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

Should you visit Cardiff or Dijon?

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

Should I visit Cardiff or Dijon? 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.

Dijon

Dijon is a relaxing, historical, and cultural city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Cardiff and Dijon: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular with couples
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers


Is there more to do in Cardiff or Dijon?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Dijon than Cardiff. While Cardiff is larger than Dijon, Dijon has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Dijon is more touristy than Cardiff and is known for its cuisine, wine, and nearby vineyards. It is also well known for The Ducal Palace. Cardiff is famous for having the most castles per square mile of any city in Europe.

How is Cardiff different from Dijon?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Cardiff
Dijon

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

Dijon offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. This historic city is filled with sights worth checking. Palais des Ducs and the Musée des Beaux-Arts, Cathédrale Saint-Bénigne, and Eglise Notre-Dame are among the favorites.

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 Dijon? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Cardiff
Dijon

Dijon 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, Dijon is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. It is one of the top foodie destinations in France, and you'll find amazing local markets, award winning restaurants, and world class cuisine. Make sure you check out Les Halles Market to try local flavors. In addition to its famous mustard, the city is also popular for gingerbread, truffles, escargot, and, of course, wine.

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 Dijon Better for Nightlife?

Cardiff
Dijon

It's hard to distinguish whether Cardiff or Dijon 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 Dijon has a few options to choose from. While it's not a active as the larger European cities, there's still an fun nightlife scene that is driven mostly by the large student population.

Is the Shopping Better in Cardiff or Dijon?

Cardiff
Dijon

Shopping is a popular activity in both Dijon 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.

Dijon has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. For the best shopping in town, head to the main shopping street - Rue de la Liberté. It's lined with everything from clothing stores to wine shops and larger department stores. You'll even be able to pick up some of the famed mustard while you're in town.


Is Cardiff or Dijon Better for Families?

Cardiff
Dijon

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Cardiff or Dijon.

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.

Dijon offers lots of family activities. Kids will enjoy the open space that the city offers. There are parks where they can run around, like The Parc de la Colombieres which has a carousel and a ropes course. There are also many museums including two favorites for young ones - Musee de la Vie Bourguignonne and Musee d'Histoire Naturelle.

Is Cardiff or Dijon Better for Couples?

Cardiff
Dijon

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

Couples visit Dijon frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Art, palaces, gardens, and fine wine make it a perfect couple's getaway. There is some of the best food in France, as well as a welcoming culture and many beautiful sights to 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 Dijon Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cardiff
Dijon

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

Plenty of budget travelers visit Dijon. It's a beautiful city with a touristy vibe, so you'll likely meet other travelers while you're in town.

Cardiff is not a backpacker-friendly destination.


Is Cardiff or Dijon Better for Students?

Cardiff
Dijon

Cardiff and Dijon are nice places to visit for students.

Cardiff is popular with students. Most students come to study at Cardiff University, which is a leading university in Great Britain.

It's common for students to visit Dijon. While it's quieter than the bigger cities, you'll find a young vibe and enough of a nightlife scene to keep it interesting.

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

Cardiff
Dijon

Dijon 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 Dijon, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. Tram and buses offer access to many parts of the city.

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

Is Cardiff or Dijon a more walkable city?

Cardiff
Dijon

Cardiff and Dijon both are nice when exploring on foot.

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

Dijon is a somewhat walkable city. Most of the inner city is walkable.


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

Should I spend more time in Dijon or Cardiff?

How long in Cardiff or Dijon?

It's fun to spend time in either Cardiff or Dijon. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Dijon due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Cardiff, and 2-4 days is enough time in Dijon.

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

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

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


  • How many days in Cardiff or Dijon? Ideal Length of Stay
    Cardiff 1-3 
    Dijon 2-4

One day in Cardiff or Dijon?

In Cardiff, many people enjoy the nightlife and shopping that this green 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.

In Dijon, you'll find nightlife and food. One reason most visitors come is for the food. 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 Dijon?

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.

In Dijon, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. One reason most visitors come is for the food. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Dijon has to offer.

Five days in Cardiff or Dijon?

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.

Dijon 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.


A week in Cardiff or Dijon?

You'll find nightlife and shopping around the up-and-coming 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 Dijon. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Dijon. One reason most visitors come is for the food. 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 France, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in France.


Which place is cheaper, Dijon 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 Dijon is £131. 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 Dijon in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Cardiff £93
    Dijon £69
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Cardiff £186
    Dijon £138
Compare Hotels in Cardiff and Dijon

Looking for a hotel in Cardiff or Dijon? 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 Dijon


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 Dijon Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Cardiff £21
    Dijon £31

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

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Dijon

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Dijon:

  • 2 Hour Private Tour of Dijon - with Hotel Transfer: $427

Is it cheaper to fly into Cardiff or Dijon?

