DISTANCE FROM ISLAMABAD AIRPORT TO THE CITY CENTRE

Located about 30 km from the centre of the city, the Islamabad International Airport (IATA: ISB) is the main international airport catering to the needs of the citizens of Islamabad. Good connectivity exists between the airport and the city. You might arrive at odd hours like late at night or early in the morning, but be assured of finding transport to take you to your chosen destination. Irrespective of the flight class, premium economy flight or business class flight on which you might be travelling, transport to the main city is easy.

ISLAMABAD AIRPORT TRANSPORT

The airport is well connected to the main city. Depending on your specific requirements like convenience and budget, you can choose the mode of transport to travel by. 

Airport Taxi: The best way to travel from the airport to the main city is a taxi. It will take you roughly 30 minutes to cover the full distance and the fare will be roughly £7.

Uber, Shared Taxi: In case you are looking for a cheaper option, then you can decide to travel by a shared Taxi or Uber. They are a great way to save money, as their fares are lower, but can go up during peak hours.

Are you travelling by First Class Flights: If you are travelling by this class of flight, you can also request the management to provide you with transportation to and from the airport. Nearly all airlines which operate this category of flights provide pick-up and drop-off services.

FLYING TIME FROM ABERDEEN TO ISLAMABAD

Owing to the large distance between these two cities, there are no direct flights when you travel between Aberdeen and Islamabad. All flights will take a minimum of approximately 26 to 29 hours while covering the distance. Some of the common stopovers which you will be encountering en route are:-

Manchester

Newcastle

Dublin

London 

Heathrow

Doha

A common query which passengers often have are whether or not their luggage will be transported to their chosen destination or not. Be rest assured that all airlines operating flights on this route have taken adequate measures to ensure that your luggage is not misplaced in transit.

ATTRACTIONS IN ISLAMABAD

Islamabad, an ultra-modern planned city contains innumerable attractions. They stand as a tall testimony to what all the founding fathers of the country had envisioned. Written below are the top five sites which you must see while sightseeing in the city.

Shah Faisal Mosque: An amazing example of modern Islamic Architecture nestled right at the foot of Margalla Hills, the site is a juxtaposition of contemporary and traditional architectural design styles. The prayer hall and courtyard can hold up to 100,000 people and is one of the largest mosques in South Asia. Designed by the famous Turkish architect Vedat Dalokay and completed in 1986 with a $120 million grant from King Faisal of Saudi Arabia, you will be in absolute awe of this architectural marvel. Visitors are welcome, but non-Muslims are requested to avoid prayer times and Fridays.

Lok Virsa Museum: This museum is home to a fascinating array of handicrafts such as wood carvings, old jewellery and beautifully embroidered costumes all showcasing the fascinating heritage of the country. As a tourist, you can also purchase souvenirs like books and other media of folk and classical music from the adjacent bookshop. As a visitor, the only thing you should keep in mind is that photography inside the museum is strictly prohibited. Another tourist attraction situated near Shakarparian National Park, from where you can go and enjoy breathtaking views of Margalla Hills.

Nurpur Shahan Village: Located about 4 km northeast of the city is the Nurpur Shah village. Originally a shrine dedicated to Bari Shah Latif of Bari Imam, the 17 century Sufi teacher who is also the National Capital Region''s unofficial patron saint. The Thursday evening can be especially festive, with pilgrims visiting the shrine from far and wide and dancing to trance-like qawwali (Islamic Devotional Singing). Probably the best time to visit the city is in the last week of May, when "Urs" (the death anniversary festival) of the saint is celebrated. 

Pakistan Monument: The reddish brown granite structure was originally conceived to showcase the diverse culture and unity amongst the host communities. Flanked on all four sides by well-tended gardens which are shaped like an unfurling flower, with the four main petals representing the constituent provinces of Punjab, Sindh, Baluchistan and the North West Frontier Province. It also serves as a reminder of the Martyrs who sacrificed their today for a better tomorrow for the country''s citizens.

