Nestled in the heart of South Wales, Cardiff offers delightful locals, rich history, and a cozy atmosphere. From its impressive walkability to its warm culture, this small UK city is one to savor.
Wales may not be a household name when it comes to overseas adventuring, but it’s certainly not a destination to be overlooked. When people travel to the United Kingdom, they typically make a beeline for the bright lights, big city–London. And while I do consider London one of the many loves of my life, none of my UK adventures were so pleasantly surprising as the city of Cardiff.
Cardiff is home to the nicest population of people I’ve ever encountered, an old-world charm that pulls you in, and a small-town vibe that even the most timid of travelers can conquer. If you’re coming from the United States, I recommend hopping on a redeye to Heathrow Airport, taking the Heathrow Express train to Paddington Train Station, and then enjoying a two-hour journey on the Great Western Railway right into Cardiff City Centre (book here).
Once you arrive and make your way out of the train station (fair warning, it will most likely be raining and you should learn to embrace it!).
Grab a pint and tuck into Society South’s Cardiff travel guide.
I am a breakfast fanatic, and while I could never commit to ordering a traditional UK breakfast, I am a pro at sniffing out the best morning menus. In most cities abroad, you’re likely signing up for a long day of walking, so starting with a filling meal is a must. The Cardiff Townhouse by Coppa Club has a diverse breakfast menu, a quaint patio perfect for people-watching, and two lush floors inside for drinking, dining, and socializing.
Another fun fact about me is that I will always choose Asian food when it’s an option. I had fantastic Thai for lunch at Rosa’s Thai, which was perfectly situated on Church St near all of the city’s attractions. If you wander down Church, you’ll be spoiled for choice!
If you’re ready to walk off lunch, I urge you to head towards Cardiff Bay. You’ll encounter plenty of restaurants and cafés in Mermaid Quay, but for a treat with a view, walk straight to Cadwaladers on the pier for an ice cream scoop (or two).
Wrap up the night with a lovely meal at The Botanist in the City Centre. Start with the hummus and patatas bravas, and order a signature hanging kebab for the main event. Pro tip- this meal pairs very well with a few Peronis.
It may not be unique to the UK, but a tried and true place to stay is Hotel Indigo. It is conveniently walkable to everything you’d need, has a small café, and the staff was as hospitable as we could hope for. There’s a Primark right across the street in case there’s an outfit you forgot to pack!
However, if you’re willing to tack 10 minutes onto your walk to Cardiff City Centre, my top pick to stay is Central Studios. Located directly across from Principality Stadium, this accommodation offers quick access to stunning views and is a short stroll away from whatever landmark you’re headed to. As a solo traveler, Central Studios felt safe, clean, and budget-friendly.
There is no shortage of things to do in Cardiff, but fair warning, it’s notoriously rainy. But even on drizzly days, don’t be afraid to grab an umbrella and make the most of it! I can say from experience, it lends to the vibes and makes for an even cozier trip.
The Cardiff Castle is an easy must-do activity located on the edge of the bustling city center. It is free to wander inside the grounds and soak in the view, or explore inside for £15.50 per adult (less than USD 20).
If you want to immerse yourself in the Welsh energy, snag tickets to a game at Principality Stadium. My first trip to Wales kicked off with an iconic rugby game there, and the excitement turned me into an instant fan. A big perk was the reasonable food and drink prices, which you’d be hard-pressed to find in an American stadium.
Wandering the storefronts in the City Centre and Cardiff Bay are a given, but be sure to wander into The Cardiff Market. Open every day but Sunday, the market boasts two floors of food stalls and merchant vendors creating a unique shopping experience with plenty of opportunities to grab snacks while you browse.
Cardiff becomes even more alive even more when the sun goes down. From bustling, beer-slinging pubs to vibrant, cocktail-forward clubs, the city has a spot for you no matter your after hours vibe. One of the city’s top spots is Lab22, an award-winning cocktail bar that has certainly earned its flowers. I’m an espresso martini girl myself, but the team of skilled bartenders can whip up something for everyone. And if your day of eats (or evening activities) has left you with late-night cravings, hit “Chippy Lane” on Caroline Street on your way back to your hotel for plenty of indulgent fried options.
I was lucky enough to stumble upon Cardiff and was even luckier to fall in love with the city completely. I have traveled here with one friend, two friends, and even solo, and have yet to be let down.
Plot twist: I’ve recently decided to call this city home, so check back for even more tips the more local I become!
Looking for more travel guides? Check out our travel section above and beyond the South.
