Valentine’s Day, the most romantic day of the year, is just around the corner, and what better way to celebrate love than in the charming city of Cardiff? Known for its historic landmarks, picturesque parks, and vibrant culture, Cardiff provides the perfect backdrop for a memorable Valentine’s Day celebration. Whether you’re a local or visiting this Welsh gem, here’s a guide to make your Valentine’s Day in Cardiff truly special.
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Valentines Day Cardiff
Whether you’re enjoying the natural beauty of parks, exploring historical landmarks, or indulging in a romantic meal, Cardiff provides a diverse range of romantic settings for couples to celebrate their love.
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Romantic Places in Cardiff
If you’re looking for fun activities to do with your partner, the city is fantastic! Whether they’re an adventure seeker, film buffs or foodie, there are many things to keep you both entertained. Some unique romantic places in Cardiff for couples include The Roath Park Conservatory, a Victorian glasshouse surrounded by beautiful gardens and a picturesque lake, or the Bone Yard in Canton. The shipping containers are filled with artists and creators, so you can discover something new.
Explore the Castles in Cardiff
Wales is the land of castles. There are more than 600 of them in our little country. Some are now romantic ruins, and others are still standing. As well as immersing yourselves in history, it can be exciting to explore the castle grounds and revel in the passionate ambience. There are several castles in Cardiff. Fall in love at the fairytale castle of Castell Coch or Cardiff Castle.
Alphabet Dating in Cardiff
Alphabet dating, also known as ABC Dating, is a creative and fun way for couples to add variety to their date nights. The concept is straightforward – each date corresponds to a letter, and you select activities that begin with the designated letter. Discover more of the capital city as you work from A to Z with this quirky dating concept.
Book a Tour
Embarking on a tour with Viator promises an enriching and hassle-free experience that’s hard to beat. You’re not just booking a tour; it’s an expertly crafted itinerary curated by locals and seasoned travellers, ensuring you uncover the hidden gems and must-see attractions. From walking tours to culinary adventures and everything in between, Viator offers an extensive range of options tailored to diverse interests and budgets.
Free Things to do in Cardiff
There are so many things to do in Cardiff for free. You don’t have to spend a fortune this Valentine’s Day in Cardiff to have an enjoyable day out. There are over 50 ideas on this list! From exploring the city to free events and live music. One of my favourites is Insole Court.
The grounds are an excellent place for spreading your picnic blanket, walking the dog or reconnecting with nature. Visit the Potting Shed Café for a refreshment or bake. They make everything in their tiny kitchen, and it tastes incredible. There are also plenty of free events at Insole Court, including a monthly farmer’s market, dog shows, craft markets, and exhibitions. Check out 9 things you didn’t know you could do at Insole Court.
Fogo’s Free Walking Tour
Cardiff’s only free walking tour takes place every Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday at 11am. The two-and-a-half-hour walk explores Cardiff’s attractions and discusses their rich history. It’s a great way to exercise, explore and learn more about the city.
I recently went on the City of Arcades Walking Tour. Even locals like myself can learn new nuggets of information or see something you are yet to notice.
Museums in Cardiff that you can visit for FREE
For some, visiting a museum or art gallery is at the top of the list. Do you picture quiet halls full of relics or dinosaur bones suspended from the ceiling? Museum features include objects, photographs, nature, animals, science and space, and history. Discover something new at St Fagans, the National Museum of Cardiff or the Cardiff Story Museum, just some of the museums in Cardiff.
Go on a Leisurely Stroll
We are so lucky; there are so many green spaces, parks and gardens. It is easy to forget about the hustle and bustle of the city, which is often behind the treeline. Some of the most idyllic walks in Cardiff include Bute Park, a huge Victorian pleasure ground behind Cardiff Castle, The Taff Trail, Forest Farm Nature Reserve in Whitchurch, a country park full of surprises, or the sculpture trail at Fforest Fawr in Tongwynlais. You could also find the blue plaques in Cardiff.
Romantic Things to do in Cardiff Bay
If you want to spend time together and do some romantic things, you’ll be spoilt for choice in Cardiff Bay. It doesn’t matter if it’s your first date or just some time with your partner; you’ll be able to impress and bag those brownie points in Cardiff Bay.
See some of the best touring comedians at The Glee Club, watch a film together at the Everyman Cinema, see a show at the Wales Millennium Centre or the brand new Cabaret in Cardiff venue.
Things to do near Cardiff
The charming town of Cowbridge welcomes lovers with its cobbled streets, boutique shops, and cosy cafes, offering a delightful setting for a leisurely stroll and intimate conversations.
For those enchanted by the sea, Penarth Pier, a brief coastal drive away, provides breathtaking views of the Bristol Channel and a serene seaside atmosphere, ideal for sunset-watching hand in hand. The historic village of Llandaff, with its picturesque cathedral and meandering pathways, offers a peaceful escape just a stone’s throw from the city, providing couples with a chance to immerse themselves in the timeless beauty of Wales.
Head to the Beach
If you’re happy to travel, there are over 20 beaches near Cardiff – all within a 30-minute drive. Visiting a beach is an inherently romantic experience. The rhythmic symphony of crashing waves creates a soothing soundtrack, setting a tranquil atmosphere conducive to intimacy and shared moments. Perfect for a few hours of walking on the sand and splashing in the surf.
Take a Dreamy Drive
Cwmcarn Forest Drive has incredible views, beautiful walks, cycling paths, play parks, an Iron Age Hillfort and other outdoor activities. It’s a unique, fun day out by car, bike or on foot. The Drive is 7 miles long, and there are seven car parks where you can get out and enjoy the countryside or stop to have a BBQ.
Gardens and Grottos
Dewstow is a secret garden in Caldicot, South Wales. Dewstow Gardens and Grottoes is a beautifully landscaped garden, a labyrinth of tunnels, pools and waterfalls. This must-see attraction will wow your date whilst being picturesque and tranquil.
Ghost Hunting in Llancaiach Fawr
Llancaiach Fawr manor house claims to be one of the most haunted in the UK. So, with over 450 years of history, there’s no doubt there were many deaths within its four walls. Visiting here is a great alternative date night idea.
Use your National Trust Membership
From lush green valleys to rugged coastlines, these incredible places of outstanding natural beauty will ensure you have something to discover daily. There are also captivating historical sites and attractive homes begging to be uncovered with the National Trust. In Cardiff, there’s Dyffryn Gardens and nearby is Tredegar House.
Use Top Cash Back when purchasing your membership
I’ve been a member of TopCashBack UK for several years and, to date, have earned over £1000 from it. Trust me, it’s a no-brainer, and you can make extra money by shopping online. Currently, you can get 3.15% back on your National Trust membership.
Valentine’s Day Meals Cardiff
In Cardiff, Valentine’s Day is a celebration of love and a feast for the senses, with the city’s diverse culinary scene offering an array of delectable options for couples seeking a memorable dining experience.
From intimate bistros to upscale restaurants, Cardiff provides a romantic backdrop for sharing a special meal with your loved one. Picture yourselves at a candlelit table at Maison de Boeuf for a French-inspired dinner. Alternatively, indulge in a taste of Turkey at Lezzet, where the cosy ambience and authentic dishes create an intimate setting.
For more casual dining that will also impress, check out the menu at Vivo Amigo for Indian Mexican fusion food, Hotpot Spot, where you gather around a simmering pot with various raw ingredients sliced thinly for quick cooking, or Brother Thai for exquisite flavours that pack a punch. Other interesting spots include curry and cocktails at The Coconut Tree, decent burgers, dirty fries and mac and cheese at Hubbox or Eat The Bird.
Valentine’s Day meals in Cardiff are a culinary journey through love and indulgence. Make sure you book in advance so you’re guaranteed a table.
Valentine’s Day Restaurants Cardiff
Cardiff is a foodie’s delight. From the quality of the produce to the level of cooking, at both the casual and cheap eats, Cardiff is staking a serious claim to being one of the most exciting places to eat in the UK.
