Cardiff’s vibrant nightlife scene is one you won’t want to miss. Join us as we explore the buzzing streets of the Welsh capital to uncover the hidden gems and popular hangouts that make Cardiff a true nightlife haven for students.
That’s right — Cardiff has something for every kind of student. Whether you’re after a cosy pub for a casual pint or a packed dance floor where you can let loose, the city delivers on all fronts.
So, whether you’re already living the student life in Cardiff (lucky you!) and searching for somewhere new, or you’re considering Cardiff as your uni destination and want the lowdown on its nightlife, we’ve done the legwork for you. Here’s our handpicked list of bars and pubs bursting with personality, great atmospheres, and — most importantly — excellent drinks.
Better still, you won’t have to venture far from our Park Place Vita Student accommodation. Every venue featured is just a breezy 10 to 15-minute walk away.
Must-try bars in Cardiff for a real Welsh welcome
The Woodville
A student favourite thanks to its affordable drinks and lively atmosphere, The Woodville is a classic Cardiff pub. With regular live music, quiz nights, and a popular bottomless brunch, it’s often the go-to spot on Wednesday nights after sports and society meetups.
Where? 1–5 Woodville Rd, Cardiff CF24 4DW
Distance from Vita Student Cardiff? Around a 15-minute walk.
Porters Cardiff
Located right in the city centre, Porters offers an impressive drinks menu featuring craft beers, cocktails, and regular live entertainment. With its relaxed vibe and comfortable seating, it’s a great spot for students to unwind after a busy day of lectures.
Where? 9 Barrack Ln, St David’s Centre, Cardiff CF10 2GS
Distance from Vita Student Cardiff? Around an 8–10-minute walk.
The Cambrian Tap
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Conveniently located near Cardiff Queen Street Station, The Cambrian Tap is known for its cosy pub atmosphere and excellent selection of craft beers, ales, and ciders. Students love its friendly vibe and comforting homemade bar bites — especially the much-loved meat pies.
Where? 51 St Mary St, Cardiff CF10 1AD
Distance from Vita Student Cardiff? Around a 10–12-minute walk.
The SU Bar (Y Plas)
Located inside Cardiff University’s Students’ Union, Y Plas is a buzzing student hub. With themed nights, affordable drinks, and a packed events calendar, it’s the perfect place to socialise and meet new people.
Where? Cardiff University Students’ Union, Park Place, Cardiff CF10
Distance from Vita Student Cardiff? Just a 10-minute walk.
The best bar to watch sports in Cardiff
Gassy’s
This quirky pub on Salisbury Road is legendary among students. With retro gaming consoles, great food, affordable drinks, and 13 HD screens, Gassy’s is the ultimate match-day destination.
Where? 39–41 Salisbury Rd, Cardiff CF24 4AB
Distance from Vita Student Cardiff? Around a 10–11-minute walk.
The best bar with live music in Cardiff
The Live Lounge
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A Cardiff institution, The Live Lounge hosts live music, comedy, and DJ sets from midday until the early hours. With budget-friendly drinks and an electric atmosphere, it’s a firm favourite for a fun and spontaneous night out.
Where? 9 The Friary, Cardiff CF10 3FA
Distance from Vita Student Cardiff? Just around the corner.
The best cocktail bars in Cardiff
Dirty Martini Cardiff
Known for its bold cocktail creations and glamorous vibe, Dirty Martini is the go-to spot for bottomless brunches, late-night parties, and unforgettable evenings.
Where? Imperial Gate, St Mary St, Cardiff CF10 1FA
Distance from Vita Student Cardiff? Around a 15-minute walk.
Peppermint
A lively hotspot known for creative cocktails, tasty burgers, and great-value deals, Peppermint is perfect for summer nights thanks to its outdoor seating.
Where? 63 St Mary St, Cardiff CF10 1FE
Distance from Vita Student Cardiff? Around a 10–12-minute walk.
Where will you be going first?
Like any great capital city, Cardiff’s nightlife scene is always evolving, with new venues opening and reputations changing all the time.
If you’re planning a night out, we recommend checking recent reviews and local recommendations — especially if you’re heading to Cardiff for the next academic year.
If your heart’s set on Cardiff, have you sorted your university accommodation in Cardiff?
Life at Vita Student Cardiff
Experience the best of city living at our Vita Student Cardiff accommodation at Park Place. Perfectly located for Cardiff University, Cardiff Met, and the University of South Wales.
Enjoy modern city-centre living with free on-site gyms, regular resident events, and fortnightly room cleaning included.
But wait, there’s more…
From career talks and CV workshops to exclusive resident events, living at Vita Student helps you make the most of uni life — and beyond.
Secure your room at Vita Student Cardiff, Park Place today.
