Cardiff knows how to do fun, and then some. From exhibitions and cocktails to markets, music and vintage shopping, the Welsh capital is packed with ways to fill your days (and nights) with smiles. To save you the scrolling endlessly and inevitable group chat chaos, we’re here with the very best things to do for a top-tier weekend in Cardiff, minus the tourist traps that, let’s face it, you’d rather avoid.

EAT

Brother Thai

A restaurant that has been going strong since 2015, famous for its classic Thai street food, including unique, buttery and delicious rotis, Brother Thai is a Muddy favourite. The restaurant is a little outside of the city centre, and fills up fast, so if you fancy visiting, be sure to book in advance. Best eaten like tacos, the sticky spicy beef and red curry chicken rotis are a must try, washed down with a lychee longtime or tuk tuk tequila. The team’s built such a loyal following that they’re already heading across the bridge, with a second location opening soon in Bristol. You’re welcome England.

Address: 35 Whitchurch Road, CF14 3JN

Sonder

This neighbourhood bistro is all about good vibes, great food and all day dining done properly. Opened by Jake Lewis (ex-Pasture chef) and Nick Saunders (Depot founder), it’s the kind of place you can drop into for a coffee or a couple of drinks and end up staying much longer than planned. Go casual with small plates like steak rösti bites, tuna tartare tacos and mini beef smash sliders, or commit to a full three-course feast, the choice is yours. We’re already eyeing up the crispy stuffed chicken schnitzel, followed by Basque cheesecake.

Address: 72 Llandaff Road, CF11 9NL

Milkwood

If brunch is your love language, Milkwood in Pontcanna is a non-negotiable (if you can snag a table, that is). With laid back, rustic interiors that lean a little Scandi and seating both inside and out, it’s one of Cardiff’s most in demand spots. Daytime favourites include waffles topped with mixed berries, yoghurt, maple syrup and fried chicken, or the breakfast bun stacked with sausage patty, hash brown, American cheese, fried egg and sriracha mayo. Come evening, Milkwood switches the vibe on Fridays and Saturdays with bespoke cocktails from an award winning local bartender, a cracking wine list curated with The Bottle Shop, plus homemade bar snacks and pizzette. Walk-ins only, so arrive early, or prepare to hover.

Address: 83 Pontcanna Street, CF11 9HS

Ember

Another Pontcanna favourite we keep going back to (purely for research purposes, obviously), and just next door to Heaneys. Ember focuses on seasonal British produce, fresh pasta and breads and in house charcuterie. Get the girls together — this will be your new favourite spot. The interiors are stripped back, and the restaurant is flooded with light. The main menu is fantastic, but we’re particularly big fans of the Sunday roast. For us, it’s a must to start with Pembrokeshire oysters with a beef broth, before spending a rather long time deciding which main to opt for. Two courses on Sunday are £35, or it’s £42 for three. Seats are kept free at the bar for drinkers, walk ins and solo diners.

Address: 5 Romilly Crescent, CF11 9NP

Heaneys

This is the kind of place we’d happily eat at on our day off. Chef Tommy Heaney and his partner Nikki (who also run the brilliant Uisce next door, focusing on oysters, small plates and wine) have been winning hearts since 2018. The five course lunch menus are seriously good value, but Sunday lunch may just tip the scales for us. Loads of choice for meat and fish eaters, and good veggie options. The £35 menu includes gorgeous nibbles, rich, comforting mains, and not only dessert, but sweets to follow, too. If you’ve got family or friends visiting, and want to impress them without breaking the bank, this is the place for you.

Address: 6-10 Romilly Crescent, CF11 9NR

DRINK

The Wardrobe

Okay, so The Wardrobe really is a hidden gem. From the outside, you’d never guess that behind that little blue shopfront is some of the best coffee in town. Tucked away in Kings Road Yard, it’s tiny in the best way, with just four tables, freshly baked cakes, and outrageously good cheese toasties. Step inside and you’ll notice the antique French wardrobe doors (see where the name comes from) and lots of character. It’s quirky, cosy, and run by the loveliest family, who are always up for a chat. Go solo and hide away from the rest of the world.

