Cardiff Calling: A Solo Traveller's Journey Through Wales' Capital

There’s a certain thrill that hums beneath the skin when you decide to explore a new city, just you and your rucksack. Cardiff, with its vibrant culture, historic heart, and friendly atmosphere, often pops up on the radar of those seeking solo escapades.

But the first question that often whispers in the back of your mind is: is it safe to travel by yourself?

Let me tell you, as someone who’s wandered its streets solo many a time, Cardiff embraces solo travellers with open arms. It possesses that comforting blend of being lively enough to feel exciting, yet compact and welcoming enough to navigate with confidence.

Of course, like any city, it pays to be mindful – keep your wits about you, especially in busier areas at night – but overall, Cardiff has a well-deserved reputation for being a safe and enjoyable destination for those exploring on their own steam.

So, you’ve booked your train ticket or hopped off the coach. You’ve probably even secured a cracking little spot with Guesture, who, let me tell you, have a knack for finding those perfectly sized stays for solo wanderers (more on that later!).

Now, the adventure truly begins. But where does a lone explorer start in this captivating city?

Fueling Your Solo Adventures: Dining Delights for One

One of the initial hurdles for any solo traveller can be the dreaded "eating alone" dilemma.

Fear not, for Cardiff has a fantastic array of places where you can comfortably enjoy a meal without feeling like the odd one out.

• The Central Market

  For a more casual and local vibe, head to Cardiff’s Victorian market. Grab some Welsh cakes from a local baker, a bara brith, or perhaps a Cawl (Welsh stew) from one of the food stalls.

  
  

  Find a spot to perch and soak in the lively atmosphere. It’s perfect for a quick and tasty solo bite.

  
  

• Coffee Shops Galore

  Cardiff is brimming with independent coffee shops. Places like Uncommon Ground or Waterloo Tea Gardens are ideal for settling in with a book or your journal, enjoying a delicious coffee and a pastry.

  
  

  Nobody bats an eyelid at a solo occupant engrossed in their own world.

  
  

• Pub Grub with a Friendly Face

  Many traditional Welsh pubs offer hearty and comforting meals. Find a cosy corner in a pub like The Old Arcade or The City Arms, order some classic pub fare, and maybe even strike up a conversation with a friendly local at the bar.

Charting Your Own Course: Things to Do Solo in Cardiff

The beauty of solo travel is setting your own agenda.

Cardiff offers a wealth of attractions perfect for independent exploration:

• Cardiff Castle

  A must-see! Wander through its Norman keep, opulent Victorian apartments, and fascinating tunnels at your own pace. You can easily spend a good few hours lost in its history. They often have informative audio guides, perfect for solo exploration.

  
  

• National Museum Cardiff

  Immerse yourself in art, natural history, and Welsh heritage – all for free! It’s easy to get lost in the exhibits, following your own interests without compromise.

  
  

• Bute Park

  Escape the city bustle in this vast green space stretching along the River Taff. Perfect for a relaxing walk, a cycle ride (hire bikes are readily available), or simply finding a bench to read and people-watch.

  
  

• Cardiff Bay

  Take a stroll around the vibrant waterfront. Admire the architecture, learn about its history at the Pierhead Building, or even take a boat trip around the bay.

  
  

  It’s a fantastic place for solo photography too.

• Chapter Arts Centre

  For a dose of culture, head to Chapter in Canton. Catch an independent film, explore the art exhibitions, or simply enjoy a coffee in their bustling café. It’s a hub for creative souls and a comfortable space for solo visitors.

Unwind & Recharge: Pampering Yourself Solo

After a day of exploring, sometimes you just need a moment of pure indulgence. Cardiff offers some excellent spots where a solo traveller can relax and recharge:

• The Cardiff Spa (at the Marriott Hotel)

  Located conveniently in the city centre, this spa offers a range of treatments from massages to facials. It’s a professional and serene environment, perfect for booking an individual slot to melt away any travel fatigue.

  
  

• Park Plaza Hotel – Laguna Health & Spa

  Another excellent option within the city. Their spa facilities include a 20-meter swimming pool, a gymnasium, and a range of Elemis treatments. Booking a treatment or just enjoying the pool facilities is a wonderful way to treat yourself without needing company.

  
  

• Independent Salons

  Look out for smaller, independent beauty salons around the city. Many offer excellent standalone services like a luxury manicure, a soothing head massage, or a quick blow-dry, providing a lovely, pampering pick-me-up.

Painting the Town Solo: Your Cardiff Night Out

The thought of a solo night out can be daunting, but Cardiff offers some inviting options:

• Catch a Show

  Cardiff has a thriving arts scene. Check out what’s on at the Wales Millennium Centre (for larger productions) or smaller venues like the Sherman Theatre or Clwb Ifor Bach (for music gigs). Enjoying a performance is a fantastic and immersive solo experience.

• Explore Live Music

  Cardiff has a vibrant live music scene. Many pubs and smaller venues host local bands and artists. Do a bit of research beforehand and find a genre that tickles your fancy.

  
  

• A Relaxed Pint (or Two)

  Find a traditional pub with a friendly atmosphere. Sit at the bar, enjoy a local ale, and perhaps chat with the bartender or other patrons. Many Cardiff pubs have a welcoming vibe.

Solo Traveller Survival Kit: Top Tips for Cardiff

• Stay Connected

  Ensure you have a working phone and data. This is crucial for navigation, looking up information, and keeping in touch with loved ones.

  
  

• Share Your Itinerary (Loosely)

  Let someone back home know your general plans.

  
  

• Trust Your Gut

  If a situation feels uncomfortable, remove yourself from it.

  
  

• Embrace the Freedom

  Enjoy the liberty of doing exactly what you want, when you want.

  
  

• Chat to People: Don't be afraid to strike up conversations. The Welsh are known for their friendliness!

  
  

• Accommodation Made Easy

  Guesture offers a range of apartments and rooms perfectly suited for solo travellers. Think cosy studios with all the amenities you need, often located in convenient and safe areas. Having a comfortable and secure base makes all the difference to your solo adventure.

Discover your ideal Cardiff stay and book with Guesture now

Solo Travel in Cardiff: Your FAQs Answered

• Is Cardiff city centre safe at night for a solo female traveller? 

  Yes, generally Cardiff city centre is considered safe. However, as with any city, it's wise to be aware of your surroundings, stick to well-lit areas, and avoid walking alone in secluded spots late at night. Utilise taxis or public transport if needed.

  
  

• What's the best way to get around Cardiff as a solo traveller? 

  Cardiff is quite walkable, especially the city centre and Cardiff Bay. There's also a reliable bus network and taxi services readily available. For exploring further afield, the train network is efficient.

  
  

• Are there any solo traveller meetups or tours in Cardiff? 

  It's worth checking local online groups or platforms like Meetup for any traveller gatherings or walking tours that might be happening during your visit. Some guided tours (like walking tours) are also great for solo travellers as they offer social interaction.

  
  

• Where can I leave my luggage if I arrive early or have a late departure? 

  You can look into apps like Stasher or LuggageHero for convenient options.

  
  

Cardiff is waiting to be explored, and doing it solo can be an incredibly rewarding experience. So, pack your bags, embrace the adventure, and get ready to discover the captivating charm of the Welsh capital – one independent step at a time. And remember, we have just the right home-away-from-home for your solo Cardiff journey.