Taxila Excavations: Only 32 kilometres from its federal capital, Islamabad. The Taxila excavations were originally done by the father of Indian Archaeology, Sir Alexander Cuningham who was the first one to identify the local site as the ancient Taxila. Most of the main historical sites of this ancient university town are located at a close distance of about 2 kilometres from the museum. It is home to a significant and comprehensive collection of Gandharan art dating from the 1st to the 7th centuries CE.

The city''s planners have taken diligent steps to ensure that tourists have a merry time in the city. You will not regret your decision to travel from Aberdeen to Islamabad and take home with you memories to cherish for years to come.

SHOPPING IN ISLAMABAD

Going shopping in a city, is probably the best way to learn more about it and get an exposure into how citizens lead their lives. Additionally, you will also be able to pick up a variety of souvenirs to remind you of the good times spent. Given below is a brief list of places which you should definitely pay a visit to while in Islamabad:

Itwar Bazar: A typical South Asian bazaar, selling items required by the urban dweller. From carpets, clothes, crockery, and household goods to vegetables, you will surely get everything here. Though the market is open all seven days a week, the best time to visit is Tuesday when the rates are cheapest. Though you might find it crowded, rest assured of getting lucrative bargains and items of good quality on all products being sold within its premises. If you are unable to find something of interest, then at least you can purchase fresh fruits and vegetables here. Surely worth a visit when in town.

Giga Mall: Giga Mall Islamabad is an iconic, premier shopping destination for fulfilling all your indulgences. It offers an exceptional retail mix combined with world-class entertainment and leisure attractions. A good venue to spend the evening is by catching a movie in the attached multiplex. Added draws are an excellent choice of shops, boutiques and outlets selling branded designer ware. Recommended by families with small children and adolescents, who can have an enjoyable time in the food court, where you can dig into an eclectic variety of delicious cuisines to tantalize your tastebuds. 

Gallery 6: If you are inclined to purchase works of local art, then this is the best place to come in the city. The largest private art gallery in Islamabad, containing over 400 feet of work distributed on multiple floors. Some of the creations to see here are paintings, prints and sculptures done by amateur and established Pakistani artists. You are bound to be floored by the skill, intelligence and originality of work done by the local talent who showcase their work here.

Aabpara Market: Built in 1960, this is one of the oldest and famous markets in the city. The best part about coming shopping here is that you can purchase nearly all items of daily use to keep a household running smoothly like dry fruits, toys, kitchen utensils and leather goods. An intrepid traveller like you can get the necessary items while sightseeing through the country at really reasonable rates. The place to come and visit if you want exactly how native residents of Islamabad shop for all of their daily needs.

The Centaurus Mall Islamabad: A 64-floor skyscraper, this is one of the best malls in Islamabad which you can visit. You will be impressed by its large size, and variety of shops selling an extensive array of over 250 local, and foreign brands from US and UK. Surely, the one-stop destination for you to purchase a diverse range of offerings ranging from wedding designer outlets, make-up brands, electronics, handicrafts, and carpets. Other attractions which appeal to tourists are the interesting selection of restaurants where you can go taste lip-smacking local cuisines.

Over the years, thousands of tourists have visited locations stated above and been able to purchase memorabilia to remind them of the happy times spent. They are a must visit location while exploring the city.

NIGHTLIFE IN ISLAMABAD

Islamabad, Pakistan''s capital city is famous for its beautiful architecture, lush green parks and peaceful environment. The city has everything, whether you want to spend time relaxing during the evening or an adventurous night out. Some places you can visit to see what all it has to offer are:

F-7 Markaz: One of the must-visit places in the city is this commercial area, also known as the Jinnah Supermarket. This bustling area happens to be home to a large variety of cafes, shops and restaurants staying open late into the night. There is plenty to do here. You can just go for a stroll, taste delicious food or just sit back and soak in the festive atmosphere. Surely the best location where you will be able to go taste typical Pakistani roadside cuisine.

