Visiting Dundee is an exciting experience, filled with vibrant culture, historical landmarks, and unique attractions. As a city that’s been through some significant changes over the years, Dundee has transformed into a modern hub of creativity and innovation. But if you’re planning on exploring this Scottish gem, one of the first things you might want to consider is how to navigate the city effectively. Whether you’re here for a short stay or a longer visit, understanding the local transport options can make all the difference.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through the different transportation methods available in Dundee, based on my personal experiences getting around the city. From buses to trains, taxis, and even walking, there’s a lot to consider. Let’s dive into the details.
1. Dundee by Foot: Embracing the Walking Culture
One of the first things you’ll notice about Dundee is how walkable the city is. While it’s not as large as some other cities in the UK, the compact nature of Dundee means that many of the attractions are within walking distance of each other. In fact, I found that exploring Dundee on foot was one of the most enjoyable ways to get around.
Walking through Dundee’s streets, you’ll notice a mix of old and new architecture. From the Victorian buildings around the city centre to the striking modern design of the V&A Museum, there’s plenty to see as you wander through different neighbourhoods. If you’re staying in the city centre, most key attractions like the Discovery Point, the McManus Art Gallery, and the Overgate Shopping Centre are within easy walking distance.
Top Tips for Walking in Dundee
- Wear Comfortable Shoes: Dundee’s streets, particularly around the Old Town, are a mix of cobblestones and steep hills. Comfortable footwear is essential if you plan on walking a lot.
- Take Your Time: Don’t rush. The city has a laid-back vibe, and there’s always something interesting to discover on your walk. Whether it’s a hidden alley, a piece of street art, or a cool café, there’s always something around the corner.
- Check the Weather: Scotland is known for its unpredictable weather. While walking is a great option, be prepared for rain or wind, especially in the colder months. Carrying a small umbrella or raincoat is a good idea.
2. Public Buses: The Backbone of Dundee’s Transport Network
For longer distances or if you want to explore areas outside of the city centre, the bus system in Dundee is very reliable. I used the bus system multiple times during my stay, and I was pleasantly surprised by how easy it was to navigate.
The buses in Dundee are operated by Dundee City Transport, and they serve various routes across the city, including residential areas and the outskirts. The buses are frequent and affordable, with routes running from early morning until late evening.
How to Get Around Using Buses
- Bus Stops: Bus stops are well-marked, and you’ll find plenty of them scattered throughout the city. Each bus stop displays a list of the routes it serves, so it’s easy to plan your journey.
- Bus Tickets: You can pay for your bus fare directly on the bus, either using cash or a contactless card. I personally recommend using a contactless payment method, as it’s faster and more convenient. If you’re planning to make multiple trips in a day, you might want to consider purchasing a day pass for unlimited travel on the buses.
- Route Information: The buses display route numbers and the main destinations on the front, making it easy to see if you’re getting on the right one. I found the bus drivers to be friendly and helpful, and they can often provide information if you’re unsure about the route.
Popular Bus Routes to Know
- No. 1 & No. 2: These routes connect the city centre to the University of Dundee and the areas around Dundee West.
- No. 5: If you’re looking to head towards the waterfront or Dundee Harbour, this route is perfect.
- No. 9: This bus route travels to the suburbs and takes you to places like Broughty Ferry and Barnhill.
3. Trains: Fast and Convenient for Day Trips
If you’re staying in Dundee for a few days, you might want to take advantage of the city’s excellent train links. Dundee is well-connected by rail, with the Dundee Railway Station located just a short walk from the city centre. The station connects to major cities across Scotland, including Edinburgh, Glasgow, and Aberdeen.
I used the train several times during my stay to take day trips to other parts of Scotland. The trains are comfortable, with free Wi-Fi available on some services, and they are usually punctual.
Train Travel Tips
- Tickets: Train tickets can be purchased at the station or online via the ScotRail website or app. I recommend buying tickets in advance for longer journeys, especially if you’re travelling during peak times.
