Back in time Cardiff used to be a major industrial center focused on coal processing and export. After the decline of the industry it lost some of its economic importance, but retained most of the romantic old-town atmosphere. Unlike most cosmopolitan European capitals Cardiff is cosy and welcoming with the warmth of a smaller town. Further époques in the past are witnessed by the impressive old buildings in the city centre, dominated by the beautiful Castle, which is one of the major tourist attractions. Downtown is traffic-free and boasting of excellent traditional restaurants and cheerful pubs. In fact most leisure and entertainment activities are concentrated along the Cardiff Bay. Cardiff Bay also hosts the largest waterfront in Europe, as well as a fascinating modern leisure center. The Bay is the place where the city administrative and urban center tends to move to. You will also find here many museums and tourist attractions, including the Techniquest Science Discovery Centre, Craft in the Bay, The Welsh Assembly at the Pierhead, Butetown History and Arts Centre and the Norwegian Church Arts Centre.

Cardiff remains young-hearted thanks to its university and the thousands of students that live in the city. It enjoys wild nightlife, entertaining events and lively overall atmosphere. Sport, as everywhere in Britain, is dominated by football. The local team is loved and supported. And what is best in Cardiff - you will always find friends along its cozy streets and welcoming pubs. Still, the town moves straight ahead to its glamorous perspectives of an important European capital.