Cardiff: The Heartbeat of Wales

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Cardiff, the vibrant capital of Wales, offers a rich blend of modern urban excitement and deep-rooted history. As you wander through its streets, you'll be captivated by the harmonious blend of ancient and contemporary architecture, from the medieval splendor of Cardiff Castle to the sleek, modern design of the Wales Millennium Centre. Cardiff Bay, once a bustling dockland, has been transformed into a lively waterfront area filled with restaurants, shops, and cultural attractions. It's the perfect spot to enjoy a leisurely stroll, sample local cuisine, or take a boat ride to explore the bay. The city's parks and green spaces, such as Bute Park, provide a peaceful retreat amid the urban hustle and bustle. For sports enthusiasts, Cardiff is a dream destination. The Principality Stadium, one of the most iconic sports venues in the UK, hosts international rugby matches, football games, and major concerts. If you are a history buff, don't miss the National Museum Cardiff, which houses impressive collections of art, archaeology, and natural history. Whether you're interested in exploring its rich history, enjoying its vibrant arts scene, or simply soaking up the local culture, Cardiff has something for everyone. Its friendly atmosphere and welcoming locals make it an unforgettable destination in the heart of Wales.

Local tips in Cardiff

Visit Cardiff Castle early in the morning to avoid the crowds and get the best photos.
Use the public bike-sharing system to explore the city efficiently and enjoy the scenic routes.
Try the local delicacy, Welsh cakes, from one of the traditional bakeries in the city.
Take a guided tour of the Principality Stadium to learn about its history and get behind-the-scenes access.
Check the event calendar at the Wales Millennium Centre for performances and exhibitions.
Take a boat tour from Cardiff Bay to see the city from a different perspective.

Neighbourhoods in Cardiff

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Cathays

Roath

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City Centre

Cardiff Bay

File:Aerial view of Cardiff Castle.jpg - Wikipedia

File:Principality Stadium view from Westgate Street, Cardiff.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

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File:Cardiff Bay 121020 2469 (50599762103) - Flickr - Richard Szwejkowski.jpg - Wikipedia

File:Roald Dahl Plass - Cardiff.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

File:Bute Park, Cardiff.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

File:North end of Roath Park Lake - Cardiff - geograph.org.uk - 1830661.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

File:Millennium Stadium (aerial view).jpg - Wikipedia

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When is the best time to go to Cardiff?

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Tintern Abbey

Gothic masterpiece where medieval splendour meets Romantic inspiration on the River Wye.

Cardiff City Stadium

Wales's premier football arena where passion meets modern sport in the heart of Cardiff.

Castell Coch

A fairytale fortress of Victorian imagination rising from medieval foundations in ancient Welsh woodland.

Cabot Tower

Historic Cabot Tower atop Bristol’s oldest park offers stunning panoramic city views and a peaceful urban nature escape.

Roald Dahl Plass

Where industrial heritage meets modern culture—Cardiff's iconic plaza named for author Roald Dahl.

Museum of Cardiff

Explore the vibrant history and culture of Cardiff in the heart of the city at the Museum of Cardiff, housed in the historic Old Library.

Aberfan Disaster Memorial

A solemn memorial garden honouring 144 lives lost in Wales' greatest tragedy, standing as a testament to community resilience.

St Peter's Church

Explore the haunting ruins of St Peter’s Church in Castle Park, a solemn World War II memorial and historic gem in the heart of Bristol.

Firing Line Cardiff Castle Museum of the Welsh Soldier

Discover the valor and history of Welsh soldiers through immersive exhibits within the historic Cardiff Castle grounds.

John Batchelor Statue

A Victorian radical immortalised in bronze, standing where Cardiff’s political battles once raged.

Vicar's Cl

Europe's oldest intact medieval street, where 675 years of history and sacred music still resonate.

The Scott Antarctic Memorial Cardiff Bay

A poignant memorial in Cardiff Bay honoring Captain Scott and his Antarctic expedition, set against a historic maritime backdrop.

Statue of Edmund Burke

A distinguished bronze tribute to Edmund Burke, Bristol’s influential 18th-century MP and philosopher, standing proudly at Broad Quay.

