12 Best Things To See In Liverpool: Ultimate Guide

12 Best Things To See In Liverpool: Ultimate Guide

by | Feb 25, 2022 | UK

You’ll Never Walk Alone in Liverpool

Liverpool is a city in the Northwest of England, on the eastern side of the Irish Sea. It has been a port and trading place for over 1,000 years due to its location at the mouth of three rivers: The Mersey and The Irwell join to form “The River Mersey” which leads out into the Irish Sea. This made Liverpool Britain’s third-largest port by tonnage from the late 18th century until 1960. In recent times it has re-invented itself as one of Europe’s leading tourist destinations with plenty to offer for first-time visitors or those who want to explore more about their heritage

Liverpool is a city that has something for everyone. From its vibrant nightlife and music scene to its rich history and cultural attractions, there is always something new to explore in Liverpool. If you’re visiting for the first time, here are twelve must-see attractions that you won’t want to miss!

Language English

The currency British Pound

Where to stay in Liverpool

If you are looking to stay one, two, or more nights, you can book here with Booking.com If you like staying in Hostels, you can book your hostel with Hostel Worldwide.

 

***This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through clicking the link, we may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you.***

The Albert Dock

Albert Dock is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Liverpool’s most popular tourist destinations. It’s has a number of museums and attractions, including the Tate Liverpool, the Mersey Ferry which offer stunning views of Liverpool’s iconic skyline, and The Beatles Story Museum.

The Albert Dock was originally built in 1846 and was the first-ever dock to be built in Liverpool. It was remodeled in the 1970s and is now a popular tourist destination. The dock also has many restaurants, bars, and shops, which are perfect for spending an afternoon shopping or catching up with friends over a few drinks.

The Albert Dock is also home to the largest collection of Grade I listed buildings in the country, so there’s plenty to see and explore!

 

The Dock Liverpool
Beatles Liverpool

The Beatles Story Museum- Liverpool

The Beatles Story Museum is dedicated to the history of The Beatles. It is located in the former warehouse where The Beatles’ first-ever recording was made.

The museum contains a number of exhibits about the band, including photos, instruments, and clothing. There is also a multimedia show which tells the story of the band’s rise to fame.

The Beatles Story Museum is a must-see for any fan of The Beatles. It’s the perfect place to learn more about the band’s history and how it became one of the most successful bands of all time.

The Beatles shop Liverpool

Liverpool Cathedral

Liverpool Cathedral is the Anglican cathedral of the Diocese of Liverpool. It is the fifth-largest cathedral in the United Kingdom and the largest in England outside London.

The cathedral was designed by Sir George Gilbert Scott and built between 1841 and 1874. It is constructed in sandstone and has a copper roof. The cathedral is noted for its grand interior and imposing architecture. It’s one of the most impressive cathedrals in the country.

Liverpool Cathedral
Liverpool Cathedral

Museum of Liverpool

The Museum of Liverpool is the new home of the Merseyside Maritime Museum and the International Slavery Museum. It is located in the city’s UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Albert Dock.

The museum tells the story of Liverpool from its origins as a port town to its modern-day status as one of Europe’s leading tourist destinations. It contains a number of exhibits about Liverpool’s history and culture, including photos, instruments, and clothing. There is also a multimedia show which tells the story of the city’s rise to fame. The museum is a must-see for any fan of Liverpool’s history and culture.

Liverpool Museum

The Tate Liverpool

The Tate Liverpool is a museum dedicated to contemporary art. It too is located in the Albert Dock. The Tate Liverpool was founded in 1988 and is one of Tate’s four museums in the United Kingdom. It contains a number of exhibits about contemporary art, including photos, paintings, and sculptures. It’s the perfect place to learn more about the latest trends in art and how they are shaping the future of the industry.

Liverpool Tate

Merseyside Maritime Museum

The Merseyside maritime museum is dedicated to the maritime history of Liverpool. It is another museum that can be found at The Albert Dock. The museum contains a number of exhibits about Liverpool’s maritime history, with photos, instruments, and clothing. 

Liverpool Maritime Musuem

The Mersey Ferry

The Mersey Ferry is a ferry service that operates across the River Mersey. It is one of the longest established ferry services in the world and has been in operation since 1815. The ferries operate between the Pier Head in Liverpool and Birkenhead, Wallasey, and Seacombe on the Wirral Peninsula. The ferries offer stunning views of Liverpool’s skyline and you can use this ferry as a hop-on-hop-off to explore.

