Aberdeen Accommodation Guide

Perched on Scotland’s northeast coast, Aberdeen is a city that surprises. Known as the Granite City for its striking grey-stone architecture that shimmers silver in the sunlight, it combines the charm of a historic harbour town with the flair of a modern cultural hub. Visitors will find grand Victorian buildings, beautiful beaches, world-class golf courses, and a refined culinary scene. And all this is within easy reach of the wider Aberdeenshire region, famed for its castles, whisky distilleries, and rugged coastal walks.

If you’re planning to stay in Aberdeen, this guide is for you. At Discreet Scotland, we pride ourselves on curating unforgettable bespoke tours of Scotland for discerning travellers, and choosing the right accommodation is a key part of that experience. 

Whether you’re visiting Aberdeen as a standalone destination or incorporating it into a longer Scotland tour, these are the finest luxury hotels and boutique stays the city has to offer, each selected for quality, comfort, and character. If you have any questions for the Discreet Scotland team, please don’t hesitate to contact us for the information you need.

Where is Aberdeen?

Aberdeen lies on the North Sea coast in northeast Scotland, where the rivers Dee and Don meet the sea. It’s approximately a 2.5-hour drive from Edinburgh, or just over two hours by train. This makes Aberdeen easily accessible for travellers exploring the length and breadth of our stunning country.

Geographically, Aberdeen offers a natural link between the Highlands, the Cairngorms, and the remote beauty of the Moray Coast. It also serves as a gateway to Royal Deeside, long favoured by the British Royal Family, and to Speyside, home to many of Scotland’s finest whisky distilleries.

Often referred to as the Granite City, Aberdeen’s unique grey-stone architecture gives it an air of quiet grandeur. Beyond the historic core, it is also a celebrated golfing destination, with championship courses like Royal Aberdeen and Trump International Golf Links drawing golfers from across the world.

What are the Best Hotels in Aberdeen?

Aberdeen’s hotel scene offers a well-curated selection of stylish, comfortable, and luxurious places to stay. Here are our top recommendations for luxury and boutique accommodation in Aberdeen.

  • Sandman Signature Aberdeen Hotel – A standout property located in a historic building just steps from Union Street, this hotel combines modern design with nods to Aberdeen’s industrial past. Expect plush rooms, a well-regarded restaurant and whisky bar, and convenient access to the city centre’s shops and attractions.
  • The Chester Hotel – Elegant and contemporary, The Chester Hotel is situated in the city’s desirable West End. This four-star hotel boasts chic interiors, an award-winning restaurant, and a popular cocktail bar. With on-site parking and a tranquil setting, it offers a touch of refined luxury just minutes from the action.
  • Atholl Hotel – A firm favourite with locals and visitors alike, the Atholl Hotel offers classic Scottish hospitality in a characterful granite building. Its location in a leafy suburb provides a peaceful four-star stay, while still being a short drive or taxi ride from the heart of the city.
  • Malmaison Aberdeen – This boutique hotel brings Malmaison’s trademark bold style to a former granite mansion. Interiors are moody and modern, with velvet accents and tartan touches. Its brasserie and bar are popular with both hotel guests and locals looking for a stylish night out.
  • Leonardo Hotel Aberdeen – Situated right next to Aberdeen’s main train station, the four-star Leonardo Hotel offers convenience without compromise. Rooms are smart and comfortable, while the location is perfect for guests arriving by rail or planning excursions across the region.
  • Park Inn by Radisson Aberdeen – A trusted choice for those wanting central accommodation with modern comforts. Rooms are bright and practical, while the hotel, just off Union Street, also offers a fitness suite and underground parking — ideal for those travelling by car.
  • The Douglas Hotel – An independent hotel and a timeless city landmark, The Douglas is located in the historic Merchant Quarter. It offers a personal service with cosy, tastefully furnished rooms. The hotel is part of a complex that includes a well-loved bar and restaurant, making it a great all-in-one option.
  • Residence Inn by Marriott Aberdeen – Ideal for longer stays or travellers seeking more space, the Residence Inn offers stylish studio rooms and suites with kitchenettes. It’s located just off Union Street in a modern development, placing you right at the heart of city life.
  • The Globe Inn – This pub-with-rooms offers a warm, authentic experience in central Aberdeen. The rooms are modern and well-appointed, while the downstairs pub serves quality food and a diverse range of drinks in a relaxed atmosphere. A popular spot for pre-theatre meals and drinks, The Globe Inn is loved by locals and guests alike.
  • Mercure Aberdeen Caledonian Hotel – One of Aberdeen’s more traditional city-centre hotels, the four-star Caledonian sits opposite Union Terrace Gardens in a prime location. Interiors lean toward the classic, and many rooms offer fine views over the city’s historic streets.

What Makes Aberdeen a Special Travel Destination?

Aberdeen offers a distinct blend of coast, culture, and countryside. Its historic old town, complete with cobbled streets and the atmospheric St Machar’s Cathedral, offers glimpses into the city’s medieval past. Meanwhile, the bustling Union Street and rejuvenated Union Terrace Gardens showcase the city’s contemporary side.

Perhaps surprisingly for a city of its size, Aberdeen is home to a beautiful sandy beach, a working harbour, and regular sightings of bottlenose dolphins. In fact, Torry Battery in Aberdeen is often noted as one of the best places in Britain for dolphin watching. The Aberdeen Art Gallery, recently renovated and expanded, is one of the finest in the country, while Duthie Park and the Winter Gardens provide green space and floral displays to rival any in Scotland.

For those keen to explore beyond the city limits, Aberdeenshire offers a wealth of experiences. With over 260 castles scattered across the region — such as Dunnottar Castle, dramatically perched on a clifftop near Stonehaven — it’s a dream destination for history enthusiasts. With more castles per acre than anywhere else in the UK, it’s no surprise that Aberdeenshire is known as ‘Scotland’s Castle Country’ and is home to Scotland’s only Castle Trail.

But the fascinating history doesn’t end there. Aberdeen is thought to have been settled for around 6,000 to 8,000 years, and prehistoric villages have been discovered near the mouths of the rivers Dee and Don, so there’s plenty more to explore. 

Northwest of Aberdeen, around the towns of Elgin, Keith, and Glenlivet, you will find the Malt Whisky Trail, an absolute must-do experience for Scotch connoisseurs. Add in the endless miles of beautiful, rugged coastline, and you’ll soon fall in love with a region that rewards slow travel.

Explore Aberdeen and Scotland with Discreet Scotland

Whether you’re interested in historic estates, coastal drives, golf, or whisky, we can tailor our Scotland custom tours to shape them entirely around your preferences. We’ll ensure your Aberdeen experience is effortless and exceptional while helping you see the very best of this captivating region. 

If you’d like to include Aberdeen in your next journey, just let us know. We’ll design a tour that aligns with your interests, your pace, and your style — always with comfort and discretion at the heart of the experience. With the right accommodation and a bespoke itinerary, Aberdeen could become the most memorable part of your time in Scotland.

If you’re looking to build a multi-destination trip, browse our range of multi-day luxury tours in Scotland for more travel inspiration. And don’t miss our Edinburgh Accommodation Guide and Inverness Accommodation Guide for more expert insights and recommendations.

The Discreet Scotland team is here to help however we can, so please just get in touch if you have any questions.