Car Hire Aberdeen Airport

From the airport, Aberdeen is only 10km away via the A96.

This major route also heads north-west from the airport towards Elgin, and loops around to reach Inverness in just under two and a half hours – perfect for an extended road trip. From the airport, you can also get on the A90, which runs north to south along the coast. Head south down it to reach the waterfront city of Dundee in around 90 minutes.

Aberdeen Airport is a prime location for drivers wanting to embark on the North Coast 500, a popular 830km route tracing Scotland’s northern shores. To do the whole route, you’ll want at least a week. However, there are plenty of stunning stretches of sand, rugged coastlines and incredible monuments if you only have time to cover a section.

Driving in Aberdeen is relatively straightforward, and a number of major routes lead in and out of the city, so you can easily access Aberdeenshire’s main attractions.

On an evening, several car parks are free in and around the city centre. During the day, the choice ranges from paid short-stay street parking to extended stay in parking lots. Hourly charges apply and increase in price the closer to the centre you park.

Aberdeenshire is exciting to drive around, with a number of winding roads and tight bends to navigate. As such, speed limits vary depending on your route – keep an eye out for signs.

Limits in the UK are displayed in mph and are typically 70mph (112km/h) on motorways and dual-carriageways, 60mph (96 km/h) on major roads outside of built-up areas and 30mph (48km/h) in towns and cities.

However, Aberdeen has introduced lower limits of 20mph (32km/h) in many parts of the city, so take care to drive more slowly here.

Nestled between the River Don and the River Dee, Aberdeen is a dynamic and captivating city.

Venture deep into its industrial heritage, meander through luscious public spaces and spot striking landmarks and historical architecture. With a hire car at Aberdeen Airport, you have easy access to northern Scotland’s hidden treasures too.

Parks and recreation

Aberdeen is home to a number of public parks and green spaces, offering ample opportunities to grab some fresh air and appreciate nature.

Resting on the edge of the River Dee, Duthie Park was originally donated to the city in 1880 and is now a favourite spot for tourists and locals alike. Dog walkers, families and sport enthusiasts all make use of the facilities, and there are a number of statues and ponds to discover.

A highlight of the park is the David Welch Winter Gardens, which can be enjoyed year-round. Head inside and enjoy strolling through a variety of exotic plants and colourful flowers.

For some local wildlife spotting, head to Donmouth Local Nature Reserve, on the north-east edge of the city. This stretch of coastland is popular for bird watchers and those hoping to see a seal paddling in the river. Largely untouched, it’s a tranquil place great for enjoying the refreshing North Sea breeze.

The silver city

Aberdeen is well known for its industrial importance and striking, granite buildings – just wander around the city and you’ll soon spot some prime examples.

The best area to soak up the city’s history is in Old Aberdeen, near the River Don. Home to the University of Aberdeen, the Town House on its grounds is a beautiful display of Georgian architecture. Walk along its cobbled streets and discover the peaceful parks, feeling like you’ve stepped back in time.

To find out more about Aberdeen’s local industry and coastal heritage, head to Aberdeen Maritime Museumin the city centre. Depicting stories of the sea in a highly interactive manner, discover the importance fishing played in Aberdeen’s development, learn about shipbuilding, and dive into fascinating facts about offshore oil.

Captivating castles

There are more than 250 castles, manors and ruins to explore in Aberdeenshire, all with a rich Scottish heritage.

The medieval fortress of Dunnottar Castleis one of the most popular destinations, jutting out on the clifftops in a striking fashion.

It has played an important role in Scotland’s history, having fallen to William Wallace in the 13^th century, hosted Mary Queen of Scots in the 16^th century, and defied Oliver Cromwell in the 17^th century. Explore the ruins and take in the stunning views of the North Sea below.

Another spectacular castle is Balmoral, the Scottish summerhouse of the royal family. Originally purchased as a gift for Queen Victoria by her husband Prince Albert in 1852, it can be reached from Aberdeen in around an hour and a quarter by car. While much of the castle is closed off for royal use only, you can still access the beautiful ballroom, and spend time in the luscious gardens. 

With all this to see and more, ensure you make the most of your Scottish adventure with car hire at Aberdeen Airport.