Dundee City Guide

Local dishes include haggis, Cullen Skink, and Dundee Cake. International foods like Indian and Italian are available. Vegan and vegetarian options are growing. Some late-night takeaways open on weekends.

Dundee has a growing nightlife with pubs, bars, clubs, live music, and quiz nights mainly around the city centre.

The city has a relaxed coffee scene with independent cafés and some specialty roasters.

Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory. Around 10-15% is common in restaurants; small tips or rounding up fares for taxis.

SIM cards are easy to buy in mobile stores and supermarkets. Major providers are EE, Vodafone, O2, and Three, with eSIM options available.

Streets are usually clean in central and residential areas. Waste collection and recycling are regular.

Some late-night pharmacies and 24/7 convenience stores exist. Emergency hospital care is always available. Limited late-night food options mostly on weekends.

Major supermarkets stock international products; local markets offer fresh produce. Shops open 7 AM–10 PM weekdays, shorter on Sundays.

Card payments work everywhere, including shops, restaurants, and public transport. Carrying cash isn't necessary for daily use.

ATMs are common near banks and shopping areas. Some international cards may have withdrawal fees.

Dundee has local primary and secondary schools. International schools are limited, but private options exist. English is the main teaching language.

The community is small but growing, with meetups and tech events tied to local universities and creative sectors.

Dundee has extensive parks and riverfront spaces, great for walking and running.

Good routes along the waterfront, city parks, and Dundee Law. Running groups and events are active.

Several gyms offer a range of fitness options across the city.

Public and club courts are available; booking and coaching options exist.

Padel is emerging but still uncommon in Dundee.

Several studios offer different yoga styles with English-speaking instructors and drop-in options.

Various clubs offer Judo, Karate, Taekwondo, BJJ, Muay Thai, and boxing with English-speaking instructors.

Glenshee Ski Centre is about 1.5 hours away. The season runs December to April with varied snow quality.

Kayaking, paddleboarding, and sailing on the River Tay with rentals and clubs available.

Surf spots are a short drive away, like St Andrews. Water is cold year-round, requiring wetsuits.

Diving is possible on the Scottish coast but limited near Dundee. Visibility varies and water is cold.

NHS Tayside runs Ninewells Hospital with English-speaking staff. Public healthcare is free for residents; private clinics offer faster service. Pharmacies are common.

Tap water in Dundee is safe to drink directly.

Parks with playgrounds and family-friendly cafés are common. Attractions like Discovery Point and Dundee Science Centre appeal to kids.

Dundee is inclusive and safe for LGBTQ+ people, with events like Pride and welcoming venues.

Pets are welcome in many places. Vet clinics and parks are common, along with pet-friendly hotels and shops.