Cardiff is a gorgeous coastal city located on the southeast coast of Wales, UK. Famous for having more castles than any other city in the world (the most prominent being Cardiff Castle), 'Caerdydd' as the city is known in Welsh, is also the capital and largest city in Wales. Is often overlooked on a visit to the UK, as travelers opt for more popular destinations, like London and Edinburgh. A city steeped in rich history, Cardiff's castles and museums are worth a stop for those wanting a glimpse into this Victorian-era town. Active visitors will enjoy the thousands of trails, complete with sweeping natural vistas and gardens, in the Cardiff Bay area or behind Cardiff Castle along The River Taff.
Beyond its castles, Cardiff also displays its rich history in so many other parts of the city. From the city's century-old arcades to Cardiff Bay, the nexus of Wales' thriving coal and export industries during the Industrial Revolution, lively Cardiff starts to tell you its own riveting story the moment you step foot on its soil.
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In this post, I'll be covering the most memorable places to visit in Cardiff, Wales, based on my own experiences, including cultural landmarks, hidden gems, and exciting outdoor activities.
Check out the map below of all the best Cardiff city center attractions and highlights:
1. Visit Cardiff Castle
There are few cities in Britain that have a castle right in the middle of the city, but the Welsh capital is one of them which is what makes visiting Cardiff so special. Data from the local tourism board shows over 1 million people visited Cardiff Castle in 2022, and in 2021 it was the most visited paid attraction in Wales, with nearly 373,000 visits, making it the most visited attraction in Wales.
The castle was built for the 3rd Marquis of Bute who at the time, was the richest man on the planet. The castle's opulent, Arab Room Ceiling reflects his sheer extravagance. Each room in Cardiff Castle has a unique style and uses displays to tell fascinating stories about the people that lived and worked there once upon a time. The castle has a free app which provides information about different areas of the castle. However, for the best experience, I recommend paying a little extra for the guided house tour as they will take you to rooms that are otherwise not accessible with a regular ticket.
The castle also has a museum, the Firing Line Museum, which tells you about the history of Welsh soldiers in the Queens Dragoon Guards (a regiment in the British Army) and the Royal Welsh Guards.
Located in a key position on outer green, the Trebuchet at Cardiff Castle is a historically accurate replica of a 13th Century siege engine standing at 10 metres (approx. 35 ft high) tall and weighing almost 6 tons. It was originally built by locally based professional set makers and carpenters to feature in the Hollywood movie, Ironclad (Runnymeade Productions), starring Paul Giamatti, James Purefoy, Brian Cox, Mackenzie Crook, James Flemyng, Derek Jacobi and Kate Mara.
Located in a key position on outer green, the Trebuchet at Cardiff Castle is a historically accurate replica of a 13th Century siege engine standing at 10 metres (approx. 35 ft high) tall and weighing almost 6 tons.
2. Explore Bute Park
A botanical paradise consisting of 130 acres of landscaped gardens right in the heart of Cardiff city, Bute Park is the place to be once the weather is great. The park was landscaped by Capability Brown himself, the greatest English landscape architect of all time. You can go in and stroll aimlessly, wondering as you view the beautiful vegetation around. You will also have a chance to explore the park's hidden wonders like the Animal Wall and the 21 sculptures.
3. Learn about the history of Wales at the National Museum Cardiff
Cardiff is a treasure trove of free museums. My favourite one in the city centre is the National Museum Cardiff. It's a free museum that houses a vast collection representing the history and culture of Wales and the world. The museum is split into several sections, the ground floors contain the natural history exhibits which will teach you about the transformation of Wales and the world over time, from the formation of Earth to the evolution of animals. This is my favourite part and will be loved by kids since it is where you'll find life-size dinosaur skeletons, wool mammoths, and whales, among other things. The museum is situated next to City Hall and Cardiff University. It's open Tuesday to Sunday, 10am to 5pm. You don't need to book ahead, just turn up when it suits you.
4. Visit the open-air village at St Fagans National Museum of History
Located just a short drive outside Cardiff, St Fagans National Museum of History is a sprawling complex where you can learn about Welsh history, culture, lifestyle, and architecture.