Prices for flights to both Dijon 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
    Dijon £41

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Cardiff £25
    Dijon £21

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 Dijon

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

  • A Self-Guided Audio Tour through the City: $5.99
  • More than just Mustard: A Self-Guided Audio Tour in Dijon: $5.99
  • Dijon : City Walking Tour with Audio Guide (Office Tourisme): $7.49
  • City Tour with a French-speaking Guide: $13
  • Dijon City Tour : Highlights Tour with Gourmet Break: $60
  • Bike tour and Tastings in the Vineyards of Burgundy: $71
  • Half Day Tour of the Cote de Nuits Vineyards from Dijon: $97
  • Small-Group Full-Day Tour of Côte de Nuits, Côte de Beaune Vineyards and Beaune Historical District: $146
  • DIJON : Private Walking Tour: $176
  • Private city tour - Dijon the essential - 2h: $235
  • E-bike Burgundy day tour, tastings & lunch from Beaune or Dijon: $240
  • Private guided tour - Dijon - 2h: $240

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Cardiff £13
    Dijon £25

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 Dijon

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Dijon:

  • ✨ Masterclass Chardonnay - Wine tasting in Dijon : $37
  • Chardonnay Masterclass - Wine tasting in Dijon: $38
  • Pinot Noir Masterclass - Wine tasting in Dijon: $38
  • Cheese and Burgundy Wine Tasting Workshop: $48
  • Wine Tasting Workshop with Tastings: $48
  • La Cave du Palais Burgundy Wine Tasting Experience: $59
  • Bike Tour with Gourmet Food and Wine Tasting: $66
  • Small-Group Burgundy Tour with Wine Tastings from Dijon: $74
  • Small group Burgundy tour of Beaune with Wine Tasting from Dijon: $95


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

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


Which is Bigger, Cardiff or Dijon?

Cardiff has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Dijon. When comparing the sizes of Cardiff and Dijon, 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 Dijon?

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 Dijon in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Cardiff and Dijon. The summer months attract visitors to Cardiff because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, the city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Dijon this time of year.

In July, Cardiff is generally cooler than Dijon. Daily temperatures in Cardiff average around 17°C (63°F), and Dijon fluctuates around 21°C (70°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Dijon this time of the year. In Cardiff, it's very sunny this time of the year. Cardiff usually receives less sunshine than Dijon during summer. Cardiff gets 220 hours of sunny skies, while Dijon receives 266 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Cardiff usually receives more rain than Dijon. Cardiff gets 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Dijon receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Cardiff 17°C (63°F) 
    Dijon 21°C (70°F)

Should I visit Cardiff or Dijon in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Cardiff as well as Dijon. 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. Additionally, many travelers come to Dijon for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Cardiff is cooler than Dijon in the autumn. The daily temperature in Cardiff averages around 11°C (52°F) in October, and Dijon fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

In the autumn, Cardiff often gets less sunshine than Dijon. Cardiff gets 95 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Dijon receives 121 hours of full sun.

Cardiff receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Cardiff usually gets more rain in October than Dijon. Cardiff gets 101 mm (4 in) of rain, while Dijon receives 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Cardiff 11°C (52°F) 
    Dijon 13°C (55°F)

Should I visit Cardiff or Dijon in the Winter?

Both Dijon and Cardiff are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Cardiff for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Dijon in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Dijon can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Cardiff. In the winter, Cardiff is around the same temperature as Dijon. Typically, the winter temperatures in Cardiff in January average around 3°C (38°F), and Dijon averages at about 3°C (38°F).

Cardiff usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Dijon during winter. Cardiff gets 57 hours of sunny skies, while Dijon receives 53 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Cardiff usually receives more rain than Dijon. Cardiff gets 95 mm (3.7 in) of rain, while Dijon receives 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Cardiff 3°C (38°F) 
    Dijon 3°C (38°F)

Should I visit Cardiff or Dijon in the Spring?

Both Dijon and Cardiff during the spring are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Cardiff in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Dijon for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months.

In April, Cardiff is generally cooler than Dijon. Daily temperatures in Cardiff average around 9°C (48°F), and Dijon fluctuates around 11°C (53°F).

In the spring, Cardiff often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Dijon. Cardiff gets 183 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Dijon receives 178 hours of full sun.

Cardiff usually gets less rain in April than Dijon. Cardiff gets 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Dijon receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Cardiff 9°C (48°F) 
    Dijon 11°C (53°F)

Typical Weather for Dijon and Cardiff

Cardiff Dijon
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 3°C (38°F) 95 mm (3.7 in) 3°C (38°F) 59 mm (2.3 in)
Feb 4°C (40°F) 70 mm (2.7 in) 5°C (41°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
Mar 6°C (42°F) 80 mm (3.2 in) 8°C (46°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
Apr 9°C (48°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 11°C (53°F) 52 mm (2 in)
May 12°C (53°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 15°C (59°F) 86 mm (3.4 in)
Jun 15°C (59°F) 57 mm (2.3 in) 19°C (66°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Jul 17°C (63°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 21°C (70°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Aug 17°C (62°F) 75 mm (3 in) 21°C (69°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
Sep 14°C (58°F) 95 mm (3.7 in) 18°C (64°F) 67 mm (2.6 in)
Oct 11°C (52°F) 101 mm (4 in) 13°C (55°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Nov 7°C (45°F) 97 mm (3.8 in) 7°C (45°F) 64 mm (2.5 in)
Dec 5°C (40°F) 96 mm (3.8 in) 4°C (39°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)