A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Cardiff vs. Paris for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Cardiff or Paris?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Should I visit Cardiff or Paris? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Cardiff

Cardiff is a green, industrial, and up-and-coming city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. Cardiff is a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include nightlife, shopping, and museums. See Cardiff travel costs.

Paris

Paris is a beautiful, iconic, and bustling city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. The famous beauty of Paris is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the museums, theater, and nightlife. See Paris travel costs.

Is there more to do in Cardiff or Paris?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Paris than Cardiff. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Paris is more touristy than Cardiff and is popular for its world-renowned cuisine, iconic landmarks, trendsetting fashion, and dynamic markets. It is also well known for The Eiffel Tower. Cardiff is famous for having the most castles per square mile of any city in Europe.

The Eiffel Tower

How is Cardiff different from Paris?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Paris and Cardiff. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Cardiff or Paris?

Paris is a must-visit destination for its museums and landmarks. Also, Cardiff is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Paris are among the most recognizable in the world. One of the most world famous landmarks is the Eiffel Tower. The city is also home to the world renowned Louvre, Notre-Dame, and Palais Garnier Opera House. In addition to the many iconic sights, there are beautiful buildings and hidden gems throughout the city.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Cardiff. The most notable landmark of the city is the famous and well-preserved Cardiff Castle. Visitors also enjoy seeing the Victorian arcades, museums, and cathedrals around town.

Is Cardiff or Paris Better for Theater?

Paris is a must-visit destination for its theatre productions. However, Cardiff is not a theatre destination.

The theater and performance venues in Paris draw crowds from around the world. There are world class theaters as well as smaller local venues where you can enjoy a show.

Cardiff is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in Cardiff or Paris? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Paris is a must-visit destination for its restaurant scene. However, Cardiff is a city with minimal options for its local flavors and cuisine.

For foodies, Paris is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. There are countless local restaurants, markets, and patisseries to explore. Make sure you try the steak tartare, pate, and macarons.

Cardiff may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. Welsh cuisine is known for its stews and hearty vegetable dishes. The national dish is cawl, which is a stew made with lamb and vegetables. Other local favorites include Welsh rarebit, which is a type of cheese toast, and Glamorgan Sausage, which is actually made with vegetables.

Is Cardiff or Paris Better for Nightlife?

Paris is a must-visit destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Cardiff is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

Paris is a world class party destination. Head to Pigalle or the Latin Quarter for some of the city's best nightlife. There are all-night parties, cabarets, and exclusive night clubs that you can experience.

If you're looking for night time activities Cardiff has a few options to choose from. The nightlife scene is all about fun and most of the activities are driven by the large and diverse student population.

Is Cardiff or Paris Better for Music?

Paris is a must-visit destination for its live music scene. However, Cardiff is not a live music destination.

Live music, and music in many other forms, is everyone in Paris Some of the most famous music venues include Le Pop In, La Mécanique Ondulatoire, and Les Disquaires. You'll also find many small bars where you can enjoy live music in a quaint setting.

Cardiff is not a live music destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Cardiff or Paris?

Paris is a must-visit destination for its shopping opportunities. Also, Cardiff is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping areas.

The abundance of shops in Paris make it a world-class shopping destination. Some of the best areas for shopping are Boulevard Haussmann and the Grands Boulevards, the Marais, and Avenue Montaigne and the Champs-Elysées. The city is iconic for its fashion scene and world class shopping venues.

Cardiff has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. Shopping options include shopping malls and boutique lined streets. There is a nice mix of independent shops and major chains to choose between.

Is Cardiff or Paris More Beautiful?

Paris is a must-visit destination for its scenery and beauty. Also, Cardiff is still popular, but not quite as popular for its scenery and beauty.

The famous beauty of Paris is one of the main draws. It is famous for it's beautiful buildings, grand avenues, and impressive gardens. Many consider it among the most romantic and beautiful cities in the world.

Cardiff offers plenty of beauty for visitors. The city has more parks and green space than you'd expect from a place with such an industrial history.

Is Cardiff or Paris Better for Families?

Paris is a must-visit destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Cardiff is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Paris is a very family-friendly destination. Check out Jardin du Luxembourg, or one of the city's many playgrounds. Also grab a treat at one of the city's many patisseries. And of course, there's Disneyland Paris.

Cardiff offers lots of family activities. The city has a number of climbing and play areas, museums, and playgrounds that can keep the little ones entertained. There are also plenty of outdoor parks and trails to wander around.

Is Cardiff or Paris Better for Couples?

Paris is a must-visit destination for its romantic activities. However, Cardiff is a city with minimal options for couples.

Paris makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. A city filled with romance, you really can't find a more ideal destination for a European honeymoon or a couple's getaway.

Cardiff is not always the best place to visit for a couple. The most romantic experiences involve a night out dining at nice restaurants, enjoying a cocktail at a classy bar, and strolling through neighborhoods and soaking up the atmosphere.

