Cardiff isn’t just Wales’ most impressive cultural centre – it’s also one of the most varied and interesting in the whole of the UK.
Packed with sights old and new, the Welsh capital really does seem to have it all. From stepping back in time at its quirk-filled castle and National Museum to taking in a rugby game and going behind the scenes of legendary TV show Doctor Who, there’s no shortage of activities to get stuck into.
Embrace the old and the new
Cardiff Castle allows you to wander through opulent rooms such as the Banqueting Hall and the Library, which were transformed into a lavish daydream by an eccentric architect in the 19th century.
Climb the clock tower for panoramic views of Cardiff or head to the top of the Keep to learn how the Normans defended their stronghold 800 years ago.
The restored waterfront at Mermaid Quay and along Cardiff Bay is where you’ll find some of the city’s best eateries. High-octane speedboat rides leave from the harbour regularly, or take time out with a putter on a pleasure boat.
Take in the sights and sounds of Cardiff’s bustling Central Market. This Victorian market has occupied the same spot for over a century. Beneath the glass roof you’ll find a wide range of stalls selling meats, cheeses and traditional Welsh cakes.
While you’re in town, be sure to sample laverbread. This tasty, if slightly eccentric, Welsh delicacy is made using boiled, minced seaweed that’s often rolled in oatmeal and then fried.
Doctor Who and rugby
Follow in the footsteps of the daring Doctor and his companions with a Doctor Who walking tour. See the settings for iconic moments in the long-running hit TV series, which is filmed in Cardiff, and listen to behind-the-scenes stories about everyone’s favourite doctors.
Sports fans should stop by for a rowdy game of rugby at the Principality Stadium. On match days the city centre is awash with red jerseys, emblazoned with the Welsh dragon and filled with boisterous song.
If you can’t bag a ticket, it’s still worth soaking up the atmosphere both before or after the game – particularly if Wales have beaten arch rivals England.
See the great outdoors at a National Park
A 60km drive up the A470 from Cardiff transports you to the Brecon Beacons. This vast National Park has something for everyone, whether you prefer adrenaline-fuelled gorge jumps and mountain bike trails, or meandering walking trails that take you through stunning hills.
If you want to get your teeth into a bigger challenge, head to Snowdonia – it’s around a two-and-a-half hour drive away. Here you’ll find Wales’ tallest mountain, Mount Snowdon.
It takes around six hours to get up and down, but if you don’t want to hike you can still be lap up the stunning mountain views by taking the vintage steam railway to the summit. There’s a café waiting to refresh and rejuvenate you for the journey back down.
Enjoy the freedom a rental car offers you to explore every corner of Cardiff, as well as heading out to see more of the stunning Welsh countryside.
