Aberdeen

The third largest city in Scotland is known as the Granite City and the Silver City. Following the discovery of oil in the North Sea, Aberdeen is also now known as the Energy capital of Europe. Aberdeen is just like any traditional city in the United Kingdom with deep historical roots. It has been a favourite holiday destination of British royalty. Many people gain value from their Aberdeen break by following the royal footsteps to Royal Deeside, a well-known holiday location. A combination of tradition and modernity has made Aberdeen a cosmopolitan city and a perfect destination for a city break. If you choose to make a weekend break, you can explore the historic heritage of Aberdeenshire. Aberdeen owes its reputation as a city break location mainly to its status as the Energy capital of Europe that has brought business people of all kinds who would not mind making a city break from their hectic schedules. And there is quite a lot to do while on a break in Aberdeen. You could perhaps take a walk through one of Aberdeen's six spectacular parks, known for their award winning green spaces. During a city break, many people make it a point to visit the Aberdeen Art Gallery that has the finest collections of world class exhibits, including works of impressionists Monet, Pisarro and Renoir. Another favourite activity in an Aberdeen break is to trace its 500-year-old history by visiting the University King's College or Skene's House, Aberdeen's oldest private town house. Unlike other cities, Aberdeen's heritage can be viewed free of cost. A shopping break is something you cannot avoid while in Aberdeen. Make a beeline for the "Granite Mile" or Union Street, which has more than 800 shops that have the latest fashion designer wear and traditional Scottish craft. Your shopping break could be a unique affair if you chose to visit boutique style shops that offer personalised service. A city break would not be complete without visiting the restaurants and eateries in Aberdeen. Don't go for the big name coffee shops and restaurants. Instead, try out the old-fashioned traditional tea-rooms and family-run bistros to make your break different. An Aberdeen cultural break might not be as big an affair as your Edinburgh break, but the city is making its best attempt to rival the Edinburgh Festival by providing live music, theatre and other cultural pursuits. The travel trade has also been promoting quite a variety of events from galas to Highland Games. If you prefer a relaxed break, Aberdeen has several trails on offer. This includes the Castle trail, the Victorian Heritage Trail or the Coastal Trial. If you want more adrenalin in your short break, you can time your visit to witness Aberdeen International Foot Ball festival or the Bowling Tournament. Aberdeen break has a range of accommodation ranging from star hotels, cosy cottages to camping and caravan parks. Perhaps you can wind up your break on the enchanting beach to watch the sunset.