City guides: Cardiff

The view of Cardiff Castle coupled with the Millenium stadium is a memorable image and one that sums up the city. The Welsh capital is both modern, vibrant and steeped in fascinating history

Bars and clubs

The nightlife in Cardiff is so broad and dynamic that you could party for a fortnight and not go to the same place twice. Greyfriars Road plays host to a mix of bars and clubs, such as Tiger Tiger and Varsity, which provide cheap entertainment all week long. Vodka Revolution, situated opposite Cardiff Castle is a popular haunt for students and locals, with cheap deals on their famous collection of vodkas. Mill Lane is fast establishing itself as another popular area for both locals and students alike. Sophisticated bars like Peppermint and Mocka provide an array of cocktails with a relaxing vibe, whilst clubs Soda and Ladybird accommodate both professionals and students. Live Lounge is a student favourite for a cheap night and for those who haven't finished partying when the other bars stop serving. Clwb Ifor Bach, Barfly and Metros have alternative music if you prefer rock or indie and the SU bars are great for students on a budget.

Shopping

With the recent development of the new St David's shopping centre, the city has earnt a valid reputation for providing excellent shopping opportunities. With a large variety of high street shops on two levels, you could spend all day browsing before you even get to the high street. Step out of St David's and you have Queen Street lined with an array of popular stores and St Mary's Street with its small arcades for those looking for something more individual.

Eating out

Even the pickiest of eaters can enjoy a meal in Cardiff. St David's provides a variety of restaurants and cafes suitable for all budgets. One student favourite is the Red Hot World buffet, offering over 300 dishes on an all-you-can-eat basis from cultures you didn't even know existed. On a sunny day, Cardiff bay is the destination of choice for students, locals and visitors. Whether it's going down to get an ice cream, lunch or an evening meal, there's something to suit everyone with many restaurants allowing you to sit outside near the sea. For those in the student areas looking for something cheap, the Woodville and the Vulcan in Cathays have regular deals on, whilst Crwys Road, City Road and Caroline Street (aka Chippy Lane), are ideal for that late night kebab.

Entertainment

Cardiff Bay is worth a visit with boat tours, ice skating and a cinema complex. The Cardiff International Arena on Mary Ann Street regularly hosts large acts, such as The Killers, One Direction and Beyonce. The Millennium Centre at Cardiff Bay and New Theatre at Park Place, both have student discounts, while the National Museum is free. For students looking for entertainment around campus, Cardiff RAG regularly hold fun charity events that allow you to get involved and meet new people, all for a good cause.

Student accommodation

University prices range from £80 - £100 per week for catered halls and £65 per week to £100 per week for self-catered halls, depending on room size and location. For example, University Hall, a self-catered halls of residence about 30 minutes from campus, will set you back around £72 per week for a shared bathroom and £85 if you prefer the ensuite option. The areas of Cathays and Roath are popular with students who are interested in private student accommodation.

Top 3 places to see                      

• Cardiff Castle - take a tour
• Cardiff Bay - stylish waterfront area
• Millenium Stadium - for sport and live music                     

A concise city with plenty to explore, Cardiff is the perfect place for people to settle into city living. And if you fancy escaping it all, a short journey will take you straight into the beauty of the Welsh countryside.