excursion cardiff

Top Tours in Cardiff, Wales

Cardiff tours.

• Historical & Heritage Tours
• Cultural Tours
• Multi-day Tours
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Chinese (Traditional)
• Chinese (Simplified)
• Likely to Sell Out
• Special Offers
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. The Wandering Bard's Tour of South Wales

2. The Wandering Bard's Mythical West Wales Tour

3. Guided Hike Of The Six Brecon Beacons Waterfalls From Cardiff

4. Cardiff Like a Local: Customized Private Tour

5. 5-Day Discover Wales Small-Group Tour from London

6. Cardiff Day Tour from London

7. Enjoy Beaches, Dylan Thomas Home, Castles And Tenby From Cardiff

8. Doctor Who Cardiff Walking Tour

9. The Gower Tour With Mumbles Three Cliffs Worms Head From Cardiff

10. One Amphitheatre, Tintern Abbey And Three Castles From Cardiff

11. Valleys Heritage And Brecon Beacons Landscapes From Cardiff

12. Private Day Tour to Cardiff By Train

13. The Ghosts of Llandaff: A Self-Guided Audio Tour

14. Small Group Walking Tour Cardiff City

15. Cardiff City Tour

16. Cardiff All in One Walking Tour

17. Private Day Tour of South Wales, including Cardiff & Caerphilly Castle.

18. Sightseeing Tour Cardiff Bay and Vale of Glamorgan Full-Day Driver Guided

19. Cardiff Bay Private Self-Guided Tour

20. Welsh Food Tour in Cardiff

21. 2.5 hour Walking and Tasting Tour in Cardiff

22. Cardiff Bay Boat Tour

23. Personally guided walking tours of Penarth.

24. Guided Cycle Tours of Cardiff

25. Cardiff’s Bay and Waterfront: A Self-Guided Audio Tour

26. Cardiff City Private Guided Walking Tour

27. Wye Valley and Tintern Abbey Escape from Cardiff - Private Tour

28. Complete Cardiff Doctor Who Walking Tour

29. Cardiff by yourself with private driver - 4 or 8 hrs disposal by car or van

30. Private Day Tour of Cardiff, including Cardiff Castle, St Fagans, & Cardiff Bay

What travellers are saying.

• The Wandering Bard's Tour of South Wales
• The Wandering Bard's Mythical West Wales Tour
• Doctor Who Cardiff Walking Tour
• The Ghosts of Llandaff: A Self-Guided Audio Tour
• Cardiff Day Tour from London
• Go Quest Adventures - Self Guided City Walk & Immersive Treasure Hunt
• Highway Adventures
• Escape Tours - Cardiff
• Fogo's Free Cardiff Walking Tours
• Tours of Wales
• Outdoor Explore Wales
• Big Blue Adventures
• Cardiff International White Water
• Aqua Park Cardiff
• Cardifferent Historic Pub Tour
• Discovery Wales Tours
• Cardiff Food Tours
• Blue Ocean Activities
• Wild Trails Wales
• Bay Island Voyages

THE 10 BEST Cardiff Tours & Excursions

Tours in cardiff.

• Historical & Heritage Tours
• Cultural Tours
• Multi-day Tours
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Chinese (Traditional)
• Chinese (Simplified)
• Likely to Sell Out
• Special Offers
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. The Wandering Bard's Tour of South Wales

2. The Wandering Bard's Mythical West Wales Tour

3. Guided Hike Of The Six Brecon Beacons Waterfalls From Cardiff

4. Cardiff Like a Local: Customized Private Tour

5. 5-Day Discover Wales Small-Group Tour from London

6. Cardiff Day Tour from London

7. Enjoy Beaches, Dylan Thomas Home, Castles And Tenby From Cardiff

8. Doctor Who Cardiff Walking Tour

9. One Amphitheatre, Tintern Abbey And Three Castles From Cardiff

10. Valleys Heritage And Brecon Beacons Landscapes From Cardiff

11. Cardiff Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour

12. Private Day Tour to Cardiff By Train

13. The Ghosts of Llandaff: A Self-Guided Audio Tour

14. Small Group Walking Tour Cardiff City

15. Cardiff City Tour

16. Cardiff All in One Walking Tour

17. Private Day Tour of South Wales, including Cardiff & Caerphilly Castle.

18. Sightseeing Tour Cardiff Bay and Vale of Glamorgan Full-Day Driver Guided

19. Cardiff Bay Private Self-Guided Tour

20. Welsh Food Tour in Cardiff

21. 2.5 hour Walking and Tasting Tour in Cardiff

22. Cardiff Bay Boat Tour

23. Personally guided walking tours of Penarth.

24. Cardiff’s Bay and Waterfront: A Self-Guided Audio Tour

25. Cardiff City Private Guided Walking Tour

26. Wye Valley and Tintern Abbey Escape from Cardiff - Private Tour

27. Complete Cardiff Doctor Who Walking Tour

28. Cardiff by yourself with private driver - 4 or 8 hrs disposal by car or van

29. Private Day Tour of Cardiff, including Cardiff Castle, St Fagans, & Cardiff Bay

30. Private Sunset Hike - The Brecon Beacons Pen y Fan From Cardiff

What travellers are saying.

• The Wandering Bard's Tour of South Wales
• The Wandering Bard's Mythical West Wales Tour
• Doctor Who Cardiff Walking Tour
• The Ghosts of Llandaff: A Self-Guided Audio Tour
• Cardiff Day Tour from London
• Go Quest Adventures - Self Guided City Walk & Immersive Treasure Hunt
• Highway Adventures
• Escape Tours - Cardiff
• Fogo's Free Cardiff Walking Tours
• Tours of Wales
• Outdoor Explore Wales
• Big Blue Adventures
• Cardiff International White Water
• Aqua Park Cardiff
• Cardifferent Historic Pub Tour
• Discovery Wales Tours
• Cardiff Food Tours
• Blue Ocean Activities
• Wild Trails Wales
• Bay Island Voyages

What are you looking for?

CARDIFF BOAT TOURS

All aboard for Cardiff Boat Tours! Explore Cardiff in a new and exciting way, with a ride on the 90 seater water bus, Princess Katherine.

Opening hours.

10:00-17:00

(Weather dependent.)

Local family business Cardiff Boat Tours Ltd operates Princess Katharine , a water taxi licensed to carry up to 90 passengers. Princess Katharine offers the perfect opportunity for visitors to experience the history and sights of the City and Bay whilst travelling between the two.

We have a recorded commentary, which gives fascinating information about the history of the area, buildings along the route, the barrage and the wildlife on the Bay and river. Going by boat is an exciting experience for all ages and a great opportunity to get a different perspective and lots of photos, from the water.

The crew, always two experienced Boat Masters, are passionate about the boat and have extensive knowledge of the area. The boat is warm in winter and cool in summer, with a toilet on board for passenger comfort.

Princess Katharine has earned Cardiff Boat Tours a Trip Advisor Certificate of Excellence for 2016 and is currently rated 23 of 148 things to do in Cardiff by them. Board at Cardiff Bay or in the beautiful Bute Park, in the heart of the city and at the end of a great day of exploring, relax for your cruise back.

The Bay boasts a wonderful range of waterside experiences so let Cardiff Boat take you on a trip to remember; soak in the atmosphere and view the beautiful scenery. If you are unfamiliar with the area just give us a call and we’ll be happy to give you plenty of advice about the best places to go and great things to do.

Have a special event, party or wedding in the Bay? Dedicated to providing passengers with the best river experience possible whether they are first time visitors to Cardiff or daily commuters, Cardiff Boat Tours provides a family friendly and inviting environment for all passengers. Please be aware that the service may be affected by extreme weather conditions.

DEPARTURE TIMES:

Later times can be pre-booked in advance, contact to enquire for prices.

All times may be subject to weather conditions and Bute Park closing hours.

