Cardiff is a city that combines history, pop culture, and scenic beauty in a way that keeps visitors coming back. Its compact size makes it ideal for exploring on guided tours, whether you’re after a deep dive into Welsh castles, a walk through the city’s filming locations, or a scenic adventure along its coast. We particularly love the From Barry Island: Gavin and Stacey Tour for fans of the hit series, and the South Wales Cliffs, Beaches & Castles Day Tour for a mix of natural beauty and historic sites. These tours give you a taste of Wales’ lively culture and stunning landscapes, all with expert guides and well-organized itineraries.
Whether you’re interested in exploring Cardiff’s iconic castles, uncovering its darker side, or walking in the footsteps of Doctor Who, Cardiff offers a variety of engaging tours. With options that range from half-day city walks to full-day scenic excursions, there’s something for most travelers. Below, we’ve listed the 13 best tours in Cardiff, each with its unique appeal and practical details to help you decide.
1. From Barry Island: Gavin and Stacey Tour
At number 1 on our list, the From Barry Island: Gavin and Stacey Tour is a must for fans of the beloved British sitcom. This official tour lasts about 3.5 hours and costs $61 per person, taking you through the real-life locations made famous on screen. You’ll visit Barry Island, Stacey’s home, and see where Nessa works as a mime artist, along with stops at Nessa’s Slots and Marco’s café, where Stacey worked. You’ll also get a chance to snap photos outside Gwen and Stacey’s house and visit the church where Neil was christened. The tour’s reviews highlight its fun, authentic feel, with a 4.9/5 rating from 460 travelers. It’s perfect for fans eager to see the filming locations and relive favorite moments in a relaxed setting. If you love Gavin and Stacey, this tour offers a personalized, behind-the-scenes look at the town that stole hearts.
Bottom Line: A fun, well-reviewed experience ideal for comedy fans and those wanting a relaxed day exploring Barry Island’s seaside charm.
2. Cardiff: South Wales Cliffs, Beaches & Castles Day Tour
At number 2, the South Wales Cliffs, Beaches & Castles Day Tour offers an 8-hour journey through some of Wales’ most scenic spots. This full-day tour includes stops at Nash Point’s dramatic cliffs along the Wales Coast Path, Dunraven Bay with its limestone cliffs and rock pools, and Ogmore Castle’s impressive ruins. You’ll also explore St. Fagans National Museum of History, one of Europe’s top open-air museums, and visit Caerphilly Castle, the largest in Wales and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The tour combines natural beauty with historic sites and offers enough time to enjoy each stop. Reviewers love the knowledgeable guide Max, who shares engaging stories and takes time to answer questions. The tour’s value lies in its comprehensive coverage of heritage and breathtaking scenery.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for those wanting a full-day, scenic adventure with a good mix of heritage and coast.
3. Cardiff: Doctor Who City Walking Tour
Number 3 on our list, the Doctor Who City Walking Tour lasts around 2 hours and costs varies depending on the day. It’s perfect for sci-fi fans eager to see Cardiff’s locations used in the hit series. You’ll walk through the city to see more than 20 filming sites used since 2005, including Clara’s mobile phone scene, and the church where Vanessa “Shanessa” Jenkins almost married Dave. The tour also passes by Cardiff Castle and the National Museum of Wales, which have appeared in various episodes. With a rating of 4.7/5 from 98 reviews, fans praise the guide’s storytelling and the chance to stand where the Doctor, Rose, and others did. It’s a fun, compact experience that combines city sightseeing with pop culture.
Bottom Line: Ideal for Doctor Who aficionados or anyone curious about Cardiff’s role as a filming backdrop.
4. Cardiff: Waterfalls, Mountains & Castles Day Tour
Ranked number 4, this Waterfalls, Mountains & Castles Day Tour is an 8-hour adventure that takes you into Wales’ dramatic landscape. Highlights include Henrhyd Falls, the tallest waterfall in South Wales, and the 3,018-year-old Yew Tree, one of Britain’s oldest. You’ll also visit Cyfarthfa Castle and Caerphilly Castle, the largest in Wales. The tour balances nature and history, with plenty of photo opportunities and free time at Brecon town, known for its canals. Reviewers, like one who says, “The waterfalls were beautiful,” appreciate the knowledgeable guide Max, who shares insights into Wales’ scenery and culture. This tour is perfect for active travelers who want a full day mixing outdoor wonders with historic sites.
Bottom Line: A lively option for nature lovers who also want a dose of medieval architecture.
5. From Cardiff: Three Castles, Welsh Mountains & More Day Tour
Number 5, the Three Castles & Welsh Mountains Tour, is an 8-hour trip exploring Cardiff Castle, Castell Coch, and Caerphilly Castle. It includes a scenic drive through Brecon Beacons National Park. Guests often praise guide Jim for his storytelling, as one reviewer notes, “Loved it.” The tour also stops at Brecon’s historic town and the natural beauty of the Welsh mountains. It’s suited for those interested in castles with a taste for mountain scenery and a well-paced itinerary that balances history, nature, and local towns. The tour offers superb value for those wanting to see Wales’ iconic castles plus some landscapes.
Bottom line: Perfect for castle enthusiasts who want a comprehensive day out with scenic mountain views.
6. Cardiff: Private Walking Tour with a Local
Number 6 offers a personalized experience with the Private Walking Tour with a Local. For $56 per person, you get a flexible, tailored walk lasting from 2 to 6 hours. This tour is ideal if you want to skip the cookie-cutter approach and explore Cardiff’s hidden corners, hear authentic stories, and ask questions. Your passionate local guide will craft the route based on your interests, whether you’re into architecture, food, or history. The reviews reflect high satisfaction, with many highlighting the guide’s enthusiasm and depth of knowledge. This tour suits travelers who prefer a private, intimate experience and want to go beyond the typical tourist stops.
