Cardiff, the capital of Wales, offers travelers an enticing mix of history, culture, shopping, and refined experiences. For those who enjoy heritage with sophistication, Cardiff Castle is a must. Nestled in the heart of the city, the medieval fortress showcases lavish Victorian Gothic interiors commissioned by the Marquess of Bute. Private tours can be arranged to explore its ornate rooms and rooftop views. Just a short drive away, St. Fagans National Museum of History offers an immersive look into Welsh culture, with elegant grounds perfect for leisurely strolls. Art and culture enthusiasts will enjoy the Wales Millennium Centre, home to world-class opera, ballet, and theater performances. Cardiff is also known for its waterfront at Cardiff Bay. Here, Michelin-recommended restaurants are complemented by panoramic sea views.
1. Voco St. David’s Cardiff
2. Parkgate Hotel
3. Hotel Indigo Cardiff
4. New House Country Hotel
5. Cardiff Marriott Hotel
1. Voco St. David’s Cardiff
The Telegraph writes, “With a soaring central glass front down its white facade and a crest of metal on top reminiscent of a ship’s sail, Voco St David’s is an instant attention-grabber. Its interiors are impressive too: the curved cobalt blue atrium spirals into white as it rises all the way to the seventh floor – internal balconies on each create an illusion of expanding space. Design-wise, it’s a gulp of fresh sea air, with the hotel going for a clean, contemporary aesthetic. Light streams in through glass walls and abstract canvases in coastal blues hang throughout.”
The Times adds, “Opened in 1999, it remains one of the finest luxury hotels in the Welsh capital. The leisure facilities here are top notch and include a fitness centre, spa, swimming pool, sauna and treatment rooms. Rooms are decorated in a smart blue and yellow colour scheme, with large beds piled high with pillows, and all have balconies and bay views.”
Tiger Bay Suite
The 950-sq. ft. Tiger Bay suites are the biggest in the hotel. They feature an open plan with a generous lounge area and views of the waterfront from one of your two private balconies.
More suites at Coco St. David’s Cardiff.
2. Parkgate Hotel
The Times writes, “Taking over two historic buildings — the old post office and county court — Parkgate has already staked a claim as Cardiff’s best hotel. It brings sophisticated, grown-up design to the city, with high-end fabrics, leather and wood in the bedrooms, and brasserie styling in the restaurant. Next to the Principality Stadium, the hotel offers special packages to coincide with rugby matches. Hotel guests also get reduced-price access to the sixth-floor spa — the infinity thermal pool here is likely to feature heavily on Instagram feeds.”
The Tower Suite
Located inside the original bell tower this is the most unique of the hotel’s three Parkgate Suites. The 700-sq. ft. suite features bathroom features high ceilings and a spacious layout.
More suites at Parkgate Hotel.
3. Hotel Indigo Cardiff
The Telegraph reports, “Three concepts divide the rooms: Music, Welsh Industry and Made in Wales. It’s a toss-up between Music, with spotlights, drumstick lamps and images of Wales’ musical icons, and the ‘pit to port’ industrial vibe of the Welsh Industry rooms (tweed cushions, coal scuttle bins, steel/wood furniture) for the coolest spaces. South-facing rooms get usually unseen rooftop views of Cardiff. High beds are comfortable with just enough firmness for a deep snooze. All rooms contain 42” smart TVs. Attention to detail extends into the bathrooms; some are tiled shades of green – representing a bird’s-eye view of the Welsh countryside – while another is decked with earthy tones.”
Premium Rooms
The hotel offers Premium Rooms up to around 450-sq. ft.
More rooms at Hotel Indigo Cardiff.
4. New House Country Hotel
The Telegraph writes, “North of the Welsh capital is New House Country Hotel, a Georgian manor dripping with original period details and sprawling views of Cardiff’s skyline and the sea just beyond it. Rooms are traditional with modern elevations, straightforward cuisine is done well, and historic Caerphilly is close by. This early Georgian manor house, a weathered Bath-stone building fronted by double bay windows, is imbued with history; not surprising, with just under three decades as a hotel but a story stretching back to the 1730s. At the front is a wide gravel terrace with tables and chairs around a three-tiered stone fountain. Inside, traditional country house elements – a suit of armour lurking in the corridor, stately fireplaces, panelled window shutters – are well looked after; occasional peppy wallpaper and combinations of patterned cushions are among subtle modern details that keep it from feeling dated, though art of the walls (including a portrait of a boy who looks uncannily like a young Prince Charles) is one way of ensuring the old-school country house style prevails, even in the newer annex.”
Superior Suites
The Superior Suites range in size and decor.
More suites at New Country House Hotel.
5. Cardiff Marriott Hotel
The Telegraph says, “This property’s star asset is its location: within a 10-minute stroll of Cardiff’s main draws. As a chain hotel, it offers no surprises – good or bad – but comes with all the amenities you’d expect from a Marriott. A good choice for city breaks. Friendly service, good amenities, handy location: it’s all here. The hotel has the style and character of the Marriott brand, rather than any unique charm. Away from the shiny reception and restaurant, the property does look dated in parts. The blocky furniture, dark corridors and décor could do with an overhaul, although it’s still all perfectly functional.
One Bedroom Suite
The one-bedroom suites range from 450-sq. ft. to around 600-sq. ft.
More suites at Cardiff Marriott Hotel.
