Holidays in Cardiff, Wales
In the west of the United Kingdom lies the state of Wales. The capital Cardiff is located in the south of the country, on the Bristol Channel. Cardiff has only been the capital of Wales since 1955, which also makes it the youngest capital in Europe.
However, being a 'young' capital does not mean that there are no historic buildings to be found. In fact, the city was founded as early as the 11th century on the site where Cardiff Castle now stands. Find great tips for a holiday in Cardiff here!
Places to visit in Cardiff
Millennium Stadium
Football and rugby are two sports that are both very popular in Wales, so both sports make grateful use of the country's national stadium. The Welsh rugby union owns the Millennium Stadium, but football matches are also played here. What makes the stadium extra special is that it features the largest stadium sliding roof in the world.
Cardiff Castle
A popular attraction in Cardiff is Cardiff Castle, which should not be missed during your holiday. This castle was built in the late 11th century on the remains of a Roman fort. Guides will show you around the extraordinary castle and tell you all about its history. A visit on your own is also possible. Website: www.cardiffcastle.com
Cardiff National Museum
Every kind of art imaginable is brought together in Cardiff's national museum. Paintings, sculptures, drawings, silverware and ceramics, all are on display at the museum. But that is not the only thing. Archaeological finds and stuffed animals can also be found in the museum. Website: museum.wales/cardiff
Cardiff Bay
Cardiff Bay was once home to the busiest coal port in the world, but since the coal crisis of the 1980s, the port became less and less important for the city. Today, due to its shape, the bay is mainly used as a natural amphitheatre in which open-air concerts take place. In summer, a city beach is built in the bay, which is not inferior to an average water park.
Wales Millennium Centre
An architectural gem in Cardiff Bay is the Wales Millennium Centre, which has earned a reputation as one of the best venues in the world. This modern 2004 building hosts all kinds of performing arts, from dance and ballet to stand-up comedy and musicals by London Westend. You can also go there for tours, cafes and daily free shows in the foyer.
The building itself, with its hull-shaped copper-coloured roof, is already worth a look. Known locally as the 'Armadillo', its design is inspired by the cliffs and steel industry of Wales. The building was featured numerous times in the British science fiction series Doctor Who. Address: Bute Pl, Cardiff CF10 5AL, United Kingdom. Website: www.wmc.org.uk
St Fagans National Museum of History
Just outside Cardiff is this open-air museum, where you can take a journey through time. The grounds are home to 40 original buildings from different historical periods. The buildings were demolished in their original locations and rebuilt in their original state on the grounds of St Fagans.
Practical information for a holiday in Cardiff
Staying overnight in Cardiff
If you want to stay in a place where celebrities such as The Beatles, Tom Jones and Shirley Bassey also slept, then book an overnight stay at the Angel Hotel. The hotel is housed in a classic Victorian building with a history dating back to the 18th century. For a long time, it was Cardiff's main hotel where all the stars, celebrities and politicians spent the night.
The Angel Hotel is now an affordable 3-star hotel, conveniently located within walking distance of all Cardiff's main attractions. From many rooms you have views of the castle and park. The stylish restaurant serves lunch, high tea or dinner.
However, if you’re looking for more options within the United Kingdom, check out various United Kingdom hotels at tophotels.com. It’s a great platform to find a good stay throughout the country. If your plan is being focused more on exploring Wales, you might also want to scour some of the best hotel deals in Wales on http://www.hotels-wales.com/en/ to make your trip within your budget.
For the Angel Hotel booking, please, ► Book a night at the Angel Hotel from €90.
Looking for a cheap hotel for your holiday in Cardiff?
For those seeking the pinnacle of opulence and convenience, Cardiff's luxury hotels near the Principality Stadium stand as the epitome of refined elegance. Situated in close proximity to this iconic sporting and entertainment venue, these accommodations offer a seamless blend of sophisticated comfort and unparalleled service. From lavish suites adorned with plush furnishings to panoramic views that capture the city's dynamic energy, these luxury establishments redefine indulgence. With every amenity at your fingertips, including world-class dining and spa experiences, your stay in one of these exquisite hotels becomes a memorable journey in itself. Whether you're attending a thrilling match or event at the Principality Stadium or simply exploring the city's vibrant heart, these luxury hotels provide an oasis of tranquility and sophistication amidst the excitement of Cardiff.
For more options to choose according to your tastes and preferences, consider Wales 4-star hotels on www.hotels-wales.com. These accommodations offer a harmonious blend of luxury and convenience, providing an ideal home base for exploring the city's rich history, cultural gems, and vibrant nightlife. From elegantly appointed rooms and suites to top-notch amenities such as spas, fitness centers, and gourmet dining options, these 4-star hotels elevate your stay to a new level of sophistication. Sleeperz Hotel in Cardiff is the option that we highly recommend! Sleeperz Hotel in Cardiff offers a modern and stylish stay in the heart of the Welsh capital, perfect for both business and leisure travelers. With its convenient location, comfortable rooms, and excellent amenities, Sleeperz Hotel provides the ideal base to explore all that Cardiff has to offer.
Eating and drinking in Cardiff
An unusual coffee house in Wales' capital is a former 6m by 6m log cabin. Brodies Coffee Co is Cardiff's smallest coffee shop. But at the coffee hut in Gorsedd Gardens, you can get more than just coffee. Besides a wide range of hot drinks, you can also get freshly made ice cream, pastries and other treats here.
On the quay in the harbour you will find Mermaid Quay, a lively promenade with more than 30 restaurants, bars and cafés. You can find cuisines and dishes from all over the world, from Welsh ice cream to Japanese sushi.
Travelling to Cardiff
Less than 20 kilometres from the city centre is Cardiff International Airport. From Amsterdam, it is about a two-hour flight to the Welsh capital. Several times an hour, a bus runs from the airport towards the city centre. The city's main attractions are all within walking distance of each other.
For more information on a holiday in Cardiff, check out the official website of the tourist office: www.visitcardiff.com
More handy tips for your trip to Cardiff
Best tours and activities in Cardiff
Best walking holidays in Wales
Book a flight ticket Cardiff with KLM
Train tickets Cardiff with NS International
Buy an Interrail pass for England
View travel guides for Wales
