The Utilita Arena Cardiff (previously known as the Motorpoint Arena and before that the Cardiff International Arena, or CIA) is the largest indoor arena in Wales, with a capacity of around 7,500. Located in the heart of Cardiff city centre, it hosts a regular programme of concerts, comedy, sport, and family entertainment. While it is smaller than the biggest English arenas, its central location and intimate scale make it a popular venue with both artists and audiences.
Getting to the Utilita Arena Cardiff
By train
Cardiff Central station is roughly a 10-minute walk from the arena. The station is served by Great Western Railway services from London Paddington (around 2 hours), Transport for Wales services from across Wales and the Valleys, and CrossCountry services from the Midlands and the north. Cardiff Queen Street station is slightly closer, about a 7-minute walk, and is useful if you are coming from the Cardiff Valleys lines.
By bus
Cardiff bus station is nearby, and local bus services operated by Cardiff Bus connect the city centre to the wider Cardiff area. The arena is well signposted from the main bus stops on Wood Street and Westgate Street.
By car
Several multi-storey car parks are within walking distance, including the NCP on Greyfriars Road and the St David's shopping centre car park. Cardiff city centre is accessible from the M4 via the A470 or A4232. Traffic around the arena can be heavy on event nights, particularly when there are also events at the nearby Principality Stadium. Allow extra time if driving.
The venue
The Utilita Arena is a mid-sized venue by UK arena standards. This works in its favour for many events, as the atmosphere feels closer and more connected than in a 20,000-capacity arena. The seating is arranged in two tiers surrounding the floor area, with a total of around 24 blocks across both levels.
Best seats for concerts
For end-on concerts, the blocks directly facing the stage in the lower tier are the strongest positions. Because the venue is relatively compact, even the upper tier does not feel too distant. Side blocks offer good views of the production and are often slightly cheaper. The floor is typically standing for concerts, and because the capacity is modest, you can get a decent spot without being there right at doors opening.
Food and drink
Inside the arena, the usual range of concessions is available on both levels. Burgers, nachos, hot dogs, and a selection of drinks. Prices are standard for arena venues.
Outside, you have two excellent options. The city centre pubs and restaurants are just minutes away, with St Mary Street and the surrounding streets offering everything from cheap eats to proper sit-down restaurants. Alternatively, the Brewery Quarter on St Mary Street has several chain restaurants that are popular with pre-show crowds. Mill Lane, a short pedestrianised street near the arena, is home to a cluster of independent cafes and restaurants that offer something more distinctive.
Cardiff Bay option
If you have time before the show, Cardiff Bay is a short taxi ride or a 20-minute walk from the arena. The Mermaid Quay development has waterfront restaurants and bars, and the wider Bay area is worth exploring. It is not practical for a quick pre-show bite, but if you are making an afternoon and evening of it, the Bay adds to the experience.
When the Principality Stadium is also busy
Cardiff is unusual in having a 74,000-capacity national stadium (the Principality Stadium, home of Welsh rugby and also used for concerts and football) right next to its arena. On days when both venues have events, or when there is a rugby international followed by an arena show, the city centre becomes extremely busy. Transport, restaurants, and pubs are all affected. On these days, arrive early and have a plan for where you are going to eat and drink.
Practical tips
- Check for stadium events -- If there is a rugby match or stadium concert on the same day, plan for longer travel times and busier pubs.
- Book restaurants in advance -- On popular event nights, city centre restaurants fill up quickly. A booking saves you walking around looking for a table.
- The arena is compact -- Even "bad" seats in this venue are closer than mid-range seats in larger arenas. Do not be put off by upper tier tickets.
- Walking from Central station -- The walk is mostly flat and straightforward. Head south from the station along Wood Street and you will see the arena.
For more on making the most of your arena visit, see our guide on avoiding queues at arena events. If you are interested in VIP or hospitality options, our guide to VIP at UK arenas covers what is available. Browse more event guides on the Tickts homepage.
