Cardiff City Breaks
Discover thousands of years of history on a city break in Cardiff. Embrace lively nightlife, exciting attractions and a vibrant restaurant scene alongside iconic landmarks and picturesque coastline.
What is Cardiff famous for?
Cardiff is known for its many landmarks, from its ancient castle to the world-famous Principality Stadium. Discover trendy restaurants and bars, with some of the best shopping in Wales along Queen Street.
You can also explore the beauty of Wales’s coastline with a trip to nearby Splott Beach or take in breathtaking sea views in Cardiff Bay.
Top attractions in Cardiff
You’ll never run out of things to do during a city break in Cardiff. The city is home to plenty of attractions, from unmissable historical sites to some of the best cultural institutions in the UK.
1. The Pierhead
Once Wales’s key point of commerce, the Pierhead has played a crucial role in the evolution of Wales. The Grade I listed building opened in 1897 and is now a great destination for all ages if you want to learn about the history of Cardiff Bay and enjoy stunning sea views.
2. National Museum Cardiff
National Museum Cardiff is Wales’s premier art, history and natural sciences museum. Discover a vast archaeology collection and natural history exhibitions featuring fossils and other artefacts found in Wales. Or, explore the impressive art collection that features work by Van Gogh, Cézanne and Botticelli, with special exhibitions dedicated to Welsh artists and art collectors.
3. Cardiff Castle
Wales is home to over 600 castles, but none are more famous than Cardiff Castle. The castle was once a Roman fort, but most of the current structure was built around the 11th century. The building also features examples of Norman and Victorian architecture to complement its longstanding history as one of the UK’s most prominent castles.
After your castle visit, spend some time in Bute Park to enjoy one of Cardiff’s prettiest green spaces, with a range of different gardens and a play area and walks designed just for children.
Questions about Cardiff city breaks
Discover the perfect mix of the old and the new with a city break in the Welsh capital.
Is Cardiff good for a weekend break?
Cardiff is an excellent option if you’re looking for a weekend getaway. Packed with history and culture and a huge selection of bars and restaurants, there’s so much to see and do during a weekend visit. Walk around the city’s key historic sites, or enjoy an endless choice of shops and restaurants in the vibrant city centre.
Is Cardiff a walkable city?
Many of the city’s key areas are pedestrianised, so it’s easy to get around on foot if you travel to the city without a car. The city centre is where you’ll find Cardiff’s most popular attractions, just a short walk from the ideally located Leonardo Hotel Cardiff.
What is the main shopping street in Cardiff?
The best street for shopping in Cardiff is Queen Street. This is where you’ll find your favourite high street brands, with even more shops and restaurants in Queens Arcade. Leonardo Hotel Cardiff is located just off Queen Street, giving you access to one of the most prominent areas in the heart of the city.