s a walkable city that you’ll get to know intimately over the course of a semester.