Cathays Travel Guide
Cardiff
Popular places to visit
Cardiff University
Founded by Royal Charter in 1883 and located in the heart of the thriving Welsh capital, Cardiff University has built an international reputation for the quality of its work.
Principality Stadium
The spiritual home of Welsh rugby, the Principality Stadiumin Cardiff is one of the most famous sporting arenas on the planet, envied the world over for its cauldron-like atmosphere and state-of-the-art facilities.
Cardiff Bay
Explore the waterfront in Cardiff with a trip to Cardiff Bay. Discover the lively bars and acclaimed theatre scene in this walkable area.
Cardiff Castle
Located in the heart of the city centre, Cardiff Castle is one of Wales’ most important cultural attractions. A rich history spanning 2,000 years is contained within its walls and fairytale-style towers.
Barry Island Beach
If you’re looking for a quintessential Welsh seaside experience, look no further than Barry Beach in the picturesque Vale of Glamorgan.
Utilita Arena Cardiff
Cardiff Motorpoint Arena is located on Mary Ann Street in the heart of Cardiff. It was opened in 1993 and is the largest purpose-built facility for staging exhibitions and concerts in South Wales.
Things to do
The Royal Mint Experience: Ticket, Guided Tour & Exhibition
Cardiff: Gower Peninsula's Cliffs Scenic Day Tour
Doctor Who and Cinematic Cardiff: Self Guided Walking Tour
Top hotels in Cathays
The Angel Hotel
Hotel is lovely and staff excellent but at least with room I stayed in it was very tired and needed updating. Paint was flaking off the walls, there was what looked like someone's foundation stains on the lamp shade and what looked like water marks/ stains on the walls. To note it can be quite noisy ...
Reviewed on 8 Apr 2026
The Parkgate Hotel
A lovely hotel, always a pleasure to stay there.
Reviewed on 9 Apr 2026
Celtic Manor Resort
My Easter stay at the Celtic Manor was faultless. The staff were helpful, courteous and efficient. A heartfelt thanks to the member of staff who helped me with my bags and gave me a lift to the upper carpark. I am elderly and this gesture was really appreciated. The room was clean and comfortable. ...
Reviewed on 7 Apr 2026
Future Inns Cardiff Bay
Excellent location being so close to Cardiff Bay and free parking as hotel guest is nice. You can tell the property is quite dated though and could do with some upgrades to rooms. Our air con did not seem to be working or not strong enough so that could be an improvement. Didn't try the restaurant ...
Reviewed on 7 Apr 2026
Cardiff Marriott Hotel
Clean room. Polite and warm staff. Loved the city view from the top floor.
Reviewed on 7 Apr 2026
Park Plaza Cardiff
good location with good pool and friendly staff
Reviewed on 7 Apr 2026
Other neighbourhoods around Cathays
Roath
Travellers like the theatres in Roath, and The Gate Arts and Community Centre is a top attraction you might want to visit.
Castle Quarter
Cosy bars interesting history and top sights from Cardiff Market to St. David's – discover Castle Quarter, a destination also famous for its shopping.
Pontcanna
Bars, historical sites and gardens highlight some of the notable features of Pontcanna. Make a stop by Swalec Stadium while you're exploring.
Cardiff City Centre
Gourmet restaurants interesting history and top sights from St. David's to Utilita Arena Cardiff – discover Cardiff City Centre, a destination also famous for its shopping.
Adamsdown
If you're spending time in Adamsdown, you might enjoy its spas and bars. If you've got time to venture a little farther, you can make a stop by Utilita Arena Cardiff or New Theatre.
Penylan
Travellers like the restaurants in Penylan, and Teamsport Karting is a top attraction you might want to visit.