Liverpool Mersey Ferry

Liverpool Football Club and Anfield Football Stadium

Liverpool Football Club is a professional football club based in Liverpool, England. The club was founded in 1892 and plays its home games at Anfield, which has a capacity of 54,074. Liverpool is one of the most successful clubs in English football and has won 18 League Championships, seven FA Cups, and five European Cups. The club is also the reigning UEFA Champions League champion.

Anfield football stadium is the home of Liverpool F.C. since 1892. It is also the home of the Liverpool Cricket Club. The stadium was originally built in 1884 and was enlarged in 1906 and again in 1992. It is now the largest football stadium in England. Anfield is a must-see for any fan of Liverpool F.C. or English football in general. The stadium has a long and rich history and is home to some of the most passionate fans in the world.  

Liverpool Football

Sefton Park

Sefton Park is a large park in the Liverpool suburb of Sefton. The park was opened in 1872 and covers over 221 acres. It is the second-largest park in Liverpool, after Stanley Park. The park contains a number of attractions, including a boating lake, a bandstand, and a cricket ground. There are also a number of gardens, including a rose garden, a Japanese garden, and an Italian garden. The park is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike and is the perfect place to relax and enjoy nature.

Liverpool Sefton Park

Chinatown

Chinatown is home to the city’s Chinese community. The district was established in the early 19th century and is now the largest Chinatown in Europe. The district contains a number of Chinese restaurants, shops, and temples. It is a popular spot for tourists and locals alike and is a good place to visit if you want to experience Liverpool’s multiculturalism.

Liverpool China Town

Liverpool One Shopping

Liverpool One is a retail and leisure destination that spans over three acres which includes an iconic shopping center, restaurants, bars, cafés, offices, and residential apartments. There are more than 100 shops in the complex including high street brands like Primark and Debenhams. It also has a cinema with 12 screens including 3D-ready screens for immersive movie watching. Visitors can enjoy live entertainment from local artists at the Village Square or visit one of the many eateries to sample authentic dishes from around the world.

A great tip is that it’s better to get there early since it can get pretty busy.

Liverpool One

Explore Liverpool’s Street Art

 Liverpool is a city with a rich history and a vibrant culture. One of the ways in which this culture is expressed is through the city’s street art. There are a number of murals, graffiti, and street art installations around the city that depict the city’s history, culture, and people. Some of the most famous pieces of street art in Liverpool can be found at The Pier Head, Albert Dock, and Penny Lane.

The Pier Head is home to a number of murals that depict Liverpool’s maritime history. One mural shows the Liver Building as it would have looked in 1912, while another shows three of Liverpool’s most famous ships: The Royal Mail Steam Packet Company’s Blue Riband-winning RMS Mauretania, the PS Waverley paddle steamer, and Cunard’s RMS Queen Mary 2. Find more about street art throughout Liverpool HERE.

Liverpool Street Art

Liverpool is a city that is constantly alive with activity and there are always new attractions for first-time visitors. From the Beatles Story Museum to the Liverpool Cathedral, there’s something for everyone in this historic city. You can also explore the lively nightlife and trendy restaurants in Liverpool’s bustling downtown district. With so much to see and do, it’s no wonder Liverpool is one of Europe’s most popular tourist destinations. Make sure you add Liverpool to your list of must-see cities on your next trip abroad!

Liverpool is surrounded by many beautiful places to visit within the United Kingdom, within a 2-3 hour drive you can visit places like Manchester, and Cardiff if you are a football fan and a Beetles fan, and visit the stunning historic town of Oxford, and of course not to forget the famous London. 

 

10 Exciting Attractions You Must See In Barcelona, Spain

10 Exciting Attractions You Must See In Barcelona, Spain

by | Dec 17, 2020 | Spain

Welcome to Part 2 of exploring Barcelona

 

Following on from my Deep dive in Barcelona, here you will find my list of the top 10 recommended places to visit.

Famous for its architecture, history, art galleries, and food Barcelona is a gem waiting to be uncovered; every turn you take leads to somewhere interesting, keeping you hooked from the second you set foot inside the city. Taking you through its dipping history and Catalan culture; each neighborhood showcases a different side.

