It’s a common realisation for students that despite spending one, two or three years in Cardiff, they have rarely explored their host city beyond the bright lights of the union or St Mary’s Street.

And with money more an issue than ever at this end of the year, you might be surprised to know how much stuff there is to do for absolutely free.

So really, you have no excuse…

The National Museum

Embrace your inner (Welsh) culture vulture and pay a visit to The National Museum Cardiff.

A stone’s throw from the union at the Civic Centre, you don’t have to trek to get there, and inside you will be met with a whole host of exhibitions.

Permanent displays include art, archaeology, natural history and geography exhibitions, as well as changing exhibitions throughout the year.

Admission is completely free and it’s open Tuesday to Sunday, 10am-5pm.

St Fagan’s

Newly cultured, you might be feeling brave and go even further a field to St Fagan’s National History Museum.

Just a 4 mile drive West of Cardiff, someone very dedicated to Welsh history has moved over 40 different historical buildings from all over the country, such as a farm, school and chapel, to recreate an idea of what Welsh life would’ve been like over the last five centuries.

Even if you’re not overly enthusiastic about demonstrations of traditional Welsh life, the museum is set in the pretty grounds of St Fagan’s Castle, so get out of the city and enjoy.

Once again it’ll cost you nothing to get in, and buses 32 and 320 run regularly from Cardiff Bus Station so you don’t have to worry about parking.

Open 10am-5pm every day.

The National Assembly for Wales

Having explored Wales’ past with the the National Museum and St Fagan’s, take a look where decisions about its future are made at The National Assembly for Wales.

Since the devolved government was formed by the Government of Wales Act 2006 it has been a source of both Welsh pride and controversy, not least because of the new environmentally-friendly Assembly building at Cardiff Bay.

Go to the National Assembly for Wales Visitors Centre located at the Pierhead, just next door to the Assembly itself, to find out about the workings of the government you’re living under.

It’s all free, as is entry to the Assembly building itself to have a nose around.

Cardiff Outdoor Action Show

If you fancy yourself as a bit of a water sports expert, or you’re just interested in seeing how its done, then this two-day event could be a perfect weekend of free entertainment.

Running from the 21st-22nd June at Cardiff Bay the weekend will feature the UK’s largest canoe village as well as a range of demonstrations from all kinds of water sports.

There are also chances to have a go yourself, although this may have to be paid for.

However, admission is completely free both days between 11am and 5pm.

Cardiff’s International Food and Drink Festival

Enough with the beans and pot noodles of studenthood.

If you’re thinking of sticking around in Cardiff over the summer, or you’re coming up the weekend before graduation, Cardiff’s International Food and Drink festival could be worth a visit.

Running from 11th-13th July at Roald Dahl Plass, Cardiff Bay, there’s loads to choose from, and once again, looking won’t cost you a penny (it’s up to you to resist buying some of the wares on offer).

A producers fair, farmers market, ice cream workshops, wine tasting and chef demonstrations are just some of the food-based events taking place, whilst musical entertainment including jazz and tango will also be happening.

Some of the more popular events like wine tasting are ticketed. For more information phone 02920 463833.

IRB Junior World Championships 2008

Okay, so it’s not exactly free but it is a chance to see world class rugby in Wales at a fraction of the price you would normally pay.

The IRB Junior World Championship Wales 2008 is running from 6th-22nd June throughout Wales with the under 20’s teams for all the major players in international rugby including New Zealand, South Africa, Australia, England and of course Wales.

The tournament has previously launched the careers of players including Danny Cipriani and Gavin Henson, so it’s a great opportunity to see some of the big names of tomorrow in action.

Tickets are £8 which entitles you to two matches at any one venue on the same day.

Matches are being played in Cardiff Arms Park, Liberty Stadium in Swansea, Rodney Parade, Newport and the Racecourse Ground in Wrexham. For more details go to www.irb.com/jwc/