Norwegian Church Arts Centre, Cardiff Bay
A historic Norwegian church reborn as a vibrant arts centre and café with stunning bay views, deeply tied to Roald Dahl’s childhood in Cardiff.
Perched on the waterfront in Cardiff Bay, the Norwegian Church Arts Centre is a charming white clapboard building with a rich maritime history. Originally built in 1868 as a church for Norwegian sailors, it now serves as a vibrant arts centre and café. Inside, you’ll find rotating art exhibitions, cultural events, and a light-filled space that celebrates both Welsh and Norwegian heritage. The adjacent Norsk Café Bar offers Nordic-inspired food and drinks on a terrace with sweeping views across the bay, making it a perfect spot to relax, reflect, and enjoy the atmosphere of this unique Cardiff landmark.
A brief summary to Norwegian Church Arts Centre
- Bay, Norwegian Church Arts Centre, Harbour Dr, Cardiff, CF10 4PA, GB
- +442920492261
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Mid ranged
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Mixed
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Tuesday 10 am-5:30 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-5:30 pm
- Thursday 10 am-5:30 pm
- Friday 10 am-5:30 pm
- Saturday 10 am-5:30 pm
- Sunday 10 am-5:30 pm
Local tips
- Visit in the late afternoon to enjoy the café terrace as the sun sets over Cardiff Bay, when the light is especially beautiful and the crowds tend to thin.
- Check the arts centre’s events calendar in advance; temporary exhibitions, live music, and seasonal celebrations can enhance your visit.
- Look for the Dahl Gallery upstairs and the family christening bowl on display to connect with Roald Dahl’s personal history at the church.
- The café kitchen closes at 5:30pm, so if you want a full meal, aim to arrive earlier in the day rather than late afternoon.
- Be aware that the building may close early or be fully booked for private events; it’s wise to call ahead if you’re making a special trip.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Drinking Water
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Sheltered Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Public Transport
From Cardiff Central Station, take the Baycar bus (service 5) directly to Cardiff Bay, alighting near the Norwegian Church. The journey takes about 15–20 minutes and runs frequently during the day.
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Walking
From Cardiff city centre, follow the signed path along the waterfront promenade through Cardiff Bay. The walk takes roughly 25–30 minutes on flat, paved paths with views of the bay and city landmarks.
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Car
Drive to Cardiff Bay and use the nearby Mermaid Quay multi-storey car park, a 5–10 minute walk from the church. On-street parking is limited and often reserved for events, so a public car park is more reliable.
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Taxi / Ride‑hailing
A taxi or ride‑hailing service from Cardiff city centre to the Norwegian Church takes about 10 minutes and drops you close to the waterfront entrance.
Norwegian Church Arts Centre location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Norwegian Church Arts Centre
A Seafarer’s Haven Reborn
Standing proudly on Cardiff Bay’s waterfront, this distinctive white wooden church with its modest spire was originally built in 1868 as a place of worship and community for Norwegian sailors. During Cardiff’s heyday as the world’s leading coal-exporting port, hundreds of thousands of Scandinavian seafarers passed through, and this church offered them a familiar sanctuary far from home. Designed in a simple Norwegian village style, it provided not just religious services but also reading materials, letter-writing facilities, and social gatherings in their native tongue. After decades of serving the port’s maritime community, the church closed in the 1970s and fell into disrepair before being rescued and rebuilt in its current location in 1992.From Church to Cultural Hub
The building you see today is a careful reconstruction that incorporates surviving elements of the original structure, now reimagined as the Norwegian Church Arts Centre. No longer consecrated, it has been transformed into a lively cultural venue hosting art exhibitions, live music, performances, and community events. The interior retains a sense of its ecclesiastical past, with high ceilings, wooden pews, and maritime-themed details, while also embracing its role as a modern arts space. The Dahl Gallery upstairs regularly features photography and visual art, often with a local or Nordic flavour, and the building remains a focal point for the Welsh-Norwegian community, which continues to meet here monthly.Roald Dahl’s Cardiff Connection
