Cardiff in 2 Days: Your Ultimate Itinerary

Discover the heart of Wales in Cardiff.

03 May 2023

As a tourist, exploring Cardiff is an exciting experience filled with wonder. One can visit the iconic historical buildings such as the well-known Cardiff Castle and St. Fagans National Museum of History, or take a leisurely walk through Bute Park. If you love sports, the Principality Stadium is where you can catch a rugby match, while the Cardiff Bay offers great shopping and dining options.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Discovering Cardiff's Charm

  • Hotel: Check into the luxurious and historic St. David's Hotel & Spa 4.3 with stunning views of Cardiff Bay 4.6 .
  • Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Pettigrew Tea Rooms 4.5 , known for its Victorian charm and homemade scones.
  • Take a stroll through the enchanting Bute Park 4.7 , home to Cardiff Castle 4.5 and picturesque gardens.
  • Explore the city's shopping scene at St. David's shopping center 4.5 , where you'll find a mix of high street stores and independent shops.
  • Grab lunch at The Grazing Shed 4.4 for award-winning burgers made with locally sourced Welsh beef.
  • In the evening, catch a show at the iconic Wales Millennium Centre 4.7 , featuring a variety of performances from music to theater.
Day 2

Immersing in Welsh Culture

  • Begin your day at Cardiff Market 4.5 , a Victorian market filled with local vendors selling fresh produce and unique gifts.
  • Visit the National Museum Cardiff 4.6 , housing over 7 million objects including works by Monet and Van Gogh.
  • Have lunch at Caffi Iechyd Da 4.7 , a cozy café that serves up traditional Welsh dishes like cawl and Welsh cakes.
  • Head to the Cardiff Bay 4.6 area and take a boat tour to explore the lively waterfront and learn about the city's maritime history.
  • End your day with a drink at the quirky Madame Fromage cheese shop 4.7 , known for its extensive cheese selection and Welsh beer offerings.
  • With its rich history, vibrant culture, and beautiful surroundings, Cardiff is a must-visit destination that will leave you enchanted and yearning for more.

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Cardiff by plane is to fly into Cardiff Airport, which is located about 12 miles southwest of the city center. Several airlines, including British Airways, Ryanair, and KLM, operate regular flights to Cardiff from destinations across the UK and Europe.

Car

Cardiff is easily accessible by car, and there are several major routes that connect the city to other parts of the UK, including the M4 and the A470. Driving to Cardiff from London takes around 3 hours, while Manchester is around 4 hours away.

Train

Cardiff has excellent rail links with other major cities in the UK, including London, Bristol, and Birmingham. The main station in the city is Cardiff Central, which is located in the heart of the city and is served by several train companies, including Great Western Railway and Arriva Trains Wales.

Boat

Cardiff is one of the UK's busiest port cities, and there are several ferry services that operate from the port to destinations across the UK and Europe. The main ferry terminal in Cardiff is located at the port, which is located about 2 miles south of the city center.

Bus

National Express operates regular coach services to Cardiff from cities across the UK, including London, Manchester, and Birmingham. The main bus station in the city is Cardiff Central Bus Station, which is located in the city center and is served by several local bus operators.

More travel plans

A Magical 2-Day Family Adventure in Cardiff

Experience the perfect family getaway by visiting Cardiff, United Kingdom. Explore the fascinating Cardiff Castle, where kids can embark on treasure hunts and enjoy interactive exhibits. Enjoy the stunning landscapes of Bute Park, go on a boat trip around Cardiff Bay, or explore the fascinating National Museum where children can immerse themselves in history and culture.

Cardiff Adventure: 5 Days of History, Culture, and Fun!

A family friendly trip to Cardiff, United Kingdom offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and adventure for all ages. Begin by exploring the awe-inspiring Cardiff Castle with its fairy-tale towers and secret tunnels, followed by a visit to the National Museum Cardiff, where art and natural history exhibits await. End the day with a memorable stroll along Cardiff Bay, feasting on delicious local cuisine and taking in beautiful views of the waterfront.

Romantic Cardiff Getaway: 2 Day Itinerary

A romantic trip to Cardiff, United Kingdom is a perfect way to explore the romantic side of Wales. From visiting the historic Cardiff Castle to strolling through picturesque gardens, Cardiff offers a perfect blend of history and scenic beauty. Whether you are looking for a tranquil retreat or an adventure-filled weekend, a trip to Cardiff promises to create unforgettable romantic memories.

Budget-Friendly Adventure: 4 Days in Cardiff, UK

A trip to Cardiff, United Kingdom on a limited budget can be an exciting adventure. Visitors can explore many free or low-cost attractions, including Cardiff Castle and the National Museum. For accommodations, budget-friendly hostels and Airbnb rentals are readily available in the city center.