Cardiff travel guide
- Introduction to Cardiff
- History of Cardiff
- Top services in Cardiff
- Best time to visit Cardiff
- Local tip for visiting Cardiff
- Learn more about Wales
- What to see in Cardiff
- Top attractions in Cardiff
- Map of attractions
- Things to do in Cardiff
- Most popular experiences in Cardiff
- Top tours & tickets starting in Cardiff
- Search for things to do in Cardiff
- What to eat in Cardiff
- Best Shopping in Cardiff
- Best free things to do in Cardiff
- Vacation packages in Cardiff
- Popular types of vacations in Cardiff
- Top vacation packages in Cardiff
- Find vacation packages in Cardiff
- How to get to Cardiff
- Find cheap flights to Cardiff
- Popular flights to Cardiff
- Where to stay in Cardiff
- Popular types of accommodation in Cardiff
- Top hotels in Cardiff
- Search for accommodation in Cardiff
- Car rental in Cardiff
- Popular types of car rental in Cardiff
- Search for car rental in Cardiff
- Transportation in Cardiff
- Popular destinations to visit after Cardiff
- All the best destinations in Wales
- Domestic flights from Cardiff
- Search domestic flights from Cardiff
Introduction to Cardiff
Cardiff Castle, St. Fagans National Museum of History, and National Museum Cardiff have one thing in common - they're all three very good reasons to visit Cardiff, Wales. Cardiff has plenty of experiences to offer curious travelers. This principal area in south-east Wales, United Kingdom is a travel destination everyone should visit at least once in their lifetime. Boasting a variety of natural beauty and architecture, a unique historical background, and a culture as rich as its population of over 364.2 thousand people, the region of Cardiff is truly one of the main highlights of Wales.
Easily accessible from Cardiff airport, Cardiff is the perfect base for a memorable and unique vacation in Wales any time of the year.
You'll learn more fascinating facts about Cardiff as you explore this spectacular region.
Traveling to Cardiff is especially rewarding for anyone eager to connect with locals and learn more about their unique culture and traditions.
Get ready to explore and learn more about the region of Cardiff below!
History of Cardiff
Cardiff, the capital city of Wales, boasts a rich and fascinating history that dates back to the Roman times. The city's beginnings can be traced to a Roman fort established in AD 55.
Its strategic location on the River Taff made it a vital port and trading post. In the 11th century, the Normans built Cardiff Castle, which remains one of the city's most iconic landmarks. The city saw significant growth during the 19th century with the Industrial Revolution, becoming the world’s leading coal port.
In 1905, Cardiff was designated as a city, and in 1955, it was proclaimed the capital of Wales. Over the decades, Cardiff has transformed, embracing modernity while preserving its historical charm. Today, it's a vibrant city, renowned for its culture, architecture, and sporting events. Cardiff's history is a testament to its resilience and adaptability, making it a captivating destination for travellers worldwide.
Top services in Cardiff
Here on this page, you'll find all the top travel services in Cardiff, Wales. Check out the cheapest and most popular flights offered by 361 airlines that fly to Wales. Browse the 50 top-rated tours available to you in Cardiff. Compare the rates and services of the 5 types of places to stay in Cardiff and the 6 car rental companies offering CDW insurance coverage. We make it easy for you to find and book the top services in Cardiff.
Enjoy the convenience of planning and booking every detail of your trip to Cardiff, including flights, accommodations, activities, and more, in one place. Book with Guide to Europe to get an expertly-curated and fully-customizable itinerary and experience the best of Cardiff on your vacation in Wales.
Get answers to questions about the routes and services offered in Cardiff from our free 24/7 customer support. Continue reading to learn how you can enjoy a stress-free and memorable vacation in the region of Cardiff!
Best time to visit Cardiff
The best time to explore Cardiff, Wales, is during the spring and summer months, from March to September when the weather is warm and pleasant, ranging between 12°C to 22°C. Spring is particularly beautiful as the city blossoms with vibrant flowers and the parks become verdant and lively. Summer, on the other hand, provides longer daylight hours, allowing tourists more time to explore the city's historic sites and outdoor attractions. Summer also coincides with the Cardiff International Food & Drink Festival, a major draw for food enthusiasts. However, these seasons also tend to attract more tourists, leading to crowded attractions and higher accommodation prices. For those seeking a quieter and more cost-effective visit, the shoulder months of April, May, and September are recommended. During these times, the weather remains relatively mild and the tourist crowds thin out considerably. Lastly, for rugby fans, the Six Nations rugby tournament in February and March offers a unique experience, with the city bustling with energetic sports fans. Plan your visit keeping these factors in mind to make the most out of your Cardiff adventure.