One of the church’s most famous links is to the beloved children’s author Roald Dahl, whose parents were Norwegian and who worshipped here with his family. Dahl and his siblings were baptised in the original church, and the family’s silver christening bowl is now displayed in the Dahl Gallery as a touching tribute. Dahl later became the first president of the Norwegian Church Preservation Trust, playing a key role in the campaign to save and relocate the building. Today, the church celebrates his legacy each year on his birthday with events for local children, blending literary heritage with community spirit in a way that feels both intimate and enduring.Art, Coffee and Bay Views
Beyond its history and exhibitions, the Norwegian Church is also home to the Norsk Café Bar, a bright, welcoming space serving Nordic-inspired food and drink. Locally roasted coffee, waffles, lapskaus (a traditional stew), and Welsh cakes sit alongside craft beers, wines, and spirits from Welsh producers. The café spills out onto a spacious terrace overlooking the water, where visitors can linger over a drink while watching boats glide across the bay and the city’s modern skyline in the distance. Whether you’re here for a quick coffee, a full meal, or simply to soak in the views, the café adds a relaxed, convivial layer to the experience.A Place for Celebration and Reflection
The arts centre is also a popular venue for weddings, conferences, and private events, its unique character and waterfront setting making it a memorable choice. Throughout the year, it hosts seasonal celebrations, concerts, and cultural festivals that draw both locals and visitors. Whether you’re drawn by the maritime history, the Roald Dahl connection, the art exhibitions, or just the chance to enjoy a peaceful moment by the water, the Norwegian Church Arts Centre offers a rare blend of heritage, creativity, and scenic beauty in the heart of Cardiff Bay.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
The Scott Antarctic Memorial Cardiff Bay
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A poignant memorial in Cardiff Bay honoring Captain Scott and his Antarctic expedition, set against a historic maritime backdrop.
Roath Lock
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Discover Roath Lock, Cardiff’s iconic BBC drama village blending cutting-edge production with waterfront heritage charm.
Ship Weather Vane - Cardiff Bay Art Trail
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A dynamic copper and steel ship weather vane celebrating Cardiff Bay’s maritime heritage atop the historic Pilotage Office.
Premier Inn Cardiff Bay hotel
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Comfortable, accessible, and modern hotel steps from Cardiff Bay’s cultural and waterfront attractions.
Statue of The Second Marquess of Bute
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Historic bronze statue in Cardiff honoring the visionary who transformed the city through the development of its docks and industrial growth.
Water Towers by Amber Hiscott & David Pearl
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Iconic blue sculptural towers in Cardiff symbolizing water through innovative glass and metal artistry.
Cardiff Central Train Station Water Tower
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A historic Grade II listed water tower overlooking Cardiff Central Station and the River Taff, symbolizing the city’s rich railway heritage.
HMP Cardiff
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Discover the rich history and architectural significance of HMP Cardiff, a landmark prison reflecting the evolution of the UK's justice system.
John Batchelor Statue
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A Victorian radical immortalised in bronze, standing where Cardiff’s political battles once raged.
Fogo's Free Tours
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Explore the vibrant history and culture of Cardiff with Fogo's Free Tours – an engaging experience for every traveler.
St David's Metropolitan Cathedral
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Experience the architectural beauty and serene atmosphere of St David's Metropolitan Cathedral, a must-visit spiritual landmark in Cardiff.
Museum of Cardiff
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Explore Cardiff’s vibrant history and culture in the heart of the city at the Museum of Cardiff, housed in the historic Old Library.
Principality Stadium
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Experience the energy and excitement of Principality Stadium, Cardiff's premier venue for sports, concerts, and unforgettable events.
8 St Mary St
2.4 km
Explore the architectural beauty and historical significance of 8 St Mary St in the heart of Cardiff, a must-see for every traveler.
The Cardiff Market
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Immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of Cardiff Market, a must-visit destination for food lovers and culture enthusiasts alike.
Unmissable attractions to see
The Open Boat 'Daffodil'
0.2 km
Discover Cardiff Bay’s beauty and history aboard the charming open-air steam launch, The Open Boat 'Daffodil', for a unique and intimate cruise experience.