Getting around

Barcelona is easy with the many options available; you can walk to many attractions throughout the city or opt to use the metro system or tram, the metro system is easy to navigate or you can enjoy a bike ride and explore the city sights; you can find rental bikes throughout the city; if this is not for you, you can purchase a City Pass they are more economical and allow you to get around in no time.

Buy a city pass that offers unlimited uses, allowing you to skip the long lines and go for a direct entry. You can walk to many attractions throughout the city or opt to use the metro system or tram; the metro system is easy to navigate.

Top 10 not to miss attractions in Barcelona

  1. La Sagrada Familia
  2. Casa Milà
  3. La Rambla, Barcelona (Including: Mercado de La Boqueria (Market)
  4. Camp Nou (FC Barcelona)
  5. Park Güell
  6. Barri Gotic (Gothic Quarter)
  7. Passeig de Gràcia
  8. Casa Batlló
  9. Coastline Beach
  10. Montjuïc Park

***This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through clicking the link, we may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you.***

1. La Sagrada Familia

La Sagrada Familia is a stunning sight to be seen, be in awe of the stunning architecture and vision of Gaudi’s masterpiece, you can choose to climb (or take the elevator) up to some of the towers and be stunned with breathtaking views of Barcelona.

Although still a working masterpiece, you can book a guided tour through the completed parts of the basilica and museum and learn about the history of the La Sagrada Familia or explore at your own pace if you are thinking of buying a ticket for a guided tour/audio tour.

I suggest pre-purchasing your tickets online to avoid disappointment. Tickets start from about €25+ depending on your choice of tour, and kids are free.

La Sagrada Familia began construction in 1882 and was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1984. In 2010 it was declared by Pope Benedict XVI a basilica, it is believed the construction may be completed by the year 2026.

La Sagrada Familia is the final resting place of Antoni Gaudí; he died in 1926 after being struck by a tram. You can view Antoni’s gravestone in the chapel that is dedicated to our Lady of Mount Carmel.

 

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2. Casa Milà

Casa Milá, known as La Pedrera, is the last architectural project Antoni Gaudí worked on before he passed. A masterpiece of nature, stunning and full of imagination. Here you can find a good understanding of Gaudi and learn about his genius architect’s work and his inspiration.

Casa Milá; is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1984, the same time as the La Sagrada Familia. Casa Milá was completed in 1910 and granted permission by the City council to live on the main floor in 1911. Casa Milá is now used for tourists to explore day and night and is used for cultural and social events, conferences, exhibits, and other activities.

Explore this landmark and be inspired by the story and history with a tour from Get your guide starting from €24  or you can view Casa Mila at your own pace with an audio guide. Hint: If you can buy your tickets online, it can save you a few euros.

I would recommend you visit in the morning or later afternoon to avoid the busy crowds and allow up to 2 hours to explore the full Casa Milá.

Some of the inspiring rooms to explore:

Warrior Rooftop Casa Milà rooftop terrace with its artistic design is considered one of Barcelona’s best eye views of the city, you will find stunning 360º views of the city. The stairwell and chimneys are positioned to follow the façade.

The Whale Attic of the Casa Milà, once where the laundry and storage rooms were located, is now a work of art referencing nature, giving you the feeling of being inside a whale skeleton. Consisting of 270 catenary arches the Whale attic is a space for the extraordinary exhibit of Gaudí’s work filled with designs, drawings, and objects.

The Tenant’s Apartment is on the fourth floor above the main floor; the apartment shows how a family; in Barcelona lived in the 20th century. Recreated with furnishings from the 20th century, it will give you a sense of how the apartments; were decorated back in time.

In the Flower Courtyard in Passeig de Gràcia, you will find on the ceiling of the stunning staircase taking you to the main floor hundreds of flowers with a sight of shapes, light, and colors.

The Butterfly Courtyard in Carrer Provença; along with The Flower Courtyard, was designed to give access to the apartments and give ample lighting, with wall paintings giving an abundance of colors from the ceilings and sidewalls of the entrance halls and the main staircase. 

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barcelona

3. La Rambla, Barcelona

A visit to La Rambla is a must on your visit to Barcelona, although filled with tourists, it is a must to explore, a street lined with trees, it is vibrant and offers street performances, human statues, artists, and more and is filled with restaurants and shops, among plenty of other places on offer to visitors. La Rambla is found between the neighborhoods of the Barri Gotic and El Ravel.

Las Rambla is home to an Erotica Museum; not one for the kids, it’s one for the adults and will offer a great laugh with the sights of some interesting erotic toys, sculptures, photography, and more for as little as €10, you will discover the history of sex and more.

La Boqueria Market is not to be missed; during your visit to Barcelona, opened in 1840, it is a market for food lovers, with over 200 stalls, there is so much variety of fresh seafood, meats, fruit, olives, nuts, cheeses, and more. The market is open Tuesday to Sunday and closed on Mondays.

Feeling hungry there are so many cafes and restaurants you can refresh at, make a stop at Cafè de l’Òpera and grab a bite to eat and drink.

Mosaic de Miró is found in plaza de la Boqueria close by the Boqueria market, the circular terrazzo tile artwork was created by Joan Miró, the colorful piece of artwork can often go unnoticed, but one statement to be seen, one of many in La Rambla.

Liceu opera house can be found in La Rambla, the Opera house opened back in April 1847 and can be found across from the metro station, the Liceu metro station was named after the Liceu theatre. 

market
football

4. Camp Nou – stadium home to F.C. Barcelona

Delve in and learn some history with a tour from Get your guide starting from €25.

Are you a football (soccer) fan? a visit to the Barcelona FC stadium is not to be missed, get the full experience as you take a tour and explore the grounds, retrace the footsteps of legendary players from the past and present like Lionel Messi and Maradona. Visit the club’s changing room, walk onto the pitch, visit the FC Barcelona Museum, and learn about the club’s history.

Fact. The stadium is the largest in Spain and Europe it can seat close to 100,000 people, opened in 1957, and hosts the European Champions League.

Barcelona
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5. Park Güell

Park Güell found in La Salut, is in the Gràcia neighborhood; the park was completed in 1914 and opened to the public in 1926. Park Güell is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1984. Park Güell is a popular attraction and is filled with tourists every day; the park is filled with gardens and architectural bliss, here you will find a stunning view over Barcelona.

The park is open year-round, and for a low cost, it is worth a visit, if you are more interested in a guided tour and skipping the long line up to enter, you can book a tour for as little as €23.00

 

Barcelona
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6. Barri Gotic (Gothic Quarter)

Located in the heart of Barcelona is Ciutat Vella, an old town that has been preserved to take you back in time. Barri Gotic is one of the most mesmerizing places, as you walk down the narrow streets you can take in the charming and secluded plazas, you can enjoy a cup of coffee or a quick bite in one of the many cafes, drop in to check out one of the local boutiques and most importantly take in the staggering historic buildings.

Some of these buildings date back to Roman times, allowing you to imagine the world back then. Best when explored on foot, a place where you can easily spend a few hours.

Soak in the experiences as you admire everything from arched alleyways to medieval architecture filled with bars and restaurants and some amazing shopping. 

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barcelona

7. Passeig de Gràcia

One of the most famous independent villages here is Gracià, a cool barrio where you can find bohemian-inspired enclaves, lively plazas, small cobblestoned lanes, and a place where locals gather to chat over some coffee.

From dawn to dusk, the area is bustling with locals and those looking to see a view of Barcelona. Passeig de Gracià is well-known for its designer shopping with brands like Louis Vuitton, Gucci, and more. Passeig de Gràcia has the city’s most visited architectural attractions like Casa Milà, the Sagrada Familia, and Casa Batlló.

8. Casa Batlló

The Casa Batlló is another UNESCO World Heritage site, built back in 1877 by the famous architect Antoni Gaudi, the iconic building is one of many his intriguing designs not to be missed found in Passeig de Gracià, it’s hard to miss covered with its colored mosaics and unique design. To visit this wonder, I would allow between 1-2 hours to explore, and even the kids will love it with its colors, art, lights, and surprises.

 

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Barcelona Bike Ride
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9. Coastline Beach

Perfectly along the Mediterranean Sea, you can enjoy a 4.5km long sunny, sandy, and stunning coastline, a perfect resting place when you are done uncovering the city for the day.

Here you can soak up the sun, enjoy the cool breeze and get in touch with the Barcelona beach vibe. Barceloneta beach is by far the busiest beach in Barcelona, but there are a few beaches you can walk along in Barcelona, including a walk to Nova Icària beach where you will find the Frank Gehry’s Peix (Fish Sculpture).

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barcelona

10. Montjuïc Park

A 10-minute cable cart ride from Montjuïc Park takes you to the castle on the hill. A smooth ride that glides over Barcelona, offering you a stunning view of everything around you. While the real fun begins when you reach the 512 meters (above sea level) vantage point, you can see everything from the surrounding coastline to a tiny glimpse of Ibiza and Mallorca (on a clear day). Montjuïc Park is a must-visit, and you will be in awe of the artwork, architecture, and history here.

Tip: wear comfortable shoes, as you will do a lot of walking, you can spend all day exploring the park.

To truly explore this magical park and the whole of Barcelona. I recommend doing a tour; you can book a tour here.

Spain has so many beautiful cities to visit, If you have the time to explore more of Spain be sure to add Valencia to your list.

The Best Way How to Explore Barcelona- Quick & Easy

The Best Way How to Explore Barcelona- Quick & Easy

by | Nov 29, 2020 | Spain

Famous for its architecture, history, art galleries, and food Barcelona is a gem waiting to be uncovered, every turn you take leads to somewhere interesting, keeping you hooked from the second you set foot inside the city. Taking you through its dipping history and Catalan culture each neighborhood showcases a different side.

 

***This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through clicking the link, we may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you.***

Getting Around When in Barcelona

To take in all that Barcelona has to offer it’s best to purchase a City Pass; they are more economical and allow you to get around in no time. Make sure you get a city pass that offers unlimited uses, allowing you to skip the long lines and go for a direct entry. A hassle-free solution that gets you into Sagrada Familia, Picasso Museum, MNAC, and other attractions for free; additionally, some added perks may include a 1-Day hop-on-off sightseeing bus ticket, travel discounts, or a complimentary travel brochure. You can get your tickets here.

Place to sleep

Barcelona has an abundance of accommodation; during my time, I stayed at the Sun and Moon Hostel in the Gothic area; it was a great location within walking distance to Barceloneta beach, metro station, and La Rambla. You can book your next hostel stay here or book one of the many hotels around the city here.

Losing Yourself in The Gothic Quarter

Located in the heart of Barcelona is Ciutat Vella, an old town that has been preserved to take you back in time. Barri Gotic is one of the most mesmerizing places, as you walk down the narrow streets you can take in the charming and secluded plazas, you can enjoy a cup of coffee or a quick bite in one of the many cafes, drop in to check out one of the local boutiques and most importantly take in the staggering historic buildings. Some of these buildings date back to Roman times, allowing you to imagine the world back then.

Best when explored on foot, a place where you can easily spend a few hours. Soaking in the experiences as you admire everything from arched alleyways to medieval architecture.

Soak Some Sun on The Beach

One of the reasons why Barcelona is considered a gem is due to its location! Sitting perfectly along the Mediterranean sea, you can enjoy a 4.5km long sunny, sandy, and stunning coastline, a perfect resting place when you are done uncovering the city for the day. However, even around the coastline, you will find endless galleries, museums, and boutiques. Each one offers you something different and charming to enjoy.

Barcelona is a learning experience, and you must absorb the information like a sponge. It calls for a relaxing few hours at the beach! Here you can soak up the sun, enjoy the cool breeze and get in touch with the Barcelona beach vibe. From bars to lounges, to water activities, you can have it all! Once you are done, you can dust yourself off and walk back into the city center in a matter of minutes.

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Taking in Barcelona From the Top

One of the best places to appreciate Barcelona’s architecture and geography is from the top, there are tourist spots that offer you a complete view of the city and from many different angles, allowing you to take in all that the city has to offer from an urban landscape to its magical natural surroundings.

A 10-minute cable cart ride from Montjuic Park takes you to the castle on the hill. A smooth ride that glides over Barcelona, offering you a stunning view of everything around you. While the real fun begins when you reach the 512 meters (above sea level) vantage point, you can see everything from the surrounding coastline to a tiny glimpse of Ibiza and Mallorca (on a clear day).

Another great vantage point is from the tower of Sagrada Familia, Les Arenes terraces, La Pedrera’s rooftop, and the Palau National (overlooking the magic fountain of grandiose Plaça d’Espanya. Another breathtakingly beautiful view is from the Terrace of Park Guell.

If you are in the mood to party then you will find endless rooftop bars and pools that offer you a panoramic view of the city as you snack on something fabulous, with a drink of your choice!

