Top 10 things in do in Cardiff

Cue Cardiff, the port city which will weave its spell over sports fans, culture vultures and shopaholics alike...

1. Walk the barrage at Cardiff Bay

Discover the huge waterfront development at Cardiff Bay and lose yourself amongst the wealth of excellent places to eat, drink and shop, all in view of the shimmering waters. To get a closer look at the waterfront, walk the barrage and marvel at the bridge which was one of the largest civil engineering projects in Europe at the time of construction.

2. Visit on a match day

Visit the famous Principality Stadium on a match day and cheer along with the crowd in support of your favourite team. Rugby Internationals are so popular in Cardiff, the city takes on a cheerful festival atmosphere that's hard to beat.

3. Explore the open-air museum of St Fagans

St Fagans National History Museum is rated as the number one thing to do in Cardiff on TripAdvisor thanks to its fascinating showcase of original buildings from different historical periods, all set in a stunning 100-acre parkland setting.

4. Admire Cardiff Castle

Sign up for the 50 minute tour of the enchanting Cardiff Castle and discover what lies within its imposing walls and beneath its iconic fairytale towers. Expect magnificently restored apartments, filled with sumptuous furniture, and a 12-sided Norman keep.

5. Take a stroll in Bute Park

Leafy green spaces are good for the soul and Bute Park offers an extensive parkland area boasting a beautiful arboretum, excellent picnic spots and abundant opportunities for wildlife-spotting.

6. Experience Doctor Who

The Doctor Who Experience is a must for any fans of the series. Immerse yourself in 50 years of the popular BBC show with an interactive adventure, studio set tour and exhibition hall, filled to the brim with all sorts of memorabilia.

7. Spend a night at the opera

Cardiff is the home of the Welsh National Opera and offers a programme of award-winning shows all year round. The company strives to keep opera accessible to all with affordable ticket prices – be prepared for a magical evening out.

8. Take a day trip to a smuggler's haunt

Cardiff makes the perfect base to hire wheels from Hertz Car Hire and visit Swanbridge, the site of Sully Island, an old smuggler's den. You can walk out to the island when the tide is low and wander its eerie shores – look out for the old shipwreck too.

9. Watch a play in a traditional theatre

Step back in time and catch a show at the quaint and tiny New Theatre. Rich red décor, an intimate ambience and friendly ice-cream sellers combine to create a traditional theatre experience.

10. Shop 'til you drop

Cardiff is one of the top 10 shopping destinations in Britain so whether it's the big name brands of St David's and Capitol; the markets of the Victorian Arcades; or trawling for treasure in a vintage emporium like Jacob's Antiques that appeal, rest assured that Cardiff's got you and your shopping needs covered.