Tips for Choosing the Right Short-Term Rental in Aberdeen

Short-term rentals have been growing rapidly in Aberdeen in recent years. Several reasons are driving growth in the segment, including the steady influx of professionals in the energy, engineering, and logistics sectors. These travellers need more flexible accommodation options instead of long-term leases. The city also offers affordable entry points for short-term accommodation, while attracting smaller families, temporary relocators, those on projects and groups of leisure travellers. 

However, as a traveller, you should know how to choose the right short-term rental for your stay in Aberdeen. There are a few things that you should keep in mind for this purpose. Let us look at them in more detail below. 

How to Choose Aberdeen Short-Term Rentals: A Ready Reckoner 

1. Property Types Matter

Short-term unfurnished apartments may be costly and require furnishings, utility setups, and other hassles. On the other hand, hotels are cramped and expensive, especially for groups. A serviced apartment in Aberdeen can be a good option for a convenient short-term stay with flexible (and often extendable) lease terms, multi-bedroom layouts, and more space and privacy. 

An apartment will give you home-like comfort and great amenities like kitchens to cook meals, in-unit laundry, concierges, high-speed Wi-Fi, work desks, and more. Many properties even offer access to on-site amenities like fitness centres, while bundling utilities into cost-effective rates (often lower than hotels and traditional leases). 

2. Verify Access and Parking

Check if your rental has a dedicated parking space (if you’re looking to rent a vehicle). This matters since street parking is complex in the City Centre and West End, among other areas. Remember that the traditional and thick granite buildings may sometimes hinder mobile signals indoors. Enquire about reliable Wi-Fi if you are planning to work remotely. 

3. Understand the Key Features of Properties 

Ask about the boiler and window seals of the apartment. Older stone apartments may be drafty at times, increasing your heating costs in the absence of proper insulation. 

Check on-ground reviews and enquire with the hosts/providers about water pressure. It may sometimes be lower on the upper floors of older buildings. Check the availability of on-site laundry facilities and other appliances. 

4. Legal Compliance

Find out whether the short-term let has a valid license from the Aberdeen City Council. Remember that operators have to be legally licensed before taking any bookings. 

Check your lease terms carefully for inclusions/exclusions, minimum stay requirements, notice periods, deposit terms and maintenance clauses. 

5. Vital Amenities & Infrastructure

Ensure your apartment has a well-equipped kitchen with cookware, a refrigerator, stovetop, and oven. Make sure you have a proper workspace if that’s a requirement, along with high-speed Wi-Fi. 

Verify how often housekeeping, linen changes, and cleaning will take place. Depending on your preferences, look for concierge/reception facilities and on-site perks like fitness centres. 

6. Provider Reliability and Booking

It is always best to book from a reliable provider like TheSquare since you can expect verified and corporate-grade inventory. Check the agreement for hidden fees, including departure cleaning charges, deposits, and utility caps. 

Enquire about discounts for longer stays and ensure that the property is legally compliant under the licensing regulations of the Aberdeen City Council. Compare multiple properties and check reviews/ratings carefully before booking. Booking in advance always helps in terms of getting better deals and availability. 

Top Neighbourhoods for Short-Term Stays in Aberdeen 

There are several well-known neighbourhoods that are ideal for memorable short-term stays in Aberdeen. Some of them include: 

1. City Centre 

It is the vibrant core of Aberdeen, known for its stunning granite architecture, bustling commercial streets, and ample convenience. 

• Connectivity: Connectivity is top-class, with the area offering access to Union Street local buses (Stagecoach and First Bus). The Aberdeen Railway Station is also a short walk away. 
• Suitable For: Tourists, first-timers and business travellers looking for convenience. 
• Amenities/Infra: Supermarkets, key shopping malls like Union Square, medical clinics and fitness centres. 
• Nearby Business Hubs: The CBD (central business district) along Union Street and financial offices nearby. 
• Nearby Tourist Landmarks: Aberdeen Art Gallery, Marischal College and the Aberdeen Maritime Museum are all situated in the vicinity. 
• Entertainment & Dining: The area has a high concentration of pubs, bars, restaurants and iconic venues like His Majesty’s Theatre. 

2. The West End

The West End is a premium and leafy residential locality with wide and tree-lined avenues. The area is also home to stunning Victorian stone villas. 

• Connectivity: Excellent bus connectivity to the city core is a plus point. It is a walkable neighbourhood with swift access via car to western routes out of Aberdeen. 
• Suitable For: Mature travellers, families and corporate professionals seeking quieter experiences. 
• Amenities/Infra: Premium local convenience stores, parks, independent boutiques and top-tier schools. 
• Nearby Business Hubs: Easy access to offices along Queens Road and Albyn Place. 
• Nearby Tourist Landmarks: There is quick access to Hazlehead Park and the Gordon Highlanders Museum. 
• Entertainment & Dining: The neighbourhood is home to several gourmet restaurants, premium bistros and charming wine bars. 

3. Rosemount

Rosemount is a quaint and community-centric neighbourhood that is home to several traditional granite buildings and independent stores. 

• Connectivity: Easily walkable from the central district’s northern tip. The area also has several local bus routes. 
• Suitable For: Couples, young professionals and independent travellers looking for a local and village-like environment. 
• Amenities/Infra: Local bakeries, independent butcher shops, small parks and organic grocery stores. 
• Nearby Business Hubs: The area offers quick access to the central office districts and the Aberdeen Royal Infirmary. 
• Nearby Tourist Landmarks: Westburn Park with its stunning floral displays and Victoria Park are both situated nearby. 
• Entertainment & Dining: Charming pubs, global bistros and independent cafes. 

4. Old Aberdeen 

Old Aberdeen is a picturesque and historic quarter that will take residents back in time. The area is home to multiple serviced apartments and medieval cobblestone pathways. 

• Connectivity: The area is home to several bus routes that go down King Street to the beach and centre. 
• Suitable For: Academics, history lovers, and those looking for stunning architecture and tranquil charm. 
• Amenities/Infra: Local cafes, university facilities and green public zones. 
• Nearby Business Hubs: Research hubs and the University of Aberdeen campus. 
• Nearby Tourist Landmarks: St Machar’s Cathedral, King’s College and the Brig o’ Balgownie. 
• Entertainment & Dining: Local tearooms, restaurants and student-friendly pubs.  

Conclusion 

Use the tips listed above to find the best short-term rentals for your stay in Aberdeen. Remember to book in advance and compare the top neighbourhoods to find the one that suits you best.