One of Cardiff's best-kept secrets is that it's known as the "City of Arcades," with more Victorian and Edwardian shopping arcades than any other UK city. Rather than heading straight to the high street, spend time wandering through the interconnected historic shopping passages, where you'll find independent boutiques, specialist retailers, cafés, and some of the city's most distinctive architecture. The arcades are covered, making them ideal for a December visit, and they offer a far more authentic Cardiff experience than most visitors expect. and continue through Royal Arcade, Cardiff and Morgan Quarter. Many locals use these routes as shortcuts through the city centre, and you'll discover everything from artisan coffee shops to Welsh gift stores tucked away beneath the ornate glass roofs. a side of Cardiff many event visitors miss. Location

Just 15 minutes from the city centre sits one of Wales' most extraordinary landmarks, often overlooked by visitors. Castell Coch, meaning "Red Castle", rises from the woodland hills above Cardiff and looks as though it belongs in a fantasy film. The castle was transformed during the Victorian era into an extravagant Gothic masterpiece, complete with richly decorated interiors, colourful ceilings and towers that resemble something from a storybook. It's one of the most photographed castles in Wales and remains a hidden gem compared to Cardiff Castle.

Many visitors attending events in Cardiff never realise this spectacular castle is so close by. The surrounding woodland walks are particularly beautiful during winter, and on a clear day the elevated location provides fantastic views across South Wales. If you're looking for an Instagram-worthy experience beyond the city centre, Castell Coch delivers one of the most unique visitor attractions in the region

Once the busiest coal-exporting port in the world, Cardiff Bay has been transformed into one of the UK's most impressive waterfront destinations. By day, visitors come for the attractions and sightseeing, but it is after sunset that the Bay truly comes alive. The waterfront becomes illuminated with reflections dancing across the water, while the iconic copper façade of the Wales Millennium Centre provides a spectacular backdrop to an evening stroll. The atmosphere is noticeably different from Cardiff city centre; more relaxed, sophisticated and scenic, making it the perfect place to unwind before or after a major event.

At the heart of the Bay is Mermaid Quay, a vibrant waterfront promenade lined with restaurants, bars and cafés overlooking the harbour. Visitors can enjoy everything from casual drinks to fine dining while watching boats bob gently in the marina. The surrounding architecture, maritime heritage and waterside setting create an atmosphere unlike anywhere else in Wales, making it one of Cardiff's most photographed locations.

A particular highlight is a visit to Wales Millennium Centre, one of the most recognisable buildings in Wales. Home to world-class theatre, opera, comedy and live entertainment, it has hosted everything from major West End productions to international touring performances. Even if you're not attending a show, the building itself is worth seeing after dark when its illuminated façade dominates the waterfront skyline.

Insider Tip

Most visitors stay around the restaurants, but locals know that the best views can be found by walking beyond the waterfront towards the Cardiff Bay Barrage. On a clear evening you'll enjoy panoramic views across the Bay and out towards the Severn Estuary, with the lights of Cardiff reflecting across the water. For Fury vs Joshua visitors looking to make a full weekend of their trip, Cardiff Bay offers the perfect combination of dining, entertainment and waterfront scenery away from the crowds of the city centre.

While Cardiff Castle is one of Wales' most famous landmarks, many visitors only see the exterior before moving on. The real highlights are found inside, including the lavish Victorian interiors, wartime shelters and the Norman Keep, which provides some of the best panoramic views across the city centre. The castle's location directly opposite Principality Stadium makes it an easy addition to any event itinerary.