It is rich in culture, with a range of museums, art galleries, cinemas and concert venues.
Here is a selection of our favourite regular events:
January
Burns’ Supper. A celebratory meal for Scotland's finest poet, Rabbie Burns. It includes an address to a haggis, the ‘Immortal Memory’ and a toast to the lassies, usually with a wee dram of whisky.
February
Granite Noir. Aberdeen’s unique crime writing festival.
March
Aberdeen Jazz Festival. Previous Highlights have included the fantastic Hypnotic Brass Ensemble - fusing jazz, hip-hop and funk, known for their appearances on 'Later' with Jools Holland and work with Gorillaz.
April
Nuart Aberdeen. The multi-award winning Street Art Festival provides a platform for local, national and international artists to showcase their work.
May
Inspired Nights Festival. Celebrate Aberdeen’s vibrant nightlife as we invite you to step out into the night to explore all the city has to offer after dark!
June
Taste Of Grampian. Celebrating and highlighting the culinary delights of the North East of Scotland with day events, TV Celebrities and activities.
July
International Youth Festival. Featuring diverse performances of music, theatre and dance from around the globe.
August
Highland Games. A real piece of traditional Scotland, with events across the area from May to September each year. Featuring competitions in heavy weightlifting, including the caber toss and hammer throw, piping, hill racing and highland dancing.
September
Freshers’ Week. Your chance to celebrate the start of the new academic year. It's a great opportunity to meet new people and make new friends through a range of fun activities.
October
Braemar Creative Arts Festival. Annual festival in Royal Deeside offering workshops, competitions and demonstrations including painting, music, cooking, ceramics, drama, creative writing and weaving to name but a few.
November
Winter Festival. Kicking off with the Fireworks Spectacular at the Beach on 5 November, you're sure to get into the festive spirit with the new Aberdeen Christmas Village, which will include an open-air ice rink, festive fairground rides, food, drink and gift stalls throughout the season in the centre of the city.
December
Stonehaven Fireballs. An ancient custom held on Hogmanay in the local town of Stonehaven, where a procession of 45 participants swing blazing balls of fire above their heads before throwing them into the harbour.
For more things to see and do in Aberdeen: