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A Weekend in Cardiff: Your Guide to the Perfect Getaway



Cardiff, the Welsh capital, offers the perfect blend of vibrant city life, rich history, and beautiful waterfront scenery. Whether you’re here for a foodie adventure, a relaxing break, or a bit of both, this guide will take you through the best places to stay, eat, and explore for a memorable weekend in Cardiff.



Where to Stay: Voco St. David’s Cardiff

For your weekend retreat, there’s no better place to stay than Voco St. David’s Hotel in Cardiff Bay. This sleek, glass-fronted hotel is an architectural gem and offers an unparalleled stay experience, blending luxury with comfort. Situated on the waterfront, the hotel’s 7th-floor rooms provide incredible panoramic views of Cardiff Bay that will leave you awestruck, especially at sunset. Imagine stepping onto your private balcony with a cup of coffee, breathing in the fresh sea air while taking in the stunning vista of the Bay and the iconic Wales Millennium Centre in the distance.


The rooms at Voco are not only spacious but also meticulously designed for comfort. The beds are fitted with the best mattresses and pillows—plush, supportive, and perfect for sinking into after a day of exploring. You’re guaranteed a restful night's sleep here.

The hotel’s staff are outstanding, providing impeccable service with a personal touch. From a warm welcome at reception to helpful concierge services, every interaction is a delight. Their local knowledge and attention to detail ensure that your stay is as smooth and relaxing as possible.


A trip to Voco wouldn’t be complete without indulging in the hotel’s award-winning spa, a true sanctuary for relaxation. You can unwind in the heated pool, detox in the sauna and steam room, or book one of their signature treatments. The spa offers everything from deep-tissue massages to revitalizing facials, making it an absolute must-do during your weekend.


For more information and bookings: here.


Where to Have Breakfast: Hard Lines

No Cardiff morning is complete without a visit to Hard Lines, a beloved local café that has gained a loyal following for its excellent coffee and cozy atmosphere. Hard Lines started as a small coffee venture in Cardiff where it’s now a cornerstone of the local café scene. The company prides itself on its ethos of sustainability and community, working directly with coffee producers to source the highest quality beans.


The café has a relaxed, minimalist vibe, making it a great spot to start your day. Whether you're a coffee aficionado or just looking for something warm and comforting, their Pumpkin Spice Latte is a seasonal favorite—a perfectly spiced, aromatic drink that feels like autumn in a cup. But what really sets Hard Lines apart are their famous cookies. Made fresh daily, they’re thick, crispy on the outside, and decadently gooey in the center, packed with chunks of rich chocolate. It’s a delicious way to fuel up before your day’s adventures.


For more information and bookings: here.



Where to Have Lunch: Eat The Bird

For lunch, head over to Eat The Bird, located in the heart of Cardiff’s city center. If you love burgers, this is the place for you. The restaurant is known for creating some of the best burgers on the planet, and it’s not an exaggeration. Their menu features a selection of inventive, over-the-top burgers, with their chicken burgers being the star of the show. Each burger is fried to golden perfection—crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and bursting with flavor.


Their Kyiv Chicken Fries are a standout dish as well—a mouthwatering combination of fries topped with garlicky, buttery chicken that pays homage to the classic Chicken Kyiv. To wash it all down, order one of their signature Vanilla Shakes, which are thick, creamy, and indulgent—everything you want in a milkshake. The laid-back vibe and friendly service make it a great spot to grab a casual, hearty lunch during your Cardiff exploration.


For more information and bookings: here.



What to Visit: Cardiff Market

For a slice of local life, make sure to stop by Cardiff Market, a bustling Victorian market hall that has been a part of the city’s fabric for over 100 years. Located in the heart of Cardiff, the market is housed in a grand, glass-roofed building that’s worth a visit for its architecture alone.

Once inside, you’ll find a vibrant mix of stalls selling everything from fresh local produce to handmade crafts, books, antiques, and vintage clothing. It’s the perfect spot to pick up a unique souvenir or simply enjoy a taste of authentic Welsh life. You’ll also find traditional Welsh cakes, freshly made on the griddle right before your eyes, offering a sweet, buttery taste of Welsh heritage. For a more adventurous snack, try the cockles and laverbread—a local delicacy often served with vinegar and pepper.

Cardiff Market is more than just a place to shop—it’s an experience. The friendly stallholders are always up for a chat and eager to share their stories, making it a wonderful place to immerse yourself in Cardiff’s culture and community.


For more information: here.


Wrapping Up Your Weekend

Whether you’re unwinding in the luxury of Voco St. David’s, sipping a handcrafted coffee at Hard Lines, indulging in a gourmet burger at Eat The Bird, or exploring the historic charm of Cardiff Market, this city offers something for everyone. Cardiff is the perfect mix of urban energy, rich history, and waterfront relaxation—ideal for a weekend getaway. By the end of your stay, you’ll leave with a full stomach, refreshed spirit, and a deeper appreciation for the capital of Wales.


Words by Sal F.

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