Address: 183a Kings Road Yard, CF11 9DF

Picton & Co

The showstopper here is the 360-degree bar, which just calls you straight away. There’s a brilliant lineup of cocktails, gins and wines, and if you really fall in love, you can even buy a bottle to take home. The space was designed by local team Studio Seven, who brought owner Ken’s vision to life (yes, the same Ken who owns the above Kevin Picton Salon). Just a short walk from the train station in the heart of Cardiff Bay, it’s spot on for date night, the last few hours of“working from home” on Friday afternoons, and a proper girls’ night out. Add in delicious charcuterie and small plates and you may as well set up camp.

Address: Unit 9, Mermaid Quay, CF10 5BZ

Nighthawks

Just opposite Cardiff Castle in the Castle Arcade, Nighthawks is small but mighty, and has to be one of our favourite places to swing by for a cheeky drink after a particularly stressful day traipsing around town. The team are super friendly, the vibe is great, and it’s an excellent spot for people watching those that are shopping in the arcade and walking the pavement outside. The wine list regularly changes to reflect a selection of handpicked wines that are always poured by the glass alongside paired cold plates, charcuterie and grilled cheeses. In the summer, we can’t resist the mouthwatering wine slushies. If you’ve got just one day in Cardiff, Nighthawks should be on your list – you won’t have to venture out of the city centre, and can make it work whether you’re popping in for just one, or getting the gang together for rounds.

Address: 47-49 Castle Arcade, CF10 1BW

Coffee Barker

Everyone who knows the foodie scene in Cardiff will be familiar with the city’s iconic Coffee Barker, but that doesn’t make it any less brilliant. Despite always being busy, as soon as you step inside, it feels like you’re home thanks to cosy, antique laden interiors. When shopping or running errands in the city centre, it’s the perfect place to catch your breath, with breakfast, lunch, fresh pastries, cakes, juices and possibly the biggest list of teas and coffees you’ve ever seen. If the chats are flowing and it’s time to switch from caffeine to something a bit more boozy, check out Gin & Juice next door — owned by the same people, and with the same immaculate vibes.

Address: 1-13 Castle Arcade, CF10 1BU

PLAY

Lark Design Make

Situated in Cathays, Lark Design Make is pure heaven for the creatives amongst us. Hosting craft workshops every day, it’s the perfect spot to learn something new, from kinusaiga fabric landscapes and crocheting to paper flowers and silver jewellery carving. If you’re looking for something to do with a big group and love to learn new skills, they can tailor events for groups or hen dos. Plus, studio dog Gwen is always on hand for moral support.

Address: Lark Studio, 36 Dogfield Street, CF24 4QZ

Chance & Counters

With over 650 well known and more obscure board games to choose from, at Chance & Counters you’ll never get bored. Doors are open until 11pm every day except Sunday, when they close at 9pm, so there’s plenty of time to try and conquer Scrabble. You pay per hour, and can play as many games as you like. Kids under 14 go free, so the whole family can get in on the fun. Communal events are regularly held, so keep an eye out for upcoming dates if that’s your kind of thing.

Address: 23 High St, CF10 1PT

Rest Space Flotation Rooms

Did somebody say zen? Step into your own private float pod and escape the noise of the world. Held weightlessly on warm, mineral rich water, your body is freed from gravity and your mind from distraction. The result is the deepest relaxation, freedom from pain and enhanced mental clarity. Although it’s technically not in Cardiff, but Penarth, it’s just a short drive and so worth it – it’s an incredible experience, perfect for a solo treat or date night. Afterwards, you get chance to take a relaxing shower with gorgeous Lush products, and make use of the tea bar to relax and ground yourself.

Address: 18 Cornerswell Road, CF64 2UZ

SHOP

Claire Hill Designs

Demi-fine jewellery that’s inspired by nature and history, each piece telling its own story, is designed in Wales by Claire’s very own fair hands. With a 2-year warranty and free replating when needed, these gorgeous, wearable artworks are made to last. Visit her studio on select days to try on pieces and chat with Claire herself. It’s a personal experience you won’t forget, and we’re sure you’ll leave with something to treasure.

