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

Should you visit Cardiff or Bamberg?

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

Should I visit Cardiff or Bamberg? 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. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for nightlife, shopping, and museums.

Bamberg

Bamberg is a scenic, storybook, and historic town. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and food.

Cardiff and Bamberg: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Very walkable
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife


Is there more to do in Cardiff or Bamberg?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Cardiff than Bamberg. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Cardiff is very popular for its nightlife and big city activities, while Bamberg attracts visitors for its food, historical sights, and impressive beauty. Bamberg is more touristy than Cardiff and is known for its medieval old town and its many beautiful bridges and buildings. Cardiff is famous for having the most castles per square mile of any city in Europe. It is also well known for The Cardiff Castle.

How is Cardiff different from Bamberg?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Bamberg 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 Bamberg?

Cardiff
Bamberg

Plenty of people visit the nice sights and museums in both Cardiff and Bamberg.

Cardiff offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. 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.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Bamberg. At the heart of Bamberg is the old town, which is what attracts international tourists from around the world. Make sure you see the Cathedral & Diocesan Museum and the Historical Museum. There's also a brewery museum that is fascinating to wander through.


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

Cardiff
Bamberg

Bamberg is a popular place for its restaurant scene. However, Cardiff is a city with minimal options for its local flavors and cuisine.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Bamberg. There are a number of charming and traditional restaurants in the old town. They have a cozy atmosphere and a small and quaint feel. Many of the local dishes include pork and potatoes and they're often flavored with local beer. Make sure you try the Schäuferla (roasted pork shoulder), Hörnla (a local pastry available at bakeries), and Zwiebeln (stuffed onions).

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 Bamberg Better for Nightlife?

Cardiff
Bamberg

Cardiff is a nice place to visit for nightlife. However, Bamberg is not a good town for nightlife and partying.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Cardiff. The nightlife scene is all about fun and most of the activities are driven by the large and diverse student population.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Bamberg. While the town isn't known for its nightlife, there are some relaxing bars and pubs around town.

Is Cardiff or Bamberg Better for its Old Town?

Cardiff
Bamberg

Bamberg is a must-visit destination for its old town. However, Cardiff does not have a historic old town.

The rich history of Bamberg can be explored in its historical center. With its cobblestone streets, impressive architecture, and beautiful riverside setting, the town's old town is a favorite for many travelers. The buildings have ornate and detailed designs and the bridges are beautiful.

Cardiff does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Cardiff or Bamberg?

Cardiff
Bamberg

Shopping is a popular activity in both Bamberg and Cardiff.

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

Bamberg has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. Head to the Gardeners' District, where you'll find vendors selling local produce, crafts, and other items. In the old town there are charming German shops that sell Christmas items or other local handicrafts.

Is Cardiff or Bamberg Better for Families?

Cardiff
Bamberg

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Cardiff or Bamberg.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Cardiff. 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.

Bamberg offers lots of family activities. The history comes to life with reenactments and historical museums. There are also water activities, playgrounds, and many places where kids can run around and stretch their legs.

Is Cardiff or Bamberg Better for Couples?

Cardiff
Bamberg

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

Bamberg makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. Filled with scenic bridges, beautiful gardens, and historic architecture, this is a top destination for a couples getaway. You can enjoy gondola rides and fine dining on a romantic weekend away.

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 Bamberg Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cardiff
Bamberg

Bamberg is a popular place for backpackers. However, Cardiff is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Bamberg. There are hostels and a great tourist scene that makes it easy to meet other travelers.

Cardiff is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Cardiff or Bamberg Better for Students?

Cardiff
Bamberg

Cardiff is a nice place to visit for students. However, Bamberg is not popular with students.

Cardiff is a good city to visit for students. Most students come to study at Cardiff University, which is a leading university in Great Britain.

Bamberg is not popular with students.

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

Cardiff
Bamberg

Bamberg is a popular place for its public transit. However, Cardiff is a city with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

You'll find some public transit in Bamberg, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are 28 buses that leave from the Central Bus Station and travel through the region.

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


Is Cardiff or Bamberg a more walkable city?

Cardiff
Bamberg

Bamberg is a must-visit destination for its high level of walkability. Also, Cardiff is still popular, but not quite as popular for its ease of walking around.

Getting around Bamberg on foot is easy. The old town is compact enough to easily explore 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 Bamberg Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Bamberg or Cardiff?