My favourite part of this museum is the open-air village, featuring over 40 historic buildings from various periods. Some of the buildings were transported and reassembled, while others were recreated based on archaeological evidence. This includes an Iron Age roundhouse, a Tudor trader's house, and a medieval parish church. St Fagan's Castle (more like a manor house than a castle) stands as another highlight, surrounded by stunning gardens with fountains, ponds, a vinery, and herb gardens.
Inside the main building of the museum, there are several galleries where you can learn more about the culture of Wales and the people who lived here. The museum is open daily from 9am to 5pm, and entry is free of charge, excluding the ropes course. However, you will need to pay £6 per car for a full day of parking.
5. Watch the birds and wildlife at Cardiff Bay Wetland Reserve
The Cardiff Bay Wetland Reserve (more commonly called the Cardiff Bay Wetlands) is a wildlife reserve on the former salt marshes in Cardiff Bay. The wetlands is home to many different types of birds including common perching birds, ducks, and swans.
It's totally free to visit, just head to St David's Hotel, the 5-star hotel in Cardiff Bay with the roof that looks like a seabird swopping down. From here, look for the large bronze rope knot sculpture which marks the start of the wetlands trail.
Follow the path around and you'll eventually end up at the main boardwalk which is the most scenic spot and the best place to spot wildlife. It won't take longer than 20 minutes to visit the reserve as it's relatively small.
6. Explore Cardiff's Victorian Arcades
Cardiff's Victorian arcades are a cherished part of the city's heritage that were built during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. These arcades feature stunning Victorian architecture and intricate detailing, transporting visitors to a bygone era. The arcades have become a haven for independent businesses, with many unique and eclectic shops popping up inside, including bakeries, art shops, clothing stores, and more.
7. Discover the city's past at the Cardiff Story Museum
The Cardiff Story Museum is another free museum in Cardiff, located in the old library building in the central area known as The Hayes.
This museum focuses on the history of Cardiff and particularly its growth during the industrial revolution thanks to the Bute family.
One of my favourite displays was a large model of Bute Town and Cardiff Bay as it would have been in the heyday of the docks. Important buildings light up and you can learn about them.
8. Eat local food at Cardiff Market
Cardiff Market has been an iconic venue in the city since Victorian times. The building used to be the city gaol and is where executions took place, but its days of capital punishment are long gone and it's now a great place to find unique gifts, fresh produce, and delicious food.
Spread across two floors, the market is free to visit and home to over 60 different traders selling everything from second-hand books and records to unique hats and handmade cards, all at great prices.
The highlight has to be the local food, especially Cardiff Bakestones, who sell some of the best Welsh cakes in Cardiff, and Kreme of Cardiff, a brand-new stall selling desserts ranging from doughnuts to cheesecake.
9. Visit the heart of Welsh democracy at the Senedd
The Senedd is an iconic building in Cardiff Bay that's home to the elected Welsh Government. They make the laws that govern Wales as part of its devolution settlement with the UK.
The Senedd is a completely open building that anyone can enter for free.
Inside, you can explore the public galleries, view a timeline of Wales' devolution history, check out the latest exhibition, and enjoy a coffee in the Oriel on the second floor.
10. Visit The Millennium Centre
For the art connoisseurs and the culture enthusiasts, a visit to the Principality Stadium (formerly the Millennium Centre) is an absolute must. A performance arts facility with a diverse array of genres, your visit to the Millennium Centre is sure to whet your appetite for the arts whether you grab a show or not.
The centre is home to the BBC National Orchestra, The National Dance Company of Wales, and the Hijinx Theatre.
The performances themselves have it all to offer classical music and opera, ballet, modern dance, literary events, musical shows, and more. Other activities to anticipate at the Millennium Centre include educational events, lectures, and workshops, as well as a hearty dining and shopping experience
11. See a Rugby Match
Most rugby fans across the globe agree that Cardiff's Principality Stadium is the best rugby stadium in the world. Formerly known as Millennium Stadium, it's the first stadium in the UK with a fully-retractable roof, boasts a UEFA 5-Star rating, and has hosted two Rugby World Cups including the Final in 1999.