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Getting Around on a Cycle

One of the best ways to get around Barcelona is on a cycle. With more than 200 km of designated cycle lanes and free-cycle service, you will find it hard to keep your feet on the ground. This bike-friendly city encourages locals and tourists to bike around when exploring the city. It is faster than walking around and still allows you to take in all that the city has to offer.

You can explore Barcelona with a 3.5-hour bike tour by pedaling or if like me, not so fit, the bikes are electric for them uphill climbs, explore places like Montjuic Hill, Port Vell, El Raval, Gothic Quarter, and more. Bike tours start from €39 and you can book them with Viator.

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Neighbourhood Hopping When in Barcelona

When looking to explore the Catalan culture, we suggest you discover the different faces of Barcelona. One of the most famous independent villages here is Gracia a cool barrio where you can find bohemian-inspired enclaves, lively plazas, small cobblestoned lanes, and a place where locals gather to chit chat over some coffee. From dawn to dusk, the area is bustling with locals and those looking to see a view of Barcelona.

Ciutat Vella is one of Barcelona’s most creative and captivating neighborhoods. Where you will find endless independent galleries, world-class museums, and artist workshops, when you head to El Born you will find ancient churches standing tall alongside Michelin-star restaurants. Walking around the maze-like streets you get a sense of the importance of architecture in Barcelona.

 

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Walking Down Las Ramblas

Once you have visited the most important points you wanted to experience, we suggest you go around on a walking tour. Pick Las Ramblas as your starting point, and you may walk towards the mountains or the beach. Both experiences offer something a little more different. While walking towards the beach will help you take in all the local hype, walking towards the mountain range will give you a view of how Barcelona offers another side as well.

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Top Places to visit.

  1. La Sagrada Familia
  2. Casa Milà
  3. La Rambla, Barcelona (Including: Mercado de La Boqueria (Market)
  4. Camp Nou (FC Barcelona)
  5. Park Güell
  6. Barri Gotic (Gothic Quarter)
  7. Passeig de Gràcia
  8. Casa Batlló
  9. Coastline Beach
  10. Montjuïc Park

You can see more about my top 10 recommended places to visit in Barcelona HERE.

 

Barcelona is one of those cities that has it all, which is why it’s hard to nail down the places you must visit. It’s more on what you are looking to explore and which top attractions you feel are right for you. Every experience is unique, and one must take the challenge to let the chips fall as they may when in Barcelona.

Don’t forget to check out the top 10 things to see HERE and if you are exploring more of Spain be sure to add Valencia to your list.

Cardiff 7 fascinating attractions to see in Wales

Cardiff 7 fascinating attractions to see in Wales

by | Nov 3, 2020 | EUROPE, UK

A Historic city full of Charm 

 

Cardiff is the capital city of Wales and is the eleventh-largest city in the United Kingdom. Wales is situated Southwest of Great Britain and is about 240km west of London and filled with some of the friendliest people.

Cardiff is a beautiful coastal city filled with Celtic culture, medieval castles, entertainment, and parklands. It is a blend of the past and the present and has something for everyone; family, couple or singles, be enlightened with the history, enjoy some entertainment, spoil yourself with some shopping and an abundance of food or relax and walk along their stunning Greenland’s.

The best thing about Cardiff is you can explore the city on foot, saving you from transport.

Language Over 90% of the population speaks English and Welsh (Cymry).

The currency is the British pound.

The best time to visit Cardiff is generally in summer, although it is the busiest season and the prices are higher, so if you are thinking of staying in Cardiff, you may want to book ahead. The best time to visit is between April and May; you will encounter the beautiful flowers in bloom and fewer crowds and prices.

Getting to Cardiff: The quickest and direct way is by the National rail train from London (Paddington station) it takes about one hour and forty minutes.

You can travel by bus with national express couches although it takes around 3.5 hours. You can book with Rome 2 Rio here. There is a cheaper bus option around £15 return; with Mega Bus which is about a 4-hour journey as it makes a few stops along the way.

A great way to meet new people and save on travel costs is to share a ride with a local heading in the same direction; check out blablacar.