Is Cardiff or Paris Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Paris is a must-visit destination for backpackers. However, Cardiff is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Paris. It's a big city, so it's easy to get lost in the chaos, but there are many hostels and other backpacker hangouts around town.

Cardiff is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Cardiff or Paris Better for Students?

Paris is a must-visit destination for students. Also, Cardiff is still popular, but not quite as popular for its student-friendly activities.

Many students frequent Paris. The city is one of the most popular destinations for international and study abroad students.

It's common for students to visit Cardiff. Most students come to study at Cardiff University, which is a leading university in Great Britain.

Is Cardiff or Paris Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Paris is a must-visit destination for its public transit. However, Cardiff is a city with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

Paris has a world-class public transit network to take passengers everywhere in the city. The city's metro system is very comprehensive. There's also a bus system that you can use to get around.

Public transit is mostly limited in Cardiff. There is a bus system that you can use to get around.

Is Cardiff or Paris a more walkable city?

Paris is a great destination for its high level of walkability. Also, Cardiff is still popular, but not quite as popular for its ease of walking around.

Paris is a very walkable city. Some streets can feel a bit overwhelming, but there are many parts of the city that are easily explored on foot.

Cardiff is a somewhat walkable city. There are pedestrianized areas and the waterfront is nice to walk around but there is still room for improvement when it comes to walkability.

For even more information, also check out Is Cardiff Worth Visiting? and Is Paris Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Paris or Cardiff?

How long in Cardiff or Paris?

Both Cardiff and Paris have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Paris than in Cardiff. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Cardiff, and 3-7 days is enough time in Paris.

Families should spend more time in Paris than Cardiff. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Paris, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Paris than Cardiff. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Paris that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Paris than Cardiff if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Paris.

One day in Cardiff or Paris?

In Cardiff, many people enjoy the nightlife and shopping that this up-and-coming destination offers. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

Because Paris is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Cardiff or Paris?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Cardiff. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Because Paris is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Cardiff or Paris?

Cardiff is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Cardiff. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Paris is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Paris has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Cardiff or Paris?

You'll find nightlife and shopping around the green destination of Cardiff. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Paris. Because Paris is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Budget Tours to United Kingdom, The Best Tours for Seniors to United Kingdom, The Best Historical Tours in France, and The Best 10-Day Tours in France.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Cardiff and Paris, we can see that Paris is more expensive. And not only is Cardiff much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Cardiff would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Cardiff and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Paris would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Paris than you might in Cardiff.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Cardiff Expensive? and Is Paris Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Cardiff or Paris?

Paris has a larger population, and is about 7 times larger than the population of Cardiff. When comparing the sizes of Cardiff and Paris, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.

When is the best time to visit Cardiff or Paris?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Cardiff or Paris in the Summer?

Both Paris and Cardiff during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Cardiff because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Paris this time of year.

In July, Cardiff is generally cooler than Paris. Daily temperatures in Cardiff average around 17°C (63°F), and Paris fluctuates around 20°C (68°F).

In Paris, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Cardiff. In the summer, Cardiff often gets less sunshine than Paris. Cardiff gets 220 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Paris receives 241 hours of full sun.

Cardiff usually gets around the same amount of rain in July as Paris. Cardiff gets 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Paris receives 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Cardiff or Paris in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Cardiff and Paris. The city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Cardiff this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Paris for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Cardiff is cooler than Paris in the autumn. The daily temperature in Cardiff averages around 11°C (52°F) in October, and Paris fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

Cardiff usually receives less sunshine than Paris during autumn. Cardiff gets 95 hours of sunny skies, while Paris receives 127 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Cardiff gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Cardiff usually receives more rain than Paris. Cardiff gets 101 mm (4 in) of rain, while Paris receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Cardiff or Paris in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Cardiff as well as Paris. Many travelers come to Cardiff for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, many visitors come to Paris in the winter for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine.

Paris can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Cardiff. In the winter, Cardiff is cooler than Paris. Typically, the winter temperatures in Cardiff in January average around 3°C (38°F), and Paris averages at about 5°C (40°F).

In the winter, Cardiff often gets less sunshine than Paris. Cardiff gets 57 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Paris receives 62 hours of full sun.

Cardiff usually gets more rain in January than Paris. Cardiff gets 95 mm (3.7 in) of rain, while Paris receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Cardiff or Paris in the Spring?

Both Paris and Cardiff are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Cardiff in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Paris for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months.

In April, Cardiff is generally cooler than Paris. Daily temperatures in Cardiff average around 9°C (48°F), and Paris fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

Cardiff usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Paris during spring. Cardiff gets 183 hours of sunny skies, while Paris receives 172 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Cardiff usually receives around the same amount of rain as Paris. Cardiff gets 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Paris receives 50 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Paris and Cardiff