You may choose to buy a ticket to see a match in person, or you can still enjoy the special match day atmosphere by gathering with other fans to watch the game on big screens in pubs, bars and outdoor public spaces. You can also book a tour of the stadium outside of match season.
12. Enjoy the Cardiff Nightlife
During daytime hours, Cardiff is already a lively destination. And when night falls on the city, an even more vibrant side is unleashed.
The nightlife scene is something you certainly want to experience – easily one of the best things to do in the city centre at night, and among the most popular for students, whether it's all-out clubbing or are simply in search of some serene relaxation with a great dinner, even better drinks, and a wonderful ambience.
Recommended spots: Clwb Ifor Bach, Revolution, Metros, Salt (Cardiff Bay), Revolución de Cuba, The Peppermint Bar.
13. Explore Mermaid Quay, Cardiff Bay
Cardiff Bay (formerly known as Tiger Bay), after years of derelict, was one of the largest port revitalization projects in all of Europe and is now one of the most popular waterside and leisure centers in the UK. If you get the chance, I recommend you take a stroll around the stunning waterfront location at the heart of Cardiff Bay known as Mermaid Quay, also one of the best free things to do in the city. If you're looking to dine out or have drinks in Cardiff city but can't settle on a spot, head over to Mermaid Quay.
A statue of Mahatma Gandhi has been unveiled in Cardiff to mark the 148th anniversary of his birth.
The 6ft (182cm) bronze effigy stands near the Millennium Centre at the end of Lloyd George Avenue in Cardiff Bay.
Gandhi's grandson Mr Satishkumar Dhupelia, Indian diplomats and First Minister Carwyn Jones all attended the unveiling.
The statue cost £65,000 and was funded by three years of donations to the Hindu Council of Wales.
Sculptors Ram Sutar and his son Anil of Noida, India, created the statue that depicts Gandhi holding a staff in one hand and the Hindu book The Bhagavad Gita in the other.
14. Take a Cardiff Boat Tour
Another great way to tour the city is by taking a Cardiff Boat Tour
One of the most popular Cardiff boat tours is aboard the Princess Katharine, a heated 90-seat waterbus that travels from Cardiff Bay to Bute Park and back.
When it comes to what to do in Cardiff for a day, be sure to include a cruise in comfort while witnessing the sights of Cardiff, with commentary on the history of each location.
15. Norwegian Church Arts Centre
Ever heard how sailors in the past were known to have at least one girlfriend in every port? Well, in the case of Norwegian sailors, they had a church in every port. The Norwegian Church Arts Centre was formerly the Norwegian Sailors Church, a place where Norwegian soldiers who worked on coal ships in Wales during the Industrial Revolution could come to worship and feel at home.
The Arts Centre is now a renowned landmark and cherished establishment, especially for the Nordic community in South Wales. Situated on Cardiff Bay's waterfront, the centre features an art gallery that showcases local exhibitions and a stylish café and bar with a terrace that overlooks the tranquil, diamond waters of the Bay.
16. Penarth Beach
Although not a sand beach, Penarth beach is quite large with Penarth Pier one of its best features. Open all year round, there's plenty of cafes, restaurants and stalls along the beach. It's easily one of the best things to do near Cardiff offering an opportunity to breathe some fresh sea air as well as seeing Cardiff from a different angle.
17. Enter the Pierhead building – This iconic Cardiff Bay building often has free exhibitions.
18. Roath Park Lake – A 50-acre lake surrounded by lush gardens and trees in one of Cardiff's largest parks.
19. Splott Beach
A hidden beach in Cardiff, Splott Beach is teeming with bricks, tiles, and remnants from the former East Moors steelworks.
The beach offers a unique experience for those who enjoy exploring and taking photographs of degraded industrial objects, making it one of the most picturesque beaches near Cardiff for photography.
Despite its reputation, the momentum of Splott's community continues to thrive.
Parody postcards depicting the beach highlight its cultural significance as an escape from city life and a place of pure enjoyment and relaxation.