Aneurin Bevan Statue by Robert Thomas (1987)

A bronze tribute to the architect of the NHS, captured in passionate oratory on Cardiff's Queen Street.

The Gathering - Cardiff

Victorian Neogothic landmark and active faith community in the heart of Cardiff

Unmissable attractions to see

Cardiff Castle

Nearly 2,000 years of history converge in Wales' most captivating castle, where Roman forts, Norman keeps, Victorian splendor, and wartime shelters tell an evolving story.

St David’s Dewi Sant

Cardiff’s largest shopping centre with over 160 shops, vibrant dining, and family-friendly entertainment in the city heart.

Clifton Suspension Bridge

Explore Bristol’s iconic Victorian engineering marvel spanning the Avon Gorge with stunning views, free museum access, and immersive guided tours.

Cabot Circus

A vibrant shopping and leisure destination in Bristol with over 130 stores beneath a stunning glass roof, blending modern design and historic charm.

Principality Stadium

Cardiff’s iconic national stadium with a retractable roof, hosting world-class rugby, concerts, and events in the heart of Wales.

Bannau Brycheiniog National Park (Brecon Beacons)

Explore Wales’ breathtaking Bannau Brycheiniog National Park, where majestic peaks, waterfalls, and dark skies create unforgettable adventures.

St. Fagans National Museum of History

Explore Wales’ rich heritage through over 40 historic buildings and living crafts in a stunning open-air museum set around a 16th-century castle.

Brunel's SS Great Britain

Explore the pioneering steamship Brunel’s SS Great Britain, a Victorian maritime marvel and Bristol’s top historic attraction.

Cheddar Gorge and Caves

Explore the dramatic cliffs, ancient caves, and rich prehistoric heritage of Cheddar Gorge, Somerset’s iconic natural landmark.

National Museum Cardiff

Europe's finest art meets Welsh natural history in Cardiff's grand civic museum—free admission, world-class collections.

St Nicholas Market

Bristol’s historic heart of independent shopping, street food, and local culture in the Old City.

Castell Caerffili / Caerphilly Castle

Explore Wales’ largest castle with its iconic leaning tower, vast moat, and immersive medieval history on a sprawling 30-acre fortress site.

Barry Island Pleasure Park

Classic seaside amusement park blending nostalgic rides, family fun, and beachside charm on Wales’ scenic Barry Island.

Wales Millennium Centre

Wales's premier arts venue showcasing world-class opera, ballet, dance and musicals in Cardiff Bay.

Bute Park

Cardiff's verdant 130-acre sanctuary where Victorian heritage meets modern celebration, beneath ancient trees and winter lights.

Essential places to dine

Turtle Bay Cardiff

Caribbean soul meets Welsh hospitality—bold jerk, tropical cocktails, and island warmth in Cardiff city centre.

Bill's Cardiff Central Restaurant

All-day British dining in Cardiff's vibrant arcade—fresh, seasonal, and genuinely welcoming to families and their four-legged friends.

Cosy Club

Stylish British dining with vintage charm and all-day menus in Cardiff’s St David's Dewi Sant centre.

The Smoke Haus

Experience bold American barbecue flavors and hearty portions in the heart of Cardiff’s vibrant St Davids Centre.

Pasture Restaurant Cardiff

Cardiff's acclaimed steakhouse celebrating premium meat and bold flavors in a vibrant, lively setting.

Las Iguanas - Cardiff

Experience bold Latin American flavours and vibrant cocktails in the heart of Cardiff’s lively Mill Lane.

The Ivy Cardiff

Experience elegant British dining in a stunning 1920s-inspired botanical setting at The Ivy Cardiff, a vibrant city-centre brasserie and cocktail bar.

Shaam nights restaurant

Experience authentic Syrian cuisine with smoky grilled meats and silky hummus in Cardiff’s vibrant Roath district at Shaam Nights.

Tŷ Madeira Restaurant

Award-winning Portuguese dining in Cardiff's city centre, blending authentic tradition with modern culinary excellence.

The Alchemist Cardiff

Theatrical cocktails and innovative cuisine in Cardiff's most unconventional dining destination.

