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

Should you visit Cardiff or Florence?

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

Should I visit Cardiff or Florence? 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 industrial, up-and-coming, and green 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. Visitors also love the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Florence

Florence is a artistic, iconic, and alluring city. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Cardiff and Florence: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Cardiff or Florence?

You'll generally find more things to do in Florence than Cardiff. Florence is bigger than Cardiff, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Florence is better known for its museums, food, historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Cardiff is more popular for its big city activities. Florence is more touristy than Cardiff and is popular for its iconic beauty, world-renowned Renaissance art and architecture, and beautifully maintained gardens. Also, Florence is famous for The Duomo (Santa Maria del Fiore). Cardiff is well known for having the most castles per square mile of any city in Europe.

How is Cardiff different from Florence?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Florence 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 Florence are among the most recognizable in the world. Because of it's important role in the Renaissance, the city has many world-renowned museums that you can visit. Famous sights and landmarks include the Uffizi Gallery, the Duomo, and the Academy Gallery.

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 Florence? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Florence 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, Florence is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. Once you've worked up an appetite exploring museums and churches, you'll find many amazing local restaurants around town. Local dishes incorporate a lot of hearty vegetables and meats. Famous dishes include a Florentine steak dish, rabbit, and a bean bed and cabbage soup.

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 Florence Better for Nightlife?

It's hard to distinguish whether Cardiff or Florence 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 Florence has a few options to choose from. You'll find the most active nightlife in the Santa Croce neighborhood. The area attracts study abroad students as well as tourists who party late into the night.

Is Cardiff or Florence Better for its Old Town?

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

The rich history of Florence can be explored in its historical center. The historic center of the city is where you'll find many of the most beautiful buildings, art works, and quaint streets. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and it was at the heart of the Renaissance period.

Cardiff does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Cardiff or Florence?

Florence is a great destination for its shopping opportunities. Also, Cardiff is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping areas.

Florence is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. There are many shops in the tourist heart of the city. Most are geared specifically to tourists so you may have to search to find a more authentic shopping experience. Famous items available in the city include gold jewelry, ceramics, leather, and perfume.

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 Florence Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Cardiff or Florence.

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.

Florence offers lots of family activities. Most famous for its art and history, the city also has a number of activities that kids will enjoy. There's a carousel and a park that are perfect to let the little ones run around. There are a few kid-friendly museums, as well as a historic city center that will mesmerize the old and young alike.

Is Cardiff or Florence Better for Couples?

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

Florence makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. Art and history lovers will enjoy a visit to this truly beautiful city. Couples who enjoy museums, historic buildings, and world-renowned art, will find plenty to do in this city.

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 Florence Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Florence 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 Florence. The city is part of a popular route through Italy, and you'll find many backpackers and students in town. There are also many hostels, so you should have no trouble meeting other young travelers.

Cardiff is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Cardiff or Florence Better for Students?

Florence 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 Florence. Many students visit this city as part of a short term study abroad program, or for the entire length of their studies. The city is beautiful, and whether your focus is art, history, or culture, this city will not disappoint.

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

Florence 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 Florence, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There is a comprehensive bus system.

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

Is Cardiff or Florence a more walkable city?

Florence 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 Florence on foot is easy. Most people explore the city 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 Florence Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Florence or Cardiff?

How long in Cardiff or Florence?

Both Cardiff and Florence have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Florence than in Cardiff. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Cardiff, and 2-7 days is enough time in Florence.

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

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

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

One day in Cardiff or Florence?

The city of Cardiff offers nightlife and shopping. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

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

Cardiff is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Cardiff, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

In Florence, 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 Florence has to offer.

Five days in Cardiff or Florence?

Cardiff is a popular choice for travelers. Five days is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Florence is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Florence has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Cardiff or Florence?

Cardiff is a great place to explore. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Florence. In Florence, you'll find museums and nightlife. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

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 Luxury Tours to Italy, and The Best Budget Tours to Italy.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Cardiff or Florence?

Florence has a larger population, and is about 23% larger than the population of Cardiff. When comparing the sizes of Cardiff and Florence, 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 Florence?

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 Florence in the Summer?

Both Florence and Cardiff during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Cardiff for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Florence in the summer for the family-friendly experiences.

Cardiff is cooler than Florence in the summer. The daily temperature in Cardiff averages around 17°C (63°F) in July, and Florence fluctuates around 25°C (77°F).

In Florence, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Cardiff. In the summer, Cardiff often gets less sunshine than Florence. Cardiff gets 220 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Florence receives 316 hours of full sun.

Cardiff usually gets more rain in July than Florence. Cardiff gets 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Florence receives 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Cardiff or Florence in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Cardiff and Florence. 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 Florence for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In the autumn, Cardiff is cooler than Florence. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Cardiff in October average around 11°C (52°F), and Florence averages at about 16°C (61°F).

Cardiff usually receives less sunshine than Florence during autumn. Cardiff gets 95 hours of sunny skies, while Florence receives 177 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Cardiff gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Cardiff usually receives around the same amount of rain as Florence. Cardiff gets 101 mm (4 in) of rain, while Florence receives 96 mm (3.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Cardiff or Florence in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Cardiff as well as Florence. Most visitors come to Cardiff for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Florence because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Cardiff can be very cold during winter. In January, Cardiff is generally much colder than Florence. Daily temperatures in Cardiff average around 3°C (38°F), and Florence fluctuates around 7°C (45°F).

In the winter, Cardiff often gets less sunshine than Florence. Cardiff gets 57 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Florence receives 105 hours of full sun.

Cardiff usually gets more rain in January than Florence. Cardiff gets 95 mm (3.7 in) of rain, while Florence receives 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Cardiff or Florence in the Spring?

Both Florence and Cardiff are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to Cardiff because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Also, the natural beauty are the main draw to Florence this time of year.

Cardiff is much colder than Florence in the spring. The daily temperature in Cardiff averages around 9°C (48°F) in April, and Florence fluctuates around 14°C (57°F).

Cardiff usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Florence during spring. Cardiff gets 183 hours of sunny skies, while Florence receives 192 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Cardiff usually receives less rain than Florence. Cardiff gets 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Florence receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Florence and Cardiff