How to Spend the Best 2 Days in Cardiff, Wales
Planning a trip to Cardiff? With just 2 days, you can dive into the rich history, vibrant culture, and culinary delights of this Welsh gem. Let's break down the ultimate itinerary for an unforgettable weekend in Cardiff.
Day 1: Exploring Cardiff's Heart
Breakfast at Cardiff Market
Start your day at Cardiff Market, a bustling Victorian market full of local produce and treats. Grab a couple hot, fresh Welsh cakes from Cardiff Bakestones to enjoy. It’s the perfect way to experience a slice of local life and fuel up for the day. This food stall is probably the most popular in the market and they offer an array of Welsh Cakes as well as other pastries. We recommend to try the original, cream with jam, white chocolate and lemon. If you’re hungry for a larger breakfast, head to Celtic Corner for a full english breakfast.
Shopping at Royal and Morgan Arcade
Next, stroll through the Royal and Morgan Arcade. These historic shopping arcades are home to a mix of boutique shops and independent retailers. There are LOADS of cute local shops and vintage clothing stores. Whether you're hunting for unique souvenirs or just window shopping, the arcades are a delight.
Coffee Break at Uncommon Ground
For a mid-morning pick-me-up, head to Uncommon Ground. Known for serving the best coffee in Cardiff, this cozy spot is perfect for a break. Cardiff boasts a fantastic coffee culture, and this café is at the heart of it. THE BEST coffee we’ve had in the UK was here at Uncommon Ground. Get your coffee to go and head to the next spot.
Explore Bute Park
Take a leisurely stroll through Bute Park, which is adjacent to Cardiff Castle. This expansive green space is perfect for a relaxing walk, with beautifully landscaped gardens and scenic views along the River Taff.
Cheese and Wine at Wally's
Located in the Royal Arcade, a visit to Wally's Delicatessen is a must. This beloved local spot offers an impressive selection of foods and drinks from across the world. Pick up some local Welsh cheeses, olives, meats and a bottle of wine for a lunch picnic at Cardiff Castle.
Picnic at Cardiff Castle
Armed with your goodies from Wally's, make your way to Cardiff Castle. This historic site offers a perfect spot for a picnic. Explore the castle grounds, take a tour, and soak in the history after enjoying your lunch.
Having a picnic at Cardiff Castle is a MUST when visiting Cardiff!
Visit the National Museum Cardiff
After your picnic, head over to the National Museum Cardiff, located within walking distance of the castle. The museum houses impressive collections of art, natural history, and geology, offering a fascinating glimpse into Welsh heritage.
Have a Pint
Stop by The City Arms if you want to visit a local pub and get a pint for under £4. The bartenders here are very welcoming and friendly. If you fancy a local craft beer or cider, right across from The City Arms is Tiny Rebel, a fun an upbeat craft beer bar serving local brews.
Dinner at The Potted Pig
As evening approaches, dine at The Potted Pig. Located in a former bank vault, this restaurant offers a unique ambiance and a menu brimming with local flavors. Try their succulent pork dishes paired with a fine wine to end your day on a high note. PRO TIP: Make a reservation because they fill up fast. This place was so good that we would travel back to Cardiff JUST to eat here. We HIGHLY recommend the potted pig appetizer.
Day 2: Castles and Cardiff Bay
Morning Trip to Caerphilly Castle
Begin your second day with a trip to Caerphilly Castle, just a short bus ride from Cardiff. This medieval fortress is the largest in Wales and second largest in the UK and offers stunning views and fascinating history. Spend your morning exploring the grounds and taking in the impressive architecture. You can easily navigate yourself to Caerphilly Castle using google maps. You will use your credit card to tap to pay when you get on the bus, and when you get off. It’s about £5.50 each way. If you plan on taking the bus more this day, you can ask the driver for a day pas for about £14.
Craft Beer at Brewmonster
Before heading back to Cardiff, stop by Brew Monster for a refreshing craft beer. This local brewery is known for its innovative brews and laid-back atmosphere. It's a great place to unwind before heading to your next destination.
Afternoon Cocktails and Snacks
Once back in Cardiff City Center, make your way to Bar Vermout. This bar specializes in vermouth and Spanish tapas. It is the perfect little afternoon treat! Their menu boasts more than 30 vermouths and an impressive and creative cocktail menu. They offer a small menu of tapas to munch on, we recommend the Pan con Tomate and the olives. Let the bartender guide you to the perfect vermouth or cocktail.
Dinner at Tiger Yard
For dinner, make your way to Tiger Yard in the Cardiff Bay area. This outdoor dining spot offers a diverse menu from different food stalls and a lively atmosphere. Here, tables are communal and you order by scanning the QR code on your table and placing your order on your phone. They have several vendors to choose from offering something for everyone. We recommend you try the Halloumi with honey and sesame and the flank steak with chimichuri sauce over garlic mashed potatoes and be sure to add crispy fried onions- this meal was INCREDIBLE. There is also a bar you can walk up to and order cocktails, beer and wine. We recommend the Barry Island Iced Tea.
Explore Cardiff Bay
After dinner, walk 5 minutes to Cardiff Bay. Take a leisurely stroll around the bay, stopping by the Norwegian Church and the iconic Millennium Centre. This is a beautiful area and a perfect end to your weekend in Cardiff!
Cardiff may be small, but it's brimming with character, culture, and charm. The city feels young and progressive- basically the vibes are good! This 2-day itinerary ensures you'll experience the best the city has to offer, from historic castles and a bustling market to cozy coffee spots and vibrant dining scenes. So pack your bags, bring your appetite, and get ready for an unforgettable weekend in Cardiff!
Where should I stay in Cardiff?
We recommend to stay near the city center or, for more peace and quiet, the student area. We stayed at a very affordable AIRBNB that we would highly recommend. The room is small but it is quiet and comfortable with an en suite bathroom. Check it out here.
Top rated hotels in Cardiff: The Leonardo Hotel Cardiff, Hotel Indigo, and Clayton Hotel Cardiff. If you hold credit cards like this one or this one, you could stay at the Hilton Cardiff or the Cardiff Marriott hotel for FREE using points.
Stay in Cardiff for FREE
If you hold credit cards like this one or this one, you could stay at the Hilton Cardiff or the Cardiff Marriott hotel for FREE using points. To learn more about using credit card points for free stays all over the world, click here.
What is the best time to visit Cardiff?
The best time to visit Cardiff is during the spring (April to June) or autumn (September to November) when the weather is mild and the city is less crowded.
How do I get around Cardiff?
Cardiff is a compact city with decent public transportation. You can easily explore the city on foot, by bus, or by using the local bike-sharing scheme.
Are there any free attractions in Cardiff?
Yes, many attractions in Cardiff are free, including the National Museum Cardiff, Bute Park, and exploring the Cardiff Bay area.
What should I pack for a trip to Cardiff?
Pack comfortable walking shoes like these, weather-appropriate clothing (including a rain jacket), pack layers, and an umbrella.
A step by step guide to planning a trip.