Cardiff tourist guide

Cardiff – discover Europe’s youngest capital

Learn all about Cardiff from its unique landmarks like the Millenium Stadium and the Wales Millenium Centre to its rich cultural hotspots like Cardiff Bay and Cardiff Castle.  You'll also find useful travel information such as a map of Cardiff, accommodation booking and information on famous attractions and events such as the Ryder Cup, football and rugby games at the Millennium Stadium and much more.


Memory of Cardiff
"I fell in love with Cardiff on my first visit. I can honestly say you have a beautiful city.”

John, Charleston USA


A world class city

Cardiff is the capital city of Wales, Europe’s youngest capital and one of the fastest-growing cities and tourist destinations in Britain. Cardiff's recent redevelopment has resulted in world-class sporting and entertainment venues that must be visited.  Add to this excellent shopping, diverse restaurants and plenty of art, history and culture, and Cardiff is an ideal holiday destination to keep the family happy.

Culture and heritage

Wales is the land of castles, and Cardiff itself is home to a huge number of castles and historic sites. Cardiff’s history dates back to Roman times, and Cardiff Castle, right at the heart of the city, is well worth a visit, from its magnificent Norman keep to the decadent and luxurious interiors of the Victorian castle.

Attractions

When you visit Cardiff, you’ll find the ‘big 3’ attractions – Cardiff Castle, the Millennium Stadium and the National Museum all close to each other in the city centre. But there are great attractions to be found all over the city – on Cardiff Bay there’s the Wales Millennium Centre and Techniquest, and on the outskirts of Cardiff you’ll find the fairytale Castell Coch.

Food and drink

As with most of Wales, Cardiff has a growing reputation for fine dining. This is down to great local chefs, and even better local produce – Welsh lamb and beef, fresh seafood and organic vegetables. In the city’s Brewery Quarter you’ll find a range of great restaurants with an endless choice of cuisine.

Shopping

If you come to Cardiff to shop, you won’t be disappointed. Queen Street is the city’s main shopping area, where you’ll find your favourite high street shops. If you prefer everything under one roof, head to St David’s Shopping Centre; and for unique boutiques and cafés, the Victorian Arcades are a must-see.

Sport

When it comes to sport, Cardiff is a genuine all-rounder. Cardiff is home to the world famous Millennium Stadium, home of Welsh football and rugby and the temporary home of the FA Cup final from 2001-2006. And for golf fans, the Celtic Manor Resort, just 20 minutes from Cardiff, will host the Ryder Cup tournament in 2010.

Music and nightlife

Cardiff’s lively nightlife scene centres around St Mary Street, which has a wide choice of bars, pubs and clubs all in one street. Greyfriars Road is home to great cocktail and wine bars, and Cardiff Bay is fast becoming the city’s most popular spot for nightlife.

Buy before you fly

There’s so much to see and do in Cardiff, so don’t waste time in queues, buy your travel passes and attraction tickets online! With the BritRail GB Flexi Pass you can hop on a train wherever and whenever you like, and explore the country at your own pace. And make sure you see all the castles Wales has to offer – the National Trust Touring Pass (www.visitbritaindirect.com/en-gb/detail.aspx?ProductCode=TP3) gives you free entry to over 350 of England, Wales and Northern Ireland’s finest castles, historical homes and gardens. For more great offers, go to VisitBritain Direct (www.visitbritaindirect.com).

Must see and do


Top daytime must-do's

Top night time must-do's
  • Discover Cardiff Castle, inspiring and flamboyant in the centre of the city.
  • Find out how the Romans lived at the Roman Legionary Museum.
Welsh flag flying in Cardiff

Features, attractions & events

We list over 15,000 attractions and events in Britain and here we feature a few of the best ones. If you want to find a specific event for when you’re over here, or top attractions near your destination, use our handy attractions and events search.

Hot Air Ballooning at Leeds Castle

The other side of castles

From hot air ballooning and medieval jousting to overnighting with ghosts and walking in the footsteps of royalty; find out more about the great family days out at Britain’s castles, visit those featured in famous films including Harry Potter and read our exclusive interview with Charles Berkeley.

The other side of castles
Visitor Centre at the bay

Free Cardiff

Cardiff is fast becoming one of the most fashionable cities in the United Kingdom. But even within the hustle and bustle of this vibrant city, it’s possible to visit a wealth of fascinating attractions for free.

Free Cardiff

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