Giant Ferris Wheel
0.2 km
Experience breathtaking views and dazzling light shows atop Cardiff’s iconic 35-meter Giant Ferris Wheel at Harbour Drive.
The Senedd
0.2 km
Discover the Senedd, Cardiff’s iconic sustainable parliament building where Welsh democracy meets stunning waterfront views and open public access.
Cardiff Cruises
0.2 km
Explore Cardiff Bay’s iconic waterfront with Cardiff Cruises—offering scenic tours, themed cruises, and unique maritime experiences from Mermaid Quay.
Pierhead Building
0.3 km
Discover Cardiff's iconic Victorian Gothic Revival Pierhead Building, a vibrant museum and landmark overlooking the scenic Cardiff Bay waterfront.
Cargoes Poem
0.3 km
Experience Cardiff’s maritime legacy through John Masefield’s Cargoes Poem brought to life by striking sculptures at Mermaid Quay.
Ianto's Shrine
0.3 km
A heartfelt fan-made memorial on Cardiff Bay’s Mermaid Quay honoring Ianto Jones, a beloved character from the cult TV series Torchwood.
Landsea Gardens Cardiff Bay Viewing Deck
0.3 km
A serene garden retreat with stunning panoramic views over Cardiff Bay’s waterfront and city skyline.
Panorama Stone - Cardiff Bay Art Trail
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Discover Panorama Stone, a symbolic bronze sculpture linking Cardiff Bay’s maritime heritage with global connections on the vibrant Cardiff Bay Art Trail.
Roald Dahl Plass
0.3 km
A dynamic waterfront plaza celebrating Cardiff’s heritage, culture, and Roald Dahl’s legacy with iconic architecture and vibrant events.
Landsea Square - Cardiff Bay
0.3 km
A peaceful, art-filled square nestled in Cardiff Bay’s vibrant waterfront, perfect for quiet moments and scenic views.
Mermaid Quay
0.4 km
Vibrant Cardiff Bay waterfront alive with dining, shopping, comedy, and bay views—maritime heritage meets modern leisure in this regenerated gem.
Wales Millennium Centre
0.4 km
Wales's premier arts venue showcasing world-class opera, ballet, dance and musicals in Cardiff Bay.
Techniquest
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Explore hands-on science, immersive shows, and family fun at Techniquest, Cardiff’s premier interactive discovery centre in vibrant Cardiff Bay.
Cardiff Bay Wetlands Reserve
0.6 km
A serene 8-hectare freshwater wetland reserve in Cardiff Bay, offering rich biodiversity and peaceful birdwatching amidst urban surroundings.
Essential places to dine
Las Iguanas - Cardiff - Mermaid Quay
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Sizzling Latin American flavors and killer cocktails meet Cardiff Bay's waterfront sparkle at this fiesta-ready hotspot.
Demiro's
0.3 km
Lively Italian dining with a Mediterranean twist, set in Cardiff Bay’s vibrant Mermaid Quay waterfront.
Signor Valentino
0.3 km
Handcrafted Italian dining with panoramic Cardiff Bay views from an elevated Mediterranean terrace.
Cosy Club
0.3 km
Stylish and relaxed dining with eclectic decor and a vibrant bar in the heart of Cardiff Bay’s Mermaid Quay.
Côte Cardiff Bay
0.3 km
Experience the elegance of modern French dining with classic flavors and waterfront views at Côte Cardiff Bay in Mermaid Quay.
Giggling Squid - Cardiff Bay
0.3 km
Experience authentic Thai flavors and botanical charm in the heart of Cardiff Bay’s vibrant Mermaid Quay.
Hub Box Cardiff
0.3 km
Lively American-style burger bar with waterfront views, bold flavors, and inclusive menu options in the heart of Cardiff’s Mermaid Quay.
The Botanist Cardiff Bay
0.3 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere at The Botanist Cardiff Bay - where live music meets delicious British cuisine and handcrafted cocktails.