The Rock Musicarium: If you are a fan of swaying to the beats of live music, simply head over here. The venue hosts regular musical performances done by local bands and musicians, covering a wide variety of domains ranging from jazz, and classical to folk. The energetic atmosphere and talented performers will surely ensure that you have a memorable time. Especially popular with youngsters who are looking for a merry time outdoors.

Scenic Viewpoints: Perched atop the Margalla Hills, you will be able to take in breathtaking views of the cityscape from viewpoints like Daman-e-Koh and Pir Sohawa. They are the perfect background for a romantic evening with your lover or a stroll under the stars while taking in lovely panoramic views of the cityscape.

The Warehouse: Located in the F-7 Markaz shopping area, this is a really popular recreation spot with the younger crowd of the city. The major attractions here are the dance floor and DJ booth where you can come groove to the latest popular tracks. Containing a vibrant ambience and facilities for playing lively music and karaoke, this is the perfect spot to come and unwind with a cocktail and enjoy panoramic views.

Street Food Stalls: Are you eager to taste mouth-watering local cuisines? Then you should try out street food from the local food stalls in the city markets. Samosas and sweet jalebis are particularly popular with tourists coming to the city. The stalls are open till late at night and are a pocket-friendly option for those interested in trying out typical Pakistani dishes and experiencing what life in Islamabad is like.

Over the years, many tourists have written extensively about the merry times spent here. As a night owl, you will certainly enjoy exploring the city''s attractions.

WHERE TO GET FOREX CONVERTED IN ISLAMABAD

Are you coming to Islamabad for sightseeing? Then it becomes imperative for you to keep some bills of the local currency, the Pakistani Rupee along with you to pay for essentials like food, drinks, tips at restaurants and taxis. There are bound to be times when cards and cheques do not work, and that''s when cash comes in handy. Only then can you ensure a smooth experience while travelling in a foreign country. Some of the places which you can visit to get copies of the local currency are:

Currency exchange at the airport: A convenient location to go and exchange money. While currency exchange services are available at the airport, the only drawback is that the exchange rates might not be competitive.

Banks: If you wish to get copies of the local currency, then the banks written below can also be visited. They roughly charge a commission fee of 2-3% of the total amount exchanged.

• Meezan Bank
• HBL
• Faysal Bank
• Bank al Habib

Purchase Travellers Cheque: If on holiday, vacation, or business you can also inquire about purchasing Travellers Cheques.

Currency Exchange Bureaus: Another popular location to exchange money.

GREAT EATING PLACES IN ISLAMABAD

Pakistani cuisines have a delightful combination of South, Central and West Asian influences. A gastronome paradise, over the years innumerable tourists have had wonderful experiences tasting food here. When in the city you think of coming to the restaurants listed below. 

Tuscany Courtwary Islamabad: A renowned Italian restaurant, where you can savour typical continental food. Careful attention has been given to ensuring that you can dine in an ambience, where you will be able to obtain typical European vibes. Enjoy picturesque views of the Margalla Hills when you savour tasty meals made of high-quality ingredients. The courtyard also features a fountain and lush greenery, which add to its allure.

Asian Wok: Located in the commercial Beverly Centre, this is one of the best Chinese restaurants in the city. Famous among the city’s populace for serving high-quality food in an elegant ambience. Added draws is the fact that you can taste delicious dishes such as lobster, beef, chop souey, squid, fish and prawns. The outlet to come to if you are looking for authentic Chinese flavours.

The Monal Restaurant: A renowned restaurant that in addition to mouth-watering food, is home to an art gallery containing beautiful paintings, sculptures and other works. You will surely love the natural view of the city and the greenery which plays an important role in bringing visitors close to nature. The restaurant is truly great value for money. After tasting the work of skilled chefs, you will like to come back for more.

Ox & Grill Steakhouse: The place to go if you are in the mood to taste typical American dishes like mashed potatoes, grilled cheeseburgers and hash browns. The high point of coming to this restaurant would be tasting the hot & sour soup and the juicy beef steak both of which are been cooked to perfection. The unique selling point of this restaurant is that the staff are polite and efficient and the orders are served in a reasonable time.