Cornerhouse Cardiff

Elevated British gastropub cuisine in Cardiff's city centre, where gourmet sensibility meets welcoming warmth.

The Botanist Cardiff

A vibrant gastropub in Cardiff city centre where botanical décor, creative cocktails, and live music bloom together.

Côte Cardiff Central

Experience modern French cuisine with free-flow frites in a stylish brasserie setting at the heart of Cardiff’s vibrant Mill Lane.

Lezzet Turkish Kitchen

Experience authentic Turkish cuisine with vibrant flavours and warm hospitality in the heart of Cardiff city centre.

Giovanni's Restaurant

Authentic Italian cuisine in Cardiff's heart, where tradition meets warm hospitality.

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

Capitol Cardiff

Cardiff's central shopping destination blending contemporary retail with Victorian-inspired architecture.

Morgan Quarter

Discover Cardiff’s charming Morgan Quarter, a historic Victorian arcade blending unique shops, cozy cafes, and timeless architecture in the city centre.

Menkind

Discover quirky gadgets, unique gifts, and pop culture treasures at Menkind, Cardiff’s premier gift shop for all ages and tastes.

Flying Tiger

Discover quirky Scandinavian gifts and creative everyday essentials at Flying Tiger in Cardiff’s St David's Centre.

Urban Outfitters

Curated lifestyle retail celebrating creativity, fashion, and cultural expression in Cardiff's city centre.

Little Welsh Company

Discover authentic Welsh gifts and heritage treasures in the heart of Cardiff at the Little Welsh Company.

Castle Welsh Crafts Ltd

Discover authentic Welsh crafts and heritage gifts in the heart of Cardiff, just opposite the iconic Cardiff Castle.

The Works

Affordable books, crafts, toys, and stationery in the heart of Cardiff’s vibrant Queen Street shopping district.

Hobos Vintage

A vibrant Cardiff vintage shop packed with retro fashion, trainers, and accessories from the 1950s to today – perfect for throwback style and bargain finds.

Sobeys Vintage Clothing

Discover unique reworked vintage fashion in Cardiff’s historic Royal Arcade at Sobeys Vintage Clothing, where creativity meets sustainability.

The Thrift - Cardiffs Vintage Superstore

Discover Cardiff’s ultimate vintage warehouse with racks of unique, affordable, and rare fashion treasures in a fun, underground setting.

Nest Cardiff

Discover unique gifts and charming children’s clothes in a welcoming boutique nestled in Cardiff’s leafy Rhiwbina suburb.

Historical Wales

Discover authentic Welsh heritage through unique gifts and souvenirs at Historical Wales, nestled in Cardiff’s historic Duke Street Arcade.

Cardiff Creative Shop

A vibrant Cardiff gift shop showcasing handmade crafts and designs by local Welsh artists in the heart of the city centre.

Mojo King

Discover smart, affordable Mod and Northern Soul-inspired men's fashion at Mojo King, a unique gem in Cardiff Indoor Market.

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

The Live Lounge Cardiff

Cardiff’s energetic live music bar and nightclub offering affordable drinks, hearty food, and nonstop entertainment until 4am.

Tiny Rebel Cardiff

Vibrant craft beer pub near Principality Stadium with lively music, quirky style, and great British food in the heart of Cardiff.

Coyote Ugly Saloon Cardiff

Experience Cardiff’s wildest bar and grill with live barmaid performances, hearty American food, and late-night party vibes on St Mary Street.

Peppermint Bar

Sophisticated cocktails, vibrant atmosphere, and lively late-night fun in the heart of Cardiff city centre.

The Alchemist Cardiff

Experience Cardiff’s premier cocktail theatre with innovative drinks and global dining in a vibrant city centre setting.

Glassworks

A traditional British pub in Cardiff offering quality food, a lively atmosphere, and a welcoming city center setting.

The Botanist Cardiff

A vibrant botanical bar and restaurant in Cardiff city centre, blending lush greenery, creative cocktails, and live music for a unique urban escape.

Slug & Lettuce - The Friary Cardiff

A vibrant cocktail bar and restaurant in Cardiff’s city centre, perfect for lively social dining and celebrations with classic British dishes and creative drinks.

