Cardiff city breaks - things to do on a short break in Cardiff

Give yourself a few days to get to know Cardiff, as this cosmopolitan city has a lot to offer sports fans, history lovers, culture vultures and foodies. Cardiff has a compact city centre with everything to hand - shops, the castle, the museum and many other attractions making it one of the easiest capital cities to explore.

Read more :  Things to do in Cardiff city centre

Cardiff Bay is a vibrant waterfront development just outside the city centre. There is so much to do, making it the perfect place to spend half a day or so. You can explore the area's rich history at the Pierhead Building, take a boat tour of the bay, or visit the interactive science centre, Techniquest. There are also plenty of restaurants, cafes, and bars to choose from, plan ahead with our guide to Cardiff Bay.

Get the blood pumping with one of Cardiff's many urban adventures. Go rafting at Cardiff International White Water Rafting Centre, try a speedboat trip in Cardiff Bay, climb at Boulders Indoor Climbing Centre, zoom around in a go-kart at Teamsport Cardiff or try something else from our adrenaline-packed guide.

Cardiff has a rich history and many historical highlights to enjoy. Apart from the famous Cardiff Castle, which dominates the city centre there are other historical sites that are well worth visiting which are within walking distance. The National Museum Cardiff houses an impressive collection of art, natural history, and geology exhibits. Llandaff Cathedral is one of the oldest Christian sites in Britain and has been a place of worship for over 1,400 years. These historical sites are great for history lovers to explore and learn about the diverse history of Cardiff.

Delight in the Victorian arcades and markets, peruse the high street brands or delve into one of the many independent stores. Check out Castle Arcade and Morgan Arcade to shop for everything from traditional Welsh textiles and love spoons at the various Welsh goods shops to fine footwear at The Brogue Trader or music at Spillers Records (est.1894), the oldest record shop in the world. For more ideas, check out our specific guide to shopping in Cardiff. 

If your special interest is food then Loving Welsh Food offer a walking City of Arcades Tasting Tour - highlighting the vibrant city food scene. There's the City of Arcades history and culture guided walking tour with Fogo’s Free Tours, which operates on a 'pay as you feel' basis. If you want to shop like a local, head to the banks of the Taff, opposite Principality Stadium, on Sunday mornings. You’ll find the tastiest local produce at the Riverside Food Market. Farmers from the surrounding countryside bring traditional Welsh meats and cheeses, while local chefs, bakers and makers share their artisan wares.

Whether you're up for a leisurely walk or a vigorous run, the city's lush green spaces offer the perfect backdrop for your exercise regimen. Keep pursuing your health and well-being as you enjoy a weekend break in Cardiff.

Bute Park is a popular spot. Take to the tree-lined paths, run along the river or get a taste for the Taff Trail. You'll struggle to believe you're in the middle of the city! If you prefer a more relaxed trip then take the water taxi from Bute Park along the Taff to Cardiff Bay.

Walkers, cyclists and runners love the flat 10k Cardiff Bay Barrage circular route. This waterside trail runs from the Bay to the seaside town of Penarth, taking in industrial heritage sights en route. You could also stop for an ice cream on Penarth Pier and Promenade.

South Wales offers delightful days out here are some of the best ways to spend your days near to Cardiff City centre. Let's start with a visit to the St Fagans National Museum of History, a place where Welsh history comes alive through its open-air museum charm. After immersing in the rich culture, a serene stroll through the lush landscapes of Dyffryn Gardens provides a tranquil escape.

For a perfect end to the day, Llanerch Vineyard with its picturesque vine-clad hills a perfect stop to indulge in the finest Welsh wines. If you're looking to enjoy the refreshing sea air then visit Penarth - a charming seaside town, just a stone's throw from Cardiff. With a pier and a bustling esplanade it's a stunning spot to enjoy some food a coastal walk. The surrounding Vale of Glamorgan countryside offers scenic trails and is perfect for some leisurely walks.

This vibrant capital city offers an array of things to do when the sun goes down there's a mix of places. Discover fun activities to do on a night out in Cardiff.

Cardiff has plenty of quality accommodation to suit all budgets, including luxury 5* spa hotels, boutique B&Bs and city-centre self-catering apartments.

Base yourself in the heart of the city with a stay at the Hilton Cardiff, a prime location located directly opposite Cardiff Castle. The Radisson Blu Hotel, one of the tallest buildings in Cardiff and just minutes from Cardiff Central railway station and transport hub.

Staying in Cardiff Bay offers visitors the convenience of being close to a variety of attractions, such as the iconic Wales Millennium Centre, the Senedd (Welsh Parliament Building), and the Mermaid Quay shopping and dining complex.

For accommodation, visitors can choose from a range of options, including the luxurious voco® St David's Cardiff, which offers stunning views of the bay and a selection of local produce in its dining options. There is a hub of modern accommodation options near the waterfront Holiday Inn Cardiff Bay and Quayside apartments is a perfect self-catering place. 

For more accommodation in the area plan ahead with this guide.

Come and experience The Vale of Glamorgan and stay away from the hustle and bustle on the outskirts of the city.  You'll also find a wide range of accommodation dotted around this area with pretty villages and spectacular coastline allowing you to enjoy a more relaxed pace of life while still having access to Cardiff's attractions.

The city offers a world of food and drink experiences to suit all tastes.

If you're in the mood for charcoal-grilled steaks and a bar with craft beers and cocktails then head to Pasture. If you would prefer a classic pub where you can have a pint and listen to live acoustic music then The Old Arcade is the place to be. Try a traditional pizza at Ffwrnes situated in the historic Cardiff Market.

Mill Lane in the city centre has fancy bars for cocktails, and there are a number of good restaurants on High Street and St Mary’s Street, such as The Potted Pig. Discover more places to eat out in our local's guide to eating in Cardiff.

Cardiff boasts a thriving vegan and vegetarian community, offering an extensive selection of exclusively vegan and vegetarian dining establishments throughout the city. We have compiled a guide to highlight some of the finest plant-based eateries available. For a more detailed exploration of Cardiff's vegan and vegetarian culinary scene.