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

Should you visit Cardiff or Ghent?

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

Should I visit Cardiff or Ghent? 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.

Ghent

Ghent is a youthful, high energy, and cultural 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 Ghent: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Cardiff or Ghent?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Ghent than Cardiff. While Cardiff is larger than Ghent, Ghent has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Ghent is very popular for its museums, food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Cardiff attracts visitors for its big city activities. Cardiff is famous for having the most castles per square mile of any city in Europe. Ghent is famous for its medieval buildings, large squares, and weekly markets It is also well known for The Fortress of Gravensteen.

How is Cardiff different from Ghent?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Ghent offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The city has many different sights that are concentrated in a compact area. Make sure you check out the Cathedral of St. Bavo, The Fortress of Gravensteen, and The Belfry. The audio tour at Gravensteen really brings the history to life and makes for an enjoyable activity.

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 Ghent? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Ghent 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 Ghent. The food scene is diverse and international, but there are also many local dishes and flavors that you should try. Pas de Rouge is a local cheese and mastel is a local bread. Ganda ham is also a popular meat that is dried and salted. In additional to traditional restaurants, you'll find almost any international cuisine that you could want.

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 Ghent Better for Nightlife?

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

Ghent is a world class party destination. With its young student population, you'll find plenty of lively bars and clubs around town. There are many places where you can party or dance into the early hours of the morning and some of the best places are around Oude Beestenmarkt, De Overpoort, and De Vlasmarkt. There's also the famous Ghent Festival every July.

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 Ghent Better for its Old Town?

Ghent is a great destination for its old town. However, Cardiff does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Ghent. The medieval old town follows along the canal and offers great architecture and a unique atmosphere.

Cardiff does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Cardiff or Ghent?

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

Ghent is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. The city has the largest pedestrian shopping area in Belgium, making it a great place to explore on foot. The city has several different shopping areas which each have their own style and personality. You'll find everything from major European brands to local boutiques and street markets.

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 Ghent Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Cardiff or Ghent.

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.

Ghent offers lots of family activities. The city has a fun atmosphere with kid-friendly restaurants and a number of attractions that appeal to all ages. Kids and adults alike will enjoy exploring Gravensteen, which is the "Castle of Counts". You can also take a boat tour, rent bikes, or head to one of the town's playgrounds so the kids can burn off some energy.

Is Cardiff or Ghent Better for Couples?

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

Couples visit Ghent frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. It makes a great weekend getaway with a diverse restaurant scene, nice hotels, and plenty of historic attractions that you 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 Ghent Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Plenty of budget travelers visit Ghent. The city has a number of hostels to choose from as well as a young vibe with a large student population. Many people overlook Ghent, but it feels more genuine than nearby Bruges, which attracts the larger tourist crowds.

Cardiff is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Cardiff or Ghent Better for Students?

Ghent 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 Ghent. The city is very popular with international students so it has a young and energetic vibe with plenty to do throughout the year.

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

Ghent 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.

Ghent has a world-class public transit network to take passengers everywhere in the city. Buses and trams travel to most parts of the city and are convenient and efficient.

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

Is Cardiff or Ghent a more walkable city?

Ghent 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.

Ghent is a very walkable city. The area's with the most tourist attractions are generally walkable.

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 Ghent Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Ghent or Cardiff?

How long in Cardiff or Ghent?

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

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

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

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

One day in Cardiff or Ghent?

In Cardiff, many people enjoy the nightlife and shopping that this industrial 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 Ghent, you'll find nightlife and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the 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.

A weekend in Cardiff or Ghent?

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 Ghent, 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. One reason most visitors come is for the nightlife. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Ghent has to offer.

Five days in Cardiff or Ghent?

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.

Ghent 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 Ghent?

You'll find nightlife and shopping around the industrial 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 Ghent. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Ghent. One reason most visitors come is for the nightlife. 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 Ghent, we can see that Cardiff is more expensive. And not only is Ghent much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Ghent would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Ghent 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 Ghent.

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

Which is Bigger, Cardiff or Ghent?

Cardiff has a larger population, and is about 31% larger than the population of Ghent. When comparing the sizes of Cardiff and Ghent, 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 Ghent?

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 Ghent in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Cardiff and Ghent. Most visitors come to Cardiff for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Ghent because of the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Cardiff is generally around the same temperature as Ghent. Daily temperatures in Cardiff average around 17°C (63°F), and Ghent fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Ghent this time of the year. In Cardiff, it's very sunny this time of the year. Cardiff usually receives more sunshine than Ghent during summer. Cardiff gets 220 hours of sunny skies, while Ghent receives 202 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Cardiff usually receives around the same amount of rain as Ghent. Cardiff gets 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Ghent receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Cardiff or Ghent in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Cardiff as well as Ghent. 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. Also, the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Ghent this time of year.

Cardiff is around the same temperature as Ghent in the autumn. The daily temperature in Cardiff averages around 11°C (52°F) in October, and Ghent fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

In the autumn, Cardiff often gets less sunshine than Ghent. Cardiff gets 95 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Ghent receives 105 hours of full sun.

Cardiff receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Cardiff usually gets more rain in October than Ghent. Cardiff gets 101 mm (4 in) of rain, while Ghent receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Cardiff or Ghent in the Winter?

Both Ghent and Cardiff are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Cardiff this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Ghent for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

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

Cardiff usually receives more sunshine than Ghent during winter. Cardiff gets 57 hours of sunny skies, while Ghent receives 47 hours of full sun in the winter.

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

Should I visit Cardiff or Ghent in the Spring?

Both Ghent and Cardiff during the spring are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Cardiff for the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Furthermore, many visitors come to Ghent in the spring for the natural beauty.

In April, Cardiff is generally around the same temperature as Ghent. Daily temperatures in Cardiff average around 9°C (48°F), and Ghent fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

In the spring, Cardiff often gets more sunshine than Ghent. Cardiff gets 183 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Ghent receives 158 hours of full sun.

Cardiff usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Ghent. Cardiff gets 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Ghent receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Ghent and Cardiff