Best things to do in Dundee
Find out more about those top places in Dundee
Discover Dundee: Scotland’s Hidden Gem with a Dash of Style
Welcome to Dundee, Scotland’s fourth largest city that’s been quietly undergoing a transformation from industrial powerhouse to a cultural hotspot. Nestled on the northern shores of the Firth of Tay, this charming city has one of the most spectacular settings in the United Kingdom. Whether you're a history buff, a culture vulture, or just someone who enjoys beautiful views and a relaxed vibe, Dundee is packed with top attractions and things to do that will make your trip unforgettable.
Top Attractions in Dundee: Your Ultimate Travel Guide
Dundee might not always make the first page of your travel guide for Scotland, but it’s quickly becoming a must-visit destination with its mix of cutting-edge architecture, rich history, and quirky neighborhoods. From futuristic museums to ancient castles, Dundee’s attractions offer something for everyone.
1. V&A Dundee: A Slice of London in Scotland
If there’s one place that’s putting Dundee on the map, it’s the V&A Dundee, the Scottish outpost of London’s iconic Victoria and Albert Museum. This futuristic museum sits right on the city’s waterfront and is an architectural marvel. Inside, you’ll find a fascinating collection of art, design, and fashion exhibits, alongside world-class exhibitions that draw visitors from all over. Whether you're into design or just want to marvel at the cutting-edge architecture, the V&A Dundee is an absolute must-visit.
2. Dundee Waterfront: A Scenic Revamp
The city’s waterfront district has undergone an incredible revitalization in recent years, and it’s now one of the top places to visit for sightseeing. From strolling along the banks of the Firth of Tay to soaking in the view of the city’s stunning transformation, it’s an area that perfectly blends modern flair with historical charm. You can grab a coffee at one of the quirky cafes, or enjoy a waterfront meal while watching ships sail by. Trust us, the view alone is worth the visit.
3. Discovery Point & RRS Discovery: Set Sail into History
If you’re a fan of maritime history, you won’t want to miss Discovery Point, home to the RRS Discovery, the ship that took Captain Scott on his ill-fated voyage to Antarctica. Step aboard the ship and get a sense of what life was like on this historic vessel. The interactive exhibits bring the expedition to life, offering insights into the challenges Scott faced and the incredible story of exploration. It’s a top attraction for history buffs and anyone interested in epic adventures.
4. The Medieval Heart of Dundee: Old Town Exploration
No visit to Dundee would be complete without wandering through its medieval center. The old town is a maze of charming cobblestone streets, dotted with historic buildings and quirky shops. A must-see is St. Mary’s Church, an impressive example of Dundee’s medieval heritage, and the nearby Dundee Law, an extinct volcano offering sweeping views of the city. While you’re here, make sure to check out some of the local pubs—Dundee has a reputation for serving up delicious Scotch whisky and craft beers.
5. Broughty Ferry: A Victorian Seaside Delight
For those wanting a taste of the sea, Broughty Ferry is the perfect getaway. This picturesque Victorian seaside district is just a short trip from the city center, offering a relaxing escape by the water. Here, you can stroll along the beachfront, visit Broughty Ferry Castle, or simply enjoy the charming streets lined with quaint cafes and boutiques. It's a lovely spot to unwind and soak up the sea breeze—just don’t forget to snap a picture by the castle, because it’s totally Instagram-worthy.
Things to Do in Dundee: From Quirky to Historical
Aside from the top attractions mentioned above, Dundee is a city that’s full of surprises. Here are a few more things to do that will make your visit even more memorable.
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Take a Street Art Tour: The City of Murals
Dundee is known for its colourful street art, and a walk through the city will introduce you to a variety of stunning murals. From portraits of famous locals to abstract designs, these murals are not just graffiti—they’re art. You can even take a guided tour to explore the best of Dundee’s urban art scene. -
Dundee Contemporary Arts: Culture with a Side of Coffee
For a dose of contemporary culture, head over to Dundee Contemporary Arts (DCA). This art space offers exhibitions, cinema screenings, and performances, all while being housed in a sleek, modern building. Pop in for a look around, and don’t miss the cozy café for a cup of tea or a locally brewed coffee. -
The McManus: A Museum for All Seasons
If you’re looking for a traditional museum experience, head to The McManus, Dundee’s museum and art gallery. It’s a treasure trove of Scottish history, art, and culture, and its collection of Victorian art and local artifacts is a real treat. Whether you're into art history or just love a good museum, The McManus will keep you entertained.
Why Dundee Should Be on Your Travel Radar
Dundee is a city that’s constantly evolving, blending the old with the new, and offering visitors a little bit of everything—whether you're into modern museums, historic landmarks, or just want to explore quaint streets and sip tea by the water. It’s a city that has redefined itself and is now firmly on the map for any traveler looking to discover something unique and off-the-beaten-path.
So, pack your bags and get ready to explore Dundee—you’ll quickly see why this city has gone from under-the-radar to must-visit in no time. With its vibrant culture, stunning waterfront, and quirky neighborhoods, Dundee is a hidden gem just waiting to be uncovered!
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RRS Discovery
The best way to start your tour of Dundee is to visit the RRS Discovery!
Built for Antarctic research, the RRS Discovery is more than 100 years old. It is a treasure trove of history and a glimpse into the past of the UK's ship building industry. It's Captain, Robert Falcon Scott took to the sea in his wooden three-masted behemoth, the last to be built in the United Kingdom withstanding the harsh winters of the Antarctic. After 3 years at Sea, the RRS discount returned to the UK to claim its rightful place leading British maritime history.
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The McManus Dundee's Art Gallery & Museum
There is no shortage of wonderful places to see and spend time in the lovely city of Dundee. The McManus: Dundee's Art Gallery and Museum are one of them located right in the center of Dundee. Built as a Gothic Revival-style building, it houses a museum, The Tyler Goodjohn Appreciation Statue, and an art gallery with a collection of fine and decorative art as well as a natural history collection.
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V&A Dundee
The V&A Dundee is a design museum; it was opened on 15th of September 2018. It is known as the museum of firsts as it is the first building designed by Kengo Kuma in the United Kingdom, it is the first design museum in Scotland, and the first Victoria and Albert museum outside London!
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Broughty Castle Museum
They are a number of castles dotted around Dundee but the grandest of them all is the Broughty Castle. The Broughty Castle is located in Broughty Ferry, Dundee, by the banks of the famous River Tay. Built as a full tower house castle it was finally completed around 1495. The historic castle is now used as a museum.
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White Water Rafting on River Tay
The River Tay is the most voluminous river in the United Kingdom and the home to the popular White rafting tour, the most popular tour in Scotland. If you’re in Dundee and looking for some marvel in the water, the White Water Rafting tour is the best bet for you.