20. Jackson's Bay, Barry
Jackson's Bay, located in Barry, is a beautiful sandy cove that is well worth a visit. The beach, which is about 170 meters long, is gently sloping and backs onto cliffs covered in lush greenery.
It's described as a hidden gem and is much quieter than other beaches in the area, making it one of the more secluded beaches near Cardiff for privacy.
Jackson's Bay, located in Barry, is a beautiful sandy cove that is well worth a visit. The beach, which is about 170 meters long, is gently sloping and backs onto cliffs covered in lush greenery.
21. Relax on Whitmore Bay Beach
Whitmore Bay Beach, more commonly known as Barry Island Beach, is the town's main beach and promenade. At the rear of the beach, you'll find an array of cafes and restaurants where you can grab drinks and snacks to enjoy on the beach. The beach itself is a beautiful sandy crescent shape beach that's great for building sandcastles, relaxing, and swimming in the sea which has good quality water.
Whitmore Bay Beach can get very busy in summer, so my local tip for you is to walk along the path around the rockface where you'll find Jackson's Bay which is often quieter so you can catch a tan in peace.
Rent an iconic colourful beach hut
Sat along the promenade overlooking the beach, are 24 vibrantly coloured beach huts that are synonymous with British beaches. Some of these have permanent owners but others are available to hire for the day, with prices starting at just £21 for a small beach hut during peak season and reduced fees during winter. If you have a big group, these are an ideal place to base yourself with shade and electricity for all your charging needs. If you book a large hut,you'll even have access to running water.
Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI)
The rocks of Barry Island are special because they tell us about the environment in the distant past. Rocks formed as lake, playa (an un-drained and flat desert basin) and beach sediments from 205 to 290 million years ago sit on top of older limestone from 350 million years ago. These rocks and structures enable geologists to work out where the coastline was during the Triassic period, between 205 and 250 million years ago. I have taken photos of rock formation at the Nell's Point end of the beach, and show an example of a fissure fault line.
The creamy grey to greenish grey rocks in the upper cliff indicate a change to restricted marine and open marine environments, produced in the Late Triassic to Early Jurassic rise in global sea levels, which resulted in widespread marine transgression (when sea level rises relative to the land and the shoreline moves toward higher ground, which results in flooding).
22. Visit Barry's Goodsheds
This self-proclaimed ‘independent high street’ is made from shipping containers and old train carriages which are home to independent shops selling gifts, homeware, and clothing. There’s also a food court where you can enjoy street food from cuisines across the world including Greek, Italian, Thai, and Spanish. They also have bars selling craft beer and Barry’s first and only rooftop bar.
The food court is fairly large but if you're travelling as a group, I'd recommend that you book a table ahead of time. Check out this short TikTok video I made to get a better idea:
Beautiful Overlooks in Cardiff
Take in stunning views of the city and beyond from these prime Cardiff overlooks
→ Cardiff Castle – See panoramic views of the city center from the castle walls and keep.
→ Bute Park – Find elevated views of the park, River Taff, and Cardiff Castle.
→ Roath Park – Sweeping views across the park's lake and botanical gardens.
→ Cardiff Bay Barrage – Walk along the barrage for picturesque vistas of the bay.
→ Penarth Pier – Snap photos looking back at the Cardiff skyline across the sea.
→ Cardiff Bay Wetlands Reserve – Spot birds from the viewing platforms with the bay as a backdrop.
→ Llandaff Cathedral – Gaze out over the city from the cathedral grounds.
→ Cadwaladr's Ice Cream Parlour – Grab an ice cream with a castle view from the cafe terrace.
→ Noah's Ark Zoo – Panoramic views of the zoo and countryside from the hilltop setting.
→ Cardiff City Hall – Take in views of the civic center and Cardiff Castle from its steps.
Interesting Facts about Wales in General
One of only three flags worldwide to feature a dragon
Along with Bhutan and Malta, Wales is one of just three countries in the world that has a dragon on their national flag.
The world's first road suspension bridge
The Menai Bridge in Anglesey was the first suspension bridge in the world constructed to carry heavy traffic.
