Areas and suburbs in Cardiff

The best places to live in Cardiff

The Welsh capital, Cardiff, is a cosmopolitan city whose skyline ranges from modern skyscrapers and famous stadia to whimsical castles. When it comes to the city’s various areas and suburbs, newcomers will be spoilt for choice, as each comes with a unique set of characteristics, amenities and atmosphere. Cardiff also offers significant variety in terms of cost and lifestyle offerings, so new arrivals are sure to find something suitable.

Proximity to Cardiff's city centre shouldn’t be of much concern to house hunters, as the Welsh capital is compact, pedestrianised and boasts excellent public transport infrastructure, making for quick and easy commutes.

Young professionals and students tend to favour the trendy central areas of Cardiff, while families usually prefer the spacious and tree-lined outlying suburbs. An added advantage of moving to Cardiff is the relatively low rental and property prices, especially when compared to other UK capitals. 

We've listed some of Cardiff’s most popular areas and suburbs below.

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Central areas of Cardiff

Roath

Just northeast of the city centre lies Roath, a picturesque and vibrant multicultural community. Creatives, young professionals and students will treasure the sustainable shops and chic restaurants and pubs. With excellent transport links, residents can get to the city centre in 15 minutes by car or bus. 

Pontcanna

Pontcanna is a lush neighbourhood with highly sought-after amenities. Residents enjoy the swathes of parkland, world-class sporting facilities and entertainment hubs such as the Chapter Art Centre and the King’s Road Courtyard. Families often choose Pontcanna for its spacious homes and proximity to the city centre. Shopaholics love the easy access to Canton’s high street, while rugby fans are excited by the prospect of running into their favourite player at the local hotspots in Pontcanna.

Cardiff Bay

Cardiff Bay, fondly known as The Bay, is a foodie’s dream. The area is home to more than 25 restaurants, bars and cafes. Cardiff Bay is truly an area for people from all walks of life. Luxury residences dot the waterfront, while affordable flats can be found a bit further out. The neighbourhood also hosts many of Cardiff’s top attractions, including the Wales Millennium Centre, The Senedd and Techniquest.

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Family-friendly areas of Cardiff

Lisvane

Perched in the northernmost part of Cardiff, Lisvane is one of the city's most affluent suburbs. The village is well known for its excellent schools, green spaces and magnificent properties. New arrivals can find anything from cottages to mansions here. While Lisvane is secluded, newcomers commuting to the city centre can still expect relatively short bus and train rides.

Penylan

With nearby Roath Park Lake, several good schools and child-friendly restaurants, Penylan is a haven for families. The strong sense of community contributes to its character, while the Edwardian architecture drives its charm. Travelling to the city centre takes just six minutes by car, while the bus and train are efficient commuting options, too. 

Llandaff

Medieval architecture aficionados and Roald Dahl fans will love the famous novelist’s quiet village-like hometown of Llandaff. Families appreciate Llandaff's community for its solidarity, while the area's selection of Welsh- and English-language schools is equally attractive. The suburb is also chock-full of quaint boutique shops and cafes and has access to the Llandaff Meadows.