Cardiff is the capital city of Wales and is a small city with a relaxed vibe with plenty to see and do. It has the River Taff running through it and a castle in its centre, surrounded by the idyllic resting spot on a summers day, Bute Park.

There is no doubt about it that Cardiff is a great city to visit but here are 10 reasons why you should add it to you bucket list for 2021…

#1 Arms Wide Open

The Welsh people are known for their charm, humour, and most of all, their hospitable nature. You can expect a warm welcome for sure. The pubs and bars are full of atmosphere, especially on a rugby day, and you are bound to have a great time when out and about in the city.

#2 No Question of Sport

The city has an indefinite focus surrounding sport. They have fantastic sporting hubs including the Cardiff Arms Park and Principality Stadium right in the centre of town. The Principality Stadium can be seen for miles.

Cardiff has been host to many sporting masterpieces including the FA Cup finals and the Rugby League Challenge Cup finals. Cardiff is also big on cricket, and the Sophia Gardens cricket grounds are the headquarters of the Glamorgan CCC. There are even ice hockey games to enjoy.

#3 Head to Pillow

There is no denying that Cardiff has an array of options when it comes to spending the night, and it can be the perfect place for you to enjoy a weekend away as a couple, with friends or as a family. When seeking out accommodation, an option like serviced apartments could be an excellent choice to give you greater flexibility in what you do while you enjoy the city.

#4 Cardiff Castle

Cardiff Castle has a lot to offer and is a great destination to visit whilst in the city of Cardiff. From the amazing kaleidoscope-effect Arab room to the animal wall that has many stone animal sculptures, there is something for everyone.

Entry to the castle will only costs a tenner (£10) and there’s even an option of a ghost tour at night for the adrenaline junkies amongst you.

#5 Near The Sea

Cardiff Bay, or it’s old school name ‘Tiger Bay’, has a whole host of attractions waiting for you to explore along with the fantastic views over the water.

You have the science museum Techniquest, the Norwegian Church with links to Roald Dahl and the natural beauty that is the Wetlands Reserve. There are also plenty of bars and restaurants to choose from, so you are bound to pick up a couple of blisters and fill your bell during your time here. There is a lot to enjoy at Cardiff Bay, and many recreational activities that pretty much all walks of life can enjoy.

#6 A Bute-iful Park

Bute Park is in the beautiful extended grounds of Cardiff Castle right next to the city centre. A lot of the grounds in Bute Park run alongside the River Taff making it a stellar spot for a wholesome bike ride or simply having a wander.

There are stunning and colourful flower beds to admire and a host of different tree species for you to spot or hug; which ever takes your fancy. It is a great destination to explore, especially during the autumn time when nature can come into its own. There you can catch the water bus to Cardiff Bay and enjoy a cup of tea and a slice of cake in the The Secret Garden or the Pettigrew Tea Rooms.

#7 A Little Birdy Told Us

About Roath Park Lake with the Victorian Lighthouse, the bird life and the weeping willows is a highlight in the city of Cardiff. For bird enthusiasts (we know you’re out there) you will find Mallard, Cormorants and herons, and the little islands on the lake provide areas for them to nest.

Hiring a boat is a great way to explore the lake and options include Water Walkerz, Peddlerz and Pedalos, or rowing boats for you hopeless romantics.

#8 It’s Party Time

Cardiff is one of the UK’s most popular places to visit for nightlife. For those tequila shot takers, mojito mandem or those sober supporters who want to enjoy the bars and clubs Cardiff is the place to make a beeline for. It is more often than not a strong contender for many hen and stag parties. Welsh pubs are notoriously lively (devil face emoji). With live music, craft ales and friendly locals, you can’t go wrong. Then if you want to dance the night away there are many bars & clubs for you to enjoy.

#9 Steeped in Culture

If you want to understand Welsh culture, architecture, history and traditions then there is no better place than The National Museum of History. This is an open-air museum that is spread over acres of parkland in the grounds of St. Fagans Castle. Amongst the 40-plus historical or imitation buildings you will find a farm, a pottery house where you can have a go yourself and plenty of gardens to explore.

#10 Tiny Ville of Llandaff

Llandaff is technically a city because of the cathedral but has a typical village vibe. A beautiful village green, high street and attractive houses. It has been the set for programmes such as Doctor Who and is famed for being the birthplace of Roald Dahl.

Let’s hope this has given you more than enough reason to visit Cardiff.