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

Should you visit Cardiff or Chicago?

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

Should I visit Cardiff or Chicago? 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. Other popular activities here include museums, nightlife, and shopping.

Chicago

Chicago is a cosmopolitan, diverse, and vibrant city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the beaches, shopping, and museums.

Is there more to do in Cardiff or Chicago?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Chicago than Cardiff, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Chicago is more touristy than Cardiff and is known for its thriving sports scene, its iconic local cuisine, and its world class shopping at the Magnificent Mile. It is also home to The Willis Tower (previously the Sears Tower). Cardiff is popular for having the most castles per square mile of any city in Europe.

How is Cardiff different from Chicago?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Chicago 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 Chicago are among the most recognizable in the world. There are countless landmarks, museums, and iconic sights in the area. Some of the most famous are the Art Institute of Chicago, Adler Planetarium, and the Museum of Science and Industry. Notable landmarks include the famous Willis Tower - formerly the Sears Tower, Buckingham Fountain, and the iconic Cloud Gate (the bean).

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 Chicago Better for Theater?

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

The theater and performance venues in Chicago draw crowds from around the world. Theater is big here with many of the major Broadway productions visiting the city. There is also an endless list of smaller, local theaters to choose from.

Cardiff is not a theatre destination.

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

Chicago 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, Chicago is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. With everything from award-winning luxury restaurants to local dives, this city has something for everyone. It also has very distinct local flavors and dishes that create an identity and bring great pride to the locals. While you're in town you have to try the famous deep dish pizza, Chicago style hot dogs, and Italian beef.

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 Chicago Better for Nightlife?

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

Chicago is a world class party destination. It has a wide range of activities at night, with everything from theater and comedy clubs to dance venues, sporting events, and local bars. It's easy to fill many evenings with whatever activity appeals to you. Popular bars and clubs include the Smart Bar, Beauty Bar, and Le Nocturne.

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 Chicago Better for Music?

Chicago 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 Chicago The city is the birthplace of such interesting styles as modern gospel and the Chicago style blues.

Cardiff is not a live music destination.

Is Cardiff or Chicago Better for Beaches?

Chicago is a popular place for the beache. However, Cardiff is not a beach destination.

Chicago is a good option for a beach vacation. While you don't immediately think of beaches when you think of Chicago, there are some nice beaches by the lake. If the weather is nice, it's a great area to spend some time.

Cardiff is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Cardiff or Chicago?

Chicago 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 Chicago make it a world-class shopping destination. There are countless neighborhoods that are filled with boutiques, local vendors, and art galleries. The city has some of the country's best shopping opportunities, and the most notable area is the famous Michigan Avenue and the Magnificent Mile.

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 Chicago Better for Christmas?

Chicago is a great destination for its Christmas activities. However, Cardiff does not offer Christmas activities.

Visitors come from all around to experience the Christmas activities in Chicago. There's a number of seasonal celebrations, ice skating, and excellent shopping.

Cardiff does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Cardiff or Chicago Better for Christmas Markets?

Chicago is a popular place for its Christmas markets. However, Cardiff does not offer Christmas markets.

Many visitors go to the Christmas markets in Chicago. Shopping is a highlight of a trip to the city, and the Christkindlmarkt is not to be missed.

Cardiff does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Cardiff or Chicago Better for Families?

Chicago 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, Chicago is a very family-friendly destination. The city has a large number of activities for kids, including zoos, Shedd Aquarium, impressive children's museums, and large and elaborate playgrounds in Millennium Park. It's easy to keep kids entertained in this very kid-focused city.

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 Chicago Better for Couples?

Chicago is a popular place for its romantic activities. However, Cardiff is a city with minimal options for couples.

Chicago makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples will enjoy exploring the city's vibrant theater scene and diverse neighborhoods. There are many varied restaurants and entertainment options that make for a great date night. There are also sporting events, parks, and gardens where couples can explore.

