Summary of Content
Is there a more remarkable city in the world to observe rugby than the Welsh capital? Cardiff possesses all the essential elements for a match day that remains etched in memory: a premier stadium situated centrally; passionate fans adorned with red face paint and daffodil hats; and an assortment of vibrant dining establishments within walking distance of the stands.
Regardless of your affinity for sports, visiting the city while the men’s or women’s national rugby teams are present allows one to witness Cardiff at its most vibrant, vivid, and bustling. Nevertheless, the influx of attendees may lead to confusion regarding dining and drinking options post-match, which are of paramount importance to many fans. To alleviate any potential stress during your visit, we present a guide to an exemplary match day in Cardiff, allowing you to focus solely on the final score.
Where to Eat in Cardiff
Cardiff awakens early on international match days; during significant tournaments like the World Cup or the latter rounds of the Six Nations, expect to see crowds forming outside popular drinking establishments well before midday—indeed, as early as 11am if Wales is performing admirably.
Nevertheless, with numerous exceptional dining options available, opting for a traditional Welsh breakfast rather than a liquid lunch could be more beneficial—this meal is arguably the most vital on any match day.
For an authentic local experience, The Bull Terrier stands out. Nestled on the second floor of the charmingly dilapidated Cardiff Market, which has roots dating back to the 1700s, this cafe offers one of the few opportunities in the city to enjoy a serving of laverbread alongside your bacon and eggs—this seaweed and oats blend, referred to as ‘Welshman’s caviar’, tastes far more delightful than it might suggest. Secure a table on the balcony outside and indulge.
Other noteworthy breakfast options include the glass-walled cafe The Plan in the Victorian-era Morgan Arcade, the charming Pettigrew Tea Rooms located within the old gatehouse of expansive Bute Park (featuring decor reminiscent of a cozy Welsh grandparent’s living space), or for a budget-friendly yet hearty option, consider the recently refurbished Black and White Cafe in Grangetown.
For quick, on-the-go sustenance, New York Deli is celebrated for its substantial hoagies, while the Grazing Shed serves burgers appropriately dubbed ‘super tidy’ (from Welsh slang for ‘rather agreeable’). For a traditional—albeit increasingly rare—Welsh snack, seek out a small container of cockles from Ashton Fishmongers in Cardiff Market, seasoned with salt and vinegar for a delicious treat!
Post-game, consider dining at the intimate, family-run Italian eatery Cafe Citta, the beloved vegetarian establishment Vegetarian Food Studio, or the culinary school-turned-fine dining venue (offering reasonable prices) The Classroom. For a truly memorable experience, try Chapel—a premier restaurant housed in a converted 1877 church.
Where to Drink in Cardiff
The vibrant atmosphere of Cardiff on match days converges at The Prince of Wales; a spacious Wetherspoons pub occupying a location once dedicated to The Prince of Wales Theatre, which showcased the talents of illustrious actors such as Laurence Olivier and Richard Burton. Although it may lack the elegance of yesteryear, if you seek ambiance, sing-alongs, and affordable drinks, this is the place to be—especially before the game.
Other worthwhile pre-game venues for a quick drink include Tiny Rebel and City Arms. Located across from each other near the Principality Stadium, City Arms embodies a classic Cardiff pub with real ale on tap, while Tiny Rebel attracts a younger demographic with its craft beer selections sourced from various breweries throughout the nation.
It is advisable to note that post-game, accessing the bar may present challenges. If you are not among the first to exit the stadium after the final whistle, a recommended tip is to proceed to The Moon on Womanby Street (often considered Cardiff’s ‘hipster quarter’). This unpretentious rock bar—with weekend live performances—typically escapes the crowds streaming from the stadium, allowing for straightforward bar access.