074 4544 0874

[email protected]

Mermaid Quay, Cardiff Bay, Cardiff, CF10 5BZ

Fogo's Free Tours 

Cardiff   Walking Tours

Cardiff Free Walking Tour

Cardiff dark side tour, cardiff bay & swansea tours.

Cardiff's only free walking tour currently takes place every Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday & Sunday at 11am. Please reserve your place in advance, thank you. All welcome.

The next Cardiff Dark Side  free tour will likely take place in summertime. Private tours are available all year round so if you would like to organise a tour please get in touch.   

The next cardiff bay free tour will take place during the summer..

Swansea tours are now only available on a private basis. Please get in touch in order to organise a tour.

City of Arcades Tour

Discover, explore and browse Cardiff's iconic Victorian shopping Arcades, as well as Cardiff Market, on this new t our for 2023, created in collaboration with FOR Cardiff .  The next tour will take place over Easter 2024.

Doctor Who Cardiff Tour

Private tours.

Doctor Who tours only run on a private basis. If you want more information, or to book a walking tour of Doctor Who filming locations in Cardiff, please just get in touch.

If you're a family, household, private group or even an individual looking for a tour guide or bespoke tour in Cardiff or Swansea, p lease feel free to get in touch to arrange a booking.

The Original Cardiff Free Walking Tour

The cardiff city free walking tour starts from  the john batchelor statue on the hayes in central cardiff  (opposite the tk maxx store - cf10 1td).   the cardiff free walking tour takes place every tuesday, thursday, saturday & sunday at 11am. the schedule will change slightly during may, with tours mostly taking place on wednesday, saturday & sunday, as well as holiday mondays (6 & 27 may).   advanced booking is preferred. please b e aware that some tours may be full, or may not go ahead unless there is a min imum number of people booked in advance. in these rare instanc es you will be contacted the day before, thank you.   all welcome.

Look out for the green shirt and/or green umbrella

The Cardiff Bay

Free walking tour, cardiff bay free walking tours start   from outside the wales millennium centre in cardiff bay   (under the letters, opposite the water tower) the cardiff bay free walking tours takes place sporadically across the year. the next tour will likely take place during summer 2024. private tours are available all year round, please  just get in  touch to organise a tour. thanks., the swansea free walking tour, swansea walking tours start   from castle square, next to th e le af boat sculpture opposite swa nsea castle. at the moment the swansea tour is only available as a private tour. some public tours may take place in august. if you are interested in a privat e swa nsea to ur please just get in touch to arrange a booking., the cardiff dark side.

The Cardiff Dark Side Walking Tour starts   from the statue of John Batchelor on The Hayes in central Cardiff. (The same location as the Cardiff city tour)

Private Dark Side tours are available all year round, at a date and time convenient to you.

Following Easter, the next public Cardiff Dark Side free walking tour will likely take place during the late summer.

The Cardiff City of Arcades

The cardiff city of arcades free walking tour starts from the john batchelor statue on the hayes in central  cardiff, opposite the tk maxx store. the next  city of arcades tour will likely take place in july 2024 at a yet undecided date . private versions of this tour, and all of the other tours, are available on request all year round. thank you..

All tour information  accurate as of autumn/winter 2023/24.

Despite being Irish, since moving to Wales I have developed a love and fascination for the underappreciated cities of Cardiff & Swansea, as well as the country as a whole.

As a historian, journalist, traveller and long-term tourism professional across multiple cities, i have developed a passion for history, travel and culture. so, becoming a walking tour guide in cardiff & swansea gave me an opportunity to share information about my adopted home to inquisitive visitors from around the world, and it is a perfect way to embrace these skills and interests., as of early 2024 almost 1,200 tours have taken place across south wales to tens of thousands of people from every corner of the world. whether it is with me, or my trusted, talented and experienced colleagues that have joined me across the last six years, you will be in good hands during your time with us..

WHAT PEOPLE SAY ABOUT US

Roman, ukraine, august 2022.

I have visited more than 20 such free walking tours, I'm fond of them. And I think Eugene makes tours spectacular and memorable. It's the perfect local point of view on history, traditions, present and future, and habits of welsh people.

Tripadvisor

Yuthika, South Africa, Feb 2023

Eugene was an excellent tour guide. He is very knowledgeable and managed to keep a large group of people engaged for over 2 hours with stories and facts about Cardiff. We learned so much and had a fantastic time. The route that he chose was also pram friendly, which we really appreciated! Would definitely recommend.

Emilie, Cardiff, June 2022

Our tour of Cardiff by Eugene was fantastic! I’ve lived in Cardiff for three years and I learned more during the tour than I have in my time living here. Eugene is very personable and made our tour very fun as he adapted it to the audience’s nationalities. 10/10 highly recommend!

The Fog Blog

Cardiff guide, swansea guide.

Read blog posts on different historical elements, events and characters of Welsh life, such as about Welsh food and where to find it in the Welsh capital.

If you're visiting the Cardiff area and not sure what to do with your time here, the Cardiff Guide can point you in the right directions for attractions, food, scenery and more.

If you're visiting Swansea and the Gower Peninsula and not sure what to do in the area, this guide provides advice for attractions, museums, food, beaches and more.

Have some questions regarding Fogo's Free Tours, the concept or the tours themselves, you can find all the answers amongst the FAQs, otherwise please get in touch.

Accreditations & Awards

RECOMMENDED Cardiff Tours in 2024

Welcome to Cardiff, the capital city of Wales and a bustling hub of culture, history, and adventure. For many travelers, Cardiff may not be the first destination that comes to mind when planning a trip to the United Kingdom. However, we urge you not to overlook this vibrant city that captured our hearts on our first visit. And one of the best ways to get acquainted with the Welsh capital is through Cardiff tours.

Cardiff was the first city we ever explored during our travels in the UK, leaving a lasting impression on us. From its stunning architecture to its warm hospitality, there was so much to love about this charming city. One of the best ways to truly experience all that Cardiff offers is through its many tours.

In this article, we’ll share our top picks for the best tours in Cardiff, Wales. Whether you’re looking to delve into the city’s rich history, taste its famous Welsh cuisine, or take in the stunning views of the Welsh countryside, there’s a tour for everyone in this captivating city. So, let’s prepare to embark on an unforgettable journey through the best tours in Cardiff!

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Table of Contents

The best cardiff tours, the wandering bard tour of south wales – immersive experience, private day tour of south wales with cardiff & caerphilly castles, the mythical west wales tour – a magical day adventure, cardiff city private guided walking tour, cardiff bay boat tour, cardiff city walking tour with local guide.

• Cool Things about Cardiff Wales 

When is the Best Time to Visit Cardiff?

Find a place to stay in cardiff, what else can you experience in cardiff, pin it for later, fuel your wanderlust with weekly travel updates – it’s 100% free, introduction to cardiff wales.

Cardiff, the capital of Wales, is a vibrant and multicultural city in the United Kingdom. With a rich history from Roman times, Cardiff has evolved into a modern and cosmopolitan metropolis while retaining its traditional charm. Known for its friendly locals, stunning architecture, and thriving arts scene, Cardiff is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the best of Welsh culture.

Located on the south coast of Wales, this is the youngest capital city in Europe.  You’ll find many activities to experience and places to visit.  Tourists can easily spend several days here and not run out of exciting things to do.

The South Wales City Center of Cardiff can keep you occupied for days.  It’s easy to board a train from Cardiff and venture to nearby cities and towns for day trips.

Often overlooked next to other popular destinations in the United Kingdom, the Welsh capital of Cardiff is truly a gem.  A great way to get introduced to the city is via a Cardiff Wales Tour from its city centre.

Top Tours in Cardiff Wales

If you want to experience Cardiff’s cultural heritage and top tourist attractions, various city tours are available to acclimate you to the city. In this post, we’ll look at tours from Cardiff that include bus, boat, and walking modes of sightseeing.

Here are the highest-rated tours in Cardiff.  All the tours recommended in this post are rated 4.5 to 5 stars on Viator.