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 Chicago Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Plenty of budget travelers visit Chicago. The city doesn't have a huge backpacker vibe, but it does have a number of hostels that help keep costs in check.

Cardiff is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Cardiff or Chicago Better for Students?

Chicago 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 Chicago. The city has a large number of universities that bring in students from around the country and around the globe. It's a huge international city with economic ties and many opportunities connected to the universities.

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 Chicago Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Chicago 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.

Chicago has a world-class public transit network to take passengers everywhere in the city. There's a subway (the "L"), a commuter well, as well as buses and countless taxis available.

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

Is Cardiff or Chicago a more walkable city?

Chicago 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.

Chicago is a very walkable city. The city has many restaurants, sights, and hotels that are easily accessible 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 Chicago Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Chicago or Cardiff?

How long in Cardiff or Chicago?

In either Cardiff or Chicago, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Chicago than Cardiff because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Cardiff, and 3-5 days is enough time in Chicago.

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

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

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

One day in Cardiff or Chicago?

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.

Because Chicago 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 Chicago?

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.

Because Chicago 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 Chicago?

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.

Chicago 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 Chicago has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Cardiff or Chicago?

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 Chicago. Many people enjoy the theater and nightlife when visiting Chicago. 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 Family-Friendly Tours to United States of America, and The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Cardiff and Chicago, we can see that Chicago is more expensive. And not only is Cardiff much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Cardiff is in Europe and Chicago is in North America, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. 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 Chicago would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Chicago 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 Chicago Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Cardiff or Chicago?

Chicago has a larger population, and is about 9 times larger than the population of Cardiff. When comparing the sizes of Cardiff and Chicago, 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 Chicago?

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 Chicago in the Summer?

Both Chicago and Cardiff are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Cardiff this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Chicago for the beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Cardiff is cooler than Chicago. Typically, the summer temperatures in Cardiff in July average around 17°C (63°F), and Chicago averages at about 77°F (25°C).

It's quite sunny in Chicago. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Cardiff. Cardiff usually receives less sunshine than Chicago during summer. Cardiff gets 220 hours of sunny skies, while Chicago receives 326 hours of full sun in the summer.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Chicago. In July, Cardiff usually receives less rain than Chicago. Cardiff gets 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Chicago receives 3.9 inches (100 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Cardiff or Chicago in the Autumn?

Both Chicago and Cardiff during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Cardiff for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Chicago in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Cardiff is generally cooler than Chicago. Daily temperatures in Cardiff average around 11°C (52°F), and Chicago fluctuates around 56°F (14°C).

In the autumn, Cardiff often gets less sunshine than Chicago. Cardiff gets 95 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Chicago receives 195 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Cardiff. Cardiff usually gets more rain in October than Chicago. Cardiff gets 101 mm (4 in) of rain, while Chicago receives 2.2 inches (56 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Cardiff or Chicago in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Cardiff and Chicago. Many visitors come to Cardiff in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Chicago for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine during these months.

Chicago can be very cold during winter. Cardiff can get quite cold in the winter. Cardiff is much warmer than Chicago in the winter. The daily temperature in Cardiff averages around 3°C (38°F) in January, and Chicago fluctuates around 25°F (-4°C).

Cardiff usually receives less sunshine than Chicago during winter. Cardiff gets 57 hours of sunny skies, while Chicago receives 134 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Cardiff usually receives more rain than Chicago. Cardiff gets 95 mm (3.7 in) of rain, while Chicago receives 1.9 inches (47 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Cardiff or Chicago in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Cardiff as well as Chicago. Most visitors come to Cardiff for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Chicago because of the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Cardiff is cooler than Chicago. Typically, the spring temperatures in Cardiff in April average around 9°C (48°F), and Chicago averages at about 52°F (11°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Chicago. In the spring, Cardiff often gets less sunshine than Chicago. Cardiff gets 183 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Chicago receives 218 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Chicago. Cardiff usually gets less rain in April than Chicago. Cardiff gets 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Chicago receives 4.3 inches (108 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Chicago and Cardiff