Getting around Aberdeen is easy and straightforward, and many residents prefer to use public transport to commute to work rather than driving. Owning a car is not essential, as Aberdeen’s buses connect most areas of the city, but having one does offer the freedom to explore the countryside and is particularly useful for expats with children.
Although the Scottish weather is not always conducive to cycling and walking, they're also potential ways of getting around in Aberdeen on sunnier days.
Public transport in Aberdeen
Buses
Buses are the main mode of public transportation in Aberdeen. First Bus Aberdeen and Stagecoach are the main operators. The city has a range of bus routes running on a hub-and-spoke network. These routes begin in outlying suburbs, run through the city centre, and then travel to other suburbs.
Tickets can be purchased on the bus in exact change or via the operator's app. Frequent users of various bus services may find it useful to purchase a Grasshopper ticket, which allows access to all buses regardless of operator.
Trains
While there is no local commuter system in Aberdeen, the city is well served by national rail connections. From Aberdeen railway station, you can catch intercity, regional, and local train services to various parts of the UK.
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Taxis in Aberdeen
Taxis are readily available in Aberdeen's city centre, and most taxi companies offer booking services online, via mobile application, or by telephone. Passengers are usually charged a base fare and a fee for each additional mile they travel. As fares are high, most people only use taxis for short journeys.
Ride-hailing services such as Uber operate in Aberdeen and are a good alternative to taxis, as they give commuters more control over routes and display the expected fare in advance.
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Driving in Aberdeen
Driving in Aberdeen poses no real challenges. The standard of road infrastructure is good, and signage is generally clear. Local drivers are courteous to other road users.
Expats should, however, be aware that roads in Aberdeen are often affected by snow and fog in winter. Although local authorities take measures to grit the main roads, smaller roads are frequently slippery, and the risk of accidents is high. Drivers must be especially careful when driving in severe weather conditions.
Driver's licences
As is the case in the rest of the UK, EU citizens can drive on their licence from their home country until it expires. Non-EU expats can also drive on a valid licence from their home country, but can only do so for 12 months before they must exchange it for a UK licence.
Transport and Driving in the UK
Cycling in Aberdeen
Cycling is also a good way to get around Aberdeen. The city's bike-sharing scheme, Voi, allows users to download an application and rent an electric bicycle.
The city has a fairly good cycle path network connecting certain suburbs through the city centre. Cyclists should be aware that some cycle lanes are shared with buses, though these are typically regulated by dedicated traffic lights.