Cardiff

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Cardiff

Cardiff, the youngest capital city in Europe, is known for its castle, art, dragons, river, Victorian arcades, parks, rugby, music, university, bay, and Brains beer. This diverse list of attractions means that whether you enjoy art, rugby, historical castles, modern architecture, classical music, or new bands in pubs, Cardiff has something for everyone.

The City

The Welsh capital magically combines the old with the new. Its stunning castle with 2,000 years of history stands a short distance away from the spaceship-like Principality Stadium. Nowhere is this combination of old and new more obvious than the newly developed Cardiff Bay area where red bricked buildings and old wharfs sit next to new piers and glass fronted restaurants. Old industrial cranes and the remnants of collapsed piers are now modern sculptures and the new boardwalks are lit by old fashioned street lights. The immaculate Pierhead Building, built in 1896, sits alongside the Millennium Centre — Cardiff’s equivalent of Sydney Opera House — with its protruding engraved frontage resembling the bow of an enormous container ship. If you prefer the old to the new, then north of the castle sit three dramatic white Portland stone buildings: The Law Courts, City Hall, and the National Museum and Gallery. This area is known as the Civic Centre, and it’s worth taking a stroll up the wide boulevard to admire the architecture. Cardiff is a compact city and easy to explore on foot and is so well signposted it is impossible to get lost, and you will notice that signs are in both English and Welsh. The street names are also in both languages and don’t be surprised when the person next to you at the bar orders a pint of Brains beer in their native tongue. For a small city, Cardiff gives the visitor an endless choice of attractions and distractions both old and new. And if that was not enough, there are even more fascinating museums and incredible castles on its doorstep as well as stunning areas of natural beauty such as the Brecon Beacons and the Glamorganshire Heritage Coastline.

Do & See Dining Cafes Bars & Nightlife Shopping Tourist Information

Do & See

Cardiff offers a wealth of activities and sights, and its compact size makes it exceptionally easy to explore on foot. Enjoy a leisurely walk along Cardiff Bay, unwind beneath the trees in Bute Park, or delve into the city’s rich history at Cardiff Castle. These are just a few of the experiences that Cardiff has to offer.

Cardiff Castle

This walled fortress boasts 2000 years of history. Originally a Roman fort, the castle was rebuilt after the Norman conquest and served as a keep until the 18th century, when it became the home of the Bute family, who renovated it in Gothic Revival style. You can walk around the Norman keep, discover the …

Bute Park

The entrance to the park is a short walk along Castle Street, to the left of the castle. The gardens have their own walled parapet that features incredibly life-like stone animals including a bear, lion, hyena, monkeys and a pelican. The park runs alongside the River Taff and has great views of the castle …

Principality Stadium

The stadium opened in 1999 and is the home of the Wales national rugby union team and the largest covered stadium in Europe. It is also a venue for football cup finals and music concerts. Guided tours of the stadium are also …

National Museum Cardiff

This impressive domed building houses one of the largest collections of Impressionist paintings in Europe, along with the best Welsh art. The museum also comprises an archaeology and geology collection as well as a natural history exhibit with giant skeletons of whales and …

St John the Baptist Church

With the exception of Cardiff Castle, St John the Baptist Church is the oldest building in the city. The church originally dates back to 1180 but was destroyed in 1404 during the Welsh Revolt and rebuilt thereafter in Gothic style. Now it serves as an Anglican church and is open to the public for …

Cardiff Bay

Cardiff Bay has altered beyond recognition, from its past as the world’s largest coal exporting port to a modern sports and leisure complex. It is also Europe’s largest waterfront development which has a wealth of leisure activities available both on and off the water. Sights of interest and things to do include: Pierhead Building, …

Castell Coch (Red Castle)

A fairytale castle nestled in the woods on the outskirts of the city. Despite bearing the mark of Victorian renovation, it still retains much of its medieval charm and it offers an interesting insight into medieval architecture and …

St Fagans National Museum of History

Open air museum set on 100 acres of parkland on the outskirts of Cardiff. The museum is a village of 40 buildings that tell the story of Wales throughout the ages, and each building was transported brick-by-brick from their original location. The village includes a 17th-century farmhouse, working men’s hall, a tannery, bakery and …

Caerphilly Castle

The second biggest castle in Britain (after Windsor), it was built in the late 13th century to secure the area against Welsh attacks from the north. The castle is one of the greatest examples of medieval military architecture displaying an enormous array of defensive structures such as high towers, large moats and barbicans. It …

Brecon Beacons National Park

Located an hour from Cardiff, Brecon Beacons National Park is a natural reserve with an area of 1,340 square kilometres. Inside the park it is possible to enjoy many outdoor activities such as hiking, mountain biking, horse riding, bird watching and so on. The park is also perfect for stargazing, as it was recognised …

Wales Millennium Centre

The Wales Millennium Centre was built as a haven for arts and performances. It houses a theatre and several halls, restaurants and shops, hosting live events like plays, operas and concerts on a regular basis. The centre is also the home of various organisations such as the Welsh National Opera, the National Dance Company …

Techniquest

Founded in 1986 by Professor John Beetlestone and his colleagues from Cardiff University, Techniquest is a discovery and science centre with many exhibits and activities for children and science lovers. Inside you will find a science theatre, a planetarium and more than 120 different exhibits where you can test your abilities and discover more …

Cardiff International White Water

Water-based adventures and thrilling activities abound at Cardiff International White Water. Choose from a variety of sports including rafting, canoeing, kayaking, and gorge walking. Additionally, the Indoor Wave offers the excitement of surfing with the convenience and safety of an indoor environment, simulating the rush of ocean waves right in the heart of the …

Senedd — National Assembly Building

The Senedd is the administrative heart of Cardiff, where the National Assembly gathers to discuss matters of political interest. The building is a fine example of modern architecture and was designed to be environmentally friendly, with a sustainable heating system and …

Dining

Wales is famous for its culinary offerings, such as lamb, cheese, laverbread, and Welsh rarebit, which locals celebrate as the ‘ultimate grilled cheese on toast’. Cardiff's restaurants blend traditional Welsh dishes with innovative international cuisine. Additionally, the city's vibrant food scene provides tastes from around the world, catering to all preferences.

