One of the UK’s capital cities, Cardiff offers a variety of activities that provide visitors with a glimpse into the Welsh way of life. With stunning scenery, historic sites, and cultural highlights all across this city, there is something for everyone when visiting Cardiff.
Train tickets to Cardiff
Getting trains to Cardiff is easy, especially when travelling with CrossCountry. Cardiff Central station is easily accessible from a number of train stations across the UK serviced by CrossCountry.
As the name suggests, it is located perfectly in the centre of Cardiff, meaning it is the ideal starting point for your time exploring what Cardiff has to offer. Remember to add your railcard and to book your tickets in advance to get the best savings for your journey to Cardiff with CrossCountry.
Popular routes to Cardiff
Cardiff has so much more to offer than just being the capital of Wales, and as a result we provide many routes to Cardiff from all over the UK. Below are some of our most popular ones.
FAQs
There are two train stations in Cardiff city centre:
Both of Cardiff’s stations are located in the city centre and are a short walk from various attractions and amenities . Cardiff Central sits at the south end of the city, closer to the River Taff, whilst Queen Street is in close proximity to The Capitol Shopping Centre.
Cardiff Airport is around 17-miles from the city centre, and can be reached via public transport. A train from Cardiff Central goes directly to Rhoose Cardiff International Airport, and from there you can grab a bus straight to the terminal (or walk if you’d like to get your steps in!). There are also direct bus routes from Cardiff to the airport, as well as the option of private taxi or black cab.
There are ways to get cheap tickets to Cardiff, you just need to know how. Being flexible and travelling during off-peak times can help avoid heavier fees, and if you do the same journey to Cardiff regularly, a season ticket could be an option. Check out our cheap tickets page to see more ways to save on travel with CrossCountry.
For further information about stations in Cardiff, check out our station guide.
Experience Cardiff
Places to eat in Cardiff
There are a wide range of places to eat in Cardiff, all of which provide a perfect accompaniment for your time out in the city. Whether you have a craving for some of the best pizza outside of Italy, or you’re looking to satisfy your sweet tooth on a summer’s day with some ice cream, Cardiff has everything you’re looking for.
For pizza that will leave you wanting just one more slice, Ciliegino offers customers authentic Italian pizza in the heart of Wales. Originally with five branches in Italy, Ciliegino decided to settle in the UK, opening their first British location in 2017, a delightfully family-friendly restaurant in Cardiff. Offering locals and visitors a taste of Naples with their pizza and pasta dishes, you can be transported to the south of Italy while being in the centre of Cardiff.
For a sweet treat during your stay, Cadwaladers on Mermaid Quay offers up some of the best ice cream around. This staple on the quay has been offering traditional Welsh ice cream since 1927 and remains as popular as ever. With an ever-changing menu full of classic flavours and daring concoctions, Cadwaladers is a must-try when visiting Cardiff.
Places to stay in Cardiff
When staying in Cardiff overnight, there are delightful hotel options for spending a night or two in the Welsh capital.
An unbeatable hotel for location and comfort is the Hilton hotel in the centre of Cardiff, just a fifteen-minute walk from Cardiff Central station. A trusted chain with hotels all over the world, Hilton knows how to provide a quality service to make their guests feel right at home when visiting a new city. With a gym and an indoor pool, and your choice of over two hundred rooms, the Hilton provides a wonderful option for your Cardiff accommodation.
If you’re looking for more of an independent option, there are a number of self-catered apartments available across Cardiff, with The Spires offering a comfortable and stress-free stay in the centre of Cardiff. Relax in your own apartment and have the freedom to cook and eat at your leisure on the rare occasion you’re not exploring what the city has to offer. With a larger space and a feeling of “home away from home”, this is perfect for travellers with young children.
Please note: CrossCountry is unable to support with any hotel related queries or booking requests. For further information, please contact the hotels mentioned directly.
Heritage & culture in Cardiff
Cardiff boasts a rich history which is evident as soon as you step off the train. A seamless combination of old and new, there are plenty of cultural hotspots within the centre of Wales.
The National Museum Cardiff is the perfect spot to start your journey of learning about the history of Cardiff and wider Wales. This historic site just over ten minutes away from Cardiff Central station welcomes visitors with plenty of historical exhibitions that highlight key moments throughout Welsh history such as the Miners’ strike of the late 20th Century, as well as an extensive art gallery that includes centuries of eye-catching pieces.
For further insights into Welsh theatre and performing arts, the Wales Millennium Centre provides visitors with jaw-dropping theatre that gives a glimpse into the culture in Cardiff. Opened in 2004, this site has hosted many different events, from live musicals to live orchestral performances. Located in Cardiff Bay, the area adds to the venue’s rich atmosphere. Before you travel, make sure to check what will be onstage during your stay and book the best seats in the house.
Shopping in Cardiff
Shopping is another popular activity in Cardiff, and with the number of quality stores all across the city, you can understand why.
St Davids Dewi Sant has everything a shopaholic could wish for and more. With popular brands across the lifestyle and fashion world all under one roof, you’ll be sure to find exactly what you’re looking for whilst also stumbling across some items that are too tempting to ignore. Beyond shopping at St Davids Dewi Sant, there are also plenty of activities such as mini golf, going to the on-site cinema and getting your sugar fix from a number of famous cafes and restaurants.
Cardiff is also home to quaint boutiques, perfect for an afternoon wander. Located near the castle in the centre of the city, Castle Quarter Arcades is an old-fashioned shopping arcade featuring everything from cafes and wine bars to salons and bakeries.
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