Where to stay: I only spent a day exploring Cardiff, but accommodation is abundant throughout Cardiff. If you are looking to stay a night or two, you can book here with Booking.com

 

Explore Cardiff Castle

Situated in the heart of the city; it originated from the Roman times, it has had a major transformation in the 19th century the rooms were decorated with a rich gothic style filled with over 2000 years of history; you can explore the castle at your own pace with an audio tour, allow at least two hours to view the castle, you can climb the Norman keep, visit the Wartime shelters and Firing line, discover the Roman remains and wonder the Castle lavish decorated apartments.

Entry costs to Cardiff Castle: £14.50 Adult, £10.00 Child (5-16), Family (2A,2C) £42.00 – prices as of 2021.

 

Cardiff Bay

Was extremely significant in the 1900s; it was the main way of transporting coal to the rest of the world, it has since been restored into a lavish waterfront bustling with entertainment and iconic buildings like Pierhead that is used as a unique visitor and events venue and The Senedd that is the Welsh Parliament building; along with the beautiful Norwegian church that now operates as an art center that holds small celebrations, art exhibitions, and cultural events.

The writer Ronald Dahl and his family attended this church, he was also baptized here before its state of despair; there is now a room in memory of Dahl called ‘The Dahl Gallery.’ You will also find the Mermaid Quay here on the waterfront; if you are a bit peckish and need a drink there are bars, cafés, restaurants, and shops here.

Millennium Stadium 

located in the heart of Cardiff Bay; it opened in 2004; if you are lucky during your visit you might be able to catch a musical, opera, ballet, dance, theatre show, or even a comedy show. The stadium is big and sits around 76,000 people; If you do not get to catch a show during your visit, it’s worth a stop to see the impressive architecture; there are restaurants and bars here to stop and have a bite to eat or refresh. 

 

Bute Park

Explore the beautiful Bute Park, wander around the picturesque gardens found just behind Cardiff Castle, it’s worth a visit it is filled with nature, (birds, river animals, flowers, trees) and has the River Taff running through the park, there are a few cafes and trails if you like you can jump on a river taxi and make your way to Cardiff Bay or you can hire a bike and explore the many trails.

Shopping 

There is an abundance of shopping in Cardiff all within walking distance, there are two main shopping centers (Queens Arcade and St Davids center), not to mention the Victorian and Edwardian, Royal and Morgan arcades you can stroll through, with architectural beauty the arcades are filled with charming independent boutiques and cafes. 

Try some tasty cheese and delightful coffee; you will find the world’s oldest record shop ‘Spillers Records’ here it’s a landmark in its own right; it opened in 1894 filled with vinyl and CDs, if you are a music enthusiast you might like to consider this on your list, it’s unique. You can buy concert tickets here too.

The Queens Arcade is in the vibrant city center it has a great selection of unique local retailers and big-name brands, one of the many places to pick up a perfect gift for those more on a budget.

A further five-minute walk you can visit the St David’s shopping center filled with over 180 stores, well-known eateries, and a little fun for the whole family with an indoor mini-golf course.

Visit the thriving indoor Cardiff market 

 

Found in the center of the city, within five minutes’ walk of the Cardiff Castle it is 2 levels and is filled with local produce and products, traditional Welsh and international cuisine, this is a place for food lovers, you can find souvenirs, clothing, and a record shop and for the men, a barbershop. If you are not watching your calories, here is a place to indulge.

 

National Museum

You will find it in the heart of the civic center, the best thing is it is free to visit. It has Wales national art, natural exhibits, and dinosaurs and mammoths on display, something for the whole family.

Do not go past the traditional Love Spoon if you are looking for a souvenir for your trip; my suggestion is to look at the traditional welsh love spoons hand-carved representing a different meaning. On my trip, I bought a Love heart spoon that gestures I love you; other spoons like a horseshoe are for luck, Celtic cross or bell is for faith/wedding.

You can easily walk around Cardiff at your leisure, or you can jump on the double-decker hop-on, hop-off city sightseeing bus tour that has 11 stops throughout Cardiff. Buy a ticket it is valid for 24-hours from when you first use it, the entire route takes approximately 50-minutes, I did not do this tour personally, but I did see the bus throughout my time in Cardiff. You can book your City-sightseeing tour here.

Cardiff is surrounded by many beautiful places to visit within the United Kingdom, within a 2-3 hour drive you can visit places like Manchester, and Liverpool if you are a football fan and a Beetles fan and visit the stunning historic town of Oxford, and of course not to forget the famous London.