- Day Trips: If you’re planning to travel to other cities or towns, the trains from Dundee are great for quick getaways. For example, it’s about an hour to Edinburgh by train, which makes it perfect for a day trip.
- Getting to the Station: The Dundee Railway Station is located near the city centre, making it easy to reach by foot or by bus. It’s also close to Dundee’s waterfront, so if you’re coming from the V&A or Discovery Point, it’s just a short walk away.
4. Taxis and Ride-Hailing: Convenient for Door-to-Door Service
For those times when public transport isn’t the most convenient option, taxis and ride-hailing services like Uber are available throughout Dundee. I used a taxi a few times, particularly when I was travelling early in the morning or late at night.
Taxis in Dundee are reasonably priced, and the city is small enough that you won’t have to wait long for one to arrive. Ride-hailing services are also widely available, and using an app makes it simple to book a ride at any time of day or night.
Taxi and Ride-Hailing Tips
- Taxi Ranks: There are several taxi ranks located around the city, particularly near the bus station and railway station. If you’re looking for a taxi on the street, it’s easy to flag one down.
- Uber: Uber operates in Dundee, and using the app is straightforward. Fares are competitive with traditional taxis, and the service is usually quite quick.
- Pre-booking: If you have a specific time you need to be somewhere, it’s a good idea to pre-book a taxi. Many local companies offer this service, and it ensures you won’t have to wait around for one to arrive.
5. Cycling Around Dundee: A Green and Active Way to Explore
Another fun and eco-friendly way to get around Dundee is by bike. The city has been working on improving its cycling infrastructure, with dedicated bike lanes and bike racks spread across the area.
During my stay, I rented a bike for a day to explore some of Dundee’s parks and quieter streets. I found it to be a pleasant and relaxing way to see the city, especially along the waterfront. There are several places where you can rent bikes, and it’s a great way to get some fresh air while avoiding traffic.
Bike Rental and Routes
- Bike Hire: You can hire bikes from several companies in the city, including through Nextbike, which operates a bike-sharing service. Renting a bike is easy, and you can do so via their app or at one of the bike stations around the city.
- Cycle Routes: Dundee has a number of cycle paths and bike-friendly roads. Some of the best routes include cycling along the Dundee Waterfront or heading towards the Dundee Law, which offers panoramic views of the city.
- Cycle-Friendly Facilities: Dundee has plenty of bike racks and cycle parking at key locations, including the railway station and shopping centres. This makes it easy to stop and explore on foot if you need to.
6. Driving in Dundee: A Less Common Choice
While public transport and walking are the most popular ways to get around, driving is also an option, particularly if you’re planning to explore the surrounding areas or have a lot of luggage. However, driving in Dundee isn’t necessarily the most practical option for every traveller. The city centre can get quite busy, and parking can be tricky in some areas.
If you do decide to drive, there are several car rental companies available at the Dundee Airport or near the city centre. Just keep in mind that there are various one-way systems and parking restrictions, so be sure to check signs and park in designated areas.
Parking and Traffic Tips
- On-Street Parking: The city has both paid on-street parking and free parking zones. However, these can fill up quickly, especially around popular spots like the Overgate Shopping Centre and Dundee Waterfront.
- Parking Meters: Many of the parking spots in the city are metered, so you’ll need to pay for parking during your stay. Be sure to check the time limits to avoid fines.
- Public Parking Lots: There are also several large public car parks around the city, some of which are more affordable and offer longer-term parking.
7. The Best Way to Get Around Dundee
From buses to trains, taxis, bikes, and walking, getting around Dundee is relatively straightforward, and each option offers its own advantages. While I loved walking around the city and taking in the sights at my own pace, the buses and trains were incredibly helpful for exploring areas outside the city centre. I also enjoyed the convenience of taxis when I needed a quick lift, especially in the evenings.
Whatever your preferred method of transport, Dundee is a city that’s easy to navigate, and with the right information, you’ll be able to make the most of your time here. Whether you’re exploring the vibrant city centre or venturing out to nearby towns, getting around Dundee is as enjoyable as the journey itself.