Bill's Cardiff Bay Restaurant
0.4 km
Historic waterfront dining with colorful charm, seasonal British classics, and a lively atmosphere in the heart of Cardiff Bay.
Tir a Môr
0.4 km
Savor the fusion of Welsh land and sea at Tir a Môr, Cardiff’s stylish coastal restaurant celebrating local flavors and traditions.
Culley's Kitchen & Bar
0.6 km
Historic charm meets fresh Welsh flavors in Cardiff Bay’s Culley's Kitchen & Bar, a must-visit for seasonal dining and craft cocktails.
Thomas Restaurant Cardiff Bay
0.8 km
A stylish Cardiff Bay restaurant blending modern British cuisine with warm hospitality and local flavors in a vibrant waterfront setting.
The Classroom
1.5 km
Experience fine dining with panoramic city views while supporting Cardiff’s future chefs at The Classroom.
Cedar Tree Farm - Farmhouse Inns
1.7 km
A family-friendly pub in Cardiff’s Grangetown, famed for its hearty carvery, legendary desserts, and welcoming atmosphere.
Viva Brazil Cardiff
1.9 km
Experience authentic Brazilian rodizio and vibrant flavors in the heart of Cardiff’s city centre, perfect for groups and special occasions.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Gallery Gift Shop at the Norwegian Church
0.0 km
Discover unique Scandinavian-inspired gifts in the historic Norwegian Church Arts Centre, a cultural gem overlooking Cardiff Bay.
Hearth & Co
0.0 km
Discover handcrafted wonders blending Norwegian heritage and Welsh artistry at this gem within Cardiff Bay's iconic Norwegian Church Arts Centre.
Zia Boutique
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Discover handpicked jewellery, homeware, and gifts at this independent gem in Cardiff Bay's Mermaid Quay—a stylish haven since 2011.
Polka Dot
0.3 km
Discover dotted delights at this whimsical Cardiff Bay gift shop, where polka patterns meet playful souvenirs in a cozy waterfront nook.
Cardiff Bay Retail Park
1.7 km
Value-packed shopping hub amid Cardiff Bay's waterfront allure—superstores, groceries, and easy parking for practical pit stops.
B&M Home Store
1.8 km
Discover incredible deals on home essentials and unique items at B&M Home Store in Cardiff Bay - your go-to discount shop!
Ganesha Handicrafts
2.2 km
Ethical elegance from India and Nepal: jewelry, textiles, and handicrafts in Cardiff's iconic Royal Arcade.
Driftwood Designs Cardiff
2.2 km
Bright, bold Welsh art and homewares in the heart of Cardiff’s Royal Arcade – perfect for souvenirs, gifts, and a splash of contemporary Welsh culture.
The Thrift - Cardiffs Vintage Superstore
2.2 km
Discover Cardiff’s ultimate vintage warehouse with racks of unique, affordable, and rare fashion treasures in a fun, underground setting.
Joie de Vivre Boutique and Vintage Store
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Independent boutique treasure trove in historic Royal Arcade, celebrating curated vintage and artisanal finds.
elephants and flowres
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Artisan gifts and local crafts in Cardiff's charming Victorian arcade.
Welcome Things
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Discover whimsical treasures in Cardiff's historic Royal Arcade at this eclectic gift shop, where unique Welsh-inspired finds meet global curiosities in Victorian splendor.
Sobeys Vintage Clothing
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Beyond Retro Cardiff
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Discover unique vintage fashion and sustainable style at Beyond Retro Cardiff, nestled in the vibrant St David's Centre.
Menkind
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Discover quirky gadgets and unique gifts for men at Menkind Cardiff, nestled in the vibrant St David's Shopping Centre.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Waterguard
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Sam Smith's dockside gem in Cardiff Bay: crisp ales, pub grub, dog-friendly gardens, and panoramic harbor views for effortless waterfront unwinding.
Lo Lounge
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The Dock
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Bar One
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The Eli Jenkins
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The Packet
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Traditional Cardiff Bay pub with 160 years of history, darts, games, real ales, and homely vibes amid modern surroundings.
