Cardiff City Centre pulses with rich Welsh history alongside modern urban life. Historic Cardiff Castle and Victorian arcades sit near the iconic Millennium Stadium and St. David's shopping centre. Explore centuries of architecture while enjoying the area's vibrant shopping and dining scene. The area offers excellent transport with three train stations making exploration easy. Wander through charming pedestrianised streets lined with local pubs serving traditional Welsh fare. After dark, experience Cardiff's energetic nightlife with numerous bars hosting live music and friendly locals.
Cathays centers around Cardiff University's impressive campus, giving the area an energetic academic vibe. Victorian terraced houses line tree-shaded streets where students and locals mix naturally. This budget-friendly area offers affordable dining with international flavours. The nearby Cathays Cemetery provides a peaceful escape from student buzz. National Museum Cardiff and Cardiff Castle are just a short walk away. With excellent bus connections and its own railway station, exploring the wider city is simple and convenient.
Pontcanna offers a leafy escape from Cardiff's urban bustle with Victorian charm and Welsh character. Tree-lined streets frame elegant sandstone homes where locals outnumber tourists. The area balances tranquil residential life with artistic flair and independent shops. Bute Park and Pontcanna Fields provide sixty acres of green space for outdoor activities. Cosy gastropubs serve traditional Welsh fare while boutique cafes dot the quiet streets. Rugby enthusiasts will appreciate the proximity to Millennium Stadium just a short walk away.
Discover the most popular places to visit in Cardiff
Barry Island Beach
8.4/10 (151 reviews)
Barry Island Beach dazzles with golden sands and classic British seaside charm along the vibrant promenade. Visitors can build sandcastles, enjoy pleasure park attractions, or savour fish and chips by the shore.
Cardiff Bay
9.0/10 (1,226 reviews)
Cardiff Bay blends maritime heritage with modern culture in this revitalised waterfront district. Stroll between the striking Wales Millennium Centre and the Senedd while enjoying waterside dining and harbour views.
Principality Stadium
9.0/10 (893 reviews)
This iconic venue hosts Wales' rugby team in one of Europe's largest covered stadiums. Take a guided tour to walk through players' tunnels and step onto the hallowed pitch where sporting history unfolds.
Cardiff Castle
9.2/10 (1,347 reviews)
This 2,000-year-old fortress evolved from Roman fort to Victorian Gothic mansion, showcasing Wales' layered past. Explore lavish apartments while enjoying panoramic city views from the Norman Keep.
Utilita Arena Cardiff
8.6/10 (400 reviews)
Wales's premier entertainment venue hosts international music stars, comedy shows, and sporting events in Cardiff. Experience world-class performances with excellent acoustics and clear sightlines in this modern arena.
Cardiff University
8.6/10 (400 reviews)
Founded in 1883, Cardiff University blends historic architecture with modern facilities. Visitors can explore the grounds freely and attend public lectures to experience Wales' premier academic institution.
Celtic Manor Resort Golf Club
8.2/10 (94 reviews)
The Celtic Manor Resort features three championship courses, including the Twenty Ten designed for the 2010 Ryder Cup. Experience world-class golf with panoramic Usk Valley views while enjoying luxury amenities.
Chepstow Racecourse
9.0/10 (26 reviews)
Chepstow Racecourse is situated in Monmouthshire in south-east Wales, near the southern end of the Wye Valley. The track is a great point of interest in the UK and attracts visitors from all over the world.
"When checked in the room given had not been cleaned but after a couple of hours the room was cleaned and was given free breakfast which was ok.Great location."
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
You'll find cheap prices on Expedia for your Cardiff break. However, a range of factors like the length of stay, hotel choice and season will influence how much your holiday to Cardiff costs.
What are the cheapest months to go to Cardiff?
December, January and February are great times to search for cheap Cardiff holiday packages. Travelling in less busy periods means you can generally find better prices on flights and accommodation.
How many days is enough for Cardiff?
Cardiff holidays come in many shapes and sizes, but to really get a feel for this destination, we'd say 2 days is about right. This will mean you can fit in top attractions like National Museum Cardiff and New Theatre and track down some underrated spots. Don't miss out on neighbourhoods such as Cardiff City Centre and Castle Quarter either. If you're clever with your time, you can even allow for a day trip from Cardiff too.
Is it worth booking a holiday package to Cardiff?
During your Cardiff holiday, you can look forward to enjoying some excellent culture and shopping. Leave enough room in your itinerary to visit major attractions like Principality Stadium and Cardiff Bay.
