Cardiff, the capital of Wales and its largest city, is a vibrant metropolis that seamlessly blends history with modernity. Whether you’re planning a weekend or a short break, Cardiff has something for everyone, from the iconic Cardiff Castle in the center of Cardiff to the trendy areas around Cardiff Bay. The city offers a plethora of activities, including rafting at Cardiff International White Water, exploring the Victorian arcades like Royal Arcade and Morgan Arcade, or enjoying live comedy at one of the many entertainment venues. With its compact size, Cardiff is the perfect place to explore on foot, allowing visitors to easily walk from Cardiff Bay to the bustling city center.
Our Pick of the Best Hotels
- 💎 Luxury Hotel: voco St. David's Cardiff, an IHG Hotel
- ✨ 5-Star: Hilton Cardiff
- 🏨 4-Star: The Parkgate Hotel
- 🛏️ 3-Star: Tanes Hotel
- 💸 Cheap: Sleeperz Hotel Cardiff
- 🏢 Apartament: SACO Cardiff Cathedral Road
- 👨👩👧👦 For Families: Future Inn Cardiff Bay
- 🏩 For Couples: Hotel Indigo - Cardiff, an IHG Hotel
When deciding where to stay in Cardiff, visitors are spoiled for choice. The city center, home to Cardiff Central Rail Station, is ideal for those who want to be in the heart of the action. For a more relaxed atmosphere, consider staying south of the city in Cardiff Bay, which has been transformed into a vibrant waterfront district. If you’re looking for a unique experience, you might opt for a family-run hotel in one of Cardiff’s charming neighborhoods. Alternatively, the luxurious Parkgate Hotel offers a taste of elegance right in the middle of the city. No matter where you choose to stay, Cardiff has plenty to offer, from world-class shopping and dining to cultural attractions like BBC Cymru Wales studios. Whether you’re visiting the city for business or pleasure, Cardiff has the perfect accommodation to suit your needs.
The Best Places to Stay: Quick Guide
- 🏙️ For first-time visitors, urban explorers, and culture enthusiasts: Cardiff City Centre
- 🌊 For waterfront views, entertainment, and modern attractions: Cardiff Bay
- 👨👩👧👦 For families, green spaces, and local culture: Riverside
- 🍽️ For foodies and nightlife enthusiasts: Plasnewydd
- 💰 For budget travelers and students: Roath
- 🏖️ For relaxation and seaside charm: Penarth
1. Cardiff City Centre: The Heart of the Capital ❤️
🏰 Historic Charm: Cardiff City Centre is steeped in history, with Cardiff Castle standing as its crown jewel. The castle’s walls whisper tales of Roman and Norman times, while the Victorian Gothic revival architecture adds a touch of grandeur. This blend of ancient and relatively modern history creates a unique atmosphere that captivates visitors.
🛍️ Shopping Paradise: The city centre is a shopper’s dream, boasting a mix of high-street brands, independent boutiques, and the charming Cardiff Market. From the modern St. David’s Shopping Centre to the Victorian arcades, there’s something for every taste and budget. The variety of shopping experiences adds to the area’s vibrant energy.
🎭 Cultural Hub: As the cultural heart of Wales, Cardiff City Centre is home to numerous museums, theaters, and art galleries. The National Museum Cardiff houses an impressive collection of art and natural history exhibits, while the nearby New Theatre and St. David’s Hall offer a rich program of performances year-round.
🏛️ The Best Sights
- Cardiff Castle: A stunning example of Victorian Gothic revival architecture.
- National Museum Cardiff: Home to impressive art and natural history collections.
- Principality Stadium: Iconic sports venue and host to major events.
- Cardiff Market: Victorian indoor market with local produce and crafts.
- Bute Park: Expansive green space perfect for leisurely strolls.
🍽️ The Best Places to Eat
- Casanova: Authentic Italian cuisine in a cozy setting.
- Purple Poppadom: Award-winning contemporary Indian dishes.
- Asador 44: Spanish-inspired grill specializing in northern Spanish beef.
- Milkwood: Modern Welsh cuisine using locally sourced ingredients.
- The Potted Pig: British cuisine served in a former bank vault.
🚶♂️ Navigating the Area: Cardiff City Centre is highly walkable, with most attractions within easy reach on foot. For those who prefer public transport, the area is well-served by buses, with many routes converging in the centre. The Cardiff Central train station is also conveniently located for those exploring further afield.
🏨 Where to Stay in Cardiff City Centre
⭐ Best Hotels in Cardiff City Centre
- Hilton Cardiff: Upscale hotel in the heart of Cardiff, offering modern rooms, a fitness center, and an indoor pool. It’s conveniently located near Cardiff Castle and St David’s Shopping Centre.
- The Royal Hotel Cardiff: Historic hotel with contemporary rooms, located in a Victorian building. It features a stylish bar and restaurant, and is just steps away from Cardiff Central Station.
- Cardiff Marriott Hotel: Modern hotel offering spacious rooms, a fitness center, and an indoor pool. It’s ideally situated near St. David’s Hall and Cardiff Bay.
- Exclusive Cardiff City Centre Apartment: Well-appointed apartment in the city center, providing a home-away-from-home experience with full kitchen facilities and comfortable living spaces.
- The Parkgate Hotel: Luxurious hotel housed in a historic building, offering elegant rooms, a spa, and fine dining. It’s located next to the Principality Stadium.
- Hotel Indigo - Cardiff, an IHG Hotel: Boutique hotel with individually designed rooms reflecting Cardiff’s culture. It features a rooftop restaurant with city views and is close to Cardiff Castle.
🏨 Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels
- The Most Central Apartment in Cardiff: Affordable apartment in the heart of Cardiff, offering basic amenities and a convenient location for exploring the city.
- Altolusso: Modern apartment complex offering self-catering units with city views. It’s located near Cardiff Queen Street station and St. David’s Shopping Centre.
- Cardiff City Center - with Parking: Centrally located apartment with the added benefit of parking, ideal for those traveling by car. It offers comfortable accommodations at a reasonable price.
- Sleeperz Hotel Cardiff: Budget-friendly hotel with compact, modern rooms. It’s conveniently located next to Cardiff Central Station and offers good value for money.
- Stylish 2 Bed Flat in HEART of Cardiff City Centre: Trendy two-bedroom apartment in the city center, offering a stylish stay with home comforts at a moderate price point.
2. Cardiff Bay: Maritime Heritage Meets Modern Charm 🌟
🌊 Waterfront Wonder: Cardiff Bay has transformed from a bustling coal port to a vibrant waterfront destination. The area boasts a stunning shoreline, dotted with modern architecture and historic buildings. The contrast between the old and new creates a unique atmosphere that draws visitors and locals alike.
🎭 Cultural Hotspot: The Bay is home to some of Cardiff’s most iconic cultural venues. The Wales Millennium Centre, with its distinctive copper-colored dome, hosts world-class performances and exhibitions. Nearby, the Senedd (Welsh Parliament) building offers insights into Welsh politics and governance.
🍽️ Culinary Delights: Cardiff Bay has become a gastronomic destination, offering a diverse range of dining options. From waterfront restaurants serving fresh seafood to international cuisines and trendy cafes, the area caters to all tastes. The vibrant food scene adds to the Bay’s appeal as a leisure destination.
🏛️ The Best Sights
- Wales Millennium Centre: Iconic arts venue with a striking facade.
- Senedd: The home of Welsh democracy with free guided tours.
- Mermaid Quay: Waterfront entertainment complex with shops and restaurants.
- Norwegian Church Arts Centre: Historic church turned arts venue.
- Cardiff Bay Barrage: Impressive feat of engineering with great views.
🍽️ The Best Places to Eat
- Demiro’s: Mediterranean cuisine with stunning bay views.
- Yakitori1: Japanese grill and sushi restaurant.
- The Dock: Waterfront bar and kitchen with a varied menu.
- Culley’s Kitchen & Bar: Modern British cuisine in a stylish setting.
- Signor Valentino: Authentic Italian dishes in a romantic atmosphere.
🚢 Exploring the Area: Cardiff Bay is easily accessible from the city centre via the frequent Baycar bus service. For a more scenic route, take a water taxi from Bute Park. Once in the Bay, most attractions are within walking distance, making it easy to explore on foot.
🏨 Where to Stay in Cardiff Bay
⭐ Best Hotels in Cardiff Bay
- voco St. David's Cardiff, an IHG Hotel: Luxurious 5-star hotel with stunning views over Cardiff Bay and Penarth Marina. Features an award-winning spa, stylish rooms, and a restaurant serving Welsh-inspired cuisine.
- Royal Stuart Lane - Townhouse by the Bay with Parking: Spacious townhouse accommodation near the waterfront, offering a home-away-from-home experience with the added convenience of parking.
- Emerald Apartment-2Bed 2Bath Cardiff Bay,City Centre Apartment: Modern apartment with two bedrooms and bathrooms, ideal for families or groups, located conveniently between Cardiff Bay and the city centre.
- Future Inn Cardiff Bay: Contemporary 4-star hotel offering spacious rooms, free parking, and easy access to Cardiff Bay attractions. Great value for money with all expected amenities.
🏨 Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels
- Quayside Apartment in Cardiff Bay: Affordable apartment accommodation right on the quayside, offering great views and a convenient location for exploring Cardiff Bay.
- The Coal Exchange Hotel: Historic hotel in a beautifully restored building, offering a blend of period features and modern amenities at moderate prices.
- Quayside Apartments: Self-catering apartments providing a cost-effective option for longer stays, with prime locations along the quayside.
- Cwtch Cardiff Bay: Cozy and affordable accommodation offering a warm Welsh welcome, perfect for budget-conscious travelers wanting to stay in Cardiff Bay.
- Pass the Keys Beautiful 2 Bed Apartment with Parking in the Bay: Stylish two-bedroom apartment with parking, offering a comfortable stay at a moderate price point in the heart of Cardiff Bay.
- Modern 2 Bedroom apartment next to Bay with Parking: Contemporary apartment accommodation with two bedrooms and parking, providing a cost-effective option for families or groups visiting Cardiff Bay.
3. Riverside: Tranquil Oasis in the Heart of Cardiff 🌿
🌿 Green Escape: Riverside offers a peaceful retreat from the bustling city centre. The area is characterized by its lush green spaces and parks, providing a perfect setting for relaxation and outdoor activities. The proximity to the River Taff adds to its natural charm, offering scenic walking and cycling paths.
🏛️ Architectural Diversity: Riverside boasts a unique blend of architectural styles, from Victorian terraces to modern developments. This eclectic mix reflects the area’s rich history and ongoing evolution. Notable landmarks include the impressive Principality Stadium, visible across the river.
🍲 Multicultural Flavors: The neighborhood is known for its diverse community, which is reflected in its culinary scene. Riverside offers a variety of international cuisines, from traditional Welsh fare to exotic flavors from around the world. This culinary diversity makes it a favorite among food enthusiasts.
🏞️ The Best Sights
- Sophia Gardens: Home to Glamorgan County Cricket Club and beautiful parklands.
- Riverside Market: Weekly farmers’ market offering local produce.
- Despenser Gardens: Small but charming park with a rich history.
- Principality Stadium: Iconic national stadium visible from Riverside.
- Taff Trail: Popular walking and cycling path along the River Taff.
🍽️ The Best Places to Eat
- Riverside Cantonese: Authentic Chinese cuisine in a relaxed setting.
- Calabrisella Canton: Popular Italian restaurant with a cozy atmosphere.
- The Lansdowne: Gastropub serving quality British fare.
- Vegetarian Food Studio: Diverse vegetarian and vegan options.
- Mezza Luna: Family-run Mediterranean restaurant.
🚴 Getting Around the Neighborhood: Riverside is well-connected to the city centre by regular bus services. Many residents and visitors prefer to walk or cycle, taking advantage of the Taff Trail that runs through the area. The neighborhood’s compact nature makes it easy to explore on foot, with most amenities within a short distance.
🏨 Where to Stay in Riverside
⭐ Best Hotels in Riverside
- The Beverley by Innkeeper's Collection: Charming hotel located in a Victorian building, offering comfortable rooms and a traditional pub atmosphere. It’s situated near Sophia Gardens and within walking distance of Cardiff Castle.
- SACO Cardiff Cathedral Road: Stylish serviced apartments providing a home-away-from-home experience. Located on the elegant Cathedral Road, it offers easy access to both the city center and Bute Park.
- Sophia Gardens Apartment: Modern apartment accommodation overlooking Sophia Gardens, offering a peaceful retreat close to the city’s attractions and green spaces.
🏨 Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels
- Cwrt Sofia: Affordable apartment-style accommodation in a quiet residential area, providing good value for money and easy access to the city center.
- Inn Cardiff: Budget-friendly inn offering basic but comfortable rooms, ideal for travelers looking for a no-frills stay in the Riverside area.
- Lincoln House Private Hotel: Charming Victorian townhouse hotel offering a mix of traditional decor and modern amenities at moderate prices, located in the leafy Pontcanna area.
🛏️ Best Hostels
- Elgano Guest House: Cozy guest house offering budget-friendly accommodation with a homely atmosphere, suitable for backpackers and budget travelers.
- Pontcanna by Black Door Stays: Modern hostel-style accommodation in the trendy Pontcanna area, offering a mix of private and shared rooms at affordable rates.
- Stylish Pontcanna Flat Near City Centre: Chic and affordable apartment in the desirable Pontcanna neighborhood, offering a stylish stay with the convenience of nearby parking.
4. Plasnewydd: Cardiff’s Vibrant Culinary and Nightlife Hub 🌃
🍽️ Foodie Paradise: Plasnewydd, often referred to as Roath, is Cardiff’s unofficial culinary capital. The area is home to an eclectic mix of restaurants, cafes, and eateries, offering cuisines from around the world. From trendy brunch spots to authentic international dishes, food lovers will find themselves spoiled for choice.
🍺 Thriving Nightlife: As the sun sets, Plasnewydd comes alive with its vibrant nightlife scene. The area boasts a variety of pubs, bars, and live music venues, catering to diverse tastes. Whether you’re looking for a cozy pub for a quiet pint or a lively bar for dancing, Plasnewydd has it all.
🎨 Artistic Flair: The neighborhood has a strong artistic community, evident in its numerous galleries, street art, and creative spaces. This artistic atmosphere contributes to Plasnewydd’s unique character and makes it a favorite among creatives and art enthusiasts.
🏛️ The Best Sights
- Roath Park: Beautiful Victorian park with a lake and rose garden.
- The Gate Arts Centre: Community arts venue hosting various events.
- Roath Pleasure Gardens: Charming park with a bowling green and tennis courts.
- Waterloo Gardens: Tranquil green space perfect for relaxation.
- Mackintosh Community Centre: Historic building hosting local events.
🍽️ The Best Places to Eat
- Milgi: Vegetarian restaurant with a bohemian atmosphere.
- Penylan Pantry: Deli and cafe known for its locally sourced produce.
- Roath Brewery: Craft beer bar with a rotating selection of brews.
- Chai Street: Popular Indian street food restaurant.
- The Pot Cafe: Cozy cafe serving delicious brunches and cakes.
🚶♀️ Exploring the District: Plasnewydd is easily accessible from the city centre by bus or a short taxi ride. Once there, the best way to experience the neighborhood is on foot. The area is relatively compact, allowing you to easily wander between its various attractions, restaurants, and bars.
🏨 Where to Stay in Plasnewydd
⭐ Best Hotels in Plasnewydd
- ”New: Contemporary apartments offering stylish accommodation with modern amenities, conveniently located close to the city center.
- Cohost Partners | Close to City Centre | One BR!: Well-appointed one-bedroom apartments situated near Cardiff’s city center, providing a comfortable base for exploring the area.
- Moorland House by Switchback Stays: Charming accommodation offering a home-away-from-home experience in the Plasnewydd area of Cardiff.
🏨 Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels
- Crofts Hotel: Affordable hotel offering comfortable rooms and a traditional pub atmosphere, located within walking distance of Cardiff city centre.
- Tanes Hotel: Budget-friendly hotel combining historic elegance with modern comfort, nestled in the heart of Cardiff.
- Number One Hundred Bed And Breakfast: Cozy bed and breakfast offering a personal touch and good value for money in the Plasnewydd area.
🛏️ Best Hostels
- Benjamin Suite by Koya Homes - 3 Bedrooms - Cardiff: Spacious 3-bedroom suite ideal for groups or families, offering a homely atmosphere close to Cardiff’s attractions.
- Oakfield Premier Apartments - Fast Wifi - 5 mins City Centre: Modern apartments with fast WiFi, located just 5 minutes from the city centre, offering great value for budget-conscious travelers.
- The Elms - Close to City Centre: Affordable top-floor apartment conveniently located close to Cardiff’s city center, perfect for those seeking a budget-friendly stay.
5. Roath: Budget-Friendly Haven with a Student Vibe 💸
📚 Student Central: Roath is popular among students due to its proximity to Cardiff University and Cardiff Metropolitan University. This youthful energy infuses the area with a lively, dynamic atmosphere. You’ll find plenty of affordable cafes, bars, and shops catering to the student population.
💰 Budget-Friendly Options: The area offers a range of affordable accommodation options, from shared houses to budget hotels. This makes Roath an excellent choice for travelers looking to save on lodging without compromising on location or amenities.
🌳 Green Spaces: Despite its urban setting, Roath boasts several beautiful parks and green spaces. Roath Park, with its lake and botanical garden, is a particular highlight, offering a peaceful retreat from city life.
🏞️ The Best Sights
- Roath Park Lake: Picturesque lake perfect for boating and picnics.
- Roath Recreation Ground: Large park with sports facilities.
- Roath Park Conservatory: Glasshouse with exotic plants and fish.
- The Albany Gallery: Contemporary art gallery showcasing Welsh artists.
- Roath Park Botanic Garden: Beautiful garden with diverse plant collections.
🍽️ The Best Places to Eat
- Kin+Ilk: Trendy cafe known for its excellent coffee and brunch.
- Roath Brewery: Local microbrewery with a taproom.
- Bloc Coffee: Popular student hangout with great coffee and snacks.
- Falafel Wales: Budget-friendly Middle Eastern eatery.
- Anatoni’s Pizzeria: Authentic Italian pizzas at reasonable prices.
🚌 Getting About: Roath is well-connected to the city centre by frequent bus services. Many students and residents prefer to cycle, taking advantage of the area’s bike-friendly streets. Walking is also a pleasant option, especially around Roath Park and the nearby residential areas.
🏨 Where to Stay in Roath
⭐ Best Hotels in Roath
- Luxury Water Tower I Roof Bar I Cinema: Unique accommodation in a converted water tower, offering luxurious amenities including a rooftop bar and private cinema. Perfect for those seeking an extraordinary stay in Cardiff.
- City Retreat, Spacious 4 Bed House, Games Room, Parking, Hot Tub & BBQ: Spacious holiday home featuring modern comforts like a games room, hot tub, and BBQ area. Ideal for families or groups looking for a home-away-from-home experience in Roath.
🏨 Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels
- Quiet and Spacious 3 Bedroom: Affordable 3-bedroom accommodation offering a peaceful stay in Roath. Great for families or small groups on a budget.
- 4 bedroom House nr Cardiff City Centre: Spacious 4-bedroom house close to Cardiff city centre, providing good value for larger groups or families visiting the area.
- Stylish family home in desirable Penylan + Parking: Stylish and affordable family home in the desirable Penylan area of Roath, complete with parking facilities.
- Roath Park Lake 5BR City Retreat: Spacious 5-bedroom retreat near Roath Park Lake, offering a comfortable stay for larger groups at a moderate price point.
6. Penarth: Seaside Charm Just Outside Cardiff 🌊
🏖️ Coastal Beauty: Penarth, often called “The Garden by the Sea,” offers a delightful seaside escape just a stone’s throw from Cardiff. Its Victorian pier, pebble beach, and stunning coastal views provide a perfect setting for relaxation and seaside activities.
🏛️ Victorian Elegance: The town center boasts well-preserved Victorian and Edwardian architecture, giving Penarth a timeless charm. Strolling through its streets feels like stepping back in time, with elegant buildings housing a mix of independent shops and cafes.
🌿 Natural Splendor: Penarth is home to several beautiful parks and gardens. The clifftop Alexandra Park offers panoramic views of the Bristol Channel, while the Italian Gardens provide a tranquil spot for relaxation.
🏛️ The Best Sights
- Penarth Pier: Iconic Victorian pier with a restored pavilion.
- Penarth Beach: Pebble beach perfect for seaside walks.
- Alexandra Park: Clifftop park with stunning sea views.
- Cosmeston Lakes Country Park: Beautiful park with lakes and medieval village.
- Turner House Gallery: Art gallery showcasing Welsh and international artists.
🍽️ The Best Places to Eat
- Restaurant James Sommerin: Michelin-starred restaurant with sea views.
- Mint and Mustard: Award-winning contemporary Indian cuisine.
- The Pilot: Traditional pub with a great selection of ales.
- Foxy’s Deli: Popular cafe known for its homemade cakes and light lunches.
- The Fig Tree: Waterfront restaurant serving locally sourced dishes.
🚂 Traversing the Town: Penarth is easily accessible from Cardiff by train, with regular services running from Cardiff Central. Once in Penarth, most attractions are within walking distance. For those who prefer not to walk, local buses connect the town center with the seafront and surrounding areas.
🏨 Where to Stay in Penarth
⭐ Best Hotels in Penarth
- ”Luxury: Stylish one-bedroom apartment offering stunning sea views from its prime seafront location. Perfect for couples seeking a luxurious coastal retreat with modern amenities.
- Large Townhouse Penarth, Cardiff: Spacious Victorian townhouse accommodation ideal for families or groups, combining period charm with modern comforts in a convenient Penarth location.
- Luxe Apartments, The Moorwell, Parking, Gym - 10mins Cardiff City Ctr: Upscale apartment complex offering luxurious living spaces with added amenities like parking and a gym, situated just a short drive from Cardiff city center.
🏨 Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels
- Seafront Cottage - The Nook: Charming seafront cottage providing a cozy and affordable stay with direct access to the coast, perfect for couples or small families.
- Penarth Town Terrace, close to cafes, beaches, Cardiff: Comfortable terraced house in the heart of Penarth, offering easy access to local amenities, beaches, and Cardiff city center at a moderate price point.
- LUXURY 4 Bedroom 4 Ensuite Home in Penarth (Pool Table Games Room & BBQ Garden) with Sea Views: Spacious family home offering luxury amenities like ensuite bathrooms, a games room, and BBQ garden, with sea views, at a relatively affordable price for its size and features.
- Cardiff/Penarth Home: Comfortable home-style accommodation bridging Penarth and Cardiff, providing a cost-effective base for exploring both areas.
Where to stay in Cardiff
Cardiff offers a diverse range of neighborhoods, each with its unique charm and attractions. Whether you’re seeking the bustling energy of the city centre, the maritime allure of Cardiff Bay, the tranquil green spaces of Riverside, the culinary delights of Plasnewydd, the budget-friendly options in Roath, or the seaside charm of Penarth, there’s a perfect spot for every traveler in Wales’ vibrant capital city. Consider your priorities – be it proximity to attractions, nightlife, culinary experiences, or budget – when choosing your ideal location. Regardless of where you stay, Cardiff’s excellent public transport and walkable nature ensure that you can easily explore all that this dynamic city has to offer.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the best way to get around Cardiff?
Cardiff has an excellent public transport system, including buses and trains. The city centre is very walkable, and many attractions are within easy reach on foot. For longer distances, buses are frequent and reliable. Cycling is also popular, with many bike lanes and hire schemes available.
When is the best time to visit Cardiff?
Cardiff is a year-round destination, but the summer months (June to August) offer the best weather for outdoor activities. Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) can be pleasant with fewer crowds. Winter (December to February) can be cold and wet but offers festive charm and lower accommodation prices.
Is Cardiff expensive to visit?
Compared to other UK cities like London, Cardiff is relatively affordable. Budget-conscious travelers can find reasonably priced accommodation, especially in areas like Roath. Many of the city’s attractions, including several museums, offer free entry.
What are the must-see attractions in Cardiff?
Cardiff Castle, the National Museum Cardiff, and the Wales Millennium Centre are top attractions. Don’t miss a stroll around Bute Park, a visit to Cardiff Bay, and if you’re a sports fan, a tour of the Principality Stadium.
What local foods should I try in Cardiff?
While in Cardiff, try Welsh classics like Welsh rarebit, laverbread, Welsh cakes, and Glamorgan sausages. The city also has a thriving international food scene, so you’ll find cuisines from around the world.
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