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Visiting Cardiff for Football
Cardiff City Football Club | The 2026 FA Community Shield | UEFA Euro 2028
Cardiff has long been one of Britain's great sporting cities. While rugby often steals the headlines, football has an equally passionate following. Whether you're travelling to cheer on your club, support Cymru or attend one of the biggest fixtures in the football calendar, Cardiff knows how to put on a matchday.
Future Inn Cardiff puts you close to the action, with both the Principality Stadium and the Cardiff City Stadium just a short distance away. After the match, relax in a spacious bedroom that sleeps up to four guests. With free WiFi and free parking, it’s the perfect base for your Cardiff getaway. And Thomas Restaurant serves a hearty Welsh breakfast and seasonal dishes to keep you fuelled. Book direct for the best rates guaranteed. Plus, Future Club Rewards members get up to 12% off - join free today!
Book a RoomAre You Visiting Cardiff to Watch Football?
From league football at Cardiff City Stadium to international fixtures and showpiece events at the Millennium Stadium, officially known as the Principality Stadium, the Welsh capital has become one of the UK's top destinations for football fans. With excellent transport links, a walkable city centre, passionate supporters and plenty to see before and after kick-off, it's easy to turn matchday into a memorable short break.
Whether you're following your team in the Championship, League One, the Premier League, or travelling for the Community Shield, a Wales international or UEFA EURO 2028, here's everything you need to know.
Football Stadiums in Cardiff
Cardiff is home to two fantastic football venues, each offering a very different matchday experience.
Cardiff City Stadium
Opened in 2009, Cardiff City Stadium is the modern home of Cardiff City FC. With a capacity of more than 33,000, it regularly hosts league and cup fixtures.
The Cardiff City Stadium away end is in the Ninian Stand, with dedicated turnstiles, food kiosks and facilities. The atmosphere is particularly impressive for local derbies and big promotion clashes, with plenty of noise throughout the game.
The stadium is also the regular home of the Wales Men's National Football Team and, occasionally, the Wales Women's Football Team, making it one of the best places to experience international football.
Principality Stadium
While best known for rugby, the Principality Stadium has hosted some of the biggest football occasions in Europe.
During the redevelopment of Wembley Stadium, it staged FA Cup Finals, League Cup Finals, play-offs and international fixtures. More recently, it welcomed the 2017 UEFA Champions League Final, and in 2028 it will once again be on the world stage when Cardiff hosts several matches during UEFA EURO 2028, including the tournament's opening match.
The Principality Stadium also hosts blockbuster concerts by internationally renowned artists, including Oasis, Take That, Coldplay, Beyoncé, Ed Sheeran, and Taylor Swift.
Away Supporters Guide
Cardiff is one of the easiest cities in Britain to navigate on matchday. The compact layout means many attractions, hotels, restaurants and stadiums are within walking distance.
Getting To The Match
It’s incredibly easy to get around Cardiff:
Cardiff City Stadium
Principality Stadium
Matchday Atmosphere
Whether you're watching Cardiff City or Wales, football days bring the city to life.
The streets fill with supporters, pubs buzz from late morning onwards, and you'll hear songs echoing through the centre long before kick-off. While Cardiff fans are passionate about their clubs and country, the city has earned a reputation for being welcoming and friendly to visitors who respect the occasion.
Where to Eat and Drink in Cardiff
One of Cardiff's biggest strengths is how easy it is to find somewhere to eat or grab a drink before the football.
The city centre is packed with independent cafés, traditional pubs, sports bars and restaurants serving everything from a quick burger to leisurely pre-match meals.
If you're attending Cardiff City Stadium, there are also several popular pubs within walking distance of the ground, while those heading to Principality Stadium have hundreds of venues within a few streets.
Our recommendations are:
Drinks before or after the match
Venues to watch on a big screen
Late-night bars in Cardiff City Centre
Where to eat
Most bars and pubs may have a reduced menu on match day. If you would like more formal dining, you will need to book a table in advance.
Thomas Bar & Restaurant
Thomas Restaurant is a vibrant dining venue in the heart of Cardiff Bay that offers a memorable culinary experience.
Known for serving locally sourced produce, the menu showcases a delightful range of British and Welsh dishes, ensuring that diners can enjoy an authentic taste of the region.
From hearty breakfasts to leisurely lunches and indulgent dinners, it is ideal for both hotel guests and locals alike.
Additionally, the restaurant features an inviting bar area, perfect for enjoying a drink. In the summer months, take advantage of the outdoor terrace.
A large selection of drinks is also available, including popular local brands Double Dragon from the Felinfoel Brewery, Penderyn Whiskey and Gin, and Barti Spiced rum.
Naturally, there's a good choice of soft drinks, including refreshing fruit juices, tea, coffee, and mocktails.
Those staying in the hotel can access room service 24/7.
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Things to Do Before Kick-Off
If you've arrived early, Cardiff has plenty to offer beyond football.
For culture
You can wander around Cardiff Castle, one of Wales’s most popular heritage attractions. Entry to the castle grounds is free; however, there is a charge to explore the buildings.
Nearby, you'll find the National Museum of Wales, with everything from impressionist paintings to gigantic dinosaurs. Entry is free, and there are daily 35-minute tours from 12.30 pm each day.
Alternatively, St Fagans showcases Welsh life through the ages. There are over 50 historic buildings, including farmhouses, a Victorian school, a traditional Welsh chapel, and the iconic Vulcan Pub, where you can even get a pint. It also offers free entry.
