Start our journey with places to immerse yourself in Wales' fascinating history and culture.

1. St. Fagans National Museum of History This remarkable outdoor museum is a true gem among Cardiff's attractions. Located on 100 acres, it showcases more than 40 original buildings from different periods of Welsh history that have been relocated and restored on the museum grounds. Here you can see traditional Welsh farms, schools, stores and craft workshops. What's more, admission to the museum is free! Families with children will appreciate the interactive workshops and craft demonstrations that take place regularly. Be sure to plan at least 3-4 hours for the tour, as the grounds are extensive.

2nd Museum of Cardiff In the heart of the city is the intimate but very interesting Museum of Cardiff. This place tells the story of the city and its people in an interactive and engaging way. The exhibits range from Roman times to the present day. Of particular interest is an exhibition on Cardiff's development as a coal port in the 19th century. The museum is kid-friendly, offering many interactive elements. Admission is free, making it an ideal place for a short but substantive visit while exploring the city center.

3. Firing Line Cardiff Castle Museum of the Welsh Soldier Located on the grounds of Cardiff Castle, this lesser-known museum offers a fascinating insight into the history of the Welsh military. Exhibits include artifacts and stories from the 17th century to the present day. Of particular interest are the interactive exhibits, which allow you to feel the atmosphere of various armed conflicts. The museum is relatively small, but very well organized and rich in information. It is an ideal place for military history enthusiasts and families with older children.

The three sites offer a unique glimpse into the history and culture of Wales, well beyond the typical tourist attractions. Each has its own unique character and offers a different experience. St. Fagans is a sprawling open-air museum perfect for a day trip, the Museum of Cardiff is a compact and interactive experience in the city center, and Firing Line is a specialized museum for those interested in military history. All three venues are united by the high quality of the exhibits and attention to the educational aspect of the tour.

Cardiff is famous for its beautiful green spaces that offer respite from the hustle and bustle of the city. Here are some lesser-known but equally charming parks and gardens:

4. Bute Park Bute Park, although located in the heart of the city, often escapes the attention of tourists focused on the nearby castle. This sprawling 130-acre park is the true lungs of the city. Here you'll find scenic walking paths along the Taff River, charming gardens and impressive specimen trees. The park is ideal for picnics, jogging or just relaxing outdoors. An attraction for children will be a nature trail with wooden animal sculptures. Look out for the arboretum with rare tree species and the Secret Garden Café, where you can relax with a cup of coffee.

5 Roath Park Located a little further from the center, Roath Park is a real gem among Cardiff's parks. Its focal point is a picturesque lake where you can rent boats (during the summer season). The park is famous for its beautiful rose garden and flower clock. It's an ideal place for a quiet stroll or active recreation - you'll find children's playgrounds, sports fields and jogging paths. Note the clock tower, which was erected in memory of Captain Scott, the famous polar explorer.

6 Alexandra Gardens This small but charming park is located in the heart of the city, right next to Cardiff University. Its centerpiece is the Welsh National War Memorial, an imposing structure that pays tribute to the fallen of World Wars I and II. The park is an ideal place to take a short break while exploring the city. In spring and summer, it delights with colorful flower beds. It is also a popular place for students, which gives it a unique, youthful atmosphere.

7 - Hamadryad Park Located in Cardiff Bay, this lesser-known park offers a peaceful oasis away from the crowds. The park is named after the hospital ship HMS Hamadryad, which once docked nearby. The park is famous for its beautiful views of the bay and is an ideal spot for bird watching. You'll also find walking and jogging paths and small playgrounds for children. It's a great place to experience tranquility and enjoy the view of the water.

Each of these parks has its own unique character. Bute Park impresses with its size and variety of attractions, Roath Park impresses with its picturesque lake and rose garden, Alexandra Gardens offers tranquility in the heart of the city, and Hamadryad Park provides unique views of the bay. All of these places are free and available year-round, offering a variety of experiences depending on the season. These are the perfect places to take a break from sightseeing and enjoy the greenery that Cardiff has to offer.

Cardiff is not just about history and parks - the city also offers many non-obvious attractions for adventurers and lovers of unusual experiences.

8 Cardiff International White Water For lovers of water sports and adrenaline, Cardiff International White Water is a must-see. It's an artificial rafting and kayaking course that offers thrilling experiences for people of all ages and skill levels. Here you can try your hand at rafting, hydrospeed or stand-up paddleboarding. The center offers professional equipment and instructor supervision, making it a safe form of entertainment even for beginners. It's a great option for families with teenagers or groups of friends looking for unusual entertainment.

9 Cardiff Bay Although Cardiff Bay is quite famous, many people are unaware of the variety of attractions it offers. In addition to restaurants and bars, it's worth noting the less obvious points of interest. Here you can see the impressive Cardiff Bay Barrage, which transformed the former harbor into a freshwater lake. Also worth a visit is the Norwegian Church Arts Center, where Norwegian sailors once prayed and now hosts exhibitions and concerts. For fans of the 'Doctor Who' series, a must-see will be the Doctor Who Experience.

10. Roald Dahl - The Enormous Crocodile At the end of our list is an unusual attraction that will please both children and adult fans of Roald Dahl's works. In Cardiff Bay you can find the 'Enormous Crocodile' sculpture inspired by the book by this famous author, who was born in Cardiff. This is not only an interesting photo spot, but also a great place to start walking in Dahl's footsteps around the city. Also nearby is Roald Dahl Plass, a square named after the writer, where cultural events are often held.

The three attractions offer very different experiences. Cardiff International White Water is a destination for active, adrenaline-seeking visitors. Cardiff Bay is an area where you can spend an entire day exploring a variety of attractions and enjoying the seaside atmosphere. And the Huge Crocodile sculpture is a charming attraction that will bring an element of fun and fantasy to your sightseeing.

All in all, Cardiff offers much more than you might think at first glance. From fascinating museums to charming parks to unusual attractions, there is something for everyone. These 10 not-so-obvious places show just how diverse and fascinating this Welsh city can be. Whether you're a history buff, an adventurer, or simply want to discover a new, lesser-known facet of the city, Cardiff is sure not to disappoint. Keep in mind that many of the attractions are free or offer great prices for families, making Cardiff an ideal destination for a weekend getaway or longer stay. Discover the secrets of Cardiff and let yourself be surprised by this unique city!