Tir a Môr

Tir a Môr at voco St David's combines stunning Cardiff Bay views with Welsh fine dining. Enjoy modern twists on Welsh classics like Brecon venison pie or Bara Brith pudding. The terrace offers an ideal spot for al fresco meals, and the bar serves up local spirits in crafted …

Signor Valentino

This is a modern Italian restaurant located in Mermaid Quay, right on the waterfront in the busy Cardiff Bay area. They offer a menu with freshly prepared Italian cuisine, including pasta, pizza, fish and meat dishes. It’s recommended to book in advance, especially on Friday and Saturday …

Nant Restaurant

Located just outside Cardiff, this restaurant is a college training facility at the Coleg y Cymoedd Nantgarw Campus. As such, it is staffed by students who do their very best to provide a great service and an excellent dining …

The Hellenic Eatery

The Hellenic Eatery is a family-run Greek restaurant serving authentic Greek food, as all the ingredients are imported from Greece and dishes are prepared the Greek way. Try their Greek classics such as moussaka, souvlaki and gyros, as well as Greek wine and …

Le Monde

At Le Monde, diners can enjoy a varied selection of fresh fish, meat, and salads. The restaurant features a friendly atmosphere, banquet-style décor, and an open kitchen. It is well-known in Cardiff as a top destination for seafood …

Cafes

Cardiff boasts a variety of cafes, tea rooms and eateries that will satisfy the needs of even the pickiest of guests with excellent coffee, delicious food and the typical Welsh hospitality. Cardiff has it all, from small, unpretentious eateries to elegant cafes and classy British tea houses.

Hayes Island Snack Bar

Hayes Island Snack Bar, resembling the mobile cafés found at funfairs, is actually a 100-year-old listed building. This Cardiff institution serves up tasty hot and cold drinks, sandwiches, and hot rolls from its charming …

Honeybee House Tearoom

Located in the village of Llanishen, just outside Cardiff, Honeybee House Tearoom is famous for its welcoming atmosphere and home baked cakes. They also host afternoon teas and special …

KIN+ILK

KIN+ILK Café serves specialty coffee sourced primarily from El Salvador, complemented by a delectable selection of locally sourced, flavourful dishes. Enjoy expertly crafted oat milk cappuccinos and an inviting range of cakes in a relaxed, friendly setting right in the heart of …

Coffee Barker

Visit Coffee Barker in Cardiff for a fusion of New York charm and Parisian chic. Indulge in a hearty breakfast, substantial sandwiches, or delicious cakes, complemented by a diverse drink selection. Perfectly located near major attractions for a delightful …

Mec Coffee

Mec Coffee is your go-to for exceptional Round Hill Roastery beans and a versatile filter coffee menu. Enjoy top-notch service and a cosy ambiance, ideal for a warm drink on a chilly day. A charming spot in the city for coffee aficionados and chocolate lovers …

Bars & Nightlife

Cardiff boasts over 350 pubs and bars, many of which are owned by the local Brains Beer brewery. Home to famous singers and bands like Tom Jones, Shirley Bassey, Stereophonics, Manic Street Preachers, Catatonia, and Feeder, Wales offers a rich music scene. The city has numerous clubs and venues where you can enjoy live music.

The Dead Canary

Hidden in a backstreet of central Cardiff, The Dead Canary welcomes its guests with a quiet atmosphere and amazing cocktails. The drinks are named after characters from the medieval Welsh tale collection Mabinogion, which adds a nice touch of Welsh folklore to the soft and cosy ambience of this …

Porter's

Porter's might look like a classic pub, yet it offers much more. With a selection of fine beers, wines, and teas, it's a popular spot among locals for its vibrant atmosphere and quality music. The pub also features a small theatre, hosting live performances and …

Clwb Ifor Bach

Often called 'the Welsh Club', this venue spans three floors, each offering a distinct musical scene. It's one of the few places in Cardiff where you can still enjoy a dedicated rock night, catering to a variety of musical …

Lab 22

Lab 22 is a sophisticated cocktail bar known for its refined interior and welcoming atmosphere. It offers a vast selection of cocktails and spirits, and you can even learn to craft your own drinks at one of their cocktail …

Old Arcade

Old Arcade is a typical Welsh pub with good local ales, pub food and rugby. The pub is owned by Brains Brewery, so the beer selection is great and the interior is nicely decorated with rugby …

The Dock

The Dock is ideally located right on the water’s edge at Mermaid Quay. It spans two large floors, featuring a restaurant upstairs, a smaller crow's nest above the first floor, and two external balconies, offering stunning views of the surrounding …

Shopping

The majority of high street stores are located along pedestrian Queen Street. The city also has two main shopping centres located off Queen Street — The St David’s Centre and the Capitol Shopping Centre. The city has several arcades, but the ones worth visiting are Morgan, Castle, High Street, Royal and Wyndham, they are all located along St Mary Street and High Street. Most are two storeys high and look like perfectly preserved Victorian streets filled with coffee shops, boutiques and jewellery shops. Cardiff Central Market is located between St Mary Street and The Hayes. Take a walk round the upper balcony and look down upon the hustle and bustle of the market and admire its central clock tower.