The two main bus companies operating services in and around the city are First Aberdeen (tel: (01224) 650 000; www.firstgroup.com) and Stagecoach Bluebird (tel: (01224) 597 590; www.stagecoachbus.com/bluebird). First Aberdeen operates a comprehensive network of routes throughout the city. Bus 27 runs from the bus station on Guild Street through the city and out to Aberdeen Airport. Fares are calculated in stages, and day, week, month and three-month passes are also available. Children under five travel free and passengers under 16 qualify for a child fare. Stagecoach Bluebird operates various services. The MegaRider ticket offers seven days' unlimited travel on the city's buses.

For all public travel information in Aberdeen and throughout Scotland contact Traveline Scotland (tel: 0871 200 2233; www.travelinescotland.com).

Taxis can be hailed on the street or at ranks at the railway and bus stations. To pre-book a taxi try Central Taxis (tel: (01224) 898 989; www.centraltaxisaberdeen.co.uk), ComCab (tel: (01224) 353 535, www.comcab-aberdeen.co.uk) or City Taxis (tel: (01224) 878 787). Tips are appreciated.

Driving in Aberdeen is reasonably straightforward, roads are well maintained and signposts clear. Expect to pay for parking in public car parks and on street parking bays.

Car hire firms operating in Aberdeen include Alamo (tel: 0870 400 4562; www.alamo.co.uk), Avis tel: (0844 544 6010; www.avis.co.uk), Europcar (tel: (01224) 770 770; www.europcar.co.uk) and National (tel: (01224) 770 955; www.nationalcar.co.uk). All have offices either at the airport, in the city or both. For speciality vehicles, try Aberdeen 4x4 Self Drive (tel: (01224) 790 858; www.aberdeen4x4.co.uk) or Platinum Limo Company (tel: 0870 774 0881; www.platinumlimo.co.uk). Drivers must be at least 21 years of age.

Aberdeen is cyclist friendly, with bike parking facilities located throughout the city. The Aberdeen Cycle Map shows the location of cycle lanes, recommended quiet routes and shops where cycling gear can be bought. Alpine Bikes, 70 Holburn Street (tel: (01224) 211 455; www.alpinebikes.co.uk) has a good range of bikes for hire and is within walking distance of the bus and railway stations.