Top Things to do in City Centre
Top Restaurants in Cardiff
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6 Shopping in City Centre That You Shouldn't Miss
The Welsh capital may have begun its life as a Roman fort, but it's since become a bustling city. Where the fort once stood, Cardiff Castle has held court since the 11th century. It remains a central presence in the city, now full of lively art and music venues, hip boutiques, fun bars and modern hotels. Even with so many new and exciting things to see, the National History Museum is still the most visited attraction in Wales. Don't be the only visitor who plays hooky!
Restaurants in Cardiff
1. National Museum Cardiff
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 2,619 reviews
Witness one of Europe's finest art collections. Five hundred years of magnificent paintings, drawings, sculpture, silver and ceramics from Wales and across the world, including one of Europe's best collections of Impressionist art. The building also has galleries showing the diverse natural history of Wales, as well as a journey taking you through the Evolution of Wales (with dinosaur displays) from the very beginnings of time to the present day.
Reviewed By _vyt1947 - Cardiff, United Kingdom
Amazing,free and awesome! Very knowledgable staff.Great art collection-don't miss the Rembrandt-comprehensive Collection of French Impressionists and lots more Great natural history galleries Visit lasted hours longer than we anticipated
2. Royal Arcade
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 71 reviews
The oldest shopping mall in the city, dating back to 1856; features everything from antiques to clothes.
Reviewed By Glennlat - Ringmer, United Kingdom
All the Arcades in central Cardiff are excellent with interesting shops and merchandise. Far preferable to visit the arcades and the castle, museum, than the mega-stores on the main area which are ok, except for the gangs of beggars and winos collect there. The city needs to clean up that area from panhandlers and drunks with abusive behavior and language
3. Castle Quarter Arcade
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 73 reviews
The Castle Quarter Arcades are a historical part of Cardiff's architectural and retail heritage, spanning 131 years of public service since doors first opened in 1885. The Castle Quarter is comprised of 3 outstanding Victorian and Edwardian arcades, all located within a short distance of Cardiff Castle - Castle Arcade, High Street Arcade and Duke Street Arcade. Originally home to many specialist shops of the era - drapers, apothecaries, tailors, jewellers and fortune tellers - the Castle Quarter has grown and adapted to the needs of a modern shopping environment without losing any of it old world charm. Castle Arcade, built in two sections during 1882 and 1889, is known for its striking central junction. From here the view of the iconic Cardiff Castle is framed perfectly through the Dutch renaissance-inspired archway. This North/South section was designed by local architect EWM Corbett, and the East/West wing, slightly different in character, was designed by S Rooney. The Castle Arcade also houses its iconic balcony, splitting the retail floors over two levels, and incorporating public walkways which you are welcome to wander and explore. There are two staircases leading to the balcony, one on each wing, with wonderful opportunities to photograph the mirrorred walls at each end.
Reviewed By rogerhY5668ET - Cardiff, United Kingdom
I've lived in Cardiff for my life and I think the Victorian arcades in Cardiff city centre are amazing. We recently took American friends visiting us to the arcade. There is a great selection of shops, from book shops, to coffee shops, second hand shops to board game specialists. Look upwards and you'll see a wonderful construction of the arcade with glass windows, lighting and wooden constructions. Take a walk up narrow steps to take you onto the veranda and some further shops for your perusal.
4. St. David's Hall
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 563 reviews
Reviewed By YoohooWales - Llanelli, United Kingdom
Another visit to St David's Hall, this time to see Susan Boyle in Concert. Another enjoyable visit, mainly due to the friendly and welcoming staff and the comfortable seating, affording great views wherever we sit in the arena. The acoustics are also exceptional. Undoubtedly the best theatre in Cardiff!
5. Cardiff Central Market
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 265 reviews
Glass-walled shopping mall lined with upscale shops and restaurants.
Reviewed By Valleyschick1 - Rhondda Cynon Taf, United Kingdom
We recently visited Cardiff Market, which is a traditional Market with lots of stalls (some were closed due to the pandemic), including a jewellers, a fantastic fish mongers selling a great range of seafood, a florist, a butcher's selling quality meat, a gift shop specialising in Welsh souvenirs, a record stall and a bakery selling fresh Welsh cakes. We bought a variety of items, before having dinner up stairs in one of the cafes. We ordered hot dog and chips, followed by two cups of tea. The food was fantastic value for money and was really nice. After soaking up the atmosphere of the market we browsed the outdoor Christmas Market that was selling unique gifts at very reasonable prices. Cardiff is fabulous for shopping and has great transport links with the Valleys, Bridgend, Newport, Swansea, London, Bristol and Manchester. On Queen Street there are several shopping centers including St David's and the Capital, as well as high street favourites including Primark (enormous over 5 floors), Zara, JD Sports, Matalan, Next, Debenhams, Accessorise and Poundland. Cardiff has a great night life, with plenty of places to eat and drink on St Mary's and Caroline Street. There are also shopping arcades where you will find antique, vintage and independent retailers. I would recommend a visit to Cardiff, but you need more than a few hours to explore, especially if you visit the Castle, Museum or take a trip to Cardiff Bay or St Fagan's Museum. Cardiff is a great place for a city break and there is so so much to do, in and around Cardiff, including visiting Barry Island, Castle Coch, Caerphilly Castle, the indoor ski slope, Techniquest, Cosmeston Lakes,, Roath Park and Penarth. I can't wait to visit again soon.
6. Capitol Shopping Centre
Overall Ratings
3.5 based on 97 reviews
