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Wales — 10 Hotels Reviewed

Best Hotels in
Cardiff

Cardiff is the youngest capital city in Europe and one of the most compact — a place where a Norman castle occupies the city centre, the Principality Stadium rises barely a stone's throw from Victorian arcades, and the waterfront regeneration of Cardiff Bay has gifted the city the Senedd, Wales Millennium Centre and a vibrant restaurant and hotel scene within twenty minutes' walk of Cardiff Central station. The Pontcanna and Canton districts provide a leafier, more residential counterpoint to the centre, while Penarth's Edwardian esplanade and the Vale of Glamorgan's rolling countryside begin immediately to the south. Hotels range from a grand Norman castle-adjacent five-star to design-forward contemporaries on the Bay.

Cardiff, Wales

Quick Answer

Top Hotels in Cardiff — 2026

Cardiff is the youngest capital city in Europe and one of the most compact — a place where a Norman castle occupies the city centre, the Principality Stadium rises barely a stone's throw from Victoria...

  1. 1
    The Parkgate HotelWestgate Street · $$$ · ★ 8.9 Excellent
  2. 2
    voco St. David's CardiffHaven Way · $$$ · ★ 9.2 Superb
  3. 3
    Hilton CardiffKingsway · $$ · ★ 8.7 Fabulous
  4. 4
    Mercure Cardiff Holland House Hotel & SpaCardiff CF24 0DD · $$ · ★ 8.8 Excellent
  5. 5
    Staybridge Suites CardiffDumfries Place · $$ · ★ 8.8 Excellent

10 hotels reviewed · Updated March 2026

Our top 10 picks

Ranked by overall score. Updated March 2026.

The Parkgate Hotel — Westgate Street
$$$
★ 8.9 Excellent

Westgate Street

The Parkgate Hotel

Elegant 4.5-star luxury hotel in historic buildings next to Principality Stadium with spa and fine dining. Scribehow.

  • Spa & wellness
  • Destination dining
  • Historic character
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voco St. David's Cardiff — Haven Way
$$$
★ 9.2 Superb

Iconic 5-star waterfront hotel with award-winning spa, panoramic bay views and Welsh seafood restaurant. Scribehow.

  • Spa & wellness
  • Waterfront setting
  • Destination dining
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Hilton Cardiff — Kingsway
$$
★ 8.7 Fabulous

Premium 4-star city centre hotel offering castle views, executive lounge and comprehensive business amenities. Scribehow.

  • Historic character
  • City centre location
  • 4-star comfort
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Staybridge Suites Cardiff — Dumfries Place
$$
★ 8.8 Excellent

Extended-stay 4-star aparthotel in bay area with full kitchens, complimentary breakfast and fitness centre. Scribehow.

  • 4-star comfort
  • Great location
  • Quality dining
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Hotel Indigo Cardiff — Cardiff CF10 1DD
$$
★ 8.4 Very good

Cardiff CF10 1DD

Hotel Indigo Cardiff

Stylish 4-star IHG hotel celebrating Welsh design with comfortable rooms in vibrant city centre location. The Times.

  • City centre location
  • Contemporary design
  • 4-star comfort
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Park Plaza Cardiff — Greyfriars Road
$$
★ 8.7 Fabulous

Greyfriars Road

Park Plaza Cardiff

4-star spa hotel near Cardiff Castle with pool, treatments and terrace dining overlooking city greenery. The Times.

  • Spa & wellness
  • Historic character
  • Pool & leisure
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Clayton Hotel Cardiff — St Mary Street
$$
★ 8.7 Fabulous

Family-friendly 4-star near rail station and stadium with gym, terrace dining and air-conditioned rooms. The Times.

  • Family friendly
  • 4-star comfort
  • Great location
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The Royal Hotel Cardiff — Cardiff CF10 1DW
$$
★ 8.4 Very good

Cardiff CF10 1DW

The Royal Hotel Cardiff

Historic 3.5-star central hotel from 1866 with classic rooms and bar, steps from shopping and stadium.

  • Historic character
  • City centre location
  • Great bar scene
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Common Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best hotels in Cardiff right now?

Our top pick is The Parkgate Hotel, which consistently receives outstanding reviews. We've curated 10 of the best hotels in Cardiff across all price ranges, from budget guesthouses to five-star properties. Each has been selected for quality, location, and value.

When is the best time to visit Cardiff?

Shoulder season — typically spring (March–May) and early autumn (September–October) — offers the best balance of good weather, lower hotel rates, and manageable crowds. Peak season brings the most vibrant atmosphere but also the highest prices. Check local festivals and events as these can both enhance and complicate your visit.

How much does a hotel in Cardiff cost per night?

Budget options start from around $60–100/night, while mid-range hotels run $120–250/night. Luxury five-star hotels start from $300/night and can exceed $1,000 for top suites. Prices vary significantly by season, so booking 4–8 weeks ahead usually secures the best rates.

What neighbourhood should I stay in for my first visit to Cardiff?

For first-time visitors, the city centre or historic quarter offers the best combination of walkability, restaurants, and access to main attractions. Once you know the city, neighbourhood hotels often offer better value and a more authentic experience. All the hotels in our guide include neighbourhood notes to help you choose.

Is it safe to book hotels in Cardiff online?

Yes — all hotels in our guide can be booked through reputable platforms. We recommend booking either directly with the hotel for potential perks, or through Booking.com for flexible cancellation policies. Always read recent reviews and confirm your booking with the hotel 48 hours before arrival.

Ready to book Cardiff?

Prices and availability change daily. Lock in the best rate by booking early — most of our top picks offer free cancellation.

Check Best Rates in Cardiff