For atmosphere
Wales is the land of myth, legend, and proud traditions, and you can experience Welsh culture in Cardiff. From hearing the Welsh language spoken and exploring historic landmarks to sampling traditional Welsh food.
Cardiff is known as the City of Arcades; it has the biggest concentration of Victorian, Edwardian, and modern-day indoor shopping arcades in Britain. You can’t beat shopping in Cardiff, with high-street brands, designer stores and independent boutiques.
Don’t miss Cardiff Bay, where you’ll find Future Inns. The waterfront is home to The Senedd – the home of Welsh politics, The Norwegian Church is one of the most iconic buildings with deep ties to Roald Dahl, The bright red Pierhead Building, and the iconic Wales Millennium Centre.
For fresh air
Bute Park, the green heart of the city. Here you can walk or cycle part of the Taff Trail and see a Gorsedd Stone Circle, beehives, a sculpture trail, Blackfriar's Friary, and so much more. Alternatively, Roath Park is where the locals head. Here you can see the Scott Memorial Lighthouse, a boating lake, and feed the swans, geese and other large birds.
Cardiff International White Water offers amazing activities. White water rafting is one of the most popular activities available. With an indoor wave, a simulated surf machine, canoeing, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, hot dogging and more.
Whilst Insole Court is a Grade II-listed Victorian house and gardens, with free entry. The beautifully maintained grounds feature formal lawns, flower beds, and hidden corners to explore. It’s also a vibrant community hub with daily classes, activities and regular events.
CARDIFF DESTINATION GUIDEHotel near Cardiff City Stadium
Accommodation in Cardiff is always in high demand around matches, so it’s recommended that visitors book early to avoid disappointment.
Future Inn Cardiff is a modern and comfortable hotel in the heart of Cardiff Bay, one of the city's most vibrant areas. The hotel is conveniently located near main access roads and public transportation, making it easy to explore the city. This well-appointed hotel offers a range of amenities, ensuring a pleasant and convenient stay. Alongside its excellent location, the hotel boasts spacious and airy bedrooms - all of which sleep up to four guests - that feature free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, a desk and workspace, and a laptop safe. Added comforts such as complimentary robes, tea and coffee-making facilities, and filtered water enhance the overall experience. Plus, home away from home services like the guest laundry room, ice buckets and wine glasses. There's also electric car charging and free parking, which are rare in such a central location.
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Hotel near Principality Stadium
For additional benefits, you can join the Future Inns hotel loyalty program. Alongside a member's discount rate, for every £1 you spend on accommodation, you earn 1 reward point. You also get a complimentary drink voucher to redeem in the bar when you dine. Plus, you get double points when you eat in the restaurant. Points collected can then be used to upgrade your bedroom to a suite or a free night's stay. It's also completely free to join!
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Cardiff City Stadium like for away fans?
Away supporters enjoy excellent views from the away section of the Ninian Stand, with modern facilities, food outlets and dedicated entrances. Stewards are experienced in welcoming travelling supporters, making matchday straightforward for first-time visitors.
Are there pubs for away fans near Cardiff City Stadium?
Yes. Several pubs within walking distance welcome visiting supporters, while many fans choose to meet in the city centre before making the short trip to the stadium. Neutral pubs near the stadium in Canton (roughly a 10-minute walk) are The Landsdowne, The Admiral Napier, or The Ivor Davies. Or in Grangetown, again, a 10–15-minute walk to The Grange Pub or The Cornwall. The Sand Martin is outside the ground, but on some match days, due to licensing requirements, you may need to purchase a meal.
What is the Cardiff City Stadium capacity?
Cardiff City Stadium has a capacity of just over 33,000 spectators.
What is the name of Cardiff City Stadium?
The stadium is officially called Cardiff City Stadium and has retained its original name since opening in 2009. Though many still refer to it as Ninian Park.
Are there any unique Cardiff football traditions or fan rituals visitors should know about?
Cardiff City has plenty of matchday traditions that add to the atmosphere. The most famous is "Doing the Ayatollah", where supporters tap the tops of their heads while chanting after a goal or big moment. Fans also proudly sing the club anthem, "I'll Be There With My Little Pick and Shovel," a tribute to South Wales' mining heritage. Before kick-off, many supporters meet in pubs around Cardiff City Stadium or the city centre before walking down Sloper Road together.
Are there any areas or pubs that away fans should avoid on matchday?
Typically, away fans are welcome at all pubs in Cardiff. Depending on the expected number of people at the game and factors such as historic rivalry, South Wales Police sometimes say that pubs in the immediate vicinity of the ground, and specific local pubs in Canton and Grangetown, are reserved for home supporters. Visiting fans are advised to drink in the city centre.
Is the Millennium Stadium the same as Principality Stadium?
Yes. The iconic venue was originally known as the Millennium Stadium and is now called Principality Stadium, although many supporters still use its original name.
Which football matches are played at Principality Stadium?
The stadium has hosted Wales men’s international matches and major football events. It has previously hosted FA Cup Finals, League Cup Finals, and the UEFA Champions League Final, and will host UEFA EURO 2028 fixtures.
Is Cardiff a good city for a football weekend?
Absolutely. Compact, easy to explore and packed with pubs, restaurants, attractions and excellent transport links, Cardiff is one of the UK's best cities for a football break.