The Wandering Bard Tour of South Wales This tour is rated 5 Stars on Viator with 214 reviews!  Tour length – 8-9 Hours  

Explore the wonders of South Wales like never before with The Wandering Bard Tour . Led by a passionate historian and native Welsh speaker, this small-group tour offers an immersive experience into the heart of Welsh culture. From neolithic sites to Roman ruins, Norman castles, and picturesque valleys, you’ll delve deep into the rich history and captivating landscapes that have inspired Welsh culture for centuries. With hassle-free pickup and drop-off from your hotel, snacks, bottled water, and light refreshments included, embark on a journey of discovery that will leave you with a profound understanding of this beautiful region. Join us on The Wandering Bard Tour and let our expert guide unveil the true essence of South Wales.

What is included with this tour?

√  Hotel pickup and drop-off √  Driver/guide √  Professional guide √  Local guide √  Tour escort/host

Here’s what one past guest said about this tour: “It was a great day in South Wales: the four places visited were beautiful and full of history (our guide explained us the history of Wales along the road and gave us enough time to visit the sites)” (Arturo_M – A Viator Reviewer)

Private Day Tour of South Wales, including Cardiff & Caerphilly Castle This tour is rated 5 Stars on Viator with 7 reviews!  Tour length – 9 Hours

Likely to Sell Out

Embark on a remarkable adventure through the wonders of south Wales on a private day tour that takes care of all the planning and navigation for you. Explore top attractions, including the captivating Cardiff and the majestic Caerphilly Castle, where you’ll immerse yourself in the rich local culture and history. With your private guide, you’ll receive undivided attention and discover more sights in less time, all while traveling in absolute comfort. Experience the freedom to explore Cardiff Central Market, Caerphilly Castle, and National Museum Cardiff at your own pace, all while taking in the breathtaking scenery of South Wales. With convenient hotel pickup and drop-off, there’s no need to find a meeting point. Join this private day tour and let yourself be swept away by the beauty and wonders of South Wales.

√  Entry To Cardiff Castle √  Entry To Castell Coch √  Entry to Caerphilly Castle

Here’s what one past guest said about this tour: “Dewi was awesome. He told me a lot of history and tidbits. He made sure I did what was important to me. I really appreciate him.” (Debra_W – A Viator Reviewer)

The Mythical West Wales Tour This tour is rated 5 Stars on Viator with 88 reviews!  Tour length – 9 Hours

Embark on an exciting sightseeing tour from Cardiff to explore the enchanting mythology and magic of West Wales. Travel through breathtaking Welsh countryside, taking in the picturesque scenery. Visit traditional old towns and charming villages where time seems to stand still. Immerse yourself in Welsh folklore as you discover fascinating sites such as Kidwelly Castle and the Dylan Thomas boathouse. Your knowledgeable guide will share insights into local traditions and legends, making this tour a captivating cultural experience. Don’t worry about transportation, as hassle-free round-trip transport from your Cardiff hotel is included. Discover the best of beautiful west Wales in just one day!

Here’s what one past guest said about this tour: “Great adventure! Just enough to do for the day without feeling overwhelmed or rushed. Totally recommend!” (Edwin_L – A Viator Reviewer)

Cardiff City Private Guided Walking Tour This tour is rated 5 Stars on Viator with 57 reviews!  Tour length – 2 Hours

Embark on a fascinating journey through Cardiff’s history and present with the Cardiff City Private Guided Walking Tour. This engaging two-hour adventure promises an informative exploration of the central city, where you’ll uncover captivating stories ranging from Tudor history to Welsh rugby. Forget about struggling to keep up with a group or straining to hear the guide – this tour is exclusively for you. Marvel at iconic landmarks like Cardiff Castle , Bute Park, and the Principality Stadium as you soak up the vibrant atmosphere of the Welsh capital. Perfect for history enthusiasts and first-time visitors alike, this personalized tour offers an immersive experience that showcases the best of Cardiff. Lace up your walking shoes and prepare to make lasting memories on this must-do tour designed for mobile travelers.

Here’s what one past guest said about this tour: “Eugene was very knowledgeable and took time to answer our questions in detail. We learned a lot about the history surrounding Wales as a country and Cardiff as a city.” (Don_H – A Viator Reviewer)

Cardiff Bay Boat Tour This tour is rated 4 Stars on Viator with 218 reviews! Tour length – 1 hour

Take in panoramic views of the city as you ride on a boat in beautiful Cardiff Bay.

You have an option of starting your tour at Penarth Barrage or in Cardiff Bay. An audio narration will inform you about the city’s history.

You’ll see views and attractions that differ from tour experiences offered only on land.  See the Old Docks, the Barrage and its lock gates, the Welsh Assembly, and the Wetlands Nature Reserve.

What Is included with this tour?

√  Recorded commentary  √ 1-hour sightseeing boat tour √  Option to hop off and browse the shops of Mermaid Quay – Cardiff’s bustling shopping district

Here’s what one past guest said about this tour:

“It was a lovely experience. Would definitely recommend. There was ample space on board and the boat tour even had an audio guide of the history behind the various historical sites we passed. If you are in Cardiff this is a great way to spend the afternoon!! Lovely staff as well!” (Travel Queen – A TripAdvisor reviewer)

Cardiff City Walking Tour with a Local Professional Guide This tour is rated 5 Stars on Viator with 16 reviews! Tour length – 2 hours

This small group walking tour caps participants to a maximum of seven.  That helps guests keep on the tour at a relaxed pace.

Tourists who book this tour will see the highlights as well as hidden gems of Cardiff.  You’ll explore off-the-beaten-path areas and learn about culture and history that is often overlooked in travel guidebooks.

√  Coffee and/or Tea √  Choose a morning or afternoon start time √  Explore areas inaccessible by car

“I found the tour was really excellent and Lucy was superb as our guide. She had all the information at her fingertips and delivered it with a light touch and plenty of humour. I thoroughly enjoyed the whole experience and I would recommend this tour to anyone who wants to learn more about such a wonderful city.” (Victoria – A TripAdvisor reviewer)

Cool Things about Cardiff Wales

While located within the United Kingdom, Wales is a separate country.  

The Welsh people have their unique language, culture, and history.  

Less than 5% of the entire United Kingdom’s population lives in Wales.

It’s easy to get around both within the city center and nearby towns – even if you don’t have a car.  We ventured to places by train and bus and found transportation easy, flexible, and accessible.

The best time to visit Cardiff is generally June through September.

The summer months have temperatures that average a modest 66℉.  Such temperatures make tourist activities generally pleasant during summer.  You’ll get the most sun in July.  If you come in November, pack an umbrella as that is the rainiest month.

Explore our articles highlighting our personal adventures and explorations in the Welsh capital of Cardiff:

St. Fagans National Museum of History

Books to Plan Your Trip to Cardiff

More Articles About Cardiff

Cardiff Wales – 4-day itinerary of must-see attractions Step back in time with a visit to St Fagans Museum

Benefits of a Cardiff Tour

Taking a tour of Cardiff is a fantastic way to explore the city and learn about its rich history and culture. It’s also a great way to discover hidden gems and local hotspots you may not have found. 

A tour is an excellent introduction to learn more about where to go in Cardiff. From historic landmarks to trendy neighborhoods, a Cardiff tour offers a well-rounded experience of this vibrant city. You will get to see all the top attractions and gain insider knowledge on where to go and what to do while visiting Cardiff. So why not join a tour and make the most of your time in this beautiful city? It’s an easy and convenient way to get acquainted with Cardiff and all it offers. Plus, it’s a fun way to meet other travelers and make new friends who share your interests.

Thanks for reading. We hope tol see you at the places where we go. Julie & Art

#Cardifftours #exploreCardiff #uncoverhiddengems

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Art Dobrucki is a travel writer and podcast host for The Places Where We Go. With his wife Julie, they bring their travel stories to curious travelers to inspire adventures. Art is also a composer and keyboardist with several albums to his credit. Check out more information on our About Us page.

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Cardiff Tours & Trips

Find the right tour for you through Cardiff. We've got 120 adventures going to Cardiff, starting from just 5 days in length, and the longest tour is 27 days. The most popular month to go is September, which has the largest number of tour departures.

120 Cardiff tour packages with 3,593 reviews

• In-depth Cultural
• Coach / Bus
• Christmas & New Year

Real Britain (6 Days)

I loved it so much I am thinking of doing another next year

• €100 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Britain and Ireland Delight (Summer, 8 Days)

It was great experience for us!

Great Britain

Lee was excellent. He gave us history and details of the sites we explored along with his fun sense of humor. It was obvious his passion to share his stories with us.

• 10% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Discover Wales 5-Day Small-Group Tour from London

Fabulous tour around Wales! Our tour guide, Graham, was so knowledgeable, entertaining and kind. Lovely views that took our breath away. We had the best time!

England and Scotland Heritage (8 Days)

It was great, Jason was very organized, punctual and did a great job!!

Britain and Ireland Highlights (8 Days)

Greg was very knowledgeable and was ready and able to answer questions that were not only purtent to the tour but any questions of interest . He demonstrated exemplary organizational skills, for example, when weather hampered an event he worked diligently to still make the event available at another time .

Essential Britain & Ireland

Liz Ryan is an excellent guide and knows her history of Britain very well. The bus was very comfortable and even had USB ports for charging. And the free bottles of water, as needed, were greatly appreciated. All hotels were very clean with very good provided breakfasts and only one could have used a bathroom upgrade. All beds we used appeared to be queen size. We really enjoyed the optional live Irish dancing and show and dinner at "Taylors Three Rock" in Dublin. Perhaps information on the VAT tax and the procedures to get that refunded should be provided to guests before and after arrival. The tour we were on is called a 10 day tour but is actually only 8 days on the bus. We were impressed and feel it was well worth the cost!

• Sightseeing

Best of Britain (Classic, Summer, 9 Days) (21 destinations)

Greg is an excellent Tour Director. He was well organised and kept us well informed. He had interesting and amusing stories and anecdotes relevant to the tour and never boring. He followed up on things on our behalf and kept a sun above our heads for 9 days in the UK!

Best of UK & Ireland

I would recommend this tour. Our tour guide was wonderful. Our coach driver was wonderful. Wish we had more time at some of our stops but overall it was great.

England, Scotland & Wales

The trip as a once in a lifetime experience for my best friend and I. It was our first time travelling to Europe together, and our first time on a Cosmos tour... and we will definitely be doing more trips like these in the future. The accommodations were great and so was our itinerary. We were slightly disappointed that we couldn't go to Stonehenge due to the summer solstice, but our tour guide, Oshan, made sure we got to see some other fantastic and unique stone circles in many places we went. Our vacation was truly incredible!

Essential Britain

the tour guide and drivers are very good. wish the trip have more time to stop and drive less. 12 days trip can make 14 days. wish to see professional fork dances and songs of scotland.

From Dublin to London

Britain & Ireland Discovery (Classic, 22 Days)

Greg was an enthusiastic snd knowledgeable tour guide. Arthur was an excellent driver. Together they made the tour a pleasure with their dedicated ,good humoured professionalism.

Taste of South England and Wales

A great way to see some of the most popular and beautiful destinations in this part of the country. The itinerary includes stops in London, Bournemouth/Southampton, Exeter/Torquay, and Cornwall. One of the things I liked most about this tour was that it gave me the flexibility to set my own pace. I could spend as much or as little time as I wanted in each place, and I could also choose to do some activities on my own. This made the tour feel 100% personal and tailored to my interests. I would definitely recommend it to anyone who is interested in seeing some of the best that this part of Britain has to offer.

The Wonders of Wales

• €150 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

What people love about Cardiff Tours

Fine tour with a lot of nice people from almost all over the world. To us it was a disappointment that the optional tour in Edinburgh with Johnnie Walker experts, advertised in the program, wasn’t available.

I really enjoyed the trip

• to Europe (3)

Cardiff Wales Guided Tours

• Sightseeing Tour

Attraction information

Get in touch, found a problem with this page report it here, like what you see, about cardiff wales guided tours, 51.4793472, -3.176824, related stories, visit our unesco world heritage sites in wales.

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1. The Wandering Bard's Tour of South Wales

2. The Wandering Bard's Mythical West Wales Tour

3. Guided Hike Of The Six Brecon Beacons Waterfalls From Cardiff

4. Cardiff Like a Local: Customized Private Tour

5. 5-Day Discover Wales Small-Group Tour from London

6. Cardiff Day Tour from London

7. Enjoy Beaches, Dylan Thomas Home, Castles And Tenby From Cardiff

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9. One Amphitheatre, Tintern Abbey And Three Castles From Cardiff

10. Welsh Food Tour in Cardiff

11. Valleys Heritage And Brecon Beacons Landscapes From Cardiff

12. Private Day Tour to Cardiff By Train

13. The Ghosts of Llandaff: A Self-Guided Audio Tour

14. Small Group Walking Tour Cardiff City

15. Cardiff City Tour

16. Cardiff All in One Walking Tour

17. Private Day Tour of South Wales, including Cardiff & Caerphilly Castle.

18. Small Group Walking Tour Cardiff City and the Bay

19. Sightseeing Tour Cardiff Bay and Vale of Glamorgan Full-Day Driver Guided

20. Cardiff Bay Private Self-Guided Tour

21. 2.5 hour Walking and Tasting Tour in Cardiff

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24. Cardiff’s Bay and Waterfront: A Self-Guided Audio Tour

25. Cardiff City Private Guided Walking Tour

26. Wye Valley and Tintern Abbey Escape from Cardiff - Private Tour

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33 Best day trips from Cardiff you can take

• David Angel
• Wales , United Kingdom

About the author: David Angel , is a Welsh photographer, writer, and historian with 30+ years of experience, and previously Art Director for Visit Wales. His work is regularly featured in the BBC, the Guardian, and Condé Nast Traveler. He is fluent in English and Welsh.

Looking for the best day trips from Cardiff? Brilliant! That’s exactly what you’ll find here.

Cardiff offers an ideal base for exploring the best of South Wales, and Mid and West Wales are also within reach on longer day trips. Some of the most beautiful cities in England, including Bath, are also close by.

Some of the best Welsh castles are right on Cardiff’s doorstep. The glorious sandy Gower beaches are little more than an hour to the west. And the rugged sandstone peaks of the Brecon Beacons are even closer to the north.

In this detailed guide I give you an overview of each Cardiff day trip destination. This includes what to see and do on each day trip. I also give you tips on how to get there, including whether you can do the trip by public transport or you need to drive.

And I’ll also suggest some day tours from Cardiff where they are available. I hope this article gives you plenty of ideas.

Table of Contents

Day Trips in Cardiff & Around

1. caerphilly castle.

Caerphilly Castle is the best-known of the castles near Cardiff , and one of the top places to visit in Wales. I used to see this magnificent 13th-century monster looming over the town every morning on my way to school, and later, work. It’s one of the largest castles in Europe, built to a concentric design with surrounding lakes and moats.

I’ll always have a special affection for my home-town castle, but without any bias, it is one of the best castles in Wales and, indeed, the UK. It’s famous for its leaning tower which out-leans that of Pisa.

The visitor experience has greatly improved in the last few years, with more parts of Caerphilly Castle open than previously, and now have a lair occupied by smoke-breathing dragons.

Getting there: regular trains 20 minutes from Cardiff central, then a 10-minute downhill walk to the Castle entrance.

See Also: 14 Wonderful Things to Do In Caerphilly

2. Castell Coch

Your Cardiff sightseeing isn’t complete until you’ve visited Castell Coch , a fairytale 19 th century castle on a wooded hillside just outside the city.

Its name means the Red Castle, and it was a Welsh castle, as opposed to an occupying English one. It fell into ruin, but the site was revived by the Third Marquess of Bute, who was also responsible for the rebuilding and remodelling of Cardiff Castle. One of the most famous landmarks in Cardiff , it has also been voted the most popular landmark in Wales.

It’s a small turreted castle, looking like something out of Bohemia or Germany. Do not miss the interior, an opulently decorated masterpiece by the great Victorian architect, William Burges.

Getting there : easiest by car, otherwise buses 26 and 132 pass 1 km away. The driveway up to the castle is quite steep.

3. St Fagans National Museum of History

I’ll make a bold statement and say that Wales’ National Museum of History in St Fagans is one of the best museums in the world.

It’s a collection of historic Welsh buildings painstakingly rebuilt on a site just outside Cardiff, near the village of St Fagans. It also includes St Fagans Castle, a 16th-century manor house, and a beautiful series of formal gardens.

Highlights include a row of miners’ cottages with each house fitted and decorated in the style of a different period, a reconstructed 15th-century farmhouse and a medieval church complete with wall paintings.

A traditional old Cardiff pub (where I had a few pints myself) is currently being rebuilt there. A brilliant place to visit for all ages, one of the best things to do in Wales.

Getting there: Bus 320 departs from stop KN (Westgate Street) and stop KR (Castle Street).

4. Llandaff Cathedral

Llandaff Cathedral is a nice, easy trip from Cardiff, a 20-minute bus ride from the centre of Cardiff to Llandaff village on the #25. It’s one of the more intriguing places to go in Cardiff, with a fascinating cathedral in a dell near the river Taff. Parts of it date back to the 12 th century, but much of it was damaged by a Luftwaffe bomb in 1941.

It was rebuilt after World War II, and the interior is dominated by Jacob Epstein’s Christ in Majesty statue on an arch above the nave. The Lady Chapel at the east end is beautiful, with a lovely painted Gothic vault.

Llandaff village is also worth an hour or two of your time, with the garden of the ruined Bishop’s Palace a quiet place to sit and relax, and several cafes and pubs where you can replenish.

Getting there : Buses 24, 25, 62 and 63 stop a 5-minute walk

5. Dyffryn Gardens

Dyffryn House and Gardens

One of the best day trips from Cardiff is to nearby Dyffryn Gardens , less than ten miles from the city centre. It’s down a country lane near the village of St Nicholas. The Gardens were built in the early 20 th century Edwardian era to complement Dyffryn House, which had been completed in the 1890s.

We’ve visited in spring, summer and autumn and all are great times to visit. There are several different gardens, from the main house front with the fountain and lily pond to several smaller side gardens.

Getting there: By car is easier, otherwise buses stop in St Nicholas, from where it’s a 15-minute walk down the lane to Dyffryn.

6. Vale of Glamorgan

The Vale of Glamorgan starts where Cardiff finishes – as soon as you’re out of the western suburbs you’re out in glorious green countryside.  The Vale is a place to meander and take your time, driving the back roads, chancing upon small bucolic villages with the occasional thatched cottage and medieval church.

You’ll also come across some of the best pubs in South Wales on your travels, including The Bush in St Hilary and the Plough & Harrow in Monknash.

Don’t miss the old core of Llantwit Major, a beautiful old town with St Illtud’s Church, one of the best churches in Wales to visit.

Getting there : If you want any flexibility, you’ll need to drive.

7. Glamorgan Heritage Coast

Apart from Barry Island, the first decent beaches you’ll find as you head west are along the Glamorgan Heritage Coast. It’s a small section of coast popular with local beach lovers, geologists and photographers alike.

Dunraven Bay in Southerndown is one of the best beaches in South Wales, with superb stratified cliffs, rock formations and a huge swathe of golden sand at low tide.

Photographers love the rocky beach a few miles south at Nash Point, famous for its wave-cut platforms.

Getting there: by car to Nash Point, or bus 303 stops in Southerndown, a 10-minute walk up the hill from the beach.

The Victorian seaside town of Penarth is one of the easiest day trips from Cardiff, 15 minutes away by train from Cardiff Central.

It grew in the 19 th century with holidaymakers from Wales, the English Midlands and South West visiting regularly. The town has several grand Victorian and Edwardian buildings, but the best part of Penarth is the Esplanade along the seafront.

The beach is pebbly, with great views out to the Bristol Channel, Flat Holm (see below), Steep Holm island and the Somerset coast.

The recently restored Penarth Pier is a delight, an Art Deco beauty stretching out beyond the beach into the sea. One of the best restaurants in Wales, Restaurant James Sommerin, is a short walk along the Esplanade.

Getting there: Regular trains and buses from Cardiff.

9. Flat Holm

One of the most unusual day tours from Cardiff is the boat trip to Flat Holm from Cardiff Bay. Flat Holm is one of the most intriguing Welsh islands , situated five miles south of Cardiff and part of the county of Cardiff. Its history goes back millennia.

The Welsh saint Cadoc lived there in the 6 th century AD. In the 19 th century it served as a cholera hospital, and in 1897 famously was the first place to receive a radio message across open water. It was sent by Guglielmo Marconi at Lavernock Point, a few miles away near Penarth.

10. Llancaiach Fawr

Llancaiach Fawr is a late medieval manor house in the Rhymney Valley countryside to the north of Caerphilly. It’s one of the most unusual days out in South Wales, as you step back in time to 1645 and the time of the English Civil War (it was the Welsh Civil War too, for that matter).

It’s a living history museum where the guides are actors, playing characters from the 1640s. It’s all done with a dash of light humour, and a great way to glimpse the past, with or without kids.

They also run ghost tours in the colder months. Llancaiach Fawr Manor is purportedly one of the ten most haunted houses in the UK, and if anywhere is going to convince you that ghosts exist, this is the place.

Getting there: Driving is the most convenient option from Cardiff – it’s just off the B4254 road near the village of Nelson. If you’re travelling by bus, the C16 Caerphilly to Nelson service and the X38 Pontypridd to Bargoed services stop outside.

11. Barry Island

Barry Island was always one of the most popular Cardiff day trips with locals, and during my childhood we’d go there at least twice every summer holiday. It’s one of the easiest seaside day trips from Cardiff, less than half an hour away by train (followed by a five-minute walk).

The main beach, Whitmore Bay, is the best beach near Cardiff, and the fish and chips are still as good as they were when I was a kid. There’s also a funfair next to the beach where we took our little fellow for his first-ever fairground rides.

Barry Island is far more widely known than when I was a child because it’s the setting for the popular BBC comedy Gavin and Stacey which, I must confess, I haven’t seen.

Getting there: Train from Cardiff Central to Barry Island.

12. Tredegar House, Newport

Tredegar House is one of the finest stately homes in Wales. It’s on the outskirts of Newport, Wales’ third largest city. Its handsome red brick exterior dominates the lovely gardens, and the interior is one of the grandest in Wales.

It dates back to the 17 th century, and was home to the wealthy Morgan family, one of the most powerful in South Wales, until 1951 when the last Baron Tredegar died childless, and the house and its contents were sold off. Tredegar House has been run by the National Trust since 2012.

Getting there: It’s close to M4 junction 28 if you’re travelling by car. Alternatively the number 30 Cardiff to Newport bus stops at Cleppa Park, a 10-15 minute walk from the entrance.

Day Trips from Cardiff to the West

1. porthcawl.

Porthcawl is one of the larger seaside towns in Wales, but doesn’t seem to get a lot of attention beyond wales. It’s the traditional destination of the old Miners’ Fortnight, when the pit workers from the nearby South Wales Valleys would get their annual dose of sea and sun.

The mines are long gone, but it’s still very popular with people from the area. Porthcawl has some great beaches – Rest Bay is our favourite, and it’s also a popular South Wales surfing beach.

Porthcawl is also a popular destination during stormy weather, when photographers gather to capture waves crashing over the town’s small lighthouse and breakwater wall. In late September or early October it plays host to the Elvis Festival, which is always great fun.

Getting there: Driving is the easier option, otherwise a bus and train from Cardiff via Bridgend will take you an hour and a half each way.