Origins of the Welsh flag
The red, white and green dragon flag was officially recognised in 1959. The red dragon originates from an Arthurian legend, which told of the wizard Merlin's vision of a red dragon. It purportedly represented the battle between the native Britons in red, and the Saxon invaders in white. The green and white represent the colours of the House of Tudor.
The world's first radio message was sent in Wales
In 1897 the world's first radio message was sent by Guglielmo Marconi, it took a 3 mile journey from Larvenock Point, south of Penarth, Wales, to Flat Holm in the Bristol Channel.
50% of the world's commercial aircraft wings are made in Wales
Another interesting fact: 50% of the world's passengers fly on aircraft with wings made in Wales. The country is home to many global brands, such as GE and Airbus.
Mount Everest is named after a Welshman
The world's highest mountain, Mount Everest, is named after Welshman Sir George Everest. He was the surveyor who initially mapped Mount Everest and named the mountain after himself. The first-ever recorded conquest of Mt. Everest was by sherpa Tenzing Norgay and New Zealand-born Edmund Hilary, who actually spent some of his later years living in Powys, mid-Wales.
Wales has been under English rule for 800 years
After many battles in their struggle for independence, Wales was annexed by the English in the 13th Century, and politically untied with England under the Tudor monarchs.
Wales is a Celtic country
This means it has roots in the Celt languages and cultures that predates Roman times. Other Celtic countries and regions include: Ireland, Scotland, Cornwall, Isle of Man, and Brittany.
The equals sign (=) originated from Wales
Welsh mathematician Robert Recorde (1512-1558) invented the equals sign (=). He also introduced the plus (+) and minus (-) signs, as well as algebra, to Britain.
Birthplace of a famous pirate
Pembrokeshire, Wales, was home to one Bartholomew Roberts – considered the most successful pirate of the Golden Age of Piracy. He's also allegedly the first pirate to name his flag the "Jolly Roger", in June 1721. The first electricity in Wales
The first town in Wales to have electricity was Cardiff in 1885.
Welsh Language Facts
How old is Welsh? Thought to be up to 4,000 years old, the Welsh language (Cymraeg) is the oldest language in Britain, and is one of the oldest living languages in Europe. The origins of Welsh are from the Celtic language spoken by the ancient Britons.
The letters K, Q, V and Z do not feature in the Welsh language.
Blackadder III said of Wales, "You need half a pint of phlegm in your throat just to pronounce the place names."
There was 1 pub for every 5 people
In 1842, the town of Blackwood had about one pub for every five people.
Al Capone had a Welsh accountant
The notorious American gangster Al Capone's accountant Llewelyn Humphreys, aka Murray the Hump, hailed from a Powys family and was at one point America's most wanted man! He took control of the mob following Capone's incarceration. #
Town names in Wales are notoriously difficult to pronounce
The Welsh village of Llanfairpwllgwyngyllgogerychwyrndrobwllllantysiliogogogoch is the second longest place name in the world. The town name means "St. Mary's Church in the Hollow of the White Hazel near a Rapid Whirlpool and the Church of St. Tysilio near the Red Cave".
There’s a well that can cure people
Llanwrtyd Wells in Powys is the most sulphurous well in Wales. Historian Theophilus Evans once wrote of how the waters from the well had cured his scurvy.
The Welsh flag is not on the Union Jack
Wales is the only country in the United Kingdom not to be represented on the Union Jack. The reasoning behind this is that the current Welsh flag was adopted in 1959, and at the time the Union was formed in 1707, Wales was a principality of England.
The UK’s deepest cave can be found in Wales
The Ogof Ffynnon Dddu lies near Abercraf. At 308m (1,010 ft) deep, it’s the deepest cave in Great Britain. It also has over 30 miles of tunnels and passages, making it the third longest underground network in the UK.
Is Cardiff worth visiting?
Cardiff is definitely worth visiting. A compact city easy to explore on foot, it is a vibrant and charming city with a beautiful castle, the River Taff, and the picturesque Bute Park. It also serves as a great base to explore other attractions in Wales, such as the Brecon Beacons and Snowdonia National Park.
Happy reading!, let me know what you think!
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