It is one of the smallest capitals of Europe and has been characterized as the city with the most castles in the world. It first became famous due to the export of coal and was historically one of the most important coal producing cities. Stroll through the lovely alleys and you will be in awe of the view of the famous castles and the rich collection of museums. The city is famous for its famous University, its markets and its sporting traditions.
Currency: Pound Sterling
Calling Code: +44
Nearest airports from city center: Cardiff Airport (24km), Bristol Airport (74km), Birmingham Airport (182km), Luton Airport (263km), London Gatwick Airport (273km), Manchester Airport (186km), Heathrow Airport (216km), Liverpool Airport (311km), Sheffield Airport (312km).
TOP – 10 SIGHTSEEING
*** CARDIFF CASTLE (Castle St, Cardiff CF10 3RB)
It is the most photographed attraction of the city. It has a History of about 2 thousand years and anyone who visits Cardiff the first thing they do is to find themselves in the medieval castle. Its architecture is neo-Gothic and Victorian. It’s a magical place.
*** NATIONAL MUSEUM CARDIFF (Cardiff CF10 3NP)
It is a museum and gallery with special exhibits. You will find exhibits related to zoology, geology, botany, fine and applied art.
*** ST FAGANS NATIONAL MUSEUM OF HISTORY (Cardiff CF5 6XB)
In the open air museum you will have the opportunity to see the way of life and culture of the people of Wales over the years.
*** CASTELL COCH
It dates back to 1875 and looks like a fairytale castle. Enjoy the large towers with conical roofs and the neo-gothic architecture of the castle.
*** LLANDAFF CATHEDRAL (Cathedral Cl, Cardiff CF5 2LA)
It dates from the late 13th century and is considered one of the oldest Christian sites in the UK. Its interior and its Gothic-medieval architecture will impress you.
*** TECHNIQUEST (Stuart St, Cardiff CF10 5BW)
If you find yourself in Cardiff with your children, we would advise you to visit the science center as a family. See the impressive machines, experience an earthquake and a typhoon, and you can launch a rocket.
*** MUSEUM OF CARDIFF (The Old Library, The Hayes, St Davids Centre, Cardiff CF10 1BH)
If you wish to see the history of the city through the stories and eyes of its people, then you should definitely visit this place.
*** CAERPHILLY CASTLE (Castle St, Caerphilly CF83 1JD)
Once you are in Cardiff take the half hour road trip to see one of the greatest medieval fortresses in Europe. It dates from the end of the 13th century.
*** CARDIFF BAY
You will be making a huge mistake if you don’t visit and walk around Cardiff Bay. Tour the area, shop, eat delicious treats and enjoy the lake.
*** NORWEGIAN CHURCH ARTS CENTRE (Bay, Norwegian Church Arts Centre, Harbour Dr, Cardiff CF10 4PT)
The building dates back to the industrial revolution and a time when Cardiff was the world’s largest exporter of coal.
ΤΗINGS TO DO
*** Off the Wall Art Gallery deserves your attention.
*** Roath Park is a great place for your walks and to relax.
*** Stroll through Bute Park which is a green haven in the city centre.
*** Since you are a sports lover, we would recommend you to visit Sophia Gardens Cricket Ground.
FOOD AND DRINK
Cardiff is a culinary paradise for travellers. It has the classic British dishes but we would recommend you to try Welsh rarebit, cawl, cakes and the local glamorgan sausage. Also try the local breads, the so-called laverbread. Also eat Tatws Popty, Tatws Pum Munud which are traditional dishes. It goes without saying that you will find restaurants with cuisines that are influenced by many countries. You will find restaurants for pizzas, spaghetti, burgers, meat, fish, etc. The traditional appetizer is bara brith. Accompany your food with local beer.
WHERE TO STAY
You can find several hotel or accommodation options for all budgets, both in the city center and a little outside the center.
FUN AND SHOPPING
*** St David’s Dewi Sant is an ideal place for your shopping
*** We would recommend you also visit Capitol for your purchases.
*** Royal Arcade and Queens Arcade are equally two good choices for your shopping.
*** Queen Street is one of the most popular streets with many shops.
*** Duke Street Arcade is also an ideal spot for your shopping.
HOW TO GET AROUND
The most beautiful way to get around the city is on foot or by bus.
CITIES NEAR CARDIFF
Major cities close to Cardiff are Bristol (67km), Swansea (74km), Birmingham (185km), Oxford (115km), Wolverhampton (188km), Southampton (215km), London (240km), Plymouth (240km), Manchester (299km), Liverpool (321km).