Due to Cardiff’s compact layout, finding a suitable watering hole post-match will not be difficult. Once the initial surge of spectators has dissipated, options like Goat Major, Queens Vaults, or for a genuine local vibe, the Borough are worth exploring—though caution is advised. For dedicated sports enthusiasts, consider visiting Eleven, a sports bar co-owned by local football star Gareth Bale, adorned with an array of sporting memorabilia.
Where to Go Late
If nighttime approaches and you remain eager (and physically able) to partake in festivities, Cardiff provides a reasonable selection of nightlife options to explore.
Beyond major UK chain venues such as Revs and the often regrettable Tiger Tiger, two notable nightlife staples are Live Lounge and Cardiff’s beloved Clwb Ifor Bach. The former features a sizable dancefloor that, surprisingly, always feels uncomfortably populated, spinning top 40 hits alongside nostalgic pop anthems. This, combined with reasonably priced drinks, ensures its lasting popularity. Conversely, Clwb Ifor Bach, colloquially known as ‘Clwb’ or simply ‘Welsh Club’, delivers an alternative atmosphere with multiple floors showcasing various music styles from indie to drum and bass.
Additional venues operating into the early hours include Brewhouse, known for live music with a diverse clientele, Metros, an infamous underground bar reminiscent of early 2000s emo music with the ceiling dripping sweat, Bootlegger, featuring swing music and elegant cocktails, and New Zealand-themed Kiwis, a popular spot among older night enthusiasts. An array of bars along Mill Lane also remains open late for your enjoyment.
After a night filled with revelry, conclude your evening in Cardiff appropriately by wandering down Caroline Street, popularly referred to as Chippy Lane or Chippy Alley, depending on your origin in Cardiff. Each local has their preferred chip shop here; however, Dorothy’s, formerly ‘world famous’ for its chicken curry on chips (now simply ‘famous’ for reasons unclear), is arguably the finest option to enjoy at 2am worldwide. Additionally, consider Charlestons, a second-floor steakhouse that operates 24 hours and guarantees encounters with vibrant characters.
Where to Sleep in Cardiff
Cardiff offers a diverse selection of hotel accommodations catering to all budgets. Options include Mrs Potts and NosDa Hostel—both providing dormitory-style rooms and exceptional locations in the city center, ideal for those on a budget.
For a more refined experience, consider charming bed and breakfasts such as Lincoln House, or boutique hotels like Cathedral 73, which includes its own tea room and piano bar. Additionally, a range of multinational accommodations including Travelodge, Ibis, and Hilton are also available. For an exhaustive list of options, refer to our Cardiff accommodation page.
Staying in central Cardiff is not mandatory. Lodging options in Pontcanna, Cathays, Canton, Grangetown, and Cardiff Bay are generally within a short walk (or quick taxi ride) from the stadium, while the commuter towns of Penarth and the slightly further Barry are easily accessible via regular train services (running until approximately 11pm) and provide an experience distinct from residing in the heart of the city.
Other Things to Do in the City
Although Cardiff is a relatively small capital, it possesses a wealth of attractions for visitors. A tour of the castle—uniquely situated in the city center—is essential for a captivating experience, particularly for younger travelers. For a cultural immersion, the St Fagans National History Museum located on the city’s outskirts stands unparalleled; awarded Britain’s Museum of the Year 2019, this expansive 100-acre open-air museum features traditional structures and working farms for visitors to explore, vividly illustrating Wales’ history and customs.
Moreover, the Cardiff Bay Barrage is ideal for a refreshing stroll (including a visit to the outstanding Norwegian Church Arts Centre, which holds significance as the christening location of author Roald Dahl), while the New Theatre hosts a variety of plays and musicals year-round, particularly advantageous during unfavorable weather conditions. For rugby enthusiasts seeking more, tickets to see the local team Cardiff Blues compete at the Cardiff Arms Park—an intimate venue nestled in the shadow of the national stadium—are also available, with adult tickets priced at £26 accessible through the club’s website.
For further ideas on activities in the city beyond rugby, refer to our guide for first-time visitors or explore our recommendations for the best day trips from Cardiff.
