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

Should you visit Cardiff or Hannover?

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

Should I visit Cardiff or Hannover? 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. Other reasons to visit include nightlife, shopping, and museums.

Hannover

Hannover is a dynamic, diverse, and vibrant city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Cardiff and Hannover: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples
  • Public transit not as usable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit


Is there more to do in Cardiff or Hannover?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Hannover than Cardiff. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Hannover is very popular for its food, nightlife, and historical sights, while Cardiff attracts visitors for its impressive beauty. Cardiff is famous for having the most castles per square mile of any city in Europe. Hannover is famous for its many parks and gardens as well as its accessibility to the German train system. It is also well known for The Royal Gardens of Herrenhausen.

How is Cardiff different from Hannover?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Cardiff
Hannover

Plenty of people visit the nice sights and museums in both Cardiff and Hannover.

Cardiff offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. 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.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Hannover. You'll see many of the city's sights along the Red Thread Trail in the city center. Make sure you check out the New Town Hall, the Royal Gardens of Herrenhausen, and the Lower Saxony State Museum as well.


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

Cardiff
Hannover

Hannover is a popular place for its restaurant scene. However, Cardiff is a city with minimal options for its local flavors and cuisine.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Hannover. You'll find classic tearooms, food halls, fine dining restaurants, and markets. Try all of the classic German sausages or sample international dishes in this dynamic city.

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 Hannover Better for Nightlife?

Cardiff
Hannover

Hannover 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 Hannover know how to have a good time. There are many students who keep the nightlife scene active. From beer halls to jazz venues, you'll find a diversity of options around town.

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 Hannover Better for its Old Town?

Cardiff
Hannover

Hannover is a popular place for its old town. However, Cardiff does not have a historic old town.

Many people head to Hannover to see the old town. Check out the half-timbered buildings, the old churches, and the charming streets around old town.

Cardiff does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Cardiff or Hannover?

Cardiff
Hannover

Shopping is a popular activity in both Hannover 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.

Hannover has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. Head to the 14th-century Market Church (Marktkirche) and wander around the nearby streets for some of the city's best shopping. Also make sure you check out the city flea market. In addition to boutiques and independent shops, there are also major department stores and large shopping malls in the area.

Is Cardiff or Hannover Better for Families?

Cardiff
Hannover

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Cardiff or Hannover.

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.

Hannover offers lots of family activities. Like many German cities, there are a number of activities geared specifically to kids. Check out the Sea Life Center or the Hannover Zoo. If you're willing to get out of town a bit, there's also Serengeti Park Hodenhagen or Rasti-Land theme park, which has rides and games.

Is Cardiff or Hannover Better for Couples?

Cardiff
Hannover

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

Hannover makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Romantic settings around town include Herrenhäuser Gärten, Berggarten, and Maschpark.

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 Hannover Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cardiff
Hannover

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

Plenty of budget travelers visit Hannover. Some people use the city to split up longer train trips. There are a couple of hostels in town if you decide to stay a night or two.

Cardiff is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Cardiff or Hannover Better for Students?

Cardiff
Hannover

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

Hannover is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. There are a few great universities in town including Leibniz University, which attract international students. There's also a nice nightlife and easy accessibility to the rest of Germany.

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

Cardiff
Hannover

Hannover 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 Hannover can get you around easily. The city has 12 city trains and 38 bus lines.

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


Is Cardiff or Hannover a more walkable city?

Cardiff
Hannover

Hannover 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.

Hannover is a very walkable city. There are some nice walkable parts to the city.

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 Hannover Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Hannover or Cardiff?

How long in Cardiff or Hannover?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Cardiff or Hannover to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Cardiff than Hannover because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Cardiff, and 1-2 days is enough time in Hannover.

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

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

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


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

One day in Cardiff or Hannover?

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 Hannover, you'll find nightlife and food. 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 Hannover?

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 Hannover, you'll find food 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 Hannover has to offer.


Five days in Cardiff or Hannover?

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.

Hannover 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 Hannover?

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 Hannover. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Hannover. 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, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Germany, and The Best Oktoberfest Tours in Germany.


Which place is cheaper, Hannover 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 Hannover is £132. 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 Hannover in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Cardiff £93
    Hannover £73
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Cardiff £186
    Hannover £146
Compare Hotels in Cardiff and Hannover

Looking for a hotel in Cardiff or Hannover? 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 Hannover


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 Hannover Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Cardiff £21
    Hannover £20

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Cardiff

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Cardiff:

  • Cardiff Airport (CWL): Transfer to Cardiff Accommodation: $139
  • Private Transfer from Mold to Manchester Airport (MAN): $125
  • Private Transfer from Holyhead Port to Manchester Airport (MAN): $102
  • 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
  • Cardiff Private Transfer from Cardiff Airport to City centre: $79
  • Newport Accommodation to Cardiff Airport (CWL) - Departure Private Transfer: $60
  • Private Cardiff Departure Transfer - Hotel / Accommodation to Airport: $58
  • Private Cardiff Arrival Transfer- Airport to Hotel / Accommodation : $58
  • Cardiff to Cardiff Airport (CWL) - Departure Private Transfer: $38
  • Barry Accommodation to Cardiff Airport (CWL) - Departure Private Transfer: $33
  • Heathrow Airport: Bus Transfer to/from Cardiff: $16

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Hannover

Also for Hannover, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Private Direct Transfer From Wolfsburg to Hamburg; English Speaking Driver: $289
  • Private Transfer From Hannover to Hamburg With Sightseeing Stops: $271
  • Private Transfer From Hannover to Hamburg, English Speaking Driver: $212
  • Private Transfer From Hanover City to Bremen City: $94

Is it cheaper to fly into Cardiff or Hannover?

Prices for flights to both Hannover 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
    Hannover £42

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Cardiff £25
    Hannover £30

Tours and Activities in Cardiff

Here are a few actual costs in Cardiff for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • 30 Minute Archery Experience in Llangollen: $19
  • 30 Minute Axe Throwing Experience in Llangollen: $19
  • A Journey through Tudor A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.99
  • A Silent Disco Adventure in Cardiff: $22
  • Canoe Aqueduct tours Llangollen: $76
  • Canyoning with Beezra Experiences in South Wales: $89
  • Cardiff All in One Walking Tour: $62
  • Cardiff Bay Boat Tour: $15
  • Cardiff Bay Private Self-Guided Tour: $11
  • Cardiff Bay: Highlights Private Guided Tour: $187
  • Cardiff Bay: Walking Tour with a Professional Guide: $37
  • Cardiff City Private Guided Walking Tour: $178

Tours and Activities in Hannover

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Hannover.

  • Guided tour of the New Town Hall in Hanover: $11
  • Guided tour of the Royal Herrenhausen Gardens: $13
  • On the trail of crime - Hannover's Crime Tour: $19
  • Hanover: SEA LIFE Entry Ticket: $20
  • SEA LIFE Hannover Ticket: $21
  • Hop-on hop-off tour in Hanover in a double-decker bus: $22
  • Fritz Haarmann murder tour through Hanover's old town: $33
  • Hanno(ver)nascht Culinary city tour: $40
  • Culinary bike tour: $41
  • Hanover: Private Walking tour with A Guide (Private Tour): $120
  • Virtual reality experience in Langenhagen: $131
  • Personal Travel & Vacation Photography Walking Tour in Hannover: $186

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Cardiff £13
    Hannover £29

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


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

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


Which is Bigger, Cardiff or Hannover?

Hannover has a larger population, and is about 70% larger than the population of Cardiff. When comparing the sizes of Cardiff and Hannover, 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 Hannover?

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 Hannover in the Summer?

Both Hannover and Cardiff during the summer are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Cardiff for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Hannover because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Cardiff is generally around the same temperature as Hannover. Daily temperatures in Cardiff average around 17°C (63°F), and Hannover fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

It's quite sunny in Cardiff. In the summer, Cardiff often gets more sunshine than Hannover. Cardiff gets 220 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hannover receives 198 hours of full sun.

Cardiff usually gets around the same amount of rain in July as Hannover. Cardiff gets 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Hannover receives 62 mm (2.5 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Cardiff 17°C (63°F) 
    Hannover 18°C (64°F)

Should I visit Cardiff or Hannover in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Cardiff and Hannover. 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 city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene are the main draw to Hannover this time of year.

Cardiff is around the same temperature as Hannover in the autumn. The daily temperature in Cardiff averages around 11°C (52°F) in October, and Hannover fluctuates around 10°C (51°F).

Cardiff usually receives less sunshine than Hannover during autumn. Cardiff gets 95 hours of sunny skies, while Hannover receives 104 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 Hannover. Cardiff gets 101 mm (4 in) of rain, while Hannover receives 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Cardiff 11°C (52°F) 
    Hannover 10°C (51°F)

Should I visit Cardiff or Hannover in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Cardiff as well as Hannover. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Cardiff this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Hannover for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Hannover. It's quite cold in Cardiff in the winter. In the winter, Cardiff is much warmer than Hannover. Typically, the winter temperatures in Cardiff in January average around 3°C (38°F), and Hannover averages at about 1°C (33°F).

In the winter, Cardiff often gets more sunshine than Hannover. Cardiff gets 57 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hannover receives 42 hours of full sun.

Cardiff usually gets more rain in January than Hannover. Cardiff gets 95 mm (3.7 in) of rain, while Hannover receives 52 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Cardiff 3°C (38°F) 
    Hannover 1°C (33°F)

Should I visit Cardiff or Hannover in the Spring?

Both Hannover and Cardiff are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Cardiff for the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Hannover in the spring for the activities around the city.

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

Cardiff usually receives more sunshine than Hannover during spring. Cardiff gets 183 hours of sