Visit Cardiff, UK

The capital city of Wales and the beating heart of Welsh culture, Cardiff is well known for its historic castle, vibrant waterfront, and burgeoning food scene.

It is a compact city, so you can easily explore it on foot. From the soaring arches of Llandaff Cathedral, one of the oldest Christian sites in Britain, to the 18th-century green space of Bute Park and the cultural fillip of the National Museum, there’s plenty to explore here. You may choose to gain an insight into the favored national sport of rugby with a tour of the acclaimed Principality Stadium, taste your way around the culinary haven of Mermaid Quay, or dip into the Welsh love of music at Saint David’s Hall.

Cardiff is also a convenient base for exploring South Wales, with the muse-worthy landscapes of the Wye Valley, Chepstow and Caerphilly castles, Tintern Abbey, and the National Coal Mining Museum all a short drive away.

Things to see and do in Cardiff

Cardiff’s castles

Cardiff is reputed to have more castles nearby than any other city in the world, boasting over 15 within an hour’s drive, so there’s plenty of choice if you want to delve into these historical fortresses. Cardiff Castle is the jewel in the city’s crown and has been a stronghold since the Romans built a series of forts here in the 1st century. It features an 11th-century Norman Keep and was given a Gothic makeover during the Victorian era.

From Castle Coch, the fairytale ‘Red Castle’ looming above the beech trees in Fforest Fawr, to Caerphilly Castle, your archetypal moated fortress and the largest castle in Wales, there are ramparts nearby to fuel every level of castellated curiosity.

Cultural heritage

From castles to coal, there’s a rich cultural history to unravel in Wales. You can begin at the National Museum Cardiff, where the Evolution of Wales gallery will take you right back to the time of the woolly mammoth.

The Saint Fagans National Museum of History is one of Europe’s leading open-air museums, where in the grounds of the eponymous castle you can track the story of Welsh culture. Meanwhile, Big Pit National Coal Mining Museum explores the history of the mining industry — for centuries the major source of economic power and employment in Wales — allowing you to experience the atmosphere of an authentic coal mine.

The Wye Valley

Less than an hour from the middle of Cardiff, the border between Wales and England is marked by the Wye Valley. This landscape of gentle valleys, rushing rivers, and turreted remains has long been an artistic muse — both the poet William Wordsworth and the artist JMW Turner are known to have drawn inspiration from their visits here.

Within its borders, you can explore the history of the majestic Tintern Abbey, wander the riverside setting of Chepstow Castle, or hike the numerous walking trails.

Best time to visit Cardiff

Cardiff can be visited year-round, but summer (from June to September) boasts the best weather and the most pleasant temperatures.