Top things to do in Cardiff
Attractions, tours, and activities in Cardiff
Cardiff: the city's best neighborhoods
Find a great area to stay in Cardiff
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Cardiff Bay
1.1 miles from downtown
This is a city that loves to party, and every weekend Cardiff Bay fills with revellers. Its stylish waterfront bars provide a festive alternative to the landlocked streets closer to the centre. Rugby fans rejoice in knowing that legendary winger Billy Boston came of age on these very docks, sipping these same brews.
Places to stay from $55 a night
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Cardiff Center
In downtown
Cardiff has grown a lot in the past decades. The city centre’s designer shops and lovely boutiques bear witness to a drive that keeps up with its kindred European capitals. The Holy Trinity of shopping streets are St. Mary’s, the Hayes, and Queen. In all three you’ll find sophisticates swinging bags and tourists sifting through vintage wares.
Places to stay from $32 a night
About Cardiff
Including tips for the best time to visit Cardiff
Situated in the historic county of Glamorgan, Cardiff is one of the largest cities in the United Kingdom and a relatively young capital of Wales. From architecture dating back to the Norman period to streets lined with trendy bistros, the city puts forth a good balancing act as a modern metropolis with medieval roots.
Tourism in Cardiff is largely centred on its rich history and culture. A visit to Cardiff Castle will give you a glimpse of the region’s medieval chronicles. You can also take a walk through the grounds of Castell Coch, a Gothic revival castle peeping out of ancient beech woods. Another prominent fortification to explore is the 13th-century Caerphilly Castle appearing to rise from a lake.
The natural backdrops of this Welsh city are best discovered on foot – be it walking along the waterfront area of the scenic Cardiff Bay or the heritage trails of Fforest Fawr. You’ll also spot many urban parks on your trip to Cardiff, one of them being the Bute Park – a landscaped garden along the banks of River Taff.
Cardiff’s shopping portfolio comprises timeless Victorian and Edwardian arcades, suburban retail parks and indoor markets. You’ll find independent boutiques and cafés at Royal Arcade, high-end brands at St David’s and fresh organic produce at Pontcanna Farmers Market.
Tonight
From $200 per night
Next weekend
From $306 per night
| Most popular time to visit | October-December |
| Cheapest time to visit | January-March |
| Local currency | £1 = $1.24 |
| Language | English |
| Average weekend price | $8 per night |
| Average weekday price | $7 per night |
| Average stay | 1 night |
Points of interest in Cardiff
Stay near the top sightseeing spots in Cardiff
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Cardiff Castle
0.1 miles from downtown
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St David's Hall
0.1 miles from downtown
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Cardiff City
1.3 miles from downtown
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St. Fagan's Castle
3.9 miles from downtown
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Cardiff Bay
1.4 miles from downtown
Cardiff reviews
What other travelers say about Cardiff
Cardiff is a vibrant city with plenty to see.
March 27, 2023
Cardiff is a vibrant city with plenty to see. Cardiff Castle is an absolute must to visit and take the tours. Restaurants are plentiful, as is the rich history of Cardiff which you get a sense of by visiting the castle and beautiful churches in the area. If at all possible I would suggest a visit to Cardiff Arms Park to catch a game of Rugby. During our stay the Womens Six Nations was being played.
A vibrant city proud of its heritage.
March 21, 2023
A vibrant city proud of its heritage. So impressed with the friendly and upbeat atmosphere there during the 5 Nations. Would like to return to explore more, to catch a boat to the Bay, see the castle, shop and try the restaurants, etc. Would recommend the college training college for an evening meal. Fantastic food, good views and accommodating staff.
I loved the shopping experience the mix of shops and markets...
March 20, 2023
I loved the shopping experience the mix of shops and markets great selection of fresh food cakes. A walk around Cardiff Castle very interesting and great back drop for photos. A wide choice of pubs and restaurants for lunch and dinner very enjoyable.
Cardiff is a vibrant and busy city.
March 18, 2023
Cardiff is a vibrant and busy city. Lots to do and see, Cardiff castle was an excellent place to visit. We also enjoyed visiting the National Museum of Wales. Stunning building and superb exhibitions. McSims is a lovely coffee and pastry cafe in the centre. Highly recommended by us.
I booked adjoining rooms for a family trip.
March 16, 2023
I booked adjoining rooms for a family trip. The hotel confirmed my request. However when I got to the hotel they had 2 rooms on 2 different floors. It was not safe for young children to sleep on different floors. The staff acknowledged that it was the hotels mistake but said there was nothing they could do. I was charged full price for the two rooms and I will not be returning.
I love Cardiff and have come from Barry for a last minute...
March 11, 2023
I love Cardiff and have come from Barry for a last minute night break Webbbooked at 11pm at night and was able access the building with the hosts permission with finding out last minute . Provided us with everything we needed to know with our being rushed .
Popular places to stay in Cardiff
Stay in some of the best accommodations Cardiff has to offer
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Stunning Spacious City Apartment with free parking Cardiff Center, Cardiff
From $198 per night
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The Coach House Cardiff Outskirts, Cardiff
From $119 per night
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Hansen House Cardiff Apartment with Parking Cardiff Bay, Cardiff
From $148 per night
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Parador 44 Cardiff Center, Cardiff
From $93 per night
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Ty Mynydd Lodge Holiday Home Cardiff Outskirts, Cardiff
From $124 per night
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