Cardiff may not be the biggest city, but it is scattered with photographic landmarks and locations. Everyone wants to have the best photos to share their travels and their lives, so to ensure that your pictures truly reflect the beauty of Cardiff, here are some locations we recommend.
5. Winter Wonderland
Being December, how could we not at least mention Cardiff’s iconic Winter Wonderland? The festivities last from November to January and include ice skating, food, drink, and other winter festivities. While grabbing a drink, why not grab your camera and snap a few shots? The bright lights and comfy aesthetic make it the perfect location to evoke the coziest of feelings without having to leave Cardiff.
We suggest thinking outside the box. Instead of generic poses in front of the Ferris wheel, be artistic and use the neon lighting to your advantage.
4. Local Cafes
It’s no secret that food culture is a popular topic on Instagram with hashtags like #foodie and #foodstagram dominating feeds everywhere. With one look at some of the cafes in Cardiff, it’s not hard to see why. There are innumerable hidden gems across the city, bound to have something for everyone while providing a beautiful backdrop.
Wild Thing provides a natural and relaxing environment 
Wild Thing cafe is also all locally sourced!
Some we recommend for not only their visual appeal, but also their food are: So Coffee Bar, Wild Thing, Bon Café, and pretty much any café located within an arcade (such as Coffee Barker and Garlands).
And, unlike Winter Wonderland, these locations are available year-round.
3. Penarth Pier
Located just outside of Cardiff in Penarth, Penarth Pier is a perfect option for anyone looking to get out of the city or from the hustle and bustle of life. Originally opened in 1898, the pier is one of the last remaining Victorian piers in Wales.
Fully restored, and beautiful as ever, the pier is a stunning photo location or photo backdrop if you want to walk down to the water.
As for tourists: if you don’t have a chance to make it to London, the pier is also home to an iconic red telephone booth!
2. Bute Park
While visiting Cardiff it is hard to miss the Castle, but don’t forget Bute Park! 56 hectares of green right in the middle of the city, Bute Park is perfect for anyone looking to get a good picture. Family pictures? Fashion photography? Silly selfies? Bute Park is the perfect location for all.
Additionally, Bute Park has an incredibly rich history since it once was part of the castle gardens and has played an important role in Cardiff’s culture since the 18th century.
1. Arcades
It would be amiss to talk about the most Instagramable and photogenic locations in Cardiff and not mention the arcades! Scattered throughout downtown Cardiff, the Victorian arcades are a highlight of the city, especially in Cardiff, which is also referred to as the City of Arcades.
The oldest arcade in Cardiff is the Royal Arcade, though one could argue that the prettiest is Duke Street Arcade— but we’ll leave that decision up to you!
The arcades are home to several local shops and cafes, perfect for those looking to take a break from photographing, but we can’t guarantee they won’t also make you want to pull out your camera again!