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

Should you visit Cardiff or Graz?

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

Should I visit Cardiff or Graz? 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.

Graz

Graz is a beautiful, medieval, and cultural city. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Cardiff and Graz: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Cardiff or Graz?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Graz than Cardiff. While Cardiff is larger than Graz, Graz has more sights and attractions for tourists. Graz is better known for its museums, food, nightlife, historical sights, and shopping, while Cardiff is more popular for its big city activities. Graz is more touristy than Cardiff and is popular for its many cultural activities, its impressive old town, and its beautiful Baroque architecture. Also, Graz is famous for The Schlossberg and the Clock Tower. Cardiff is well known for having the most castles per square mile of any city in Europe.

How is Cardiff different from Graz?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Graz offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The old town is among the largest in Europe and it's filled with sights and museums. The Schlossberg and the Clock Tower are among the most iconic sights but other highlights include the GrazMuseum, the Mohren Apotheke's Theriak Museum, a Gothic Franciscan Church, and the Robert Stolz 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 Graz? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Graz 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 Graz. There's a huge focus on sustainable dining in town, so you'll find many restaurants that use a farm to table approach. Local ingredients are heavily valued and it's fun to sample the many local flavors. Backhendl is a classic fried chicken dish that you must try.

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 Graz Better for Nightlife?

Graz is a great destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Cardiff is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

The people in Graz know how to have a good time. The large student population means that there's an active nightlife scene that is diverse and fun. There's a wide variety of bars and pubs with almost any music genre you could want. There are also dance clubs for those who are looking for a party.

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 Graz Better for its Old Town?

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

The rich history of Graz can be explored in its historical center. The medieval city center is very well preserved and one of the largest in Europe. The city has a lot of hidden charm and quaint streets to explore.

Cardiff does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Cardiff or Graz?

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

Graz is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. You'll find a lot of shopping around both Jakominiplatz and Hauptplatz Squares. There are also a number of shopping streets in town including Herrengasse which is filled with shops, restaurants, and more.

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 Graz Better for Families?

Graz is a great destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Cardiff is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Graz is a very kid-friendly city. Kids will love the fairytale train and there's also a 4D cinema that is fun for the whole family. In Schlossberg Hill, families should check out The Slide, which is the largest underground slide in the world. Other highlights include a Children's Museum, a Folklife Museum, and a Natural History Museum.

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 Graz Better for Couples?

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

Couples visit Graz frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. It's filled with culture, history, and amazing food. Couples will appreciate the romantic old town and the many world class sights around town.

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 Graz Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Plenty of budget travelers visit Graz. There are hostels and budget-friendly hotels around town that make this a nice town to explore as a backpacker.

Cardiff is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Cardiff or Graz Better for Students?

Graz is a great destination for students. Also, Cardiff is still popular, but not quite as popular for its student-friendly activities.

Graz is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. It's long been an education center in Austria and students make up a significant portion of the population. It's also a chill city with a relaxed and student-friendly vibe.

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

Graz is a great destination for its public transit. However, Cardiff is a city with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

The public transit in Graz can get you around easily. There are buses and trams that travel around the town.

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

Is Cardiff or Graz a more walkable city?

Graz 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 Graz on foot is easy. You'll find everything you'd want to see in the old town, which is large, but still compact enough to explore 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 Graz Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Graz or Cardiff?

How long in Cardiff or Graz?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Cardiff and Graz. In our opinion, Graz has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Graz than Cardiff. In general, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Cardiff, and 2-3 days is enough time in Graz.

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

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

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

One day in Cardiff or Graz?

Visitors enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Cardiff. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

In Graz, 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 Graz?

Cardiff is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

In Graz, 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 Graz has to offer.

Five days in Cardiff or Graz?

You'll find shopping and museums around the green destination of Cardiff. This city offers something for everyone. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Graz 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 Graz?

The industrial city of Cardiff offers museums and nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Graz. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Graz. 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 Christmas Market Tours in Austria, and The Best Bicycle Tours in Austria.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Cardiff or Graz?

Cardiff has a larger population, and is about 36% larger than the population of Graz. When comparing the sizes of Cardiff and Graz, 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 Graz?

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 Graz in the Summer?

Both Graz and Cardiff during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Cardiff because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Graz this time of year.

Cardiff is cooler than Graz in the summer. The daily temperature in Cardiff averages around 17°C (63°F) in July, and Graz fluctuates around 23°C (73°F).

In Graz, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Cardiff. In the summer, Cardiff often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Graz. Cardiff gets 220 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Graz receives 236 hours of full sun.

Graz gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Cardiff usually gets less rain in July than Graz. Cardiff gets 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Graz receives 126 mm (5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Cardiff or Graz in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Cardiff and Graz. 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. Furthermore, many travelers come to Graz for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Cardiff is cooler than Graz. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Cardiff in October average around 11°C (52°F), and Graz averages at about 13°C (55°F).

Cardiff usually receives less sunshine than Graz during autumn. Cardiff gets 95 hours of sunny skies, while Graz receives 139 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 Graz. Cardiff gets 101 mm (4 in) of rain, while Graz receives 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Cardiff or Graz in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Cardiff as well as Graz. Many travelers come to Cardiff for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, many visitors come to Graz in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Graz can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Cardiff. In January, Cardiff is generally much warmer than Graz. Daily temperatures in Cardiff average around 3°C (38°F), and Graz fluctuates around 1°C (34°F).

In the winter, Cardiff often gets less sunshine than Graz. Cardiff gets 57 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Graz receives 95 hours of full sun.

Cardiff usually gets more rain in January than Graz. Cardiff gets 95 mm (3.7 in) of rain, while Graz receives 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Cardiff or Graz in the Spring?

Both Graz and Cardiff are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Cardiff in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Graz for the natural beauty during these months.

Cardiff is cooler than Graz in the spring. The daily temperature in Cardiff averages around 9°C (48°F) in April, and Graz fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

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

In April, Cardiff usually receives less rain than Graz. Cardiff gets 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Graz receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Graz and Cardiff