Local tip for visiting Cardiff
Cardiff, the vibrant capital city of Wales, is brimful of history, culture, and stunning architecture. However, one insider tip often overlooked by visitors is the city's affinity for live music. If you're seeking an authentic Cardiff experience, make a point to explore the local music scene. Numerous pubs and venues across the city, especially in the area of Womanby Street, host a wide variety of live performances, ranging from traditional Welsh music to contemporary pop and rock. This not only gives you a chance to immerse yourself in the local culture but also to engage with the locals in a relaxed, jovial atmosphere. Whether you're a music aficionado or simply a curious traveler, this insider tip will undoubtedly add a unique and memorable dimension to your Cardiff visit.
Learn more about Wales
There are many reasons to visit the region of Cardiff, but a trip to Wales needs no explanation.
Exploring Wales, which spans 20,779 square kilometers, is an adventure of a lifetime. Wales offers an abundance of truly magical places to discover, including cultural, historic, and scenic sites of significant value to both locals and travelers.
As the home country of many world-famous attractions like the spectacular Cardiff Castle, St. Fagans National Museum of History, and the National Museum Cardiff, you’re all set for a unique and memorable travel experience in Wales.
Click or tap the link below to discover more about Wales.
What to see in Cardiff
Cardiff has something for everyone. Regardless of age and interest, travelers have the best time exploring every corner of the region.
Read on to discover the best places to visit and find out what to expect from the region of Cardiff.
Top attractions in Cardiff
Home to plenty of top attractions, Cardiff is more than just a wonderful region in Wales. Cardiff is a travel hotspot and a great place to experience a mix of the traditional and modern culture of Wales.
One fascinating sight in Cardiff is the unforgettable Cardiff Castle. Considered one of the most well-known attractions in the region, a visit to this spectacular travel destination is something you shouldn’t miss on your trip to Cardiff.
For more information about what you can expect during a vacation in Wales, check out our list of top attractions in Cardiff below. Discover the best places to visit in Cardiff, including the fascinating Cardiff Castle, St. Fagans National Museum of History, National Museum Cardiff, Wales Millennium Centre, and Bute Park.
Map of attractions
Use this map to find the location of all top attractions in Cardiff.
Things to do in Cardiff
Enrich your travel experience in Cardiff by joining tours and activities. Cardiff offers an exciting selection of top-rated tours and it's easy for every traveler to find something to their liking. Take the opportunity to catch the top attractions on a tour, stay active with an adventurous excursion, or learn something new about the local history or culture of the region.
Discover the most popular experiences in Cardiff below.
Most popular experiences in Cardiff
Traveling is all about gaining new experiences. You can have that and more in the region of Cardiff.
Cardiff offers numerous tours and activities for travelers to choose from. Walking Tours, Historical Tours, and Private Day Trips are only a few of the many experiences you can book for your holiday in Wales.
Explore the most popular experiences you can join in Cardiff by clicking on one of the top-rated tour categories below.
Top tours & tickets starting in Cardiff
Travelers in Cardiff can choose from 13 categories of top-rated tours and tickets. If you're curious about what the most frequently recommended experiences in the city are, Cultural Tours is the answer.
The most popular tour in Cardiff is the fantastic Cardiff City Private Guided Walking Tour. By joining this highly recommended tour, travelers get to learn more about what makes Cardiff one of the best travel destinations in Wales.
Cardiff also offers plenty of budget-friendly tours and activities that promise travelers a unique experience in the city. The affordable Cardiff's Civic Centre: A Self-Guided Audio Tour is the cheapest tour in the region, and is a popular Historical Tour. This experience costs around 6 EUR and allows travelers a great time in Cardiff. This Historical Tour is available in 1 language: English. Around 3 travelers have given this activity an average rating of 4 stars out of 5.
Secure an unforgettable experience for your upcoming trip to Cardiff and book a top-rated tour in the region. Discover the best tours, activities, and tickets in Cardiff below.
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All Experiences in Cardiff
Search for things to do in Cardiff
Discover the best things to do in Cardiff. Choose from 50 fantastic tours and activities available in the region.
Select your dates and number of travelers in the search bar below to receive the best recommendations for your vacation in Cardiff. Click the green button to view your options.
What to eat in Cardiff
When it comes to dining, Cardiff, the capital of Wales, has a lot to offer. From street food markets to high-end restaurants, the city is a gastronomic delight. The city centre and Cardiff Bay are among the best places to eat in Cardiff, offering a variety of culinary experiences. You can indulge in Welsh cakes, traditional Glamorgan sausages, or the iconic Welsh rarebit from the local vendors. It's a must to visit the Indoor Market for a taste of the freshest seafood. For a dining experience like no other, consider establishments like The Clink, a restaurant run by prisoners, or the opulent Restaurant James Sommerin, where you can enjoy Michelin-starred cuisine. The city's food festivals, such as the Cardiff International Food and Drink Festival, are a great way to sample a variety of local and international foods. Remember to book in advance for popular locations and consider taking food tours for an immersive culinary experience.
Best Shopping in Cardiff
Cardiff, the vibrant capital of Wales, offers an exciting shopping experience with a mix of traditional and contemporary offerings. The city centre, regarded as the best place to go shopping in Cardiff, comes alive with a blend of high-street retail and unique local boutiques. Stroll down Queen Street, an iconic shopping district, to find nationally recognized brands. For a more upscale experience, visit the St. David's Dewi Sant Shopping Centre, home to over 180 stores, including luxury fashion and homeware brands.
Don't miss the historic Cardiff Market, where you can purchase fresh local produce, traditional Welsh cakes, and unique gifts. For lovers of vintage and unique finds, the Royal Arcade and Morgan Arcade offer an array of independent boutiques, showcasing the city's distinct fashion and local craftsmanship. Here, you can pick up one-of-a-kind clothing, Welsh gold jewelry, and handmade crafts - perfect souvenirs to remember your trip.
Practicality is also considered in Cardiff's shopping scene. Most shopping areas are pedestrian-friendly, and public transportation is readily available. Additionally, many places accept card payments, and ATMs are conveniently located throughout the city. Happy shopping!
Best free things to do in Cardiff
The best free things to do in Cardiff offer travelers a blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Start at the historic Cardiff Castle, where you can explore the grounds without charge, soaking in the atmosphere of this 2,000-year-old landmark. Stroll through Bute Park, Cardiff's green heart, with its stunning botanical collections, sculptures, and serene River Taff views. Visit the Cardiff Bay, a vibrant waterfront teeming with colorful architecture, public artworks, and a lively atmosphere. Pop into the Wales Millennium Centre, where free performances often take place in the Glanfa Foyer. For museum lovers, the National Museum Cardiff is a must-visit, offering free entry to its extensive art and natural history collections. The Senedd, home to the Welsh Parliament, offers fascinating free guided tours. End your day at the Roath Park Lake, a beautiful Victorian park with a stunning lake and a lighthouse memorial. These are just a snapshot of the myriad free experiences Cardiff has to offer, proving that you don't need to spend to enjoy the Welsh capital's rich offerings.
Vacation packages in Cardiff
The best and easiest way to visit Cardiff is by booking a vacation package. A vacation package includes everything you need for a worry-free and perfectly planned holiday in Wales.
Booking a vacation package to Cardiff means spending less time planning and more time enjoying your vacation. A vacation package includes everything from flight tickets, accomodation, and a rental car, to 24/7 personal travel support and a carefully planned travel itinerary. You can also take your vacation in Cardiff to the next level by adding tours, tickets, and activities to each day of your trip.
Apart from providing you with everything you need to travel comfortably, your vacation package to Cardiff is also fully customizable. In other words, you can add or remove services at your own convenience, to create the perfect vacation for you and your travel companions.
On our website, you will find 14 unique vacation packages to Cardiff, including flight tickets, hotel reservations, and recommendations for the best sightseeing spots, restaurants, bars, and activities.
Continue to the next section to learn more about what types of vacations you can book in the region of Cardiff.
Popular types of vacations in Cardiff
The most popular way to experience Cardiff is by visiting the region as part of a road trip across multiple destinations in Wales. However, it is also common for travelers to go to Cardiff on both shorter and longer getaways, to get a break from everyday life, relax, and experience something new.
With Guide to Europe you can find road trips, city breaks, and weekend getaways in Wales, ranging from budget to luxury. Whether you’re planning a multi-day road trip across Wales, or you just want to enjoy a few days exploring Cardiff, there is a vacation package for you.
Discover the most popular vacation packages in Cardiff below.
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All Vacations in Cardiff
Find vacation packages in Cardiff
Discover and compare 14 vacation packages that take you to the wonderful region of Cardiff.
The best flights, hotels, and activities in Cardiff get fully booked quickly. Use the search tool below to find the best vacation packages in Wales. Your customized holiday package to Cardiff is only a few clicks away!
