Cardiff Bay, also known as Tiger Bay, was once the site of the Butes’ enormous coal empire. It’s now a shiny new harbourside development full of shops, culturally and politically important buildings and tourist attractions. The Wales Millennium Centre, which hosts theatrical and musical performances year round, is worth a visit in its own right: as are the Pierhead Building, the Senned (the Welsh senate) and the immaculate Norwegian Church. There’s also a science museum and discovery centre, a huge open air plaza (the Roald Dahl Plass) and a sizeable shopping quay (the Mermaid Quay). You could spend days at Cardiff Bay and still not have discovered everything!

Great for: Day Trips

Cardiff’s signature landmark, and a reminder of the long history of the area. Cardiff Castle stands at the heart of the city on a spot that originally held a Roman Fort. The Castle is open year round, and is a wonderful example of a preserved medieval building – much of the work was done during the Victorian age, when the Bute family owned the original Roman site. You’ll see more than two millennia of history unfold during your visit, as you wander from Roman walls and Norman battlements to incredible Victorian apartments. In addition to daily visits, the Castle runs special tours and Welsh Banquets.

Great for: Day Trips

Cardiff’s Millennium Stadium was originally built in 1999 to play host to the Rugby World Cup. It’s since become an emblem not just of Wales’ most regenerated city, but of the country as a whole. The Welsh rugby team has its home here, and most of Wales’ international football home matches are played here. The Stadium hosts major concerts year round, and is the venue for some motorsports too. Stadium tours show you the behind the scenes action, including the Dragon’s Lair (the Welsh team dressing room). Plus you get to see how the pitch can be taken apart and stored on gig days.

Great for: Events