How long in Cardiff or Bamberg?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Cardiff and Bamberg. In our opinion, Bamberg has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Bamberg than Cardiff. However, 1-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Bamberg 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 Bamberg.


  • How many days in Cardiff or Bamberg? Ideal Length of Stay
    Cardiff 1-3 
    Bamberg 1-3

One day in Cardiff or Bamberg?

In Cardiff, you'll find museums and nightlife. This city offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

In Bamberg, you'll find museums and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This town offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A weekend in Cardiff or Bamberg?

In Cardiff, you'll find nightlife and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Cardiff has to offer.

In Bamberg, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Bamberg has to offer.


Five days in Cardiff or Bamberg?

Cardiff is a great place to explore. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Bamberg is a great place to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Cardiff or Bamberg?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Cardiff. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Cardiff. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Bamberg. Many people enjoy the museums and food when visiting Bamberg. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.


For some great organized tour ideas, see Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in United Kingdom, The Best Coach Bus Tours in United Kingdom, The Best Adventure Tours to Germany, and The Best Cultural Tours in Germany.


Which place is cheaper, Bamberg or Cardiff?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Cardiff is £156, while the average daily cost in Bamberg is £109. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Cardiff and Bamberg in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Cardiff £93
    Bamberg £64
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Cardiff £186
    Bamberg £128
Compare Hotels in Cardiff and Bamberg

Looking for a hotel in Cardiff or Bamberg? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Cardiff


Hotels in Bamberg


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Cardiff Hotel Prices and Bamberg Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Cardiff £21
    Bamberg £12

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Cardiff

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Cardiff:

  • Bristol Airport: Bus Transfer to/from Cardiff: $13
  • Heathrow Airport: Bus Transfer to/from Cardiff: $16
  • Barry Accommodation to Cardiff Airport (CWL) - Departure Private Transfer: $33
  • Cardiff to Cardiff Airport (CWL) - Departure Private Transfer: $38
  • Private Cardiff Departure Transfer - Hotel / Accommodation to Airport: $58
  • Private Cardiff Arrival Transfer- Airport to Hotel / Accommodation : $58
  • Newport Accommodation to Cardiff Airport (CWL) - Departure Private Transfer: $60
  • Cardiff Private Transfer from Cardiff Airport to City centre: $79
  • Arrival Private Transfer from Cardiff Airport CWL to Cardiff by Luxury Vehicle: $95
  • Departure Private Transfer from Cardiff to Cardiff Airport CWL by Luxury Vehicle: $95
  • Private Transfer from Holyhead Port to Manchester Airport (MAN): $102
  • Private Transfer from Mold to Manchester Airport (MAN): $125

Is it cheaper to fly into Cardiff or Bamberg?

Prices for flights to both Bamberg and Cardiff change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Cardiff £44
    Bamberg £35

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Cardiff £25
    Bamberg £14

Tours and Activities in Cardiff

Here are a few actual costs in Cardiff for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Ghosts of Llandaff Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.99
  • A Journey through Tudor A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.99
  • Cardiff’s Bay and Waterfront: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.99
  • The Ghosts of Llandaff: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.99
  • Self-Guided Audio Tour of Bay and Barrage: $5.99
  • Cardiff's Civic Centre: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.99
  • Essential Caerphilly: Explore the town’s history on a self-guided audio tour: $6.22
  • Uncover Ghostly Chester: In-App Audio Tour of Eerie Tales: $11
  • Uncover Spectral Secrets with the Llandaff Ghosts Audio Tour: $11
  • Cardiff Bay Private Self-Guided Tour: $11
  • Llanberis, Conwy and Caernarfon Castle: A Self-Guided Driving Tour of Snowdonia: $15
  • Cardiff Bay Boat Tour: $15

Tours and Activities in Bamberg

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Bamberg are as follows:

  • Historical Museum Entry Ticket: $8.56
  • Bayreuth Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $11
  • City Highlights Walking Tour: $13
  • Guided tour - World Heritage Fascination: $14
  • Guided Walking Tour: $14
  • Altenburg Burg Tour: $14
  • Guided Beer History Tour with Optional Tasting: $16
  • Guided Tour of the Gardeners' District: $17
  • 1-Hour Theatrical Humor Tour with Costumed Guide: $19
  • Immersive Medieval Tour: $19
  • Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt Walking Tour: $21
  • Guided Historical Culinary Tour: $27

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Cardiff £13
    Bamberg £17

Sample the Local Flavors in Cardiff

Also in Cardiff, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Gin Tour at Hensol Castle Distillery: $32
  • Cardiff Bar Maid-led Pub Crawl for Special Events: $44

Sample the Local Flavors in Bamberg

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Bamberg:

  • Historical City Tour in German with Brewery Visit: $17
  • Beer & Brewery Tour - 2 Hour: $37


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Cardiff and Bamberg, we can see that Cardiff is more expensive. And not only is Bamberg much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Bamberg would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Bamberg 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 Cardiff would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Cardiff than you might in Bamberg.

