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Layover Ideas Cardiff Airport CWL

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Top 5 Layover Ideas for Cardiff Airport

If you find yourself with a long layover at Cardiff Airport (CWL), don't fret. This Welsh city has a wealth of attractions and activities that can easily fill your time. Here are our top 5 layover ideas that can be done within 12 hours:

1. Visit the Welsh National Opera

Cardiff, the capital city of Wales, is home to the Welsh National Opera. If you're a fan of performing arts, this is a must-visit. With a busy annual program of festivals and events, you're likely to catch a performance even on a short visit.

2. Explore the National Museum Wales

Get a dose of Welsh culture and history at the National Museum Wales. The museum houses vast collections of art, archaeology, natural history, and geology exhibits. It's a great way to spend a few hours learning about Wales and its rich heritage.

3. Hike up Mount Snowdon

If you're up for a bit of adventure, consider a hike up Mount Snowdon. At 3,560ft, it’s the highest point in England and Wales. Legend has it that King Arthur fought a duel with an ogre on the mountainside. The hike might be challenging, but the stunning views from the top are totally worth it.

4. Take a Boat Trip

Wales boasts a 750-mile coastline, and during the summer months, you can spot seals and dolphins off most of the West Wales coast. Take a boat trip and enjoy the breathtaking views of the sea and the cliffs. If you're lucky, you might even spot some marine life.

5. Visit a Castle

Wales is known for its many castles - over 600 at the last count. Take a short trip to one of these historical sites and immerse yourself in the country's medieval past. Some of the popular ones include Cardiff Castle, Caerphilly Castle, and Castell Coch.

Remember, the Tourist Information Center in the arrivals hall of the Passenger Terminal at Cardiff Airport has information about events and attractions within Wales. Make sure to stop by for more ideas on how to spend your layover.

Helpful Tips & Resources

Need help navigating your way through an unfamiliar airport? Look no further than iFly.com for expert tips and advice. Here are some helpful tips to help you travel stress-free through CWL Airport:

  • Don't let heavy bags slow you down! Make use of our airport's complimentary baggage carts, available for all travelers in the baggage claim area.
  • If you have some time before your departure, relax, grab a bite at one of CWL's restaurants, peruse the shops, or jump on the free internet and surf galore!
  • If you are flying in business or first class (or are a member), check out where the airline club lounges are located.
  • Once you have passed through security, you can use the airport map to find your gate, as well as the various restaurants and shops that are available on your route.
  • Surf to your heart's content. Jump on Cardiff airport's internet (free!)
  • For those (dreaded) early-morning flights, consider one of the airport hotels on or near CWL to spend the night prior to your flight. In many cases your parking for the trip's duration is free!
  • Have a flight arriving and want a fast way to get to your destination? Here are a few taxi and limo airport service providers that service the airport.

Nearby Attractions for an Extended Layover

If your layover at Cardiff Airport extends beyond 12 hours, you have an excellent opportunity to explore more of what Cardiff and its surrounding areas have to offer. Here are some activities and attractions you can consider if you have 12 to 48 hours on your hands:

1. Take a Day Trip to Swansea

Just an hour's drive from Cardiff, Swansea offers a unique blend of city life and stunning coastal views. While there, you can visit the Swansea Museum, take a stroll along the Swansea Bay, or explore the Gower Peninsula, known for its breathtaking landscapes and beaches.

2. Explore Brecon Beacons National Park

If you're a nature lover, don't miss the chance to visit the Brecon Beacons National Park. This vast natural reserve offers a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, horse riding, and caving. The park is also home to some of the most impressive waterfalls in Wales.

3. Visit the City of Bath

Known for its Roman-built baths, the city of Bath is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is just over an hour away from Cardiff by train. Spend the day exploring the historic sites, enjoy a dip in the thermal waters, or shop in the city's many boutique stores.

4. Explore the Wye Valley

The Wye Valley, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, is a great choice for a day trip. You can enjoy a leisurely walk along the River Wye, visit the Tintern Abbey, or explore the charming towns of Monmouth and Chepstow.

5. Visit St. Fagans National Museum of History

St. Fagans National Museum of History is one of the leading open-air museums in Europe. Here, you can explore the history of Wales through its reconstructed historic buildings, ranging from a Celtic village to a Victorian schoolhouse. It's a fascinating journey through time that's just a short drive from Cardiff Airport.

These are just a few of the many attractions you can explore during an extended layover at Cardiff Airport. Remember to check the opening hours and any travel restrictions before planning your visit to these sites.

Updated on: November 22, 2023