Yum Chinese & Thai: Specializing in Thai, Chinese and continental cuisines, this restaurant combines tasty food, and ambience and has outlets in multiple locations throughout the city. Great care is taken to ensure that food quality is kept at the highest standards, service is prompt and customers have little cause to complain.

Visitors have heaped lavish praise on the culinary skills of Islamabad’s chefs. After tasting the delicious dishes, you will surely like to come back for more. 

HOTELS STAY IN ISLAMABAD

Come to Islamabad for the holiday of a lifetime. As a result, it''s highly popular with everybody for everybody looking for a wonderful holiday. There are many attractions both in the city and around it. Planned to perfection by the administrators, simply head on to this destination and a have memorable experience. In conclusion, find suitable accommodation in Islamabad, irrespective of your budget.

Rahat villas apartment (5 Star)

Address: MV96+49M, 44000 Islamabad, Pakistan

Live in luxury befitting royalty in this amazing hotel. Coming on a business trip? Without a doubt, effectively accomplish your aims of coming to Islamabad. Thousands have come before you and have taken wonderful memories along with them. Make full use of facilities like the projector, conference room and cafeteria. In other words, the one-stop destination for all to have a memorable experience while in the city.

Rose Lodges Guest House (5 Star)

Address: New Rose Lodges Guest House, House No 446, Street 51, G-9 Sector, 44000 Islamabad, Pakistan

Experience 5-star luxury, that too at highly competitive rates. In other words, this is the unique selling point of this hotel. Management works hard. As a result, the hotel ranks very high on multiple parameters of evaluation. An amazing combination of good food, cleanliness as well as prompt service. In conclusion, Rose Lodges Guest House is the best hotel to stay Islamabad.

Oriole Luxury Hotel (5 Star)

Address: 52 Street 55 House 52, Sector G9/4, G-9 Sector, 44000 Islamabad, Pakistan

Located close to popular tourist attractions, a luxurious venue to stay. In addition, it''s situated close to the airport. Coming at odd hours like early morning or late night? Surely come stay here. Complementary pickup and drop-off services are provided for all guests. Additionally, management works hard to raise the bar higher.  Also, it has obtained top ratings on multiple parameters of evaluation. Be assured of a comfortable, memorable stay and a wonderful time spent within its premises.

Best Western Premier Islamabad (4 Star)

Address: 6 Club Road, Islamabad 6 Club Road, Islamabad, 44000 Islamabad, Pakistan

The best combination of comfort and cost in Islamabad. In other words, a major favourite of tourists coming to the Pakistani capital. Located close to the main tourist attractions in the city. Without a doubt, the best place to put up for sightseeing. Rated as the best on many platforms covering developments in the tourist circuit in the city.  In conclusion, come up here to enjoy exploring the city.

Hotel One Super, Islamabad (4 Star)

Address: Main Aga Khan Road House # 36F-6/4, F-6 Sector, 44000 Islamabad, Pakistan

The best hotel to come put up after a tiring day spent sightseeing. Without a doubt, your stay here can be extremely memorable. Contains a variety of facilities such as an attached bar, food court, gym and sauna. Popular with dignitaries, businessmen and other men of stature coming to Islamabad. Because of the staff''s intelligent and diligent efforts, the hotel has been declared one of the best places where you can come stay.

Grand Islamabad Hotel (3 Star)

Address: St 1, MPCHS E-11/1 MPCHS E 11/1 E-11, Islamabad, Islamabad Capital Territory, Pakistan

Travel in a thrifty manner? Well, go put up in the Grand Islamabad Hotel. In addition, to being cheap all facilities are provided at really reasonable rates. Decide to put up here, if you are coming at odd times. Without a doubt a favourite with female and solo travellers.  Because of these features, all guests have a lovely time staying here.

Are you are backpacker, a family man or a business tycoon? Islamabad will not disappoint you. Head over to Islamabad and have an amazing time exploring.