Aberdeen City Breaks - Insider's Guide

From open-air swimming to fabulous food, our top ten insider tips will help you get the most out of your Aberdeen city break. We've chosen a selection of experiences and places which will add a whole different dimension to your visit.

Stonehaven Fireball Festival
Celebrate New Year watching 'The Fireballs', a colourful festival that attracts thousands. Watch the participants swing fireballs round their heads, illuminating the dark winter skies. An unforgettable experience. Visit the Stonehaven Fireball Festival wesbite.

The Cellar at Provost Skene's House
The licensed café bar in this historic house offers delicious snacks, home baking, coffee and wine. Located in the original kitchen, it has a wonderful arched ceiling. Visit The Cellar's wesbite.

Taste of Grampian
Foodies will devour this one-day food and drink festival held in the month of June. Sample delicious local produce like smoked salmon, roast beef and fine malts. Then watch the celebrity chefs cook up a storm. Music and children's entertainment ensures a satisfying day for all. Visit the Taste of Grampian website.

Falls of Feugh
Watch the salmon leap at these popular falls, just a short walk from Banchory. There's a fine example of a former tollhouse by the Bridge of Feugh, plus a great tearoom and free parking close by. Visit the Falls of Feugh website.

Footdee
Escape the hustle and bustle of the city. Just a few minutes from Aberdeen's bustling harbour you'll find the picturesque village and traditional cottages of Footdee, or Fittie, as its known locally.

Musa Art and Music Café
Music, art, fantastic food and a licensed bar - this gallery cum multimedia arts space has it all. Pop in for a drink or book a table for a special dinner and soak up the atmosphere. Visit the Musa Art and Music Cafe website.

Stonehaven Open Air Swimming Pool
If the weather's fine, this open-air art deco swimming pool is the perfect place to spend the day. Fancy a dip under starry skies? Come for a midnight swim in this Olympic size heated pool. Poolside café and free sun loungers.
Approximately 15 miles from the city centre.Visit the Stonehaven Open Air Swimming Pool website.

The Lemon Tree
The Lemon Tree is one of Aberdeen's most popular arts spaces. The intimate atmosphere here makes the performances all the more special. Expect an exciting programme of cutting edge theatre, dance, comedy and music.

Deeside Railway Line
Jump on two wheels and take off on this all-abilities cycle trail through Deeside. Start at Duthie Park in the centre of town and pedal all the way to Ballater. Passes many interesting sights, including Crathes Castle and Drum Castle. Visit the website of the Deeside Railway line.

Johnston Gardens
Stroll through these pretty gardens, blooming with alpine plants, floral displays and shrubs. Little ones will love the duck pond and play area. Visit the Johnston Gardens website.