Cardiff
Why we love Cardiff
There’s something to appeal to everyone who visits Wales – and its capital Cardiff is no exception.
Whether it’s white water rafting or an epic music scene you’re after, the city is a quirky, creative hub brimming with things to see and do. Step into 2,000 years of history at Cardiff Castle, or savour local produce at Cardiff Central Market. Get a taste of the action and head out of the city on the Cambrian Way to discover 185 miles (almost 300km) of National Parks, fairy-tale castles and snow-capped peaks. With a buzzing arts and foodie scene and independent shops galore, Cardiff is your gateway to all that’s wonderful about Wales.
Night at the museum
From audio described tours to digital events and art through the ages, the National Museum Cardiff has something for all. There’s late visits into the evening and a museum sleepover in 2025 with some friendly dinosaurs! At St Fagans National Museum of History, have a drink at the newly opened Vulcan pub, transported there brick-by-brick from the city centre.
Through Victorian arcades
Flourishing with indie shops, quirky cafes and the world’s oldest record shop, Cardiff Arcades are a must-visit. Discover the labyrinth of stores and eateries full of history and top-notch produce.
A paddling adventure
Hit up Cardiff Bay’s water for a paddle-led adventure in the city. Hop aboard a kayak for an exhilarating way to see Cardiff’s iconic sights and the city from an alternative perspective.
Tuck into the city’s flavours
From sustainable eateries to unique international flavours, Cardiff’s food scene packs a punch. Explore the city streets for iconic Welsh delights and local favourites on a food tour.
Masters of speed
Roaring back into Cardiff’s Principality Stadium is the FIM Speedway Grand Prix of Great Britain in 2025. See who’ll be crowned fastest at this British indoor motorsport tournament.
Cardiff
Explore Wales’ capital city Cardiff, famed for its Victorian shopping arcades, thriving food scene and adrenaline sports in Cardiff Bay.
Uncover over 2,000 years of history at Cardiff Castle, home to outdoor cinema and concerts in summer, or marvel at the story of Wales at St Fagans National Museum of History.
Watch world-class sport at the Principality Stadium, home to Wales’ national Rugby team, or enjoy live music at the Wales Millennium Centre.
Head out from Cardiff on the iconic Cambrian Way, a 185-mile (300km) driving route through the heart of Wales featuring National Parks, castles, mountains and more.
Fun fact
Fun fact
The Welsh capital is known as the City of Arcades, thanks to a labyrinth of shopping centres and arcades housing more than 100 independent cafes, shops and bars, including the world’s oldest record shop.
Did you know?
Did you know?
- Cardiff is actually home to two castles. Alongside Cardiff Castle in the heart of the city, Morgraig Castle was only discovered in the 20th century but is thought to be over 600 years old. It lies north of the city towards Caerphilly.
- Roald Dahl, author of children’s classics such as Charlie and the Chocolate Factory and Matilda, was born in Cardiff in 1916.
- Welsh National Opera, based in Cardiff, was created in 1943 by a group of miners, teachers, and doctors who wanted to honour Wales’ rich musical heritage.
- The National Museum Cardiff houses the largest collection of Impressionist art outside of Paris.
- The world’s first £1 million business deal was struck in the city’s Coal Exchange in the early 20th century.
Things to do in Cardiff
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Featured things to do
Step into nature
Embark on an adventure through Cardiff’s green haven, Bute Park. From woodlands, meadows and nature trails, to water taxis and guided walks, there's an abundance of ways to explore this urban arboretum.
Climb aboard your own boat
Take to the controls of your own boat for a self-guided adventure across Cardiff Bay, up the River Taff and out into the city centre. Choose between a half-hour journey, or sail for one hour for the full experience.
Lip-smacking stroll
Eat and drink your way around Cardiff this autumn on a Loving Welsh Food tour, fuelled by delicious Welsh delicacies like Welsh cakes and award-winning Welsh whisky. Hungry for more? Loving Welsh Food also offer Welsh cooking workshops with TV chef Nerys Howell.
Festive cheer in the city
From the Cardiff Christmas Market, with over 200 stalls to browse, to the state-of-the-art Light of Winter Trail, the city sparkles during the festive season. Get in the Christmas spirit at Winter Wonderland and marvel at Bute Park’s stunning illuminations.
Places to stay in Cardiff
Cardiff city centre
Find easy access to designer shops and traditional markets, diverse cuisine and the Principality Stadium in the mainly pedestrianised city centre.
Cardiff Bay
Home to a gleaming Cardiff International White Water Centre where you can try out lots of water sports, as well as cultural spots like the Wales Millennium Centre.
Pontcanna
Out in the city’s leafy suburb discover the Taff Trail on bike or by foot, or get artsy at Kings Road Yard filled with artists, makers, producers and bakers!
Explore nearby
Getting to Cardiff
Located in south Wales, Cardiff is a two-hour journey from London by train. The city is also served by Cardiff Airport, which operates direct and non-direct flights to and from a wide range of destinations.
Getting around
It’s easy to travel around the city hassle-free: visit Cardiff Bus to plan your journey and get all the latest information on ticket types. Full of pedestrianised areas, walking trails and parks and gardens galore, it’s simple and enjoyable to explore Cardiff by foot.
Discover more on travelling around Cardiff and Wales on traveline.
By bus
Download the Cardiff Bus app and you can buy and store tickets on your mobile, making travelling around the city by bus even easier.
By foot
Plot your route and discover more about the city’s walking trails, including the Wales Coast Path, at Outdoor Cardiff.
By train
Trains run into Cardiff Central Station from destinations all across Britain. Find information and train times to help plan your journey with Great Western Railway.
Want to know more?
Want to know more?
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