It has two modern, semi-covered pedestrianised shopping centres. St Tydfil Shopping Centre hosts a number of large national and several distinct independent retailers and a traditional indoor market on the first floor. Beacons Arcade links the train station and superstore to the main high street with a host of retailers.

Merthyr Tydfil's town centre is easily accessible via foot, bicycle, public transport and car. There are several large car parks, a large bus station with access across the region and a train service that runs every half an hour to and from Cardiff Central. Merthyr Tydfil's town centre is cycle friendly and can be accessed directly via the Taff Trail. There are numerous cycle stands and cycle-friendly eateries and accommodation providers. 

The town centre also has a wide selection of independent retailers at Pontmorlais, the historic area of the town centre where Redhouse Cymru and Theatr Soar arts centres are located. Independent grocers and retailers are also located at Glebeland and Victoria Street.

The Cafe Quarter at the southern end of the High Street provides a relaxed al fresco dining experience with a mixture of cafes, bars and restaurants.