If you have 7 days to spend in Cardiff, here are some suggestions for things to see and places to stay:
Day 1: Start your trip by exploring Cardiff Castle, a medieval fortress that's over 2000 years old. Take a guided tour or explore it on your own. It will take around 2-3 hours to visit. After that, head to Bute Park, which is just behind the castle. It's a beautiful park, perfect for a picnic or a leisurely stroll. You can easily spend an hour or two here.
Day 2: Visit the National Museum of Cardiff, which houses a vast collection of art, natural history, and archaeology. It will take around 2-3 hours to visit. After that, take a walk around the beautiful Cathays Park, which is home to many iconic civic buildings such as Cardiff City Hall, Cardiff University, and the National Museum. Allow an hour or two for this.
Day 3: Spend a day at Cardiff Bay, where you can enjoy a range of activities such as boat rides, water sports, and a visit to the Doctor Who Experience. It will take around half a day. Alternatively, you can visit St. Fagans National Museum of History, an open-air museum that showcases Welsh life through the ages. It will take around half a day to visit.
Day 4: Take a day trip to the stunning Brecon Beacons National Park, which is just an hour's drive from Cardiff. You can hike, cycle, or simply enjoy the spectacular scenery. This will take a full day, so plan accordingly.
Day 5: Explore Llandaff, a quaint suburb of Cardiff that's known for its beautiful cathedral, picturesque high street, and charming coffee shops. Allow 2-3 hours for this.
Day 6: Visit one of the many nearby beaches, such as Barry Island or Penarth. You can spend a day here, soaking up the sun and enjoying the sea. Alternatively, visit the Cardiff Bay Wetlands Reserve, a wildlife sanctuary perfect for bird watching and nature walks. Allow half a day for either of these options.
Day 7: On your last day, take a shopping trip to the bustling Cardiff Market, where you can find a range of local produce and artisan crafts. After that, head to one of the many pubs or restaurants in the city center for a final meal before heading home.
Places to stay: There are plenty of hotels, hostels, and Airbnb options in Cardiff depending on your budget and preference. Some options include the luxury Hilton Cardiff, the central Nomad Backpacker Hostel, and the cozy Riverside B&B.