Welcome aboard Skycar, your front-row seat to tour some of the best attractions in Cardiff.
Prepare to explore the city like never before. Get ready to take in the sights of the bustling city centre and the stunning Cardiff Bay, all from up high with the wind in your hair and the sun (hopefully!) on your face.
As you roll through the city, there’s loads to see en route. Scroll down to discover fun facts about the attractions you’re passing, numbered 1-11 on the map. If you’d like to hop off the bus at any point, the stops are highlighted with yellow icons. If you’d like to see a list of the stops please check the Cardiff Bus app or by clicking here. Let the adventure begin.
1. National Museum Cardiff and the Civic Centre
As you pass Boulevard de Nantes and Museum Avenue, you will be within close proximity of Cathays Park – one of Cardiff’s most historic spots. Once part of the Cardiff Castle grounds, it became the city’s Civic Centre in the early 1900s. The formal parks you pass – Alexandra Gardens, Gorsedd Gardens, and Friary Gardens – are not only peaceful green spaces but also home to landmarks like the Wales National War Memorial. They surround some of Cardiff’s most iconic buildings, including City Hall and, just ahead, the National Museum Cardiff. The museum houses incredible collections of art, natural history, and geology, from Impressionist paintings to dinosaur skeletons. There are trails and exhibitions to explore, and whether you’re into science, history, or fine art, there’s something for everyone – and best of all, admission is free. Definitely worth hopping off or making a return visit to take a closer look! Please note the museum is closed on Mondays.
2. New Theatre
Look out for Cardiff’s historic theatre on Park Place, which first opened its doors in 1906. After a blaze gutted the original 1826 building Robert Redford hired prominent theatre architects Runtz and Ford to design the New Theatre that we all know, love, and sit in, today. This grand venue has hosted legends like Laurel and Hardy, Ian McKellen and Anthony Hopkins. With over 1,000 seats across three levels, it offers an intimate experience for everything from top West End musicals and ballets to laugh-out-loud comedies and family pantos. The New Theatre is also committed to accessibility, with inclusive performances and a warm welcome for community groups. Discover a packed calendar of hit touring shows. If you’re curious, hop off the bus and pop into the box office – the team love sharing what’s coming up.
3. Cardiff Castle
Get a good look at Cardiff Castle which is one of Wales’ most treasured heritage sites, with 2,000 years of fascinating history. Originally a Roman fort, later a Norman stronghold, and finally transformed in the 19th century into a magnificent Victorian Gothic palace, the castle is a unique blend of architectural styles. Designed by architect William Burges for the 3rd Marquess of Bute, the interiors are truly spectacular – filled with intricate wood carvings, stained glass, gilded ceilings, and elaborate murals. Purchase a Castle ticket online or inside the visitor centre. You can also book a tour if you’d like to see more of the Castle’s spectacular Victorian interiors, learn more about the lavish decorations and the visionary people who created them. Did you know – the outdoor area transforms into a concert venue in the summer months? Its hosted such artists as legendary band Queen, Welsh legend Sir Tom Jones and Motown’s Diana Ross.
4. Bute Park
Just a short walk beyond Cardiff Castle is Bute Park, often called the “green heart of the city.” Spanning 56 hectares, it features historic parkland, woodland trails, sports pitches, an arboretum, and riverside paths. It’s perfect for a relaxing stroll, a family day out, or exploring with one of the many self-guided trails. Why not grab a coffee or a snack from one of the cafés? The park is a lively hub of activity year-round, hosting a wide range of events both big and small. From community gatherings to major concerts featuring legends like Stevie Wonder, there’s always something exciting happening! Make sure you’re up to date with the event guide. For a unique way to explore the city, why not hop on the water taxi which departs from the park and takes you to Cardiff Bay Barrage.