The Grange Pub
2.0 km
A vibrant community pub in Cardiff’s Grangetown, offering quality local beers, hearty British fare, and a welcoming atmosphere for all.
Mocka Lounge
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Lively cocktail bar and nightclub in Cardiff’s Mill Lane with great drinks, friendly service, and a vibrant social scene day and night.
Peppermint Bar
2.0 km
Sophisticated cocktails, vibrant atmosphere, and a heated outdoor terrace in the heart of Cardiff city centre.
Heidis Bier Bar Cardiff
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Experience authentic Bavarian fun and lively nightlife at Heidi's Bier Bar, Cardiff’s quirky hotspot on Mill Lane open late every day.
Be At One - Cardiff
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Lively cocktail bar in Cardiff city centre with 100+ drinks, happy hours, masterclasses, and a buzzing party atmosphere.
Retro
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A lively multi-floor nightclub in Cardiff celebrating retro hits, wild parties, and unforgettable nights until the early morning.
Dirty Martini - Cocktail Bar in Cardiff
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Sophisticated cocktails and vibrant nightlife meet in the heart of Cardiff’s city centre at Dirty Martini.
The Cocktail Club - Cocktail Bar in Cardiff
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A dynamic three-floor cocktail bar in Cardiff offering inventive drinks, lively music, and unforgettable nights out.
The Philharmonic
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A bustling multilevel pub and nightclub in Cardiff city centre, offering cocktails, brunches, rooftop vibes, and lively entertainment.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Cabaret at Wales Millennium Centre
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Dive into Cardiff Bay's sizzling hub of drag, burlesque, comedy, and live music at Cabaret – where inclusive performances sparkle with pop culture magic and high-energy fun.
The Vaults
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Dive into Cardiff’s iconic underground club housed in a historic former bank, where techno beats and vibrant nightlife come alive beneath the city streets.
Popworld - Cardiff
2.2 km
Dive into cheesy pop heaven at Popworld Cardiff—karaoke, half-price drinks, and dance floor anthems until 3am on vibrant St Mary Street.
Metros
2.2 km
Cardiff's alternative nightclub haven: cheap drinks, eclectic DJs, and non-stop rock, ska, and indie beats fueling wild weekends till 4am.
Pulse
2.4 km
A city-centre LGBTQ+-friendly bar that becomes a neon-lit nightclub after dark, blending casual daytime dining with late-night DJs and themed club nights.
For Your Eyes Only
2.4 km
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Clwb Ifor Bach
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Cardiff's gritty Welsh club heart: live music legends, late-night dances, and cultural rebellion on historic Womanby Street since 1983.
Fuel Rock Club
2.5 km
Cardiff's unyielding rock fortress on Womanby Street: live metal mayhem, cheap drinks, and a beer garden for the faithful.
Revolution Cardiff
2.5 km
Discover the energy of Revolution Cardiff, where delicious food and innovative cocktails meet vibrant nightlife in the heart of the city.
The Live Lounge Cardiff
2.6 km
Immerse yourself in the energetic atmosphere of The Live Lounge Cardiff, where live music, delicious cuisine, and vibrant nightlife await.
The CUBE
2.6 km
Cardiff’s vibrant nightclub hotspot offering dynamic music, dancing, and an electric atmosphere in the heart of the city.
CIRCUIT Cardiff
2.6 km
Cardiff's largest nightclub ignites Greyfriars Road with 1,500-capacity energy, state-of-the-art production across themed rooms, and epic nights from club beats to private spectacles.
Yates - Cardiff
2.6 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Yates in Cardiff, where great food, drinks, and sports come together in a lively setting.
Tiger Tiger Cardiff
2.6 km
A dynamic nightclub with themed rooms and diverse bars offering a vibrant nightlife experience in the heart of Cardiff.
The Globe
3.7 km
A compact Grade II-listed former cinema turned lively live-music venue and nightclub, famed for intimate gigs and energetic club nights on Albany Road.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Cultural
- Quirky
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
- Parks & Gardens
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Waterfront
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Low Impact
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Festival / Event Nearby
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
