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Accommodation Guide

Accommodation Guide

Central Scotland, Scotland

Accommodation Types

Popular Choices

  • Hostels

    Budget-friendly dormitories and sometimes private rooms, with communal facilities.

  • Guesthouses & B&Bs

    Typically family-run, these offer a personal touch and often include breakfast.

  • Hotels

    Wide variety from economical chain hotels to comfortable mid-range and luxury properties.

  • Serviced Apartments

    Apartment-style living with hotel services, ideal for longer stays or self-catering.

Alternative Options

  • Vacation Rentals

    Houses or apartments for short-term rent, offering a more independent experience.

  • Unique Local Accommodation

    Traditional Scottish guesthouses often provide distinct charm and personal service.

  • Camping & Outdoor

    Limited within city limits, but numerous campsites are in the wider Aberdeenshire region.

  • Diverse Lodging

    Aberdeen caters to all preferences, from urban to tranquil settings.

Neighborhood Guide

Aberdeen’s areas offer different characters and conveniences.

City Centre Union Street

Pros
  • Central location, excellent transport.
  • Abundance of dining and shopping.
  • Many attractions within walking distance.
  • commercial heart.
Cons
  • Can be noisy, especially evenings.
  • Less residential feel.
  • Higher foot traffic.
  • Less tranquil compared to other areas.

Old Aberdeen

Pros
  • Rich in history, charming atmosphere.
  • Cobbled streets, ancient buildings.
  • Close to university facilities and green spaces.
  • Picturesque and quieter.
Cons
  • Slightly further from main city centre.
  • Fewer dining options directly within.
  • Requires a walk or short bus ride.
  • Limited commercial activity.

Beachfront/Footdee

Pros
  • Offers sea views and fresh air.
  • Quaint, historic fishing village atmosphere.
  • Long sandy beach and promenade.
  • Unique village architecture.
Cons
  • Can be windy.
  • Some distance from the historic city centre.
  • Requires transport to main attractions.
  • Amusement park can be busy.

Area Insights

Safety Considerations

All listed areas are generally safe. Standard urban precautions apply, like maintaining situational awareness, especially at night.

Noise Levels and Ambiance

The city centre can be lively and experience higher noise levels. Old Aberdeen and residential areas like Rosemount and Ferryhill are generally quieter.

Booking Strategies

Advance Booking Recommendations

  • High Season (June-Aug): Book 2-4 months ahead, especially for popular spots or events.
  • Shoulder Season (Apr-May, Sep-Oct): Book 1-2 months ahead for good weather and fewer crowds.
  • Low Season (Nov-Mar): More booking flexibility, but a few weeks ahead is still advisable.
  • Special Events: Book 6+ months in advance for festivals (e.g., Nuart Aberdeen, Christmas Village).

Trusted Booking Platforms

  • Reliable international platforms: Booking.com, Expedia, Hotels.com.
  • Airbnb: Useful for self-catering vacation rentals.
  • Direct Booking: Many independent properties have their own websites, sometimes with perks.
  • Compare Prices: Always compare rates across platforms and direct websites.

Important Policies

Deposit & Cancellation
  • Policies vary significantly by property and platform.
  • Always check specific deposit requirements.
  • Review cancellation policies before confirming.
  • Many flexible options allow free cancellation up to a point.
Seasonal Price Fluctuations
  • Prices are highest during summer.
  • Spikes occur during major city events.
  • Generally lowest in winter.
  • Excluding Christmas and New Year period, when demand rises.

Consideration

Best Selection

Booking in advance generally leads to a wider selection of rooms and better prices.

Event Impact

During major events, accommodation can become scarce and prices can increase significantly.

Flexibility

Look for flexible booking options if your travel plans might change.

Accommodation Recommendations

This guide lists illustrative recommendations for different budget levels and traveler types in Aberdeen.

Budget-Friendly Stays

Station Hotel Aberdeen

Conveniently located near transport hubs, provides basic comfort for a reasonable price.

  • Location: City Centre
  • Price Range: £60-£100 per night
  • Comfort: Basic
  • Proximity: Near transport hubs
Aberdeen Youth Hostel

A modern hostel with good facilities, popular for solo travelers looking to meet others.

  • Location: City Centre
  • Price Range: £20-£40 (dorm) per night
  • Facilities: Modern
  • Atmosphere: Social

Mid-Range Comfort

Sandman Signature Aberdeen Hotel & Spa

A stylish hotel with useful amenities, centrally located for city exploration.

  • Location: City Centre
  • Price Range: £100-£180 per night
  • Amenities: Stylish
  • Exploration: Central
Park Inn by Radisson Aberdeen

A modern and reliable option, close to shopping areas and attractions.

  • Location: City Centre
  • Price Range: £90-£160 per night
  • Reliability: Modern
  • Proximity: Near shopping and attractions

Luxury Retreats

  • Malmaison Aberdeen

    A boutique hotel known for its sophisticated design and excellent dining options.

  • The Marcliffe Hotel & Spa

    A 5-star property providing traditional luxury and extensive grounds, a peaceful retreat.

  • Premium Hotel Options

    Several high-end hotels across the city provide top-tier services and amenities.

  • Wellness and Luxury

    Many luxury hotels include spas and wellness facilities for guest relaxation and comfort.

Specialized Stays

  • Residence Inn by Marriott Aberdeen

    Offers studios and one-bedroom suites with kitchens, for families needing more space.

  • Aberdeen Altens Hotel

    Often features family rooms and leisure facilities, catering well to those traveling with children.

  • Triplekirks Hotel

    A pub with rooms, providing a lively atmosphere and opportunities to socialize for solo visitors.

  • Skene House Hotels Suites

    Serviced apartments providing a comfortable stay for extended visits, with home-like amenities.

Extended & Historic Options

Skene House Hotels Suites

Serviced apartments suitable for extended visits, offering various amenities.

  • Fully equipped kitchens for self-catering.
  • More living space than traditional hotels.
  • Ideal for business or leisure long stays.
  • Regular cleaning services available.
Douglas Hotel

A historic building with traditional charm, located centrally for exploring the city's heritage.

  • Central location near attractions.
  • Traditional architecture and character.
  • Close proximity to city heritage sites.
  • Offers an authentic Scottish experience.

Diverse Lodging Choices

B&Bs and Guesthouses

Often family-run, providing a personal touch and local hospitality, with cozy atmospheres.

Vacation Rentals

Live like a local with independent homes or apartments booked through platforms like Airbnb or Vrbo.

Rural Campsites

Options available in the wider Aberdeenshire region for outdoor enthusiasts seeking nature.