6. Principality Stadium
On Westgate Street, you’ll find the spectacular Principality Stadium – one of Cardiff’s most iconic landmarks and home to the Welsh Rugby Union. With its fully retractable roof, it’s one of the largest indoor arenas in the world, hosting everything from international rugby matches and World Cups to Olympic events, world-class boxing, and major concerts by the likes of Beyoncé, U2, and the Rolling Stones. The stadium offers guided tours that take you behind the scenes. Visitors can explore areas such as the Home and Away Dressing Rooms, the Ray Gravell Press Conference Suite, and even walk down the players’ tunnel to the famous pitch. It’s a must-see for sports and music fans alike, and the passionate tour guides are full of fascinating stories and fun facts from the stadium’s rich and varied history.
7. The Arcades and St David’s Dewi Sant
As you cruise through St Mary Street, you may get a look at one of the many Victorian and Edwardian Arcades. Discover a unique shopping experience at the heart of the city. With over 100 independent stores, cafés, and local eateries, these Victorian and Edwardian arcades blend 150 years of retail history with the buzz of modern city life. Explore hidden gems, meet passionate local traders, and enjoy the charm of beautifully restored architecture that gives Cardiff its title: The City of Arcades. Just around the corner, St David’s Dewi Sant offers a vibrant contrast. As Wales’ leading shopping destination, it welcomes over 29 million visitors each year and features more than 160 big-name shops, restaurants, and cafés.
8. Cardiff Bay’s New Arena
As you pass Cardiff Bay Train Station and arrive at the bottom end of Lloyd George Avenue, you may wonder what all of this construction work is in aid of. You’re passing the future home of Cardiff’s live entertainment arena. Once complete, this state-of-the-art venue will welcome up to 15,000 fans for unforgettable nights of live music, comedy, sport, and family shows. Designed with artists, audiences, and the community at heart, the arena will be a new cultural landmark for the city. More than just a venue, it will support homegrown talent, and bring big-name acts right to Cardiff’s doorstep. While it may look like a building site now, it’s the beginning of something exciting. As the skyline changes, so too does Cardiff’s future as a top destination for world-class entertainment.
9. Wales Millennium Centre
This is the main stop to hop off and explore the heart of Cardiff Bay. The Wales Millennium Centre is an iconic landmark and the nation’s home for the performing arts. Opened in 2004, it has become one of Europe’s most vibrant cultural venues, known for its striking design and world-class performances. Its famous façade has even featured in Torchwood. But there’s much more inside. The Centre hosts everything from blockbuster West End musicals and opera to hip hop, ballet, comedy, and live music. Visitors can enjoy free daily performances in the foyer, exhibitions, workshops, and tours—plus bars and restaurants – perfect for a re-fuel whilst you wait for the bus to come back around. The Wales Millennium Centre offers something for everyone.
10. Water Tower and Roald Dahl Plass
As you pass Roald Dahl Plass, you’re in the heart of Cardiff Bay. Named after the famous Cardiff-born author, this public plaza blends history, culture, and modern design. The plaza’s distinctive bowl shape makes it perfect for outdoor events. Once a key dock in Cardiff’s coal-exporting past, this area has been transformed into a vibrant social and cultural hub. Opened in 2000, Roald Dahl Plass features glowing pillars, waterfront dining, and striking architecture. At the far end, you’ll spot the Water Tower, a 70-foot-high metallic fountain featured in the TV show Torchwood. This spot captures the spirit of Cardiff—where heritage meets creativity in a lively public space.
11. 25 years of Cardiff Bay
You may be interested to know that this year we celebrate 25 years since the completion of the Cardiff Bay development, and the creation of Cardiff Harbour Authority. The ambitious regeneration project, that started in the 1980’s by the Cardiff Bay Development Corporation, redefined the city’s landscape with the creation of the Cardiff Bay Barrage and a 200-hectare freshwater lake. Attractions such as Mermaid Quay, Wales Millennium Centre, and the Roald Dahl Plass breathed new life into the area, and Cardiff Bay has become a top visitor destination ever since. View our Cardiff Bay page for information on attractions like y Senedd, Pierhead Building and more.
EXPLORE ON FOOT
If you haven't already, next time you board why not buy a day ticket for only £7 per person and enjoy unlimited hop-on, hop-off access to the bus? This makes it even easier to explore more attractions and activities by walking.
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