I’ve never quite warmed to Swansea, the second largest city in Wales, but it does have a lot going for it. Its setting is superb, with one of the best city beaches in the UK sweeping all the way down to Mumbles Head. It sustained catastrophic damage in air raids in World War II, and the city centre has never quite recovered.

The city is worth visiting for one of the best museums in Wales, the National Waterfront Museum, which delves into Wales’ maritime history. It’s also the birthplace of writer Dylan Thomas, and you can visit 5 Cwmdonkin Drive his birthplace.

Getting there: The Cardiff to Swansea train takes under an hour. It’s also the first leg of journeys to the other places we describe in this section.

3. Mumbles & Pier

Mumbles is Swansea’s seaside suburb, and completely different in feel to the city. It’s one of the most pleasant day trips in Wales, with a lovely walk along the promenade, plenty of cafes and ice cream to keep you going, and a traditional old pier.

At the end of the peninsula, Mumbles Head is a series of islets, one with a scenic lighthouse. You can also walk to beautiful Bracelet Bay, a great kid-friendly beach at low tide with fine lighthouse views.

Back in Mumbles village, medieval Oystermouth Castle beckons you for further exploration.

Getting there: Train to Swansea, then bus 2 or 3 to Oystermouth.

4. Rhossili & Gower

The Gower Peninsula beaches to the west of Swansea are among the best places to visit in Wales.  The westernmost beach, Rhossili Bay , is regularly voted among the best beaches in Europe or indeed the world.

And it is just that, a gorgeous sweep of golden sand 5 km (3 miles long), It also has outstanding coastal walks with other small, secluded beaches close by.

Three Cliffs Bay is another classic Gower beach and, like Rhossili, involves some walking to reach.

Getting there : Time-wise the easiest thing to do is drive to Gower. Otherwise travel to Swansea by train then walk to the bus station and catch the 118 to Rhossili, or the 14 to Pennard Cliffs for Three Cliffs Bay. You can get to see both Rhossili and Three Cliffs in a day if you’re driving, but not if you’re travelling by bus.

5. Carreg Cennen Castle

Carreg Cennen is one of several fine castles in Carmarthenshire, the west Wales county between Swansea and Pembrokeshire. It’s the most dramatically sited of all the castles in South Wales , on the summit of a sheer 100-metre cliff and with the Black Mountain escarpment of the Brecon Beacons looming high above.

It’s one of the most enjoyable castles in Wales to visit – the ticket office is on a farm, and you walk up the hill from there to the castle.

Getting there – this one requires a car. The nearest public transport gets you is four miles (6 km) away, in the nearest town, Llandeilo.

6. Laugharne

One of the most popular things to do in southwest Wales is to follow in the footsteps of Dylan Thomas, who is probably the best-known Welsh writer internationally.

The Dylan Thomas Boat House features on many tours of Wales. He lived in this beautiful riverside house the last four years of his life, and would often spend time in his writing shed, a short walk away. 

A short walk down the estuary, Laugharne Castle is one of the best things to see in Carmarthenshire, a stout 12 th -13 th century fortress overlooking the wide estuary.

You can also visit Dylan Thomas’ favourite watering hole, Browns Hotel, and his grave in the nearby St Martin’s Churchyard.

Getting there: Less than 2 hours by car via Carmarthen, the A40 and then the A4066 from St Clears. Otherwise, it’s a train or bus to Carmarthen, then a bus to Laugharne.

Cardiff to Pembrokeshire makes for a long day out, but it can be done – we have, many times over. If you have one spare sunny day forecast, move mountains to go to Tenby. Tenby is incomparable, easily one of the most beautiful towns in the UK and best beach resorts in Europe.

It has no less than three of the best beaches in the UK, one of the most picturesque harbours you could ever hope to see and a set of medieval town walls.

See Also: Tenby Beaches – 4 of the Most Beautiful Beaches in Wales

Getting there: It’s two hours by car from Cardiff, or around three hours by train. You normally have to change at Carmarthen station – make sure you catch the onward service to Pembroke Dock, and not the train to Milford Haven.

8. St David’s Pembrokeshire

St Davids is the smallest city in the UK, and like Tenby, warrants a stay of a night or two to get the most out of it. However, if this is your one chance to visit St Davids, grab it. It’s a 2-hour drive from Cardiff, and a world away from the Welsh capital.

It’s home to St David’s Cathedral, the most impressive church in Wales and probably the nearest the country has to a spiritual home.

Some Wales day tours also make the trip out to St Davids.

You can also enjoy a boat trip to Ramsey Island and its seabirds and colonies of Atlantic grey seals. Otherwise, discover some of the best beaches in Wales, including Whitesands Bay, and some of the best walks in South Wales around the St Davids coastline.

Getting there: A 2-hour drive or a 4-to-5 hour trek by train to Haverfordwest, followed by a bus to St Davids.

Day Trips To The North & East of Cardiff

1.brecon beacons national park – bannau brycheiniog.

The Brecon Beacons is one of three National Parks in Wales, along with the Pembrokeshire Coast and Snowdonia. It stretches from the English border at Hay-on-Wye to Carmarthenshire, from the Black Mountains in the east, past the central Brecon Beacons range and out to the wild moorlands of the Black Mountain in the west.

Cardiff to Brecon takes less than an hour by car,  and for many the many mountain walks there are the best things to do in South Wales.

The terrain is varied, from long sandstone mountain ridges to deep limestone valleys. The Brecon Beacons waterfalls – between Ystradfellte and Pontneddfechan – are very popular, and well worth a stopover at some point.

If you’re pushed for time, several South Wales tours departing from Cardiff give you a great introduction to the area.

Getting there: The Beacons are best explored by car, by which they are less than an hour north of Cardiff. The T4 bus passes Pen y Fan (see below) but for anywhere other than this a car is the only option.

2. Walk up Pen Y Fan Mountain

If you approach Pen y Fan from Cardiff and the south, it doesn’t look that much of a mountain.

The most popular path up, from Pont ar Daf on the A470, gives the same impression. It’s only when you see it from Brecon, to the north, that you see it for what it is, an imposing peak, at 886 metres (2907 feet) the highest mountain in southern Britain. It’s something of a rite of passage, and one of the top things to do in the Brecon Beacons.

The walk up the busy ‘M4’ (named after the nearby motorway) takes between 40 minutes and an hour, while the much harder, more rewarding slog up from Upper Neuadd reservoir takes well over two hours.

Getting there : A drive up the A470 or the T4 bus to Storey Arms.

3. Visit Hay-On-W ye

It’s known as the second-hand book capital of the world, but there are other things to do in Hay-on-Wye besides. Around 20 bookshops have survived the internet, and it’s a wonderfully quirky, charming place to spend a day or so.

Some of the bookshops have diversified, with one of the originals, Booth Books, now offering a cinema and café as well as thousands of books to pore over.

The town also has several great pubs and restaurants, and is close to some of the best scenery in the Brecon Beacons, particularly up around Hay Bluff.

Getting there: By car or by bus from Brecon or Hereford.

4. Blaenavon World Heritage Site

South Wales was one of the cradles of the Industrial Revolution in the 18 th and early 19 th centuries.

Until the mid-20 th century the coalfield was the most productive in the world. The village of Blaenavon, at the head of one of the Gwent valleys to the north-east of Cardiff, has an exceptionally well-preserved industrial landscape, and this was made a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2000, the second site in Wales to receive this designation after Edward I’s Castles in North Wales.  

Blaenavon has two of the best industrial south Wales tourist attractions, Big Pit National Coal Museum and Blaenavon Ironworks .

If you visit Blaenavon, also drive north out of the village on the B4247 road, over the Blorenge mountain where you see where industrial South Wales ends and rural South Wales begins.

Getting there: By car or bus from Newport

5. Tintern A bbey

Tintern Abbey should be high on any Wales sightseeing itinerary. It’s one of the places that gave birth to tourism in the UK, a dramatic 13th-century ruined Gothic church open to the elements.

