Half Day Complete Cardiff Walking Tour
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Half Day Complete Cardiff Walking Tour

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(20 reviews)
4h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

This tour will give you a complete overview of the history, culture, geography & architecture of Cardiff. The capital of Wales is a young city but also a fascinating place full of greenery, castles, waterways, Victorian and Edwardian splendour, forged around a strong, growing Welsh identity.

Cardiff wouldn't exist without the influence of its Castle, while modern Cardiff wouldn't exist if not for the development of the docks. By choosing this tour you will discover how the two sections of the city compliment each other, and how they gave us the city we have today.

Available options

Half Day Complete Cardiff Walking Tour

What's included

Experienced native English speaking guide

Detailed itinerary

1
Stop 1

We start the tour at Cardiff oldest building and most prominent landmark. Discover 2,000 years of Cardiff history, from the Romans to the Bute family, before we set off on our guided walk of the city.

2
Stop 2

Cardiff is one of the greenest cities in Britain, and the centrepiece of Cardiff's greenery is the massive Bute Park, right next to Cardiff Castle. The Park features a river, stone circle, old monastery and more trees than you can imagine.

3

Cathays Park is otherwise referred to as Cardiff's Civic Centre, the finest of it's kind in the whole of the UK. The neighbourhood features some of the most noteworthy buildings, parks and monuments in all of Cardiff. We'll explore war memorials, City Hall and more on this stroll through the area.

4

Explore Cardiff iconic central market, one of the cities most popular landmarks. Both traditional and moder alike, the market is more popular and diverse than ever before, yet it's location has a darker past than one might expect....

5
Stop 5

While Cardiff Castle may be Cardiff's most notable old building, surely the Principality Stadium is its modern equivalent. Arguably the most well know structure in Wales, formerly known as the Millennium Stadium, the Principality is one of the world's most famous rugby arenas and unique in it's central location. The city of Cardiff arguably revolves around the events that's take place here, from international rugby to world class musical entertainment.

6

Cardiff has the highest concentration of Victorian and Edwardian shopping arcades, or galleries, of any city in all of the UK. Explore the city's oldest with its unique shops, distinctive architecture and fairytale charm.

7

Modern Cardiff just wouldn't exist today without its most famous suburb. Cardiff's most diverse neighbourhood grew rapidly in the nineteenth century as Cardiff became an industrial powerhouse and as people arrived to Wales from all over the world. The legacy of that survives in the buildings, people and streets of Butetown even today.

8

One of the city's most noteworthy and beautiful buildings, the Coal & Shipping Exchange was once the epicentre of the world's coal trading industry. Today it is a glamorous hotel which captures and maintains the splendour of its origins.

9

What was once the biggest coal exporting port in the world is now one of Europe's most modern and revitalised waterfronts. Remnants of the glory age of industry survive today with some of the older, iconic buildings, but Mermaid Quay also contains a plethora of dining and drinking options which overlook a gleaming waterfront since the creation of Cardiff Bay Barrage in the 1990s. We will discuss the areas development and redevelopment over the past two centuries, as well as what the future holds.

10
Stop 10

One of the more unique or unexpected buildings in Cardiff is the Norwegian Church, as well as being one of the oldest surviving structures in the Bay area. Learn more about Wales' links with Norway as we take in the views of Penarth and the Scott Memorial at this point of the waterfront.

11

Roald Dahl was born in Cardiff, much to the surprise of many. The city's most famous son, arguably, has been embraced more regularly in recent years and one sign of that is that the central plaza of the Bay area is named after the author. We will learn about the well known writer, his work, his legacy and his connections to Cardiff.

12

The iconic modern structure of Cardiff Bay is no doubt the Wales Millennium Centre. It stands as a formidable, colourful and imposing shrine to the modern city and redeveloped waterfront. The architecture and backdrop are stunning, and fits as an ideal place to round off our four hour wander from Roman times to present day.