How to find the best Cardiff package deals?
Use Expedia's handy filters to find some fabulous Cardiff package deals. When you begin your search, simply set your maximum budget and then order the results by "Price: low to high." If you want to save, plan your adventure for midweek, or look for Cardiff package deals in the off-peak season. Switch up your travel dates and you may score even better discounts. As a rule of thumb, it's usually best to lock in your holiday package as soon as possible.
Is it cheaper to book a Cardiff holiday as a package?
You can enjoy significant savings on your Cardiff retreat by booking a customised holiday package. Click on the "Package" heading, then enter your travel dates and destination to see some great airfares and hotel prices. Bundle everything into a neat package and you can save hundreds of dollars. Consider adding a car rental and you may land a better deal.
When to book a holiday package to Cardiff?
If you have your Cardiff holiday dates locked in, book early to score some fantastic deals. With Expedia, you can often reserve some flights up to a year in advance. Prefer spontaneous adventures? Our last-minute deals are ideal for quick escapes.
How to plan a trip to Cardiff?
Pick your travel dates: The things you'd like to do in Cardiff and your preferred season will help you decide when to go.
Plan your budget wisely: In addition to the cost of your hotel, you should factor in other expenses. These include food, transportation and flights. Also, put aside a little extra for unexpected expenses that may come up during your trip to Cardiff.
Set the duration of your trip: Start by compiling a list of the attractions you'd like to get to in Cardiff. Then, estimate how long you'll need at each, along with any travel time.
Bundle your bookings: With your travel dates in order, you can combine your car rental, hotels, flights and more into a customised Cardiff holiday package.
The Capitol Shopping Centre offers a vibrant mix of shops, perfect for family outings. Nearby, Cardiff Market provides a bustling atmosphere with local goods. For a unique experience, Goodsheds combines city vibes with a variety of businesses, making it an ideal spot for gifts and souvenirs.
Recreation
Experience the thrill of events at Principality Stadium, where the electric atmosphere energises your spirit. For relaxation, explore Cardiff International Sports Village, offering calming activities and wellness programmes. Alternatively, enjoy a round of golf at St Mellons Golf Club, surrounded by picturesque landscapes and fresh air.
Adventure
In Cardiff, the Church, College and Lighthouses Walk offers a scenic outdoor adventure, perfect for exploring the beautiful coastline. For thrill-seekers, Delta Force Paintball Cardiff provides an exhilarating paintball experience for families. Meanwhile, the Spot Climbing Centre caters to outdoor enthusiasts with its climbing facilities.
Nightlife
In Cardiff, the nightlife is vibrant, centred around areas like St Mary Street and Mill Lane. Enjoy lively pubs, trendy bars, and nightclubs. For a unique experience, visit Cardiff Bay or explore the eclectic nightlife in the student area of Cathays, where you'll find a variety of venues and live music.
Find the best attractions in Cardiff
Cardiff offers a delightful blend of outdoor activities, scenic beauty, and cultural experiences, making it an ideal destination for tourists. Visitors can explore iconic attractions like Cardiff Castle and the picturesque Cardiff Bay, while also enjoying urban parks and nearby beaches. Whether you're seeking family-friendly outings or a taste of local culture, Cardiff's diverse points of interest ensure an enriching vacation experience.
Cardiff Castle: Immerse yourself in history at Cardiff Castle, a stunning medieval fortress located in the heart of the city. Explore its impressive architecture and beautiful gardens, all while enjoying a romantic atmosphere steeped in culture.
Barry Island Beach: Experience the quintessential British seaside at Barry Island Beach, renowned for its golden sands and vibrant beach vibes. Perfect for a leisurely stroll or sunbathing, it's a great spot for families and couples alike.
Utilita Arena Cardiff: Enjoy a fantastic range of entertainment at Utilita Arena Cardiff, where concerts and events come to life. This family-friendly venue hosts international acts and local shows, making it a lively hub for all ages.
Best time to go to Cardiff
The best time to visit Cardiff can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Cardiff falls in July, when visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature in Cardiff falls in January, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.
Tips to save on your trip to Cardiff
Combine your flights, hotels and car rentals on Expedia—bundling can result in significant savings.
Consider traveling during the off-peak season (typically April and December to January) for more affordable package holidays to Cardiff.
Use the Price per traveler filter on Expedia to find a package deal that suits your budget.
Check the VIP Access properties filter to discover outstanding hotels with added member perks at select properties.
* Savings based on package bookings compared to the price of the same components booked separately. Savings not available on all packages.