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


Which is Bigger, Cardiff or Bamberg?

Cardiff has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Bamberg. When comparing the sizes of Cardiff and Bamberg, 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 Bamberg?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Cardiff or Bamberg in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Cardiff and Bamberg. Many travelers come to Cardiff for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Bamberg in the summer for the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Cardiff is generally cooler than Bamberg. Daily temperatures in Cardiff average around 17°C (63°F), and Bamberg fluctuates around 19°C (67°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Bamberg this time of the year. In Cardiff, it's very sunny this time of the year. Cardiff usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Bamberg during summer. Cardiff gets 220 hours of sunny skies, while Bamberg receives 217 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Cardiff usually receives around the same amount of rain as Bamberg. Cardiff gets 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Bamberg receives 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Cardiff 17°C (63°F) 
    Bamberg 19°C (67°F)

Should I visit Cardiff or Bamberg in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Cardiff as well as Bamberg. Many visitors come to Cardiff in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Bamberg for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Cardiff is around the same temperature as Bamberg in the autumn. The daily temperature in Cardiff averages around 11°C (52°F) in October, and Bamberg fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

In the autumn, Cardiff often gets less sunshine than Bamberg. Cardiff gets 95 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bamberg receives 107 hours of full sun.

Cardiff receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Cardiff usually gets more rain in October than Bamberg. Cardiff gets 101 mm (4 in) of rain, while Bamberg receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Cardiff 11°C (52°F) 
    Bamberg 11°C (51°F)

Should I visit Cardiff or Bamberg in the Winter?

Both Bamberg and Cardiff are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Cardiff for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Bamberg because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Bamberg can be very cold. Cardiff can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Cardiff is much warmer than Bamberg. Typically, the winter temperatures in Cardiff in January average around 3°C (38°F), and Bamberg averages at about 0°C (33°F).

Cardiff usually receives more sunshine than Bamberg during winter. Cardiff gets 57 hours of sunny skies, while Bamberg receives 42 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Cardiff usually receives more rain than Bamberg. Cardiff gets 95 mm (3.7 in) of rain, while Bamberg receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Cardiff 3°C (38°F) 
    Bamberg 0°C (33°F)

Should I visit Cardiff or Bamberg in the Spring?

Both Bamberg and Cardiff during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Cardiff because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Furthermore, the natural beauty are the main draw to Bamberg this time of year.

In April, Cardiff is generally cooler than Bamberg. Daily temperatures in Cardiff average around 9°C (48°F), and Bamberg fluctuates around 10°C (50°F).

In the spring, Cardiff often gets more sunshine than Bamberg. Cardiff gets 183 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bamberg receives 156 hours of full sun.

Cardiff usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Bamberg. Cardiff gets 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Bamberg receives 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Cardiff 9°C (48°F) 
    Bamberg 10°C (50°F)

Typical Weather for Bamberg and Cardiff

Cardiff Bamberg
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 3°C (38°F) 95 mm (3.7 in) 0°C (33°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)
Feb 4°C (40°F) 70 mm (2.7 in) 2°C (36°F) 39 mm (1.5 in)
Mar 6°C (42°F) 80 mm (3.2 in) 6°C (42°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Apr 9°C (48°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 10°C (50°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)
May 12°C (53°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 15°C (58°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)
Jun 15°C (59°F) 57 mm (2.3 in) 18°C (64°F) 77 mm (3 in)
Jul 17°C (63°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 19°C (67°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
Aug 17°C (62°F) 75 mm (3 in) 19°C (66°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Sep 14°C (58°F) 95 mm (3.7 in) 16°C (60°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Oct 11°C (52°F) 101 mm (4 in) 11°C (51°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)
Nov 7°C (45°F) 97 mm (3.8 in) 5°C (42°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Dec 5°C (40°F) 96 mm (3.8 in) 2°C (35°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)