How to get to Cardiff
To get to the region of Cardiff the fastest way possible, travelers from outside Wales can travel by plane. International travelers can fly to Cardiff by booking flights with any of the 35 airlines that offer direct flights to Cardiff airport. Some airlines that operate flights to Cardiff airport are British Airways, United Airlines, Delta Air Lines, Lufthansa, and Ryanair. Go to this page to compare all flights to Cardiff.
To reach the region of Cardiff, travelers can choose from various airport transfer options available at Cardiff airport.
If you're looking for the best flight ticket deals to Cardiff, knowing the cheapest travel time and which airlines offer the most affordable flights is helpful. Luckily, we have this information for you. Discover more about the cheapest and most popular flights to Cardiff airport and Cardiff below.
Find cheap flights to Cardiff
Over the years, more airlines have started offering flexible and direct flights to Cardiff, making it one of the most accessible travel destinations in Wales. However, it is usually cheaper to fly to Cardiff, Wales, in May.
The cheapest one-way flight to Cardiff costs around 17 EUR and is offered by the airline Ryanair UK. The flight leaves on May 31 at 2 and departs from Belfast International airport in Belfast, Northern Ireland.
The cheapest round-trip flights to Cardiff cost approximately 474 EUR in total. The departure flight leaves on November 20 and the return flight is scheduled on November 19. The flight time is around 21 hours per way.
The return flight is operated by Cardiff.
Use the search tool below to find the cheapest flights to Wales and the region of Cardiff from your city of departure.
Popular flights to Cardiff
Travelers visiting Cardiff in Wales can fly to Cardiff airport directly from 2108 destinations worldwide.
The three most popular routes to Cardiff airport and the region of Cardiff in Wales depart from Santa Rosa airport in Santa Rosa, Argentina, Greenville–Spartanburg International airport in Greenville, the United States, and Golden Triangle Regional airport in Columbus, the United States.
Travelers can fly to Wales by choosing from from 1 weekly flight(s) from Santa Rosa; from 8 weekly flight(s) from Greenville; and from 2 weekly flight(s) from Columbus.
The airline that operates most flights to Wales is Hong Kong Express Airways. Hong Kong Express Airways offers 154 scheduled flight routes to Wales.
Discover the most popular flights to Cardiff below. Click to view flights to Cardiff, Wales from destinations all across the globe.
Where to stay in Cardiff
An essential factor to consider when traveling to a new place or country is accommodation. While visiting a region as fantastic as Cardiff is always exciting, any avid traveler knows that accommodations often make or break the vacation experience.
The best place to stay in Cardiff usually depends on travelers' needs and preferences. However, booking accommodation in downtown Cardiff offers a ton of benefits.
Staying at the heart of the region allows you to easily walk to many of the top sights and dining areas in Cardiff and cut down on your travel expenses. Centrally-located accommodations are also an excellent choice for travelers in Cardiff planning to go on a quick tour or drive to the neighboring regions.
In Cardiff, you'll find 5 different types of places to stay catering to every taste, budget, and reason for travel. For example, honeymooners or travelers on a romantic getaway in Wales can experience the ultimate relaxation at one of the 5-star or 4-star hotels in Cardiff. Travelers whose purpose is sightseeing can also find plenty of mid-range hotels to budget-friendly accommodations in the region, allowing access to many of the top attractions in Cardiff.
Learn more about the most popular places to stay and the top-rated hotels in Cardiff in the next sections.
Popular types of accommodation in Cardiff
A trip to the fascinating Cardiff, Wales, means opportunities to relax at any of the 5 different types of places to stay in the region. Overall, travelers can choose from the following: 164 hotels, 160 vacation rental apartments, 35 cottages, 4 guesthouses and 3 bed & breakfasts. While each type offers varying amenities and rates, there is no denying that Cardiff provides a great selection of lodging options ready to cater to every kind of guest.
Among all these choices available in the region, Future Inn Cardiff Bay by Future Inns is one of the top picks of travelers in Cardiff.
The hotel is located at Hemingway Road and boasts many great utilities, including Air conditioning, Restaurant, and Free Wi-Fi.
Budget accommodations are also incredibly popular among travelers in Cardiff. Cheaper alternatives allow travelers to save on accommodation costs and have more to spend on other experiences.
In Cardiff, travelers looking for an economical yet top-rated place to stay usually choose ML Lodge. For approximately 50 EUR, guests can book a comfortable Unknown at this popular hotel.
Below is a list of all 5 different types of places to stay in Cardiff. Select the type you prefer to compare options under each category and find the best accommodation.
