Cardiff is the capital city of Wales, the youngest capital city in Europe and also one of the UK's fastest growing tourist hot spots. Having recently commissioned redevelopment efforts on a truly spectacular level, Cardiff has taken pride of place among an elite groups of global cities considered to be 'must-visits' by travellers and experts alike.
What's more, extensively diverse entertainment options make this city the ideal choice for singles, couples, group or family holidays of any duration - and you might even run into 'The Doctor' or a couple of Daleks while you're there, as the BBC's Dr Who is filmed in and around the city.
Wales is known the world over as the land of castles - a name the Welsh capital certainly lives up to. The city's history spans right back to Roman times, with the city centre's ancient and imposing Cardiff Castle forming the primary point of interest for most visitors.
Cardiff Castle makes up one of the so-called 'Big 3' attractions all visitors should factor in to any visit, alongside the National Museum and the remarkable Millennium Stadium - all of which are just a stone's throw from the city centre. Once these have been ticked off, be sure to leave time to visit the Wales Millennium Centre at Cardiff Bay and Castell Coch just outside town - an enchanting fairy-tale castle.
Wales is also renowned for being a gastronomic paradise, with Cardiff in particular gaining a reputation for fine-dining prowess. Local chefs are some of the best in the UK and when armed with stunning local produce, the result is quite simply world-class dining of Michelin Star quality.
Menus are diverse and extensive, but when in Wales it would be a crime not to make the most of the local lamb on offer.
Queen Street is the primary hub for an all-out shopping frenzy, with High Street favourites liberally scattered around all corners. If something a little more upmarket is on the cards, the unique boutiques of the Victorian Arcades are well worth a visit.