- Afternoon tea in Cardiff
- Bottomless brunch in Cardiff
- Steak restaurants in Cardiff
- Vegan restaurants in Cardiff
- Thai restaurants in Cardiff
- Japanese restaurants in Cardiff
- Caribbean restaurants in Cardiff
- Chinese restaurants in Cardiff
- Burger restaurants in Cardiff
- Street food in Cardiff
- Welsh food in Cardiff
- Dog-friendly restaurants in Cardiff
- Michelin-star restaurants in Cardiff
Get 50% off food in Cardiff
If you love food and drink, do you have a Tastecard? You get 50% off the food bill or two meals for the price of one. There are over six thousand participating restaurants across the UK. Get a 60-day free trial here:
Entertainment Bars in Cardiff
Whether looking for an after-work drink with colleagues, a boy’s or girls’ night out surrounded by cocktails, or a date night spot, you’re always close to the best bars in Cardiff.
- Golf Fang Cardiff
- Roxy Lanes Cardiff
- NQ64 Cardiff
- Flight Club Cardiff
- Tonight Josephine Cardiff
- Rooftop Bars in Cardiff
- Cocktail Bars in Cardiff
- Wetherspoons in Cardiff
- Quiz Nights in Cardiff
- Dog-friendly pubs in Cardiff
- Live music in Cardiff
- Cocktail bar in Cardiff
- Best bars in Cardiff
Cardiff’s Loving Welsh Food Tour
There’s no better way to experience food in Cardiff than on the Loving Welsh Food Tour. Explore the city’s culinary delights and get a taste of Welsh culture, learning about local flavours. It’s such a fun thing to do as a couple, trying different Welsh foods and discovering new places to eat and drink.
Best Picnic Spots in Cardiff
Everyone loves a picnic – whatever your age! With expansive lawns, picturesque flowerbeds and soothing backdrops, there are plenty of locations to choose from. Discover the best picnic spots in Cardiff. Whichever place you choose, create an ideal setting for a memorable outdoor meal. Wrap up warm; it’s February, after all!
Devon Hampers
Food, drink and the West Country are close to my heart. Devon Hampers, send the best of the South West to your front door. The cream tea and afternoon tea hampers include scones, clotted cream and jam. There are also cheese hampers, chocolate, cider and BBQ hampers.
Get 10% off hampers or create your own. Order anything from a clotted cream tea for two or a large hamper full of goodies. Use DEVON10 at the checkout on orders over £50.
Valentine’s Day 2025
Are you seeking the perfect gift for your favourite travel lover to open on Valentine’s Day? It is full of things that are actually useful and gifts for someone travelling abroad that I would want. From hotel discounts to gift vouchers to visitor attractions, these gifts for travel lovers will surely bring a smile to any jetsetter’s face!
Carrie Elspeth Welsh Jewellery Makers
Wales is a land of rugged beauty, ancient traditions, and a rich cultural heritage. One designer who has masterfully captured the essence of Wales in her creations is Carrie Elspeth. The Seren Collection stood out to me. Seren in Welsh means star, so the bracelet, necklace and earrings are a dazzling celebration of the night sky. Plus, they’re handmade in Wales!
Lovelox Lockets
If you want something memorable and unique, Lovelox London is worth checking out. I’ve previously reviewed the personalised heart locket a beautiful, sentimental keepsake which is stunning and elegant. All pieces are fashionable but classic, with vintage motifs and patterns. In addition, you can add a personal touch to any item with an engraving or inserting images.
Experience Days
The best gift could be a memory to last a lifetime. Experience Days have everything from high adrenaline thrills such as bungee jumps, monster truck driving or fire-eating classes. There are also spa days and experiences, cooking courses or a vineyard tour.
Cheap Tickets
Looking for exciting and unique activities? Whether you’re a wine or local cuisine lover, a fan of unusual guided tours, or an adventure seeker looking for thrills, the list of activities on Tiqets are designed to meet all desires whilst travelling.