13

The Senedd, or Welsh Parliament, is the home of Welsh politics since its development as a building in 2006. It combines the heritage of Wales with the future and stands proudly overlooking the waterfront of Cardiff Bay. We will discuss Welsh politics and what the future may hold for this small but proud nation.

14

One of the city's most glamorous and imposing buildings is City Hall, the centrepiece of the Civic Centre or Cathays Park, and a monument to the pre-War golden age of Edwardian Cardiff. Entry may be possible depending on the time, day of the week and other events taking place at the building.

15

While the Millennium Centre is Cardiff Bay's iconic modern building, the Pierhead is surely the older equivalent. One of the most distinctive and unique looking structures in the city, it stands out from the surrounding area due to its shining red brick and tall clock tower. Learn its history, origins and present as we either pass by it or go inside depending on availability.

What's not included

Bottled water
Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide
EN

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 5.0
20 reviews
5★
19
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1
3★
0
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0
1★
0

Important information

Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

Outside the front entrance of Cardiff Castle, to the left of the main doorway. Look out for the guide in green or with a green umbrella.

About Cardiff

Cardiff, the vibrant capital of Wales, is a city rich in history and culture. Known for its stunning medieval castles, lively waterfront, and thriving arts scene, it offers a unique blend of ancient and modern attractions. The city's friendly atmosphere and diverse culinary scene make it an appealing destination for travelers.

Top Attractions

Cardiff Castle

A stunning medieval castle in the heart of the city, offering guided tours and historical exhibitions.

Historical 2-3 hours £15-£25

Cardiff Bay

A vibrant waterfront area with restaurants, bars, and cultural attractions.

Entertainment Half day Free to explore

National Museum Cardiff

A museum showcasing Welsh art, geology, and natural history.

Museum 2-3 hours Free entry

Must-Try Local Dishes

Welsh Rarebit

A savory dish made with a hot cheese-based sauce served over toasted bread.

Dinner Contains gluten and dairy

Welsh Cakes

Sweet griddle cakes made with flour, butter, eggs, and currants.

Dessert Contains gluten and dairy

Popular Activities

Hiking in the nearby countryside Surfing at Bartholomew's Beach Picnicking in Bute Park Spa treatments at luxury hotels Visiting museums and galleries Attending performances at the Wales Millennium Centre Boat tours in Cardiff Bay Kayaking in the Taff River

Best Time to Visit

June to August

Summer is the peak tourist season with warm weather and numerous festivals. Expect crowded attractions and higher prices.

15-22°C 59-72°F

Practical Information

Language

  • Official: English, Welsh
  • Widely spoken: English
  • English: Widely spoken

Currency

Pound Sterling (GBP)

Time Zone

GMT (UTC+0) or BST (UTC+1) during daylight saving time

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Cardiff is generally safe, but visitors should be aware of pickpockets in crowded areas.

Important Precautions:
  • • Keep valuables secure in crowded areas.
  • • Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing apps.

Getting there

By air
  • Cardiff Airport • 14 km (9 miles) from city center
By train

Cardiff Central

By bus

Cardiff Central Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

Affordable and covers most of the city. The network includes frequent services to major attractions.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Bolt

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Cardiff Bay Cathays

Day trips

Caerphilly Castle
12 km (7.5 miles) • Half day

A well-preserved medieval castle with a moat and drawbridge.

Bartholomew's Beach
15 km (9.3 miles) • Full day

A popular beach with golden sands and clear waters.

Festivals

Cardiff International Food and Drink Festival • July Cardiff Festival of Walling • September

Pro tips

  • Visit Cardiff Castle early in the morning to avoid crowds.
  • Explore the city's vibrant street art scene in the city center.
  • Take a boat tour of Cardiff Bay for a unique perspective of the city.
  • Try local Welsh dishes at traditional pubs and markets.
  • Use the Cardiff Bus app for real-time updates and ticket purchases.
From $25 per person

Price varies by option

Booking requirements:
  • Min travelers: 1
  • Max travelers: 15
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation

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