Local Transportation: Aberdeen

Public Transportation Buses

Buses form the backbone of Aberdeen's public transport network, making travel within the city straightforward. First Aberdeen operates the main bus network within the city. Stagecoach Bluebird also runs services connecting Aberdeen to surrounding towns and villages. These buses cover most areas of the city and suburbs, providing a reliable way to get around.

While Aberdeen has no tram or metro system, the bus network is extensive and covers almost every part of the city. Detailed route maps and up-to-date timetables are available on the First Bus website and within their mobile application.

Ticketing & Efficiency

Single fares: Pay on board the bus. Contactless payments (debit/credit cards, Apple Pay, Google Pay) are widely accepted. Exact cash is also an option.
Day Tickets: A day ticket provides unlimited travel for one day on First Aberdeen services. Purchase directly on the bus or via the First Bus App.
First Bus App: Useful for purchasing tickets in advance, planning your journey, and tracking buses in real-time.
Hours of Operation: Buses generally start early (around 5:30-6:00 AM) and continue until late evening/midnight. Frequency varies by route.

Route Hubs

Hubs for bus connections include Union Street, the Union Square Bus Station, and Broad Street (near Marischal College).

Accessibility

Most modern First Aberdeen buses are low-floor and designed for wheelchairs and prams.

Navigation Tips

Use the First Bus App for live tracking. Confirm your route with the driver. Hail the bus clearly at stops.

Ticketing & Frequency

Ticket Options

Multi-day/Week tickets are available, mainly through the First Bus App, offering further savings for longer stays.
Contactless payment methods are widely accepted for convenience on buses.
Drivers often cannot give change for cash payments, so exact fare is advised.

Service Frequency

Service frequency reduces on Sundays and public holidays.
Main routes typically have services every 10-20 minutes during peak times.
Less busy routes might operate every 30-60 minutes.

Taxis & Ride-Sharing

Black Cabs

Recognizable "TAXI" sign on roof. Hail on street or find at ranks.

Private Hire

Must be pre-booked through a company. Identifiable by rear plate.

Uber

Operates in Aberdeen for convenient booking and cashless payment.

Typical Fares

Airport to city: £15-£20. City centre trips: £5-£10. Many taxis accept card payments.

Rental Options

Car, motorcycle, and scooter rentals are less common for short-term tourist rentals directly in Aberdeen. However, other options are available for exploration.

Car Rental

Requirements: Valid driving license (and IDP if needed), credit card for deposit. Minimum age typically 21-25.
Companies: Major car rental companies like Hertz, Avis, Enterprise, Europcar, National, Budget, and Arnold Clark operate in Aberdeen (DiscoverCars.com).
Booking: Book in advance, especially during peak season, for availability and better rates.
Driving: Drive on the left-hand side. Most rental cars have manual transmission (specify automatic if needed).

Bicycle Rentals

Aberdeen Cycle Hire: Operates a dockless bike hire scheme, allowing pickup and drop-off via app.
Independent Shops: Local bike shops like Alpine Bikes and Cycle Highlands offer daily or weekly rentals.
Ideal for exploring urban cycle paths or the scenic Deeside Way.
Safety: Helmets are recommended for all cyclists. Be aware of traffic on city roads.

Driving Laws & Conditions

Speed limits are typically 30 mph in urban areas, 60 mph on single carriageways, and 70 mph on dual carriageways and motorways.
Seatbelts are required for all occupants in a vehicle.
Major roads in and around the city are generally in good condition.

Multi-storey car parks are available in the city centre (Union Square, Bon Accord & St Nicholas).
On-street parking is often metered or requires a permit; check signs carefully.
Roads can become slippery in wet or icy conditions, especially during autumn and winter.

Walking & Cycling

Pedestrian-Friendly Areas

Aberdeen city centre is compact and highly walkable. Areas like Union Street, Marischal College, and Old Aberdeen are best explored on foot. The beachfront promenade offers a pleasant, flat walking route.

Walking Tour Options

Several local companies offer historical or themed walking tours. Information for self-guided walking tours is available from VisitAberdeenshire or local visitor centers; maps and suggested routes are often free.

Bicycle Infrastructure

Aberdeen has an increasing number of dedicated cycle paths, especially along the beachfront and connecting to some major roads. The Deeside Way, a popular cycling path, extends west from Aberdeen into scenic countryside.

Specialized Transportation

While less common for daily commuting, some specialized transport options assist your sightseeing experience.

Tour Buses

Aberdeen offers seasonal hop-on hop-off bus tours, typically operating from spring to autumn.
These tours cover major city attractions, allowing you to alight and re-board at your leisure.
Check local tourism websites for current operators and schedules.
A convenient way to see multiple sights efficiently.

Water Transportation

No regular boat taxi services operate within Aberdeen for general transport.
Boat tours for dolphin watching depart from the harbor, offering an unique water-based experience.
Consider bringing binoculars for better viewing of marine wildlife.
Aberdeen does not feature cable cars, funiculars, or similar unique local transport systems.

Accessibility Services

Public Buses

Public buses are generally accessible, with low-floor entry. This makes public transport a viable option for many travelers with mobility needs.

Wheelchair and pram friendly.

Taxis

Taxis can be pre-booked to accommodate wheelchairs. Confirm this when making your reservation.

Pre-booking recommended.

Attractions

Many modern attractions and venues have accessibility provisions. Older historical buildings may have limitations, so checking in advance is wise.

Check AccessAble website.

Local Exploration Tips

Walking Routes

Aberdeen city centre is compact and highly walkable, perfect for exploration on foot.
The beachfront promenade offers a pleasant, flat walking route along the coast.
Duthie Park and Hazlehead Park feature extensive walking paths, providing green spaces within the city.

Cycling & Safety

Aberdeen has an increasing number of dedicated cycle paths, especially along the beachfront.
The Deeside Way is a popular cycling path extending west from Aberdeen into scenic countryside.
Be aware of traffic on busy city roads. No specific "no-go" areas exist for pedestrians or cyclists.

Important Local Transport Notes

Taxi fares are metered. Confirm if card payments are accepted before starting your journey.
Always use licensed taxis or reputable ride-sharing services for safety.
Be aware that bus frequency reduces on Sundays and public holidays.
For detailed accessibility info, consult AccessAble website or venues directly.

Exercise general urban caution at night, especially in less populated areas.
Motorcycle and scooter rentals are not a main option for tourists in the city.
River Dee is not navigable for regular passenger transport.
Always confirm vehicle and driver details with your app for private hire services.

Plan Your Journey

Utilize the First Bus App for real-time bus tracking and journey planning, which can greatly ease your travel within Aberdeen.

Consider a bus day ticket if you anticipate multiple journeys, as this presents better value for money compared to single fares.

Local Transportation