Best areas to stay in Cardiff
Cardiff, the lively capital of Wales, offers a range of neighbourhoods to suit different tastes and preferences. Whether you’re interested in being close to historic landmarks, enjoying vibrant nightlife, or relaxing by the waterfront, there’s an area in Cardiff that’s perfect for you. Here’s a guide to the best areas to stay in Cardiff:
Cardiff City Centre: Close to attractions and nightlife
Stay in Cardiff City Centre to be at the heart of the action. This area is ideal for those who want to be within walking distance of major attractions such as Cardiff Castle, the Principality Stadium, and the National Museum Cardiff. The city centre is also known for its bustling nightlife, with a variety of bars, clubs, and restaurants. Choose from a wide selection of hotels in Cardiff City Centre, ranging from luxury stays to budget-friendly options, all offering easy access to the city’s top sights and activities.
Cardiff Bay: Scenic and modern
For a more scenic stay, consider Cardiff Bay, known for its stunning waterfront views and modern attractions like the Wales Millennium Centre and the Senedd (Welsh Parliament building). This area is perfect for visitors who enjoy walking along the waterfront, dining at diverse restaurants, and experiencing a mix of cultural and leisure activities. Explore a range of hotels in Cardiff Bay, from stylish boutique hotels to contemporary apartments, providing a comfortable and convenient base for your visit.
Pontcanna: Charming and quiet
Pontcanna is a charming neighbourhood just west of the city centre, known for its leafy streets, Victorian houses, and relaxed atmosphere. It’s an excellent choice for those looking for a quieter stay while still being close to the city’s main attractions. The area is home to a variety of independent shops, cafes, and parks, offering a more local feel. Check out hotels in Pontcanna for a peaceful retreat that’s still within easy reach of Cardiff’s highlights.
Riverside: Affordable and convenient
Stay in Riverside for an affordable and convenient base close to Cardiff’s city centre. This area offers a mix of budget accommodations and cosy guesthouses, making it a great option for travellers looking to explore Cardiff on a budget. Riverside is just a short walk from major attractions like Cardiff Castle and the city’s bustling shopping areas. Look for cheap hotels in Riverside to find great value without sacrificing location.
These neighbourhoods provide a variety of experiences, ensuring you find the perfect place to stay during your visit to Cardiff.
Best places to stay in Cardiff to be near the popular attractions
The city centre/St David’s Centre is the main town centre for shopping, eating and drinking, and that’s where you’ll find most of the hotels in every budget too. It’s sandwiched between Cardiff Central Station, Queen Street Station, the Principality Stadium and Cardiff Castle, so you have many of the attractions at your fingertips, including the two major museums and the university.
Alternatively, you’ll find an abundance of accommodation strung along Cathedral Road, heading towards the cricket grounds, in an area called Riverside. It’s a quieter suburb that’s definitely up-and-coming, with artisan bakeries and coffee shops popping up, as well as the cool Chapter Arts Centre. It’s delightfully close to the River Taff for walks and equally as convenient as the centre for the castle, stadium, museums and parks.
You can also stay around Atlantic Wharf and the pretty Mermaid Quay area to have sea views, seaside vibes and great access to the Senedd building, Roald Dahl Plaza and the science museum. Here, you’ll be right by Cardiff Bay Wetland Reserve and the interesting Norwegian Church Arts Centre, as well as the boarding points for most water-based activities. You can take the train right down to Cardiff Bay for easy access to this area.
Where to stay with your family in Cardiff
Families visiting Cardiff for the first time can’t go wrong in the city centre, with its museums, the castle, an abundance of places to eat and beautiful Bute Park for walks.
Those seeking the science centre and an almost-European vibe in the evenings for dinners out should head down to the Cardiff Bay/wharf area. It’s perfect for mixing culture with exciting excursions on the water – you can even take a trip to the nature reserve Flat Holm Island. The Cardiff Bay Trail Walk is popular for walking or cycling and has a children’s play area, and you can get all the way to quaint Penarth.
Where to find cheap hotels in Cardiff
You can find cheap Cardiff hotels in almost every area of town. In the Cardiff Bay area, you’ll find all the classic chain hotels you know and love, like the Holiday Inn Express and the Ibis Budget Cardiff Centre.
In the city centre, the Premier Inn on Queen Street is perfect for all the main shopping and attractions, as well as easy access from the station, and is usually less than £80/night.
The easyHotel in the centre, behind the station, is the ultimate budget option, with basic rooms often less than £50/night.
For an independent look and feel, with a dash of luxury but still on a budget, make a beeline for No.73 by Coffi in Pontcanna/Riverside. Rooms in the quirky BnB are usually under £90/night, and the interior is thoughtfully decorated, with period features meeting modern comforts.
Where to stay as a solo traveller
Solo travellers should choose their Cardiff base to be an easy walk from whichever is their favourite attraction. Cardiff Bay has seaside vibes and plenty of opportunities for walking, cycling and running.
Joylon’s Boutique Hotel, right next to Roald Dahl Plass, is a quirky and colourful dream in a former townhouse. Each room is uniquely decorated, with grand furnishings and spacious bathrooms, and the whole space is very secluded.
The city centre has an in-town feel with its shopping centres, bars, and museums, and it is handy if you want to take the train or drive into the countryside towards Caerphilly and Bannau Brycheiniog/The Brecon Beacons. For a cool, alternative atmosphere and cheaper accommodation, head towards Cathedral Road and Riverside.
