Things to Do in Cardiff City Centre

Wales' capital, Cardiff, is a vibrant and cosmopolitan city that offers a warm Welsh welcome.

This guide highlights activities and attractions in Cardiff, showcasing favorite spots for exploration, dining, and entertainment.

Cardiff seamlessly blends rich Welsh heritage with contemporary urban life. The compact city centre makes it easy to navigate, with efficient public transport options to Cardiff Bay and the surrounding countryside. Whether interested in history, sports, nature, or a leisurely day out, Cardiff has something for everyone.

Explore the list below for inspiration, or jump to sections that catch your interest—whether it's museums, entertainment venues, Cardiff Bay, shopping in the city’s arcades, visiting Cardiff Castle, dining options, or family-friendly activities.

Visit Cardiff’s Museums

Cardiff is rich in culture and heritage. The Museum of Cardiff, located in the Old Library on The Hayes, showcases the city's history from its origins in the 1300s to the present through stories, photographs, films, artifacts, and interactive displays.

National Museum Cardiff features an impressive collection of Impressionist art alongside works spanning over 500 years of art history, natural history exhibits, and traveling exhibitions. St Fagans National Museum of History is a fantastic open-air museum ideal for families, with reconstructed buildings that narrate the social history of Wales.

Within the walls of Cardiff Castle, the Firing Line Museum offers insights into over 300 years of history through displays, events, and educational programs.

Cardiff’s Museums