If you’re travelling there by public transport, you have to change at Chepstow for the bus, so try to combine it with an hour at Chepstow Castle, one of the earliest medieval castles in Wales and best castles near Cardiff .

Getting there: Driving is the easiest option, otherwise it’s a Cardiff to Chepstow train (30-40 minutes), a short walk then a 20-minute bus ride to Tintern.

6 . Wye Valley

The scenic Wye Valley is an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty straddling the Wales-England border. The lower section of the wye, from Monmouth to Chepstow, is the most dramatic, with beautiful sections above the village of Llandogo, around Tintern Abbey and immediately to the north of Chepstow.

The Eagles Nest viewpoint is high up a mountain above the village of St Arvans. – persist to the top for one of the best views in Wales, including a meander of the river Wye and the Severn estuary beyond.  

This area is one of the best places to visit in Wales in autumn . We suggest a day’s drive to see some of the best Wye Valley scenery – if you concentrate in the Chepstow to Monmouth area, also make sure you get to Symonds Yat, across the border in Herefordshire.

Getting there : You’ll need a car for this one.

7. Three C astles

There are so many castles in South Wales to see that some, inevitably, get overlooked, especially if you’re short on time. If you stay in Wales for a while, one area you can delve deeper is rural Monmouthshire. The Three Castles – White Castle, Grosmont Castle and Skenfrith Castle – make for a wonderful day out exploring the gentle bucolic scenery.

They are clustered to the north and west of Monmouth, and are all close to the English border. White Castle is isolated on a ridge near Abergavenny, while Grosmont and Skenfrith are small, picturesque villages built around their respective castles.

Skenfrith is a particularly idyllic spot, and The Bell is a great place to stop by for a lengthy lunch.

Getting there: The only way to do this is to drive.

8. E lan Valley

The Elan Valley is a series of dammed reservoirs in the heart of remote Mid Wales. It’s the one part of the so-called ‘Green Desert’ of the Cambrian Mountains , which run through the centre of Wales, to be even remotely tamed.

It’s a little under two hours’ drive to the town of Rhayader, from where it’s another 10-15 minutes to the lakes.

Many just come for the scenic drive, which takes you past Caban Coch, Garreg Ddu, Pen-y-Garreg and Graig Goch lakes and their respective dams, before retuning to Rhayader.

You also pass through some of the dramatic upper reaches of the River Wye en route.

Getting there : only by car.  

Day Trips In England From C ardiff

Bath is one of the most beautiful cities in England. It’s over 2,000 years old, with much of the city dating from its 18th-century Georgian heyday. It’s all built in the local golden Bath sandstone, giving it the feel of a harmonious whole.

The Ancient Roman Baths, 15 th century Bath Abbey church and the 18 th century Pump Room are three of the most popular Bath attractions, and are located within metres of each other.

The rest of the city has some of the finest 18 th century architecture anywhere in the world, and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Cardiff is just an hour from Bath by train, so spending one day in Bath is easily done. Bath is also one of the most popular day trips from London.

Getting there: It’s an hour by train from Cardiff Central to Bath Spa.

See Also: 12 Famous Landmarks In Bath To Visit

Bristol is one of the best cities to visit in England, with incredible cultural riches to discover. That said, I pondered omitting it from this article because you won’t cover a great deal of ground on a day trip from Cardiff. Bristol is quite widely spread out, so getting to see it takes time.

The train from Cardiff to Bristol Temple Meads station takes around 50 minutes. From there, walk the 10 minutes to the magnificent St Mary Redcliffe church, before hopping on the #9 bus up the hill to the suburb of Clifton.

This is full of beautiful Georgian terraces like nearby Bath. Eventually you’ll reach the Avon Gorge and Bristol’s greatest icon, the Clifton Suspension Bridge.

Other options include visiting the splendid steam ship SS Great Britain in Bristol Harbour, or heading to Stokes Croft to see some of the best street art in the UK.

Getting there: It’s less than an hour by train to Bristol Temple Meads station. Otherwise coaches to Bristol take about the same time. If you’re driving, the M4 and M32 route takes you into the city centre.

Tiny Wells is one of the smallest cities in the UK, with a population of less than 10,000. It’s one of the most underrated cities in Europe , possibly because many visitors don’t even realise it’s a city. It has more of the feel of a small country town, albeit one with an unrivalled ecclesiastical treasure trove.

Wells Cathedral is an English Gothic masterpiece with a staggering west front with hundreds of statues. It also has some of the best-preserved cathedral precincts in Europe, including the Vicars Close, one of the most complete medieval streets in Europe.

Getting there: a 90-minute drive via the M5 junction 21 and 22, or train to Bristol Temple Meads followed by the 376 bus close by.

4. Hereford

We made several day trips to Hereford from Cardiff, which is easy as it’s only an hour away by train. There were always enough things to do in Hereford to keep us coming back for more. Hereford is one of the best hidden gems in England and its location not particularly close to anywhere large is probably what’s kept it that way.

Hereford Cathedral is a medieval treasure, with an amazing 13th-century map of the world, the Mappa Mundi. It’s in the heart of cider country, and the county has hundreds of orchards, particularly beautiful in May when the apple trees are in bloom. It’s also on the River Wye, close to some of the best scenery in the Wye Valley.

Getting there: This one’s easier by train – just an hour from Cardiff. Driving takes up to half an hour longer.

5. Gloucester

The old port city of Gloucester is an hour’s drive or train ride from Cardiff.The tower of Gloucester Cathedral dominates the view as you approach the city, and it’s the best thing to see there. It was built between the Norman (Romanesque) and Perpendicular periods.

It’s stunning inside and out, with an amazing 14th-century stained glass east window. The superb vaulted cloister has featured numerous times in Harry Potter movies, and are not to be missed.

Also check out the tiny Tailor of Gloucester museum dedicated to Beatrix Potter’s famous tale.

Getting there: it’s only an hour from Cardiff by train.

Cardiff Day Trips map

Best places to visit near Cardiff Q & A

Is it possible to do a day trip from cardiff to snowdonia .

Not really. It’s way too far. It’s a minimum three-hour drive each way, and it’s not an easy drive – the main A470 road from Cardiff to North Wales is often slow and winding, with a great many turns.

If you’re visiting Cardiff and also wish to see Snowdonia, we suggest staying in the latter for a while. There are a great many things to do in Betws-y-Coed , the main gateway to Snowdonia, which is a good jumping-off point for Mount Snowdon itself. A Snowdonia road trip would be a good introduction to the area, and our article has several short and one longer itinerary.

Otherwise if you prefer the coast, Barmouth is a unique seaside resort with an outstanding beach and the gorgeous Mawddach estuary.

Can you do some of these day trips from Cardiff by bus?

Yes. In a few cases, some of the trips we’ve listed, especially in the immediate Cardiff area, are easier by bus than train.

Other day trips we recommend can involve a change of public transport. If you want to visit Tintern Abbey, one of the best things to see in Wales, you have a 30-minute train journey to Chepstow, then a 20-minute bus ride up the Wye Valley to the Abbey. 

Day Trips From Cardiff – Final Words

I hope you’ve enjoyed my guide to the best day trips from Cardiff. As a local, I’ve been fortunate to road-test them all many times. Hopefully, my guide will help you get more out of your time Cardiff and South Wales.

If your time is limited to a few days, I suggest trying to cover some of the famous landmarks in Cardiff around the city’s outskirts. Castell Coch and the St Fagans Museum are the best of these. And you can combine either of these with a couple of hours at formidable Caerphilly Castle , the largest in Wales.

If you have time to venture further afield, my pick – and that of a great many friends – would be the Gower beaches west of Swansea. Rhossili Bay and Three Cliffs Bay are two of the best beaches in the UK. Indeed, Rhossili was once voted the third best beach in the world.

