Cardiff is an amazing city, but with so much to see in the capital of Wales with so little time, what are the best things to visit there if you only have one day? To help you out for your next day trip to Cardiff, here are all the best things you will want to see…
Cardiff Castle
Cardiff Castle is one of the most popular attractions in Wales and has been standing in the city’s centre for almost 2000 years. The opening times vary depending on the time of year, and tickets cost £14.50 for an adult and £12 for a student. You can explore the castle at your own pace, join a tour, or use their audio guide.
Cardiff Central Market
This impressive Victorian building is home to Cardiffs indoor market and offers a shopping experience like no other. The market has been there since the 1700s and still stands today. It has all sorts of stalls and shops inside that sell all kinds of items, including vegetables, bread, fruit, cheese, and a butchers and fishmongers. The market is open every day from 8 am until 5 pm.
Wales Millennium Centre
If you are a fan of theatre or music, you must visit the Millennium Centre in Wales. This is the country’s national arts centre, where you can watch some of the best shows and performances. The building was opened in 2004 by the Queen, and every year since has had over 1.5 million visitors. The centre has one of the largest stages in Europe, with enough seating for nearly 2000 people.
Cardiff Bay
There is plenty to do in Cardiff Bay, so if you only have a day to spend in Cardiff, then it is the place to go. You can go to eateries at the bay, explore cultural attractions, or even take a short boat trip. The bay’s barrage is also an excellent spot for a walk or bike ride, as you are welcomed with stunning views.
National Museum Cardiff
If you want to spend a day in Cardiff without breaking the bank, then the National Museum could be a great option for you as admission is free. The building is full of exhibitions, world-class art, and natural history. The museum’s art collection is described as one of Europe’s finest, with hundreds of thousands of items inside to see.
City of Arcades
More than 100 businesses within Cardiff’s arcades offer tourists a shopping experience like no other. The arcades have been standing for almost 150 years and remains at the heart of the city. In 2019 the city celebrated its first ‘City of Arcades Day’, where more than 80 independent businesses put on special offers, and there was also live music.
Principality Stadium
Visiting the Principality Stadium is a must for all sports fans, and it can seat over 73,000 spectators. The iconic sports venue is also the location for many concerts and exhibitions. You can tour the stadium most days, which costs £13.75 for adults, £9.90 for children, and £11 for concession tickets. Even if you visit on a match day, mini-tours are offered instead, which only cost 40 minutes.
Llandaff Cathedral
The Llandaff Cathedral stands on one of the oldest Christian sites in Britain and has been standing there since 1107. It has beautiful medieval architecture and still looks remarkable today. Plus, the cathedral is within walking distance from Bute Park.
St. Fagans National Museum of History
This museum of history is referred to as St Fagan’s and very popular with tourists. The open-air museum has various exhibits and recently underwent a £30million revamp in 2018, shortly before it was named Art Fund Museum of the Year. This site is worth a visit during your time in Cardiff, as it’s one of Wale’s most popular heritage attractions.
Cardiff City Hall
This impressive building is used for many different reasons, including council meetings and weddings. But even if you don’t go inside it is still worth a visit just to look at, and it’s located in-between the National Museum and Castle, so if you are walking you will be sure to pass it.
Last Updated on September 2, 2022
Published on February 23, 2021