Celebrate Welsh Valentine’s Day
The Welsh know a little thing or two about love. We have our own special hug, a cwtch, and our very own Valentine’s Day – St Dwynwen’s Day. It is on 25 January every year, just two weeks before the rest of the nation celebrates.
Getting around Cardiff has never been easier
Transport for Wales now offers Multiflex, which gives you 12 journeys for the same price as 5 returns. With stops in Taffs Well, Radyr, Whitchurch, Llandaff North, Cathays, two in the city centre – Queen Street and Cardiff Central – plus Cardiff Bay. And who doesn’t want to save money to spend on your plus one?
Romantic Hotels to Stay the Night
If you know when you’d like to travel, try to book as soon as possible. Prices rise the closer you get to the travel date and are usually displayed per room rather than per person. However, there is a vast array to accommodate all budgets.
easyHotel Cardiff
The easyHotel Cardiff is a 10-minute walk from the theatre. It has double rooms (with or without a window), accessible bedrooms and twin rooms. Found a short walk behind Cardiff Queen Street train station, the budget hotel has en-suite bathrooms, heated rooms in the winter and air conditioning in the summer. WiFi is free; pay and display and multi-storey car parks are nearby.
Radisson Cardiff
The Radisson Blue Hotel Cardiff is in the city centre. The 4-star hotel has smart TVs in the bedrooms, private bathrooms with complimentary toiletries, laptop-compatible safes, and limited onsite parking.
Dog friendly hotels in Cardiff
Your perfect dog-friendly escape in Cardiff awaits! Before I had my rescue dog, Ivan, I didn’t think Cardiff was very dog friendly. How wrong was I? The dog friendly hotels in Cardiff include national chain hotels, budget brands, pubs and country houses.
The Copthorne
The Copthorne, part of Millennium Hotels and Resorts, is a traditional 4-star hotel in Cardiff that is ideally located between the city centre and the coast of Barry Island. Ideal for business travellers, couples or families, it is a perfect base. You can expect free Wi-Fi, an indoor pool and modern in-room amenities. Book early and save up to 20% off:
National Trust Holidays
National Trust Holidays offers a selection of holiday cottages, campsites and bunkhouses set in spectacular locations. They have everything you need for a night away, from kitchen facilities to cosy gardens to relax in during warmer weather.
The Hilton Cardiff
For a luxurious stay, The Hilton Cardiff, in the heart of the city centre, has beautiful amenities, including a pool and health club. With Hilton Honors, you get exclusive perks when you stay at more than 6,700 hotels around the world. Members receive Points on every stay, which can be turned into free nights.
Plan a Trip with Expedia
Booking a hotel via Expedia is a seamless experience that offers convenience and choice at your fingertips. With just a few clicks, you can browse through a wide array of cosy boutique hotels to luxurious resorts, tailored to your preferences and budget. Compare prices, read reviews from fellow travellers, and explore amenities, ensuring you find the perfect place to stay for your trip.
Create your Itinerary
Using TripAdvisor when booking a hotel allows you to access a wealth of reviews and ratings from fellow travellers, helping you make an informed decision on where to stay, while also providing recommendations and insights on planning things to do during your trip.
Cottages and Houses
The award-winning business Sykes Cottages has properties across the UK, and the ones near Cardiff are beautiful. They range from cosy lodges with traditional woodburning stoves to contemporary accommodation with a hot tub. With all the amenities you could need, including parking, WiFi and many dog-friendly places, check out Sykes Holiday Cottages.
The surrounding areas
Don’t be afraid of staying out of central Cardiff, either. Penarth, Barry, Caerphilly, Pontypridd, and Merthyr Tydfil are the surrounding areas connected by regular buses and trains. You can also plan with LastMinute.com. Stay at great hotels at a fraction of the price.
FREE Visit Cardiff Checklist & Guide
Get your FREE Visiting Cardiff Checklist and Guide with over 25 pages full of travel tips, how to get around, places to visit, food and drink, shopping, parks and green spaces, some Welsh phrases and a travel itinerary.
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