The Philharmonic

A bustling multilevel pub and nightclub in Cardiff city centre, offering cocktails, brunches, rooftop vibes, and lively entertainment.

Slug & Lettuce - St Mary St Cardiff

Lively cocktail bar and casual dining spot in Cardiff city center, famed for bottomless brunches and vibrant social atmosphere.

The Dead Canary

Discover Cardiff’s hidden speakeasy with mythical-inspired cocktails and an intimate, vintage atmosphere in the heart of the city.

Dirty Martini - Cardiff

Stylish cocktail bar in Cardiff city centre offering bespoke martinis, vibrant nightlife, bottomless brunches, and private event spaces.

Lab 22

Discover Cardiff’s award-winning Lab 22, where innovative cocktails meet scientific flair in a stylish, immersive setting.

Be At One - Cardiff

Energetic cocktail bar in Cardiff city centre with 100+ drinks, lively atmosphere, and late-night party vibes on St Mary Street.

Your Ultimate Free Travel Guide to Cardiff

Discover Cardiff with Evendo, a 100% free app-based local travel guide. Explore attractions, landmarks, restaurants, and more with ease and convenience.

Local Phrases

- HelloAlright
  [al-right]
- GoodbyeSee you later
  [see-yew-lay-ter]
- YesYeah
  [yeh]
- NoNah
  [nah]
- Please/You're welcomeThere you go
  [thair-yew-goh]
- Thank youCheers
  [cheers]
- Excuse me/SorrySorry mate
  [sor-ree-mate]
- How are you?You alright?
  [yew-al-right]
- Fine. And you?Not bad. You?
  [not-bad-yew]
- Do you speak English?Do you speak English, like?
  [do-yew-speek-ing-glish-like]
- I don't understandI don't get it
  [I-dont-get-it]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseCan I have a look at the menu, please?
  [can-I-hav-a-look-at-the-menu-please]
- I don't eat meatI don't touch meat
  [I-dont-tuch-meat]
- Cheers!Cheers!
  [cheers]
- I would like to pay, pleaseCan I settle up, please?
  [can-I-set-tul-up-please]
- Help!Help!
  [help]
- Go away!Clear off!
  [clear-off]
- Call the Police!Phone the Rozzers!
  [fone-the-roz-erz]
- Call a doctor!Get a doctor round!
  [get-a-doc-tor-round]
- I'm lostI'm all over the place
  [I'm-all-over-the-place]
- I'm illI'm poorly
  [I'm-poor-lee]
- I'd like to buy...I want to get...
  [I-want-to-get]
- I'm just lookingJust having a browse
  [just-hav-ing-a-browz]
- How much is it?How much does that cost?
  [how-much-duz-that-cost]
- That's too expensiveThat's a bit steep
  [thats-a-bit-steep]
- Can you lower the price?Can you do it cheaper?
  [can-you-do-it-chee-per]
- What time is it?What's the time?
  [whats-the-time]
- It's one o'clockIt's one o'clock
  [its-one-o-clock]
- Half past (10)Half ten
  [half-ten]
- MorningMornin'
  [morn-in]
- AfternoonAfternoon
  [after-noon]
- EveningEvening
  [even-ing]
- YesterdayYesterday
  [yes-ter-day]
- TodayToday
  [to-day]
- TomorrowTomorrow
  [to-mor-row]
- 1One
  [wun]
- 2Two
  [too]
- 3Three
  [three]
- 4Four
  [four]
- 5Five
  [five]
- 6Six
  [six]
- 7Seven
  [seven]
- 8Eight
  [eight]
- 9Nine
  [nine]
- 10Ten
  [ten]
- Where's a/the...?Where's the...?
  [wheres-the]
- What's the address?What's the address?
  [whats-the-ad-dress]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Can you show me (on the map)?
  [can-you-show-me-on-the-map]
- When's the next (bus)?When's the next (bus)?
  [whens-the-next-bus]
- A ticket (to ....)A ticket (to ....)
  [a-ticket-to]