Bottom line: Best for those seeking a customized, insider look at Cardiff.
7. From Cardiff: Guided Tour of Welsh Valleys
At number 7, the Valleys Tour takes you through the Welsh valleys, visiting Tintern Abbey, Chepstow Castle, and Caerphilly Castle. It’s a 8-hour journey led by knowledgeable guides like Gareth, praised for his engaging storytelling. Travelers love the balance of castle visits and scenic drives, with plenty of time at each site. The tour is suitable for history buffs and those interested in experiencing rural Wales. The review mentions, “We never felt rushed,” making it good for those who prefer a relaxed pace. It’s an excellent choice for seeing iconic sites with experienced guides.
Bottom line: A flexible, informative tour for history and architecture lovers wanting a leisurely day.
8. Cardiff: Doctor Who Cardiff City Walking Tour
Number 8 is a 2-hour Doctor Who Cardiff City Walking Tour, perfect for Whovians on a budget. It visits key filming locations like Cardiff Castle and the National Museum of Wales. Your guide shares fun facts and behind-the-scenes stories, making it a lively way to explore Cardiff’s cultural scene. With a 4.5/5 rating from 52 reviews, fans appreciate the interactive nature and insider tips. It’s a great way to combine city sightseeing with sci-fi fandom, especially if you’re short on time or budget.
Bottom line: A fun, affordable option for Doctor Who fans eager to see the city through a sci-fi lens.
9. Private Day Tour of South Wales, including Cardiff & Caerphilly Castle
Number 9 is a luxurious private tour for up to 15 people, priced at $589.49 per person. This fully customized, 9-hour experience covers top sites like Caerphilly Castle, Cardiff, and the National Museum. Your private guide handles the logistics, with hotel pickup and drop-off included, freeing you to focus on the sights. Visitors love the personal attention and flexibility, with reviews praising the knowledgeable guide and well-organized itinerary. This tour is best suited for travelers seeking an exclusive, all-inclusive experience tailored to their interests.
Bottom line: An ideal choice for private, hassle-free exploration of South Wales’ highlights.
10. Cardiff: Private Dark History Tour
Ranked number 10, the Dark History Tour offers a 2-hour look into Cardiff’s shadowy past. For groups up to 15, the $192.84 fee gets you a detailed exploration of grim sites like old graveyards, execution locations, and slum areas. Your guide reveals stories of hangings, disease, and crime that shaped the city’s darker side. Reviewers appreciate the engaging storytelling and the chance to see a different facet of Cardiff. This tour is perfect for history buffs interested in the city’s less glamorous stories.
Bottom line: A fascinating, intimate tour of Cardiff’s darker history, ideal for those with a curious mind.
11. From Cardiff: Caerleon, Tintern Abbey and Three Castles Tour
Number 11, the Caerleon & Castles Tour offers a 9-hour full experience with a luxury small group. Highlights include Roman Caerleon, Chepstow’s Castle, and the ruins of Tintern Abbey. Your guide provides insights into the ancient and medieval history of these sites, with plenty of time to explore each. Guests love the seamless organization and the chance to see both historic and scenic sites in one day. It’s suited for travelers wanting a comprehensive summary of Wales’ rich past without feeling rushed.
Bottom line: A well-rounded tour perfect for history enthusiasts and those who want a guided, all-inclusive experience.
12. Cardiff: Doctor Who Walking Tour
The Doctor Who Walking Tour is a 3-hour experience for fans eager to see key filming locations and learn behind-the-scenes stories. It covers Cardiff Castle and other iconic spots, with a guide sharing insider anecdotes. This tour has a 4.9/5 rating from 10 reviews, with fans praising the guide’s deep knowledge. It’s suitable for those who want a slightly longer, more detailed look into Cardiff’s role in the series.
Bottom line: Great for dedicated Doctor Who fans who want a deeper, more detailed tour.
13. From Cardiff: The Wandering Bard’s Mythical West Wales Tour
Finally, the Mythical West Wales Tour is a 9.5-hour journey into Pembrokeshire. It features Pembroke Castle, Dylan Thomas’ Boathouse in Laugharne, and the seaside town of Tenby. The tour’s reviews praise the engaging storytelling and the quality of the sights, with one noting, “The castles and beaches are gorgeous.” It’s perfect for those wanting a full-day exploration of Wales’ southwest coast, combining culture, history, and scenic beauty in one trip.
Bottom line: A comprehensive, story-driven tour for lovers of Welsh legends, coastlines, and literary history.
How to Choose the Perfect Tour in Cardiff
When choosing your Cardiff tour, consider your interests and time constraints. For pop culture fans, the Doctor Who Tours are a hit, while history buffs may prefer the Three Castles & Mountains or the Caerleon & Castles. Those with a love of scenic landscapes and outdoor activities should check out the Waterfalls & Coast, which balances nature and heritage.
Budget travelers might find the Doctor Who Cardiff City Walking Tour appealing for its affordability, while those seeking a personalized experience will appreciate the Private Walking Tour, which offers flexible, private exploration. For a memorable, all-inclusive day, the Private Day Tour provides comprehensive coverage with the convenience of your own guide.
In summary, Cardiff offers a rich variety of tours to suit different interests and budgets. From exploring the city’s filming locations and castles to scenic coastlines and even its darker history, there’s something here for every curious traveler. If you’re planning your trip, consider booking early—these tours are popular and fill quickly, especially in peak seasons. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, pop culture devotee, or outdoor lover, Cardiff’s tours will add depth and fun to your Welsh adventure.