Cardiff the Red Dragon Capital!
Welcoming, cosmopolitan and bustling, a Cardiff day out is sure to appeal to couples, friends and families alike. From the modern city centre to the beautiful Bay, there are plenty of events and attractions for everyone to enjoy here. The Welsh have well-known passions for sport, music and having a good time, and their capital city encapsulates all this inside its unique architecture.
History and stunning landscapes are also a hallmark of any Cardiff sightseeing trip. A perfect destination for cyclists, walkers and lovers of water sports, the city also has an abundance of historical houses and castles. Cardiff Castle and Llandaff Cathedral regularly welcome visitors from around the world, while Bute Park and the Bay Barrage development are fantastic places to explore.
Best of Cardiff
With a unique culture, history and language, Cardiff’s tourist attractions are different from any other city. As the country’s political heart, it’s an ideal place to learn how the Red Dragon nation came to be everything it is today. The city centre combines the best of ancient and modern Cardiff, with a castle that’s stood there for more than 2,000 years and the Millennium Centre and Senedd being the heart of modern Wales.
Wander outside the city centre and you can discover the beautiful Cardiff Bay. From wetland reserves to modern attractions and entertainment venues, families or couples can spend many hours exploring, eating and drinking here. Alternatively, head to the Principality Stadium, Motorpoint Arena or St. David’s Hall for an entertaining night out.
Things to do in Cardiff
Cardiff trips are sure to be packed with personality. History, culture and lots of attractions mean every visitor is sure to have fun in the city.
An established port since the Middle Ages, people have been exploring and trading in Cardiff since the early 1300s. Cardiff Castle has overseen much of this history and is still situated in the centre of the city. From the incredible Arab Room to the Animal Wall, which consists of a row of stone animal sculptures, it has plenty of attractions in its own right. Plus, the nearby Llandaff Cathedral is one of the oldest buildings of its kind in Britain, making it a must-visit attraction for architecture and history lovers.
The National Museum of History is the go-to destination for Welsh culture, architecture, history and traditions. This open-air venue is spread over acres of parkland within the grounds of an Elizabethan manor house, St Fagans Castle. Along with the 40-plus historical or imitation buildings, there is a farm, pottery barn, beautiful gardens, events, old-fashioned shops and more.
If it’s culture you’re looking for, then you won’t be disappointed. Known for their beautiful voices and love of singing, the Welsh National Opera and the Millennium Centre showcase the best talent from Wales and beyond. There are plenty of modern music venues in the city too, including St David’s Hall, the Tramshed and the Globe. If you want to explore local and international art, then the National Museum Cardiff has some of the most captivating collections and exhibitions in the country.
In the past couple of years, Cardiff’s food and drink scene has undergone a quiet revolution. Across the city, independent and fine dining establishments serve the best of local and international cuisines, meaning there’s something for everyone to enjoy here. The Riverside Market also runs every Sunday on the Fitzhamon Embankment, making it the perfect place to taste and discover the best Welsh produce.
A favourite amongst groups, the city is a great place for a lively night out. Welsh pubs are notoriously lively, with live music, craft ales and friendly locals all in abundance. If you prefer a cocktail or two, there are lots of independent bars serving delicious original and classic creations. Plus, there are loads of clubs in the city centre, meaning everyone will find tunes they love to strut their stuff to.
FAQs
Why choose a day out in Cardiff?
Cardiff offers plenty of attractions and entertainment to fill a day out or short break away. From uncovering the city’s history at Cardiff Castle to wandering along the Bay and enjoying a night out in the centre, you’ll be sure of a fun trip to the Welsh capital.
What are the best day trips from Cardiff?
Discover more of the Welsh coastline with a day trip from Cardiff to Rhyl. Travel from the modern Bay redevelopment to the beautiful sandy coastline of the seaside town in less than four hours with regular trains from Avanti West Coast.
What to do in Cardiff with children?
Explore everything that Cardiff has to offer easily with the family with a trip on a hop-on, hop-off tour bus. Spot the ancient history, take a trip to the Millenium Centre or head out to the attractions on the Bay for an exciting day out with the children.
