Cardiff day out for under £50

Getting around

Cardiff city centre is compact, so you can walk practically everywhere you’d want to go. To venture outside the city or to speed around the sights, you can buy an all day bus ticket for £3.
Total spend: £0/£3 

What to see 

Millennium Stadium

Take a tour of the high-tech Millennium Stadium, Cardiff’s fantastic sports arena with an amazing retractable roof. Tours include walking the players’ tunnel, a rugby museum and the VIP areas. Afterwards, wander down to the buzzing waterfront and visit the Wales Millennium Centre. Tours take in backstage areas and mind-boggling technical equipment and offer a fascinating insight into how this striking building was designed and constructed.
Total spend: £5.50/£6.50

Cardiff Castle

Discover one of the UK’s most intriguing castles – a mixture of Norman and medieval buildings that were transformed into sumptuous living spaces in the 19th century. The fairytale interiors are a must see and include lavish Italian and Arabian themed rooms with opulent stained glass, carvings and artworks. Visit the Cardiff Castle website for more information.
Total spend: £8.95 

Culture 

Festivals

The Cardiff Festival is a series of events taking place every year throughout July and August. Look out for the Cardiff Big Weekend, a free pop festival which always snags some great bands. The Cardiff International Food and Drink Festival is also a great free event with lots of tempting samples to try. For more information on free events in Cardiff, check out the Visit Cardiff website.
Total spend: £0 

Where to eat 

Cibo

Eat lunch or dinner at this inexpensive Italian bistro that’s famous for its great menu of Italian staples at reasonable prices. Indulge in quality pastas, pizza, antipasti or the best coffee in town for less than £20 a head.
Total spend: £15

Happy Gathering

This authentic Chinese restaurant has become a Cardiff institution known for serving up the best Chinese food in the city.
Total spend: £15 

Where to sleep 

Cardiff Backpackers

Stay at this buzzy budget hostel that has dorm accommodation with breakfast included. Facilities include a barbecue area, bar, lockers and internet access. To find out more about where to stay in Cardiff, check out our accommodation guide.
Total spend: £16.50 

Total day spend: £46.95