The once-gritty capital of Wales used to be known for its industry, but things
in Cardiff are changing. This sometimes-forgotten corner of the UK is well known
for it sports obsessions and male choirs also, but more and more visitors are
discovering that Cardiff is all cleaned up and ready to visit. There are castles
and ruins and churches, but great shopping and dining and nightlife these days
as well.
What To Do
Cardiff Castle is a huge collection of structures that were begun in the 12th
Century and things have been added ever since. The interior has a very unusual
and striking décor and public tours are popular and inexpensive. Llandaff
Cathedral also dates back to the early 12th Century and is one of the oldest religious
sites in all of Europe.
The modern and recently opened Wales Millennium Centre is home to the city’s
opera, theater, and dance performances. It’s open for free tours and there
are also free performances many afternoons. Cardiff Bay is a scenic and pleasant
place for a stroll or a meal with its many restaurants and pubs overlooking the
water.
Getting There
Many will arrive in Cardiff by train as part of a larger UK trip, but if you
are coming from any distance you’ll want to book
a flight into Cardiff International Airport. There are flights from all
over the UK and continental Europe as well as a few from further away. The airport
is about 12 miles outside the city center, but it’s on the rail line so
it’s easy to get into the city quickly and affordably. If you are coming
from North America you should check prices of flights
into London and consider taking the train to Cardiff.
Where To Stay
The center of Cardiff is compact and there are several hostels
there. There are plenty of hotels
in Cardiff as well, but particularly in summer the better and cheaper ones
can be booked up early so plan ahead.