Aberdeen, the Oil Capital of Europe, is located in the northwest of Scotland, approximately 150 kilometers from Edinburgh. It is a maritime port and the center of the North Sea oil industry. It is also one of the United Kingdom’s main tourist hubs. There are several ways to reach Aberdeen: by plane, train, bus, car, and even ferry.
Direct or Connecting Flights
The primary way to arrive in the city is through Aberdeen International Airport (ABZ), located in Dyce, 9 kilometers from Aberdeen. It receives direct flights from London, Amsterdam, Copenhagen, Dublin, Malaga, and other major European cities. Its sole passenger terminal handles both regular and charter flights. Additionally, it is the main helipad connecting North Sea oil platforms with the mainland.
Once at Aberdeen Airport, you can take the bus to the city center in just 28 minutes. Alternatively, you can travel by taxi or car for 12 minutes. The terminal offers car rental services at various rates.
Another option is to fly to Edinburgh Airport (EDI), located 2 hours and 20 minutes from Aberdeen, and then take the train or bus to your destination.
Other nearby airports to the so-called Flower of Scotland include Glasgow (GLA), 2 hours and 50 minutes by car; Newcastle (NCL), 4 hours and 40 minutes; and Inverness (INV), 2 hours and 28 minutes. Ticket prices vary depending on the distance, airline, and season. From these locations, you can travel to Aberdeen by car, bus, or train.
Fast Travel
From Edinburgh to Aberdeen, there are direct trains available, about 26 trains per day, making the journey between the two cities quick and comfortable. The same applies from Glasgow, Newcastle, and Inverness. Frequency is reduced during the night and may also be lower on weekends and holidays.
In addition to trains, there are bus services that connect Aberdeen with the main cities of Scotland and the United Kingdom. Companies like National Express and Megabus offer frequent and economical routes. For those who prefer to travel by car, the M90 and A90 motorways facilitate access from various directions.
Another option is to use ferries. NorthLink Ferries operates routes from Aberdeen to Lerwick in the Shetland Islands, offering a scenic and comfortable alternative to cross the North Sea. Additionally, during the summer, tourist cruises also make stops in Aberdeen, allowing travelers to enjoy visits to this vibrant Scottish city as part of their maritime itinerary.
Transport Stations
The bus and train stations are located in Union Square, facilitating access to different modes of transportation and connecting with the main national routes. From Union Square, you can reach the city’s main tourist attractions by bus, taxi, or on foot. It is just steps away from museums, monuments, and other sites of historical and cultural interest.
