10 Must-visit hidden gems in Dundee

Known for its family-friendly attractions, a great selection of shops, and as the UK's first UNESCO City of Design, we already know Dundee is a wonderful city to visit, but did you know there's also some hidden gems and secret spots for you to explore too? You just have to know where to look. Here are a few unique Dundee experiences.

  1. Broughty Ferry shoreline Broughty Ferry

    Broughty Ferry is situated four miles east of the City of Dundee and was formerly a fishing village in the 19th century.

    © VisitScotland / Kenny Lam

    Combining a mix of big shops and houses on the hillside and small, quaint fisherman's cottages on the shoreline, Broughty Ferry boasts a quirky vibe. Featuring a selection of pubs and restaurants, this seaside suburb is a great place for a stroll along the coast, followed by a relaxing, hearty meal with spectacular views out to sea. Make sure you keep your eyes peeled for dolphins playing in the waves! 

  2. Flame Tree Café Dundee

    Flame Tree Café, Dundee

    © @dundeefoodbible

    Just a short walk from many of Dundee’s top attractions, the Flame Tree Café has been attracting rave reviews for its innovative food and drink options, including rainbow bagels, beetroot lattes, milkshakes and tasty wraps and paninis. Check this café out if you have specific dietary requirements too – it offers lots of free-from and vegan menu choices.

  3. Dundee Museum of Transport Dundee

    Dundee Museum of Transport

    A lesser known attraction in the heart of the city, Dundee Museum of Transport is a great day out for the little ones, and bigger ones alike, featuring a wide range of classic and modern modes of transport that have been used throughout the years. 

    Key facilities
    • Parking
    • On Public Transport Route
    • Pets Welcome
    • Accessible Parking Or Drop-off Point
    • Level Access
    • Accessible toilets
    • Cafe or Restaurant
  4. Open/Close Dundee Dundee

    Open/Close Dundee

    © © VisitScotland / Luigi Di Pasquale

    Uncover Dundee's creative side with Open/Close Dundee. Explore the nooks and crannies of the city's colourful and vibrant buildings with its series of street art trails. Head off-the-beaten track and come across hidden alleyways of artwork from a mixture of local and international artists.

  5. Agacan Kebab House Dundee

    Agacan Kebab House, Dundee

    © @agacankebabhouse

    Who needs flashy lights and interior décor when you can have a Turkish kebab shop and art gallery in one? Agacan on Perth Road is a small family-run business - making it the perfect spot for an authentic Turkish dinner or a tasty takeaway, all whilst appreciating the quirky art and vibrant atmosphere.

  6. Dundee Treasure Trail Dundee

    Tay Bridge, Dundee

    © @sam_and_her_cam

    Venture around Dundee on this fun, family-friendly treasure hunt. Explore the Dundee Treasure Trail to discover new places, learn more about the city's monuments and structures, and solve sneaky clues along the way - all on this self-guided route. Starting at Yeaman Shore, wander the streets of Dundee and pass by Albert Square, City Square, Howff Cemetery and more en route.

  7. Old Steeple Dundee City

    The Old Steeple

    Uncover Scotland's oldest surviving medieval church tower - the Old Steeple. This tower has withstood over 500 years of battles, armies and attacks, and is now home to a collection of medieval carved stones, an Antiquities Room, and the Cap House. For those who aren't fazed by heights, make sure you climb the 232 steps to the top of the tower and enjoy the scenic bird's eye view of the city - don't forget your camera!

  8. Royal Tay Yacht Club Broughty Ferry

    Royal Tay Yacht Club

    © @rhonagray

    Ever wanted to find your sea legs? Or even try out sailing? Head to The Royal Tay Yacht Club boathouse overlooking the Tay where you can learn all about sailing and take part in training courses. If you prefer dry land, you can still learn about sailing, the boats, models and more at the Model Boat Club in the east end of the city.

  9. Clark's Bakery Dundee

    Clark's Bakery, Dundee

    © @judgefoodie_

    Have you ever wanted a delicious bakery-style midnight snack? Well, head to Clark's 24 Hour Bakery for their fine selection of pies, as well as paninis, baguettes, homemade soup, cakes, ice cream and more to enjoy at any time you fancy.

  10. Independent markets Dundee

    Inside the studio of designer Kate Scarlet Harvey

    © @katescarletdesigner

    There's plenty of independent and quirky shops as well as markets, and boutiques to browse through in the city centre. For example, Dundee's Indie Markets boast spectacular work and creative pieces from artists, jewellers, designers and artisan food producers as they all come together in a pop-up style market place - great for during the summer months.

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