Howard Gardens, Cardiff

When it comes to finding the perfect student accommodation in Cardiff, there’s no one-size-fits-all. That’s why amber offers a variety of room types to suit every vibe and budget, ensuring you get exactly what you need for a comfy, convenient stay. Let’s break down some of the top room options available:

Ensuite Rooms: These rooms give you the ultimate in privacy and comfort with a private bedroom and an attached bathroom. The ensuite offers a personal bathroom (no more awkward hall trips!) and is typically paired with a shared kitchen and living areas, so you can balance solitude with social time.

Studios: Want everything to yourself? A studio is your best bet. These self-contained spaces come with your kitchen, living area, and bathroom—all in one sleek package. With a studio, you get total independence and convenience, perfect if you’re someone who likes to be in control of your space without sharing.

Non-Ensuite Rooms: For those on a budget but still seeking comfort, these rooms offer a private bedroom with shared bathroom facilities. It’s the perfect middle ground for students looking to save a bit while still having their own space to retreat to. While bathrooms are shared, you’ll still get a private bedroom to relax in. Plus, there are always communal spaces to hang out with others.

Shared Apartments: These are the ultimate for social butterflies. With shared apartments, you get your private bedroom, but everything else—the kitchen, living room, and sometimes bathrooms—is shared with others. You’ll have your own private space for sleeping, but everything else is a group effort.

Living in Cardiff can be super affordable, especially compared to some other big UK cities, but it’s still important to know what to expect when it comes to budgeting. On average, students can expect to spend between £1,038 - £1,300 per month. Student accommodation Cardiff tends to take up the biggest chunk of your monthly expenses. Food, public transportation, and entertainment are other expenses. All in all, proper budgeting can help students manage their expenses well in the city. This guide should help you plan and make the most of student life in Cardiff without breaking the bank!

1. Off-campus accommodation: £680 - £695/month

2. Transportation: £50 - £60/month

3. Food: £400 - £450/month

4. Entertainment: £24 - £45/month

5. Groceries: £110 - £120/month

6. Clothes: £70 - £85/month

Getting around Cardiff as a student is a breeze, thanks to its well-connected and affordable transport options. Whether you’re rushing to class, exploring the city, or meeting friends, there’s something for every kind of commuter. Cardiff makes student travel both easy and affordable, giving you the flexibility to explore while sticking to your budget. Here’s a quick breakdown:

1. Bus: Cardiff’s bus network is super reliable, with frequent services connecting universities, and student hotspots like Cathays, and the city centre. The average bus fare costs around £15–£20/week. Opt for a Student Travel Card to save on fares and enjoy unlimited rides within the city. You can take the Wood Street JB and Cardiff Coach Station bus stops.

2. Trains: Perfect for quick trips around Cardiff or nearby towns like Barry or Newport. The average train fare is £10–£25/week.The city’s train network is compact but efficient, and students can snag discounts with a 16-25 Railcard. You can take the Cardiff Central and Cardiff Queen Street train stations.

3. Cycling: Cardiff is bike-friendly, with plenty of rental options like Nextbike, costing around £2/hour or £5/day. It’s a healthy, budget-friendly way to explore the city’s beautiful parks and neighborhoods.

4. Walking: For students living in Cathays or Roath, walking is a totally free and scenic way to get around, with most key spots within 10-20 minutes of each other.

5. Rideshare: For those late-night trips or when you’re running late for class, rideshare options like Uber and Bolt are lifesavers. They’re widely available across Cardiff, offering convenient door-to-door services. It can cost around £5–£15/trip. Plus, Cardiff’s compact size ensures rides are quick and relatively affordable, even on a budget.

Cardiff perfectly balances being a buzzing cultural hub and a safe, student-friendly city, making it a hotspot for university life. Its vibrant atmosphere and diverse neighbourhoods offer students a supportive and exciting environment to grow academically and socially. Areas like Cathays and Roath are popular among students for their proximity to universities, abundance of libraries, affordable eateries, and quirky cafes, creating a lively yet comfortable ambiance. For student hangouts, Cardiff spoils you with choices. Trendy cafes like Brodies Coffee Co and Little Man Coffee are ideal for good coffee while catching up with friends. Foodies can enjoy affordable eats at places like Pasture Restaurant Cardiff, The Botanist Cardiff, and The Ivy Cardiff. If nightlife is your scene, Cardiff has some of the best spots to let loose, from the indie vibes at Clwb Ifor Bach to the high-energy dance floors of PRYZM. For those who enjoy quieter evenings, explore the scenic Roath Park or enjoy a movie night at the charming Chapter Arts Centre, where art, cinema, and good food come together.

The city’s cultural calendar is packed with events that students can’t afford to miss. The Sŵn Festival is a must for indie music lovers, while the Cardiff International Food and Drink Festival is a paradise for your taste buds. These festivals, combined with a thriving arts scene and historic landmarks like Cardiff Castle and the National Museum Cardiff, give students endless opportunities to immerse themselves in local culture. In Cardiff, student life isn’t just about hitting the books—it’s about embracing a city full of life, opportunities, and unforgettable experiences.

Cardiff is where history meets hype—a city that effortlessly blends ancient castles with Insta-worthy hotspots. Whether you’re a culture buff, a foodie, or someone who just loves exploring cool places, Cardiff has something for everyone. And the best part? You don’t have to dig deep into your wallet to experience its charm. Here are a few top tourist attractions in Cardiff, many near student flats Cardiff.

1. Cardiff Castle

2. The Pierhead

3. Wales Millenium Centre

4. Cardiff Bay

5. St Fagans National Museum of History

6. Bute Park

7. Techniquest

8. Llandaff Cathedral

9. Cardiff Market

10. Castell Coach

Cardiff is where academic excellence meets a lively student experience, making it a top choice for students worldwide. With its blend of prestigious institutions and vibrant atmosphere, it's easy to see why students flock here to study.

1. Cardiff Metropolitan University: It stands out with its top-notch programs in Design, Media, and Art. It's perfect for those looking to dive into creative fields with hands-on experience and industry connections. 

2. University of South Wales: Here students talk about the Film, Media, and Engineering programs, offering a mix of practical learning and tech innovation. It's ideal for those wanting to break into the entertainment or engineering sectors.

3. Cardiff Business School: It is best for business-minded students. It offers world-class degrees in Business Management and Accounting & Finance, setting students up for global careers in corporate leadership.

4. Cardiff University: One of the UK's leading research institutions, renowned for its Law, Medicine, and Engineering programs, making it an ideal pick for future doctors, lawyers, and engineers.

5. Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama: Best for those pursuing a creative career, it offers incredible training in Drama, Music, and Production Arts. The college offers students the tools to succeed in the performing arts industry.