Cardiff is the ideal destination for anyone who wants to experience a vibrant city break. From museums offering insight into the rich culture and heritage of the city, to the countless shops in the arcades, there truly is something for everyone to enjoy.
The Celtic Collection has teamed up with Wales’s top travel influencers to create the ultimate Cardiff Checklist, highlighting the best things to eat, drink, do and see from the people who know the city best! Here are their top tips …
Drinking and dining destinations
Cardiff has a diverse culinary scene to satisfy every foodie craving. From traditional Welsh delicacies to exotic international cuisine, the city has it all.
Kelly (@cardiffffoodie), a food and travel blogger based in Cardiff, recommends visiting:
Located in The Parkgate Hotel on Westgate Street, The Sorting Room is a must-visit destination for those seeking a memorable dining experience.
Adding a touch of glamour to Cardiff’s culinary scene, the restaurant is a chic spot to meet and dine and was recently added to the Michelin Guide as part of the ‘Inspectors’ Favourite New Restaurants’ list and awarded 2 AA Rosettes.
Offering a diverse menu of delectable dishes, from savoury starters to mouth-watering main courses, expertly crafted cocktails, and an extensive wine selection – The Sorting Room never fails to impress.
Credit: Instagram @theparkgatehotel
Best for arts and entertainment
A lively and eclectic hub for arts and entertainment, Cardiff has a well-deserved reputation for its diverse creative scene. Home to world-class venues such as the Wales Millennium Centre and St David’s Hall, the city has played host to everything from West End musicals to international comedy acts.
Portia Jones (@pipsays), Welsh travel writer and host of the Travel Goals Podcast, recommends:
Catch a comedy show at Chapter Arts Centre
Chapter Arts Centre in Canton has been Cardiff’s thriving centre of creativity and community for more than five decades. It’s a multi-artform venue with a cinema, café bar, performance space and gallery where you can find a rich and diverse artistic experience.
Check out the Drones Comedy Club for an indie comedy night with plenty of sass! Comedian Clint Edwards, as seen on Rob Brydon’s ‘Identity Crisis’, brings a range of emerging and established stand-up talent on the first and third Friday of every month.
Credit: Instagram @chapterartscentre
Take in the scenic sights
Every season brings its own unique charm to this gorgeous corner of Wales – your camera will be working overtime capturing all of Cardiff’s natural wonders!
Gemma (@thelittlecardiffblog) recommends exploring:
Cardiff Bay & The Barrage
Cardiff Bay gives you the best of both worlds when it comes to walks. You can opt for a leisurely amble around the stunning waterfront, dotted with sailboats and a number of bars, shops and restaurants in Mermaid Quay. Don’t forget to stop and check out some of the city’s most iconic landmarks, such as the Norwegian Church and the Pierhead Building.
If you’re in the mood for a more invigorating walk or a cycle, head to the barrage for a 1-mile loop with panoramic views of the Bay and the Severn Estuary. Feeling tired? Skip the walk and take a 25-minute water taxi for a relaxing and scenic ride.
Credit: Instagram @cardiffbayofficial
Historical hotspots
Inspiring history can be discovered in every corner of this wondrous city – contributing towards a rich tapestry of stories that make Cardiff an enticing destination for locals and visitors alike.
Jamie (@explorewithed), a content creator from Wales with a passion for photography, recommends a visit to Cardiff Castle, the medieval castle and Victorian Gothic revival mansion built in the late 11th century by Norman invaders on top of a 3rd-century Roman fort.
Cardiff Castle
The foundations stretch back to the Ancient Roman conquest, so there’s a ton of history to uncover. My castle highlight is the Apartments and stunning Arab Room, the ceiling is like staring into a kaleidoscope!
Credit: Instagram @cardiff_castle
Discover hidden gems
There are so many hidden gems in Cardiff just waiting to be discovered. Whether you’re a music buff, foodie, or nature lover, you’re sure to find something special that will capture your heart. Cardiff content creator Llio (@llioangharad) recommends a trip to:
Tucked away in one of Cardiff’s enchanting arcades, you’ll stumble upon the world’s oldest record store, Spillers Records. A haven for music lovers, it’s crammed with an eclectic variety of vinyl records, from classic hits to undiscovered gems.
A proud advocate for local talent, Spillers champions Welsh artists, giving them the platform they deserve. And it’s not just about the records – they occasionally host intimate gigs that turn the store into an electrifying hub of live music.
Credit: Instagram @spillersrecords
And relax…
Finally, for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life, there are countless ways to unwind in Cardiff. Mum of two and hugely successful family influencer, Ashleigh (@cardiff.mum) suggests visiting:
The rooftop Spa at The Parkgate Hotel
This is one of the first places I book when I’ve had a hectic week. There is nowhere like it in Cardiff. It’s like an escape from the world – completely stunning.
The panoramic views of Cardiff’s stunning skyline that you can admire from the pool make you forget about everything within minutes of being there. I love visiting the Spa with a glass of prosecco when the sun is just setting. It’s dreamy!
Credit: Instagram @theparkgatehotel
Where to stay?
Cardiff’s most luxurious destination, the 170-bedroom Parkgate Hotel is the perfect base for exploring the Welsh capital. Located just a stone’s throw from Cardiff train station, prices start from just £97 a night.
Credit: Instagram @theparkgatehotel