Top hotels in Cardiff
Hotels are travelers' go-to accommodations in Cardiff for the unique experience they provide. So if you're the kind of traveler who prefers staying at hotels, you'll be glad to know that the region is home to around 366 hotels.
Besides offering basic amenities, many hotels in Cardiff provide meals and extras, such as shuttle services, spa facilities, tour desks, and other services. But because not all hotels in Cardiff are created equal, finding the best in the region often requires careful research. For your convenience, we've done all the research to make it easier for you to check out all the top hotels in Cardiff.
Voco St David's Cardiff offers the most luxurious rooms and is perfect for travelers looking for the ultimate 5-star hotel experience in Cardiff. If comfort, convenience, and affordability are your non-negotiables, check out Park Plaza Cardiff, the top 4-star hotel in the region. When all you need is a pleasant place to rest and sleep in between your activities in Cardiff, the highest-rated 3-star hotel, Future Inn Cardiff Bay by Future Inns, is for you.
Below is our hand-picked list of the best hotels in the Cardiff. Travelers are encouraged to book early as these hotels quickly reach capacity.
Click the arrows or swipe the list to see each hotel's ratings, reviews, locations, rates, and more. You can read detailed descriptions of each hotel by clicking the cards.
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Use the Accommodation Search tool below to find available stays in the region of Cardiff on specific dates. This handy feature also allows you to compare prices and amenities.
Enter the preferred check-in and check-out dates. Then, select the number of guests and rooms. Click the Search button to find all the available hotels and places to stay in the region of Cardiff that match the information provided.
Car rental in Cardiff
Experience the freedom and convenience of a self-drive vacation by renting a car for your adventures in Cardiff. Cardiff has 6 car rental companies ready to provide you with the perfect vehicle for your travels.
Automatic cars for rent in Cardiff start from 42.45 EUR per day or 297.14 EUR per week. The cheapest automatic rental car is a Vauxhall Corsa.
If you prefer driving a manual car, you’ll find multiple options for rent in Cardiff, starting from 25.51 EUR per day or 178.55 EUR per week. The cheapest manual rental car is a Toyota Aygo.
Learn more about the different types of cars you can rent in Cardiff, Wales, below.
Popular types of car rental in Cardiff
Discover and choose from our broad range of popular car rental options in the region of Cardiff to find the best car for your travel plans. Travelers in Cardiff can choose from small cars, medium cars, large cars, estate cars, mini vans, SUVs, convertibles, premium cars, camper vans, mini campers, vans, cars. All car rentals come with CDW insurance for added protection throughout your trip.
Renting a car is a popular choice among travelers who want to explore Wales at their own pace. The most popular type of car rental among small groups of travelers in Cardiff is a TopLevel.
Another very popular type of car to rent in Cardiff is a TopLevel. This car is particularly popular among couples and solo travelers touring the region of Cardiff.
Check out all options available in Cardiff and book the car rental for your upcoming adventures in Wales below.
Search for car rental in Cardiff
Get ready to hit the road and explore the beautiful region of Cardiff. Find the best deals on a variety of popular car rentals in Cardiff, Wales, or any other destination in Europe by using the search tool below.
Enter your pick-up and drop-off location, driver's age, and dates. Click the green button to view your options.
Transportation in Cardiff
Cardiff, the capital city of Wales, boasts an efficient and diverse transportation network. The city is served by the Cardiff Bus, which operates extensive services across Cardiff and to nearby towns. The buses are frequent and reliable, making it an easy and cost-effective way to explore the city.
For more direct routes, taxis are readily available throughout the city. They can be conveniently hailed on the street, booked in advance, or picked up from designated taxi ranks. If you prefer driving, there are numerous car hire services in the city, offering a range of vehicles to suit all needs.
Cardiff also has an excellent rail system, with Cardiff Central Station acting as a hub for many regional and national services. For a unique local transportation experience, consider hiring a bike through the popular nextbike scheme, or take a boat taxi ride along the River Taff. Both offer a fun and alternative way to see the city.
Domestic flights from Cardiff
A taste of Wales through a visit to Cardiff can often reignite a traveler's passion for adventure. When this happens, the best way to satisfy this wanderlust is to book a domestic flight from Cardiff to another remarkable destination in Wales.
To begin your search for the best or cheapest flights from the region of Cardiff to other spectacular locations in Wales, jump to the last section of this travel guide.
Search domestic flights from Cardiff
Traveling to another city or region in Wales? Use the flight search tool below to quickly find the cheapest one-way or round-trip flights from Cardiff to different local destinations.
Enter all the necessary information and click or tap on the Search button to see a list of the available domestic flights in Wales on the selected dates.
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