Address: 17-21 Castle Street, CF10 1BT

Spillers Records

This isn’t just any record shop, oh no. It’s said to be the oldest in the world. Spillers was founded in 1894 by Henry Spiller in Cardiff’s now demolished Queens Arcade, the team started out selling phonographs, wax cylinders and shellac discs. Today, vinyl is still king, sold alongside CDs and merchandise. Once upon a time Manic Street Preachers were known to busk in front of the shop in their early days. An iconic piece of Cardiff history and a must visit for music lovers.

Address: 27 Morgan Arcade, CF10 1AF

The Pumping Station

The Pumping Station is housed in a Victorian pumping station (all 32,000 square  foot of it) and now acts as a hub for more than 45 independent traders selling an ever-changing mix of antiques, vintage treasures, quirky finds, and contemporary pieces. You may have even spotted it when driving down the A4232 – it’s a rather impressive building. But, what’s inside is even better. Go without a plan of what you’re looking for, and we’re sure you’ll find something you love.

Address: The Pumping Station, Penarth Road, CF11 8TT

Déjà Vu

A pre-loved clothing store that opened in 2024, Déjà Vu is a calm, welcoming space to browse, try on, and fall in love with curated pieces. The team are proud to act for the greater good of sustainability, reduces textile waste, and also support the community, with sales helping local women and regular donations to Cancer Research Wales. Find delicious brands like Stella Nova, Gucci and Ganni. This is not any old second hand store.

Address: 200 Pontcanna Street, CF11 9DF

Kiti Cymru

Not exactly a hidden gem, as the team have somewhat soared on social media, but still one of our firm favourites, the Kiti Cymru boutique is run by powerhouse duo Gwenno and Cat – Welsh speaking beauties who know all there is to know about the chicest brands and hottest styles. The boutique is home to brands including Rixo, Anine Bing, Paige and Lollys Laundry, and the sales? Legendary.

Address: 85 Pontcanna Street, CF11 9HS

FAMILY FUN

Fun HQ

With 30 epic climbing challenges, the play zone, clip and climb and a 24ft slide that will have you gasping for breath, Fun HQ in Cardiff Bay is a fantastic place to visit for family fun, particularly on a rainy day. When you first step inside, you’ll feel like you’ve bene transported to a video game – with so many colours, shapes and obstacles building the landscape. There’s a relaxing café space for you to relax in while your little ones run themselves wild, but if you prefer to get in on the fun, there’s lots of that too.

Address: Olympian Drive, CF11 0JS

Mountain View Ranch

About 20 minutes outside of Cardiff, over Caerphilly Mountain, Mountain View Ranch covers over 100 acres of woodland and is a firm family favourite with locals, and even those just across the border. The outdoor venue is home to Wales’ first official Gruffalo trail with a deep, dark wood and the famous Julia Donaldson characters – which is included in the admission price. Plus, there’s a fairy forest with hidden tree houses, soft archery, jumping pillows, tree swings, and climbing goats. During the summer, food vendors are on site to provide delicious options, but if you visit in the winter you’ll want to pack your own picnic, as the café only serves light snacks and refreshments.

Address: Heol-Pen-Y-Bryn, CF83 1NG

Techniquest

Tecniquest Cardiff child with electric sphere

Techniquest is where curious minds run riot, located close to the train and a short walk from the city centre in Cardiff Bay. Expect plenty of buttons to press, things to spin ,and science experiments to play with, across loads of interactive zones exploring space, the planet and the human body. In addition, expect live demos, a planetarium and lots of hands-on workshops. If you, or your kiddos, can’t resist asking “why?”, then Techniquest is the place to go.

Address: Stuart St, CF10 5BW

EAT

DRINK

The Wardrobe

PLAY

SHOP

FAMILY FUN

IN THE MOOD FOR MORE?

A Cardiff weekender done properly: the Muddy insider guide

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