The lively capital of Wales features sports, theatre and art against backdrops of a cosmopolitan waterfront and iconic architecture.
Expect a warm Welsh welcome when you visit Cardiff, a city with attractions old and new within a vibrant atmosphere year round. Get a culture fix at acclaimed museums and shop in Victorian-era arcades. Nature takes centre stage while cycling along the Wales Coast Path, and performance art enlivens venues across the city after dark.
Visit Cardiff in summer to catch the Cardiff Food and Drink Festival. See the spectacular blooms at the RHS Flower Show in spring and join the crowds for Six Nations Rugby championships in February. Winter Wonderland features ice rinks and funfair attractions from late November to early January.
Things to do in Cardiff
Cardiff Castle takes prime position in the heart of the city, with fairytale towers and a history that spans more than 2,000 years. Take a tour to see opulent rooms and climb the Great Clock Tower. In The Firing Line Museum, learn about Welsh soldiers with memorabilia from two regiments. The Bute Park and Arboretum rests behind the castle with themed nature trails and charming garden cafés.
Victorian and Edwardian-era arcades tempt shoppers with the offerings in quaint boutiques and quirky independent shops. Explore the Castle Quarter to shop along High Street Arcade, Castle Arcade and Duke Street Arcade for vintage treasures and coffee shops. For high-end brands, head to St David’s shopping centre.
Adventure seekers find plenty to do in Cardiff. Take the challenge of rafting at Cardiff International White Water in the International Sports Village. Learn sailing at the Cardiff Bay Water Activity Centre and tee off with the whole family at Cardiff Golf Centre. A dinosaur-themed crazy course suits all ages, while a driving range tests your golf skills.
Culture and history in Cardiff
From woolly mammoths to meteorites, National Museum Cardiff brims with fascinating displays. Admire the national art collections of Wales on the first floor, along with works from Monet, Rodin and Van Gogh. At the Museum of Cardiff, learn the story of the city from its origins as a small, 1300s market town.
Once the centre of commerce in Wales, the Grade I listed Pierhead building is a symbol of the city. Take a photo with the striking red bricks and clocktower, then see historical displays inside. The family-friendly Royal Mint Experience features a fun factory tour highlighting the coin making process. You’ll even have the opportunity to strike your own coin to keep.
Dining and nightlife in Cardiff
Visit Cardiff’s city centre to take your pick of atmospheric restaurants where you can savour warm Welsh cakes and Glamorgan sausages. The Victorian-era Cardiff Market is a great place to start, with everything from fishmongers to traditional sweet shops beneath a glass roof. Cardiff Bay is a drinking and dining hub, with a fantastic array of restaurants and bars at Mermaid Quay.
Theatre and performing arts buffs are spoilt for choice while visiting Cardiff. Watch live music at St David’s Hall to enjoy its renowned acoustics. With West End musicals, ballet, stand-up comedy and more, there’s something to suit your mood at Wales Millennium Centre. For rollicking pubs and nightclubs, head to Westgate Street and St Mary Street.
Getting around Cardiff
Fly into Cardiff Airport then take the 30-minute drive to the city centre. Trains connect the airport with Cardiff Central station, along with shuttle buses and taxis. Along with the efficient public transport system, water taxis get you between Cardiff Bay and the city centre. With flat, compact streets and pedestrianised areas, walking and cycling are the best ways to get around Cardiff.
