Cathays Travel Guide
Tourist Guide
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
Follow in the footsteps of sporting and musical greats when you tour this vast sporting arena. Walk on the pitch, see dressing rooms and lift a trophy.
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
A fortified tower from the 12th century, World War II tunnels and Welsh military history make a fascinating day out at this magnificent castle.
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.
Activities
The Royal Mint Experience: Ticket, Guided Tour & Exhibition
Cardiff: Gower Peninsula's Cliffs Scenic Day Tour
From Cardiff: Wye Valley and Brecon Beacons Full-Day Trip
Our pick of the best Cathays Hotel Deals
The Angel Hotel
Cooked Breakfast was excellent. Building could do with painting inside and outside.
Reviewed on 12 Apr 2026
The Parkgate Hotel
Ideal central location although no city view, despite booked. Room very clean and plenty of room. Comfortable beds. Dressing gowns handy in bathroom. Great selection of teas and coffee provided 😊. Breakfast service and selection of food excellent.
Reviewed on 12 Apr 2026
Celtic Manor Resort
We had a 50th birthday bash there and everything was perfect thank you 😊
Reviewed on 12 Apr 2026
Future Inns Cardiff Bay
First time I’ve never really been impressed with the staff. On arrival they didn’t even acknowledge our presence - both tapping away on their computers - until one finally acknowledged us and said the other one would check us in. After another while, she finally just said “surname”!! No smile, no ...
Reviewed on 11 Apr 2026
Cardiff Marriott Hotel
Clean and tidy room, the bed was very comfortable and the staff are very friendly and helpful. The location of the hotel is perfect with the bars and restaurants being extremely close. Overall, would stay again and recommend to others.
Reviewed on 11 Apr 2026
Park Plaza Cardiff
Nice hotel but a bit pricey for what you get. Very loud in the rooms, could hear next rooms tv at 7am and lots of banging throughout the night. Also music from the nightclub opposite until very early hours
Reviewed on 12 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.
