Cardiff University operates primarily across two main physical campuses situated within the capital city of Wales. The historic Cathays Park campus forms the academic heart of the institution, set amidst central civic gardens, wide tree-lined avenues, and striking Portland stone architecture. Located just a short walk from Cardiff's vibrant city center, Cathays Park hosts the vast majority of academic faculties, spanning the humanities, social sciences, physical sciences, engineering, and law. The campus is anchored by key central landmarks, including the landmark Main Building, the modern Centre for Student Life, a extensive multi-library network, and an energetic Students' Union venue.

Located roughly a mile north of Cathays Park, Heath Park serves as the university's dedicated healthcare campus. Embedded directly alongside the University Hospital of Wales, this site is dedicated to medical, dental, nursing, and healthcare sciences education. Set beside open parklands, Heath Park offers specialist clinical training labs, high-specification medical research suites, its own healthcare library, student social hubs, and dedicated sports facilities. Connected by frequent local transit, both sites collectively provide a dynamic, highly integrated environment that balances civic grandeur with specialized professional training in a major UK capital.