Aberdeen’s historical tours pack the city’s fascinating past into well-organized experiences. The standout options hit all the right notes: private castle tours showcase the region’s most impressive medieval strongholds, while the self-guided dark history walks let you explore grim tales at your own pace. I especially love the historical walking tours – they’re practical, information-rich, and led by passionate local guides who know their stuff.
For nature buffs, the full-day private excursions combine Aberdeenshire’s dramatic landscapes with historical sites, offering great value. The Pictish heritage tours are another gem, taking you to ancient carved stones and settlements that most travelers miss.
Let’s look at the best historical tours Aberdeen has to offer.
Key Points
- The Aberdeenshire Private Half Day Castle Tour offers a tailored, 5-hour experience led by a knowledgeable guide and includes transportation.
- The Aberdeen: Dark History Self-Guided Tour provides an immersive glimpse into the city’s darker past through a smartphone app.
- The Aberdeen Historical Walking Tour highlights 15th-century university buildings and a 12th-century cathedral with an engaging storytelling guide.
- The History and Nature: Full-Day Private Tour offers a flexible itinerary that includes visits to Dunnottar Castle, Banchory, and Muir of Dinnet.
- The Aberdeens Ancient Heritage and Folklore Tour explores Barra Hill, Dunnideer Castle, and Tomnaverie Stone Circle, focusing on the Picts and cultural shifts in Aberdeenshire.
Aberdeenshire Private Half Day Castle & Historic Building Tour
The Aberdeenshire Private Half Day Castle & Historic Building Tour whisks visitors away on a captivating journey through the region’s storied past. Priced from $231.01 per person, this 5-hour tour offers a tailored experience, allowing guests to explore the area’s magnificent castles and historic buildings.
Led by the knowledgeable and engaging guide, Malcolm, the tour includes pickup from the Aberdeen area and transportation. Although meals and drinks aren’t included, travelers consistently praise the tour’s informative and memorable experiences.
With a perfect 4.9-star rating and 100% recommendation, this tour is a must-do for those seeking an immersive glimpse into Aberdeenshire’s rich heritage.
Read our full review: Aberdeenshire Private Half Day Castle & Historic Building Tour Review
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Aberdeen: Dark History Self-Guided Smartphone Walking Tour
Aberdeen’s captivating history extends beyond the grandeur of its castles and historic buildings.
Exploring the city’s darker past is the focus of the “Aberdeen: Dark History Self-Guided Smartphone Walking Tour”. Priced at $146.06 for up to 6 people, this 1.5-hour experience takes visitors on a journey through the city’s haunted streets and sites associated with witchcraft, murder, and other sinister events.
Using a smartphone app, participants can navigate the tour at their own pace, uncovering the grim tales that have shaped Aberdeen’s identity.
This new activity offers an immersive and creepy glimpse into the city’s hidden history, appealing to those interested in the macabre and the unusual.
Read our full review: Aberdeen: Dark History Self-Guided Smartphone Walking Tour Review
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Aberdeen Historical Walking Tour
Travelers can embark on a captivating 2-hour Aberdeen Historical Walking Tour that showcases the city’s rich past.
The small-group tour, recommended by 100% of travelers, visits highlights like 15th-century university buildings, a 12th-century cathedral with a dark secret, and Scotland’s oldest bridge.
The personal guide, known for their expertise and engaging style, brings Aberdeen’s history to life. Participants will also discover hidden gems, such as a secret graveyard unknown to many locals.
While not wheelchair accessible, the tour is suitable for most travelers, excluding those with certain medical conditions.
At $63.88 per person, this tour provides an immersive and enjoyable learning experience exploring Aberdeen’s fascinating past.
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History and Nature: Full-Day Private Tour From Aberdeen
Why not embark on a captivating full-day private tour from Aberdeen that combines the city’s rich history and stunning natural landscapes?
For $1,019.54 per group, you’ll explore Dunnottar Castle, Banchory, and the Muir of Dinnet National Nature Reserve with a professional local guide.
During the 9-hour tour, you’ll enjoy a guided experience at each location, lunch, and round-trip transportation.
The itinerary is flexible, allowing you to make the most of your time.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the option to reserve now and pay later, this tour offers a seamless and memorable Scottish adventure.
Read our full review: History and Nature: Full-Day Private Tour From Aberdeen Review
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Balmoral & Historic Castles Private Tour From Aberdeen
Set out on a captivating journey through Scotland’s rich history with the Balmoral & Historic Castles Private Tour from Aberdeen. This tailored tour allows you to explore the region’s most iconic castles, both inside and out.
While most castles can be viewed for free from the outside, interior tours range from £10-£18 per person, except for Balmoral, which is free to enter.
The tour costs from €663.14 per group of up to 7 people, with additional pickup surcharges depending on your location. Pickup is available from various points in the Aberdeen area, and the tour starts at 8:30 am.
Although not wheelchair accessible, the tour is suitable for most travelers.
Read our full review: Balmoral & Historic Castles Private Tour From Aberdeen Review
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Aberdeens Ancient Heritage and Folklore Tour
Immerse oneself in the captivating ancient heritage and folklore of Aberdeen on this comprehensive 7.5-hour tour. Priced from $107.96 per person, the small-group Aberdeens Ancient Heritage and Folklore Tour explores Barra Hill, Dunnideer Castle, Rhynie, Kildrummy, and the Tomnaverie Stone Circle.
Discover the history and legacy of the Picts, early settlers of Aberdeenshire, and learn about the cultural shifts leading to their downfall. With free cancellation and the option to reserve now and pay later, this tour offers an informative and enjoyable highland experience, as praised by past customers.
Suitable for moderately active travelers, the tour involves walking on unpaved paths and steep sections, so proper preparation is advised.
Read our full review: Aberdeens Ancient Heritage and Folklore Tour Review
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Aberdeens Ancient Heritage and Folklore
Guests on the Aberdeens Ancient Heritage and Folklore tour will uncover the captivating history and legacy of the Picts, the enigmatic early settlers of Aberdeenshire.
The 7-hour journey explores ancient heritage sites, cliffs, and a whiskey distillery. Knowledgeable guides share insights into local folklore and highlight the region’s natural beauty.
The tour accommodates up to 7 travelers and costs $116.15 per person, with lunch and gratuities included.
While not wheelchair accessible, the moderate physical activity level is suitable for most guests.
With 5-star reviews praising the personalized experiences, this tour offers a unique opportunity to explore Aberdeen’s rich cultural heritage.
Read our full review: Aberdeens Ancient Heritage and Folklore Review
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The Sum Up
Aberdeen offers a wealth of historical tours for visitors to explore the city’s rich heritage. From guided castle and building tours to self-guided walks uncovering the area’s dark past, there’s something for every interest. Whether you’re fascinated by ancient folklore or want to visit iconic royal residences, Aberdeen’s historic offerings provide an engaging way to explore the region’s captivating history.