About the Author: David Angel , a Welsh photographer, writer, and historian, has over 30 years of experience exploring and photographing Wales. As former Art Director and Commissioning Editor for Visit Wales, he has explored every corner of this extraordinary country, climbed its mountains, and walked hundreds of miles along the breathtaking Welsh coastline and landscapes. He now uses a lifetime of experience to write comprehensive guides to help people like you discover and explore the best of Wales.  He is a native English speaker and fluent in Welsh.

Explore Cardiff Bay & Beyond

Find Your Cardiff Bay Boat Trip

Sail on Cardiff Bay

Discover flatholm island.

Have a Cardiff Birthday Party

City Centre River Boat

Afternoon Tea at Sea

Christmas Office Party

Fish and Ships

Fish and Chips Cruise

Berry boats boat hire, afternoon tea at sea.

Step aboard our cruise for a delightful afternoon tea experience like no other in Cardiff! Our tea menu is filled with an assortment of delicate finger sandwiches, delicious cakes and freshly baked pastries and you can choose from a variety of tea blends.

Our Fish and Chip Cruise promises an unforgettable journey filled with culinary delights and mesmerising views! Indulge in the perfect fusion of gourmet dining and scenic cruising, courtesy of the Posh Fish and Chip Shop and our unforgettable Cardiff Cruise experience.

45 Minute Bay Tours

Join us onboard Marianne for a relaxing sightseeing trip around the bay where you will see the Senedd, yacht clubs, Cardiff Barrage and many more famous sights. You can also disembark and board again later over in Penarth.

City Centre > Bay Service

Aquabus offers an hourly ferry service between Cardiff Castle Grounds in the City Centre and Mermaid Quay in Cardiff Bay.

Groups & Tour Guides

If your group or tour is interested in coming on board for a private excursion, you can save money by taking advantage of our special rates.

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School Bay Tour Trips

Learn about the history of Cardiff Bay and explore its wonders by boat.  Suitable for school classes of any age looking to have a day trip to Cardiff Bay.

Get in touch to let us know your date preferences.

Party Boat Private Hire

You, your family and friends can enjoy a 3 hour cruise around the Bay. We have a bar and food options available and are happy to discuss your exact requirements to make sure your celebration goes without a hitch.

Mixed Boat Party

Get onboard for a party every Saturday night 7:30-10:30pm with others to celebrate that special occasion! Ideal for your hen night, birthday party or stag weekend. No minimum numbers, just good times!

Berry Boat Hire

Want to drive your own boat?

Hire your own boat for 30 minutes around Cardiff Bay. Boat Hire for the Berry Boats can be found here!

Scatter Ashes at Sea

Send off your loved ones in style by scattering their ashes at sea!

Hire the Lewis Alexander boat for 12 people and sail out to the coast to pay your last respects.

Wales Rugby Matchday Boat

Get to the rugby match in style! Departs two hours prior to kick off from Mermaid Quay with a pick up in Penarth. Avoid the traffic and make your matchday just that bit more special! Come on Wales!

Flatholm Island Visits

Spend the day exploring Flatholm Island, the most southerly island in Wales, but you’ll need a boat to get there, luckily we have just the one for you!  The Flatholm Ferry leaves when the tide is right, check dates here.

Christmas Parties

Round up the office staff and choose from hiring your own private party boat or join with another company this December. No minimum numbers, just good times, mince pies and Christmas tunes!

Gift Vouchers

The perfect way to give someone an experience that lets them schedule their adventure at their convenience!

Winter Afternoon Tea

join our Christmas cruise for a delightful afternoon tea experience like no other in Cardiff! Our tea menu is filled with an assortment of Christmas themed delights, expect turkey sandwiches and mince pies!

FAST Speed Boat Trips

Take in a 25 minute Bay Waves speed boat experience on Cardiff Bay or if you want more check our the Coastal Shock one hour trip into the Bristol Channel!

Tours from Cardiff

From a centre of industry to the cosmopolitan capital city of wales. cardiff is one of britain’s most dynamic destinations..

Join our t ours from Cardiff and discover t he highlights o f Wales from its capital . Travel in a small-group on a comfortable minibus, in the company of a friendly driver-guide. Spend time in Cardiff and discover the highlights of Wales, with stunning scenery, industrial history and iconic castles…

Highlights of our tours from Cardiff:

Absorb Stunning Scenery

Visit Snowdonia, Pembrokeshire & Brecon Beacons; Wales’ 3 National Parks.

Discover Welsh Heritage

Uncover the story of Wales at the National Museum of History & Big Pit Coal Museum.

Visit Historic Castles

See Welsh fortresses and churches at Harlech, Pembroke and St Davids

Cardiff: a brief history

Though human occupation in t he Cardiff area dates back several thousand years, the first significant settlement wasn’t established until the arrival of the Romans into Britain. They constructed a fortification at the mouth of the river Taff in the first century. It is thought that th is is the origin of the name Cardiff; from the Welsh Caer-Taff, which means ‘fort on the Taff’. This small fortification remained mostly unchanged until the Romans departed, after which it stayed  uninhabited for centuries until the invasion of the Normans.

Led by Robert Fitzhamon, the Normans set about constructing a castle within the walls of the Roman fort, and not long after a small walled town grew around it. As a result, Cardiff became the most populous town in Wales with 2,000 residents, but remained a small trading port for several centuries. It wasn’t until the late 18th  century, and the beginning of the industrial revolution, that Cardiff changed dramatically, as it became a centre of coal and iron exports. The influential Bute family oversaw much of the massive re-development which helped Cardiff flourish.

From 1801 to 1901, Cardiff’s population grew from less than 2,000 to over 150,000 as industry boomed, the railways arrived and Cardiff became the largest coal-exporting port in the world. However, prosperity declined in the twentieth century as industry declined, which was amplified by the two world wars. Even by this point, Wales still had no recognised capital city, until Cardiff was officially in 1955. In recent years, Cardiff has seen much regeneration and is a growing city for modern industries, as well as the location of the Welsh Assembly in Cardiff Bay.

Things to do in Cardiff

The most important place to visit in Cardiff is the castle; w ith 2,000 years of history , this once Roman fort was redeveloped in the 18th century and is set among beautiful grounds.  For more Welsh history, head to the nearby National Museum, a fantastic free attraction that has a unique combination of history and art. Cardiff is also known for its arcades; Victorian and Edwardian indoor shopping areas where you can find a variety of cafes, bars and shops. Dominating Cardiff city centre is the Principality Stadium, a 74,500 capacity venue that is the sporting home of Wales’ national sport, Rugby.

Exploring the modern Cardiff Bay area is also an essential part of any visit to the Welsh capital. A hub of industry as Cardiff became the largest coal exporting port in the world, this area i s the largest waterfront development in Europe . Through the 1990s the Cardiff Bay Barrage saw massive reg eneration , and is now home to some of the city’s most recognisable buildings, including the Millennium Centre and the Senedd, home of the Welsh Parliament. For the adventurous there are also a variety of water-based attractions and activities to be found here.

Any visit to Cardiff needs to go beyond the city limits to explore the ‘real’ Wales. Wales is known as the ‘castle capital of the world’, with many magnificent fortresses to see, but among the best are Harlech and Pembroke. One of the most historic locations to visit is St Davids; a charming town in the south-west that was the home of the Welsh patron saint, St David. Wales is also famed for its stunning landscapes, so the country’s three National Parks; Pembrokeshire Coast, the Brecon Beacons and Snowdonia, and are all worthy of time for those interested in spectacular scenery.

Want to go?

Highlights of wales tour from cardiff (4-days).

• You’ll Visit: Snowdonia National Park, St Davids, Pembrokeshire Coast
• Take a tour from Cardiff to explore the highlights of Wales
• Tours also include Big Pit Museum, Elan Valley, Brecon Beacons, Aberystwyth
• Small-groups guaranteed with a maximum of 16 per group
• Tours led by a friendly Driver-Guide & include three-nights accommodation
• Absorb breath-taking scenery in National Parks, discover Wales’ industrial past and marvel at magnificent Welsh castles