History of Cardiff

Cardiff's history dates back to Roman times when a fort was established around AD 55. Known as 'Caer Didi,' it served as a strategic outpost for the Romans, protecting the region from potential invasions. The remains of the Roman fort can still be found in the modern-day Cardiff Castle's grounds.
During the medieval period, Cardiff grew significantly under the Normans. In 1091, Robert Fitzhamon began constructing Cardiff Castle on the site of the old Roman fort. The castle became a significant stronghold and was involved in numerous historical events, including the conflict between the Welsh and the Normans.
The Industrial Revolution was a transformative period for Cardiff, turning it into a bustling industrial hub. The construction of the Glamorganshire Canal in 1794 and the arrival of the railway in the mid-19th century facilitated coal exportation from the South Wales Valleys, establishing Cardiff as a major port.
Cardiff Docks played a pivotal role in the city's development during the 19th and early 20th centuries. By the 1910s, Cardiff had become the largest coal-exporting port in the world. The thriving docklands attracted a diverse population, contributing to Cardiff's multicultural fabric.
In 1905, Cardiff was officially granted city status by King Edward VII in recognition of its economic importance. The growth of Cardiff continued, and it became the capital of Wales in 1955, further solidifying its status as a key city in the United Kingdom.
In recent decades, Cardiff has undergone significant regeneration. The Cardiff Bay redevelopment project transformed the old docklands into a vibrant area filled with shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions such as the Wales Millennium Centre. Cardiff continues to blend its rich history with modern advancements, making it a dynamic and exciting city to visit.

Cardiff Essentials

Cardiff is well-connected and easily accessible by various modes of transportation. Cardiff Airport (CWL) is the primary airport, located about 12 miles southwest of the city center. There are direct flights from several European cities. For those traveling by train, Cardiff Central Station is the main railway hub with direct services from major UK cities like London, Birmingham, and Manchester. Alternatively, National Express and Megabus provide coach services to Cardiff from various parts of the UK. If you're driving, Cardiff is accessible via the M4 motorway.
Cardiff has a comprehensive transportation network. The local bus service, operated by Cardiff Bus, covers most areas of the city and its suburbs. For those who prefer cycling, Nextbike offers a bike-sharing scheme with numerous docking stations around the city. Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber are also readily available. Cardiff Central Station serves as the main hub for train services, making it easy to explore nearby areas. For a unique experience, consider taking a water taxi along the River Taff.
The official currency in Cardiff, as in the rest of the UK, is the British Pound Sterling (GBP). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops. ATMs are plentiful throughout the city, and many accept international cards. Contactless payments and mobile wallets like Apple Pay and Google Pay are also commonly used. However, it's always a good idea to carry some cash for small purchases or in case you visit places that do not accept cards.
Cardiff is generally a safe city for tourists. However, it's advisable to take standard precautions. Some areas, such as parts of the city center late at night, can be less safe. Grangetown and Splott have higher crime rates and should be approached with caution, especially after dark. Always keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places and avoid isolated areas at night.
In case of an emergency, dial 999 for police, fire, or medical assistance. Cardiff has several hospitals, including the University Hospital of Wales, which provides comprehensive medical services. It's advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Pharmacies are widely available for minor health issues. The South Wales Police headquarters is located in Cardiff, providing additional security and assistance for tourists.
Fashion: Do dress in layers as the weather can be unpredictable. Casual attire is generally acceptable, but smart-casual is recommended for dining out. Religion: Do respect religious sites and practices. When visiting churches, dress modestly and be quiet. Public Transport: Do have exact change or a contactless card for bus fares. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'hello' or 'hi.' Handshakes are common in formal settings. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes like Welsh rarebit and lamb cawl. Don't tip excessively; 10-15% is standard if service is not included.
To experience Cardiff like a local, visit the Cardiff Central Market for fresh produce and unique Welsh goods. Take a stroll in Bute Park, a favorite among locals for its beautiful landscapes. Catch a rugby match at the Principality Stadium to feel the local sporting spirit. For a night out, head to the bars and pubs in the city center or the trendy district of Pontcanna. Don't miss the chance to explore the historic Cardiff Castle and the modern Cardiff Bay area for a blend of the old and new.

Cardiff: The Heartbeat of Wales

Local tips in Cardiff

Neighbourhoods in Cardiff