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

Should you visit Cardiff or Bruges?

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

Should I visit Cardiff or Bruges? 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 up-and-coming, green, and industrial city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and shopping.

Bruges

Bruges is a cultural, beautiful, and historic city. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. It also has a unique and quaint vibe that attracts lots of visitors. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Cardiff and Bruges: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Cardiff or Bruges?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Bruges than Cardiff. While Cardiff is larger than Bruges, Bruges has more sights and attractions for tourists. Bruges is more popular for its museums, food, historical sights, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Cardiff is known for its big city activities. Bruges is more touristy than Cardiff and is popular for its scenic old town, charming streets, local chocolate, and unique Christmas market. It is also home to Bruges' Markt (The Main Square). Cardiff is popular for having the most castles per square mile of any city in Europe.

How is Cardiff different from Bruges?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Bruges is a great destination for its museums and landmarks. Also, Cardiff is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

Bruges offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The city is filled with charming hidden corners as well as notable landmarks. The main square is Bruges' Markt which is where you'll find the the Belfry Tower. Other must-see sights include the Historium, Groeninge Museum, the Town Hall, and Brugse Vrije Museum.

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

Bruges is a great destination for its restaurant scene. However, Cardiff is a city with minimal options for its local flavors and cuisine.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Bruges. From its world class breweries to its famous chocolate shops, there is plenty to eat and drink around town. In the old town prices can be a bit high, but the dishes and atmosphere are great. Popular local dishes include Belgian waffles, fries, mussels, and beef stew.

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 Bruges Better for Nightlife?

It's hard to distinguish whether Cardiff or Bruges has a better nightlife scene.

Cardiff has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The nightlife scene is all about fun and most of the activities are driven by the large and diverse student population.

If you're looking for night time activities Bruges has a few options to choose from. It's famous for its beer and breweries, so you'll find a number of places to gather in the evening. There is a lack of nightclubs, so if dancing and partying hard is your style, then this may not be your place. The vibes are generally chill and relaxed at night. Most places are concentrated around old town or near Kuipersstraat or Zilverstraat.

Is Cardiff or Bruges Better for its Old Town?

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

The rich history of Bruges can be explored in its historical center. The old town is the main attraction, with its quaint cobblestone streets and beautiful brick architecture.

Cardiff does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Cardiff or Bruges?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Bruges 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.

Bruges has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. The city offers plenty of shopping, whether you're looking for souvenirs, trendy European brands, or local items. It's more geared towards tourists than locals, and you want find the same diversity that you get in some of the larger nearby cities, but you'll find unique lace items and other local goods in the old town. The streets around Markt Square, Steenstraat, Geld Monstraat, and Jakobstraat are the main shopping areas.

Is Cardiff or Bruges Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Cardiff or Bruges.

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.

Bruges offers lots of family activities. Kids will enjoy sampling the unique chocolate around town, eating their fill of waffles, and getting their energy out in the park or at a local playground. There are also canal boat tours and horse drawn carriage rides that are fun for the whole family.

Is Cardiff or Bruges Better for Couples?

Bruges is a great destination for its romantic activities. However, Cardiff is a city with minimal options for couples.

Couples visit Bruges frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. This romantic city has amazing restaurants, charming streets, and impressive architecture. Couples will enjoy exploring the canals by boat or taking a horse drawn carriage ride through the old town. There are also a number of cute bed and breakfasts where you can stay.

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 Bruges Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Bruges is a great destination for backpackers. However, Cardiff is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Bruges is a great city to visit for backpackers. There are a few good hostels around town. The city sees its share of tourists, but many arrive as part of tours or river boat cruises. If you stay in a hostel, you shouldn't have trouble meeting other young travelers though. There are also plenty of well known breweries where you can gather with friends.

Cardiff is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Cardiff or Bruges Better for Students?

Cardiff is a good destination for its student-friendly activities. However, Bruges is not popular with 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.

Bruges is not popular with students.

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

Bruges 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 Bruges, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There is a bus system that connects the train station to the old town. Otherwise, the city is best explored on foot.

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

Is Cardiff or Bruges a more walkable city?

Bruges 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 Bruges on foot is easy. The train station is a short walk from the old town but the city is very walkable and best 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 Bruges Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Bruges or Cardiff?

How long in Cardiff or Bruges?

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

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

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

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

One day in Cardiff or Bruges?

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the destination of Cardiff. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

In Bruges, you'll find nightlife and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. 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.

A weekend in Cardiff or Bruges?

Cardiff is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

In Bruges, 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 Bruges has to offer.

Five days in Cardiff or Bruges?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Cardiff. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Bruges 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 Bruges?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the up-and-coming destination of Cardiff. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Bruges. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Bruges. 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 Cultural Tours in Belgium, and The Best Luxury Tours to Belgium.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Cardiff and Bruges, we can see that Cardiff is more expensive. And not only is Bruges much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Bruges would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Bruges 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 Bruges.

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

Which is Bigger, Cardiff or Bruges?

Cardiff has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Bruges. When comparing the sizes of Cardiff and Bruges, 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 Bruges?

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 Bruges in the Summer?

Both Bruges and Cardiff during the summer are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Cardiff for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Bruges because of the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Cardiff is around the same temperature as Bruges. Typically, the summer temperatures in Cardiff in July average around 17°C (63°F), and Bruges averages at about 17°C (63°F).

In Bruges, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Cardiff. In the summer, Cardiff often gets more sunshine than Bruges. Cardiff gets 220 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bruges receives 202 hours of full sun.

Cardiff usually gets around the same amount of rain in July as Bruges. Cardiff gets 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Bruges receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Cardiff or Bruges in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Cardiff and Bruges. The autumn months attract visitors to Cardiff because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Bruges this time of year.

In October, Cardiff is generally around the same temperature as Bruges. Daily temperatures in Cardiff average around 11°C (52°F), and Bruges fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

Cardiff usually receives less sunshine than Bruges during autumn. Cardiff gets 95 hours of sunny skies, while Bruges receives 105 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 Bruges. Cardiff gets 101 mm (4 in) of rain, while Bruges receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Cardiff or Bruges in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Cardiff as well as Bruges. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Cardiff this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Bruges for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Bruges. It's quite cold in Cardiff in the winter. Cardiff is around the same temperature as Bruges in the winter. The daily temperature in Cardiff averages around 3°C (38°F) in January, and Bruges fluctuates around 3°C (38°F).

In the winter, Cardiff often gets more sunshine than Bruges. Cardiff gets 57 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bruges receives 47 hours of full sun.

Cardiff usually gets more rain in January than Bruges. Cardiff gets 95 mm (3.7 in) of rain, while Bruges receives 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Cardiff or Bruges in the Spring?

Both Bruges and Cardiff are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Cardiff for the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Bruges in the spring for the natural beauty.

In the spring, Cardiff is around the same temperature as Bruges. Typically, the spring temperatures in Cardiff in April average around 9°C (48°F), and Bruges averages at about 8°C (47°F).

Cardiff usually receives more sunshine than Bruges during spring. Cardiff gets 183 hours of sunny skies, while Bruges receives 158 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Cardiff usually receives around the same amount of rain as Bruges. Cardiff gets 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Bruges receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Bruges and Cardiff