Cardiff, one of Europe's fastest growing capitals, reached the shortlist in the competition to be nominated European Capital of Culture in 2008.

The city’s arts facilities are exceptional, with the National Museum and Gallery housing the second largest Impressionist collection after Paris.

Cardiff Bay has been transformed into a stunning waterfront with a wealth of attractions.

South Wales is strewn with castles and Cardiff has its fair share; most notable the stunningly elaborate Cardiff Castle located in the centre of the city and on the northern edge of Cardiff, set in the wooded hillside, is the fairytale Castell Coch (Red Castle).