Shwmae, welcome to Cardiff! 👋

If you’re looking to make the most of 24 hours in Wales’ capital, we’ve got you covered. From medieval history and beautiful green spaces to a vibrant waterfront and fantastic food and drink, Cardiff has something for everyone. Most importantly, many of the city’s top attractions are within easy walking distance, making it the perfect city to explore in a day.

Cardiff is also easy for coaches to access, with convenient drop-off points available at locations including National Museum Cardiff and Sophia Gardens. For more information on coach parking and drop-off facilities, click here.

10:00 – Cardiff Castle 🏰

Start your day with a visit to Cardiff Castle, a must-see attraction when exploring. Situated in the centre of the city, the Castle boasts nearly 2,000 years of history.

Spend your time climbing the Norman Keep to enjoy panoramic views across the city, take a guided tour of the stunning Castle Apartments and learn about the Bute family, discover Roman remains dating back to the 1st century AD, or step inside the wartime shelters that protected Cardiff residents during the Second World War.

Before you leave, be sure to browse the on-site gift shop or relax with a drink and a bite to eat at the Castle Café.

12:00 – Bute Park 🌳

After exploring the castle, take a leisurely walk through Bute Park, often referred to as the green heart of the city. Located directly behind Cardiff Castle, it offers 130 acres of beautiful parkland, making it the perfect place to relax and unwind.

Enjoy a range of attractions and activities, from historic landmarks and nature trails to a plant nursery and the Woodland Explorer Trail for children. You can also take a water taxi to Cardiff Bay or stop at one of the park’s three cafés for a coffee, snack, or sweet treat.

13:00 – Time for Lunch 🍽️

Take a short walk into the city centre and choose from a variety of restaurants. If you’re looking for somewhere that focuses on Welsh produce, head to The Daffodil, a gastro pub on Windsor place. If you are seeking a private dining experience, The Ivy on the Hayes is a relaxed yet luxurious restaurant featuring artwork inspired by Wales. It is a great choice and offers a two-course lunch menu, alongside The Ivy Asia, located next door.

Alternatively, if you are interested in something a little more relaxed, why not visit Cardiff Market on Trinity Street, which has been at the centre of the city since the 1700s? Choose from a selection of cuisines and, before you leave, be sure to treat yourself to a freshly made Welsh cake.

14:00 – Shopping in the City Centre 🛍️

After a meal in the city, take some time to explore Cardiff’s fantastic shopping scene. Wander through the city’s seven Victorian and Edwardian arcades, each packed with their own unique character, independent boutiques and hidden gems.

Alternatively, head to St David’s Dewi Sant, Wales’s leading shopping destination, home to more than 160 shops, restaurants and cafés. Whether you’re searching for the latest fashions, a unique souvenir or somewhere to relax with a coffee, you’re sure to find exactly what you’re looking for.

15:00 – Visit Cardiff Bay 🌊

In the afternoon, take a short 10-15 minute journey to Cardiff Bay and discover a completely different side of the city. Home to a vibrant waterfront and a beautiful freshwater lake, Cardiff Bay is one of the capital’s most popular destinations. Free coach parking is available, alternatively visitors can hop on the number 6 bus from the city centre, which runs every 30 minutes.

Spend your time exploring the area’s many attractions, including The Senedd, the home of the Welsh Parliament; The Pierhead, an iconic red-brick building that has stood proudly in the Bay for over 100 years; and the Wales Millennium Centre, renowned as the national home for the performing arts in Wales. Alternatively, take in the Bay from the water with a variety of boat trips to choose from.

To discover even more things to see and do in Cardiff Bay, visit our Cardiff Bay page here.

17:00 – Check In 📍

After a busy day exploring, it’s time to check in to one of the many hotels located throughout the city. Choose from a range of accommodation options, from five-star luxury to more budget-friendly stays.

You can stay right in the middle of the city centre, close to  Cardiff Castle and the main shopping district, or, if you’re seeking something a little more tranquil, choose from a selection of hotels in the beautiful Cardiff Bay, offering waterfront views. There are also plenty of options on the outskirts of Cardiff, all within a short drive or train journey of the city centre.

Explore our range of accommodation options and find the perfect place to stay here.

19:00 – Entertainment in the City 🌟

Round off your day with an evening of entertainment in the Welsh capital. Cardiff is home to plenty of venues offering something for everyone, including the New Theatre, Wales Millennium Centre, Utilita Arena Cardiff, Tramshed, and the iconic Principality Stadium.

Enjoy everything from award-winning musicals and theatre productions to live music, comedy shows, family entertainment and major sporting events. Whatever your interests, Cardiff’s thriving cultural scene is the perfect way to end your day in the city.

As your 24 hours in Cardiff come to an end, we hope you’ve enjoyed discovering just some of the experiences that make Wales’ capital so special. Whether you’ve explored centuries of history, relaxed in the city’s green spaces, or experienced its vibrant culture and entertainment, we hope Cardiff has left a lasting impression and inspired you to return and uncover even more of what the city has to offer.

Hwyl fawr, until next time! 👋