Things to Do in Cardiff: Castle, Cardiff Bay and Day Trips

Capital of Wales since 1955, Cardiff Cardiff blends a medieval castle, Victorian galleries, a modern harbor, and a passion for rugby. Just a two-hour train ride from London, it's the perfect gateway to a Welsh adventure. Here's what to do in and around Cardiff. Based in the UK since 2012, we organize tailor-made trips throughout the country.

In short: In Cardiff, don't miss the castle, with its Norman keep and Victorian interiors, the covered galleries in the city center, Cardiff Bay and the Wales Millennium Centre, the National Museum, and the Principality Stadium. Nearby, visit the dreamlike Castell Coch, Caerphilly Castle, and the free St Fagans open-air museum. Allow two days.

Things to do in Cardiff: the must-sees

The castle

Right in the center, the castle combines a Norman keep on its motte, Roman ramparts, and sumptuous neo-Gothic interiors created in the 19th century for the Marquis of Bute. It's the city's must-see attraction.

UP TO YOU

What kind of traveler are you for? Things to do in Cardiff: castle, Cardiff Bay and surrounding areas "?

5 quick questions to see what suits you best.

Question 1 of 5

In the city, you enjoy exploring…

On foot, neighborhood by neighborhoodMajor sites first

Question 2 of 5

Need a break?

A local cafe or pubA museum or a monument

Question 3 of 5

What appeals to you most?

The atmosphere of the streets and marketsHistory and architecture

Question 4 of 5

In the evening, you would rather choose…

A good restaurant and a lively neighborhoodA show or a visit

Question 5 of 5

With a few free hours?

You let yourself be carried awayYou add an essential

The Victorian arcades

The Welsh capital is nicknamed the "city of arcades": its Victorian and Edwardian covered galleries house cafes, record shops, and independent boutiques. Don't miss the covered market either.

The bay

Once a coal port, the bay has been completely transformed. It's home to the Wales Millennium Centre, the Senedd (the Welsh Parliament), and the red-brick Pierhead Building. A perfect place for a stroll at the end of the day.

The National Museum and the Principality Stadium

The National Museum, which is free to enter, has a fine collection of Impressionist art. Furthermore, rugby fans can visit the Principality Stadium, home of Welsh rugby, in the heart of the city.

What is there to see in the surrounding area?

• Castell Coch, the «red castle», a real fairytale castle in the forest, 20 minutes away.
• Caerphilly Castle, one of the largest in Great Britain, surrounded by moats and lakes.
• St Fagans, national open-air history museum, free, with reconstructed Welsh buildings.
• The Brecon Beacons, national park less than an hour to the north.

Our 2-day itinerary

• Day 1: the castle, the arcades and the market, then the bay in the evening.
• Day 2: Castell Coch and Caerphilly in the morning, St Fagans in the afternoon.

Are you here for a match? Read our guide to the 2027 Six Nations Tournament and our dedicated trip Six Nations in Cardiff. In December, discover the Christmas market local. Finally, continue your journey with our guide What to see in Wales and Snowdonia. More information on Visit Cardiff.

Frequently Asked Questions

How to get to Cardiff from London?

The train connects London Paddington to the Welsh capital in approximately 2 hours. By car, allow approximately 2 hours 30 minutes.

How many days do you need to visit the city?

One day is enough for the centre. However, allow 2 days to also discover Castell Coch, Caerphilly and St Fagans.

Is the Welsh capital expensive?

It is generally cheaper than London. In addition, several major museums, such as the National Museum and St Fagans, are free.

BRIGHTSIDE TRAVEL

Do you want to experience this trip?

Our local team creates your tailor-made itinerary in the UK and Ireland.

Create my trip