It’s been at least 8,000 years that people have called Aberdeen “home”. There are lots of things to keep you occupied in the city there are plenty of sights and attractions to enjoy in the countryside surrounding it. In this article we are looking at a few of the attractions that the city itself has to offer and you can enjoy these whether you’re in the city for business or pleasure.

Most of the city’s attractions are based in and around Union Street, right in the center of everything. Along with the Union Street Bridge built in the 19th Century or if the weather isn’t being kind to you, you can go inside the Aberdeen Art Gallery instead. You can spend several hours strolling around its halls viewing the gallery’s collection of art from the 19th and 20th centuries.

Many visitors also flock to Marischal College, which is close to the art gallery. This imposing granite building is the second largest of its kind in the world. It is home to the Marischal Museum which displays a range of weird and wonderful items. These exhibits have been donated by both graduates and friends of graduates of the college.

In nearby King’s College you’ll be able to explore the college chapel which was used for worship on a daily basis for over 500 years. However, today it now houses a very wonderful collection of artifacts that date back to the 15th Century. Plus in Old Aberdeen where King’s College is located is St Machar’s Cathedral, which also traces its roots back to the fifteenth century and which overlooks both the River Don and Seaton Park.

When it comes to visiting Aberdeen one should make time to visit the city’s historic harbor area. This is home to the Maritime Museum where you can explore the city’s many oceanic links. The harbor also has Provost Ross’s House, the oldest building in Aberdeen.

Just a short walk from the harbor is Footdee an old fishing village. All the old fisherman’s cottages dating from the 19th Century face away from the ocean in their squares. This was to ensure that they were protected against the storms that would come in a batter the shoreline.

For the young (or young at heart) make sure you visit the Satrosphere Science Centre. Once inside your children will have over 50 different science and technology exhibits that they can try. The centre also has regular live science shows to help bring things to life.

Whether you are looking to Aberdeen for a weekend away, short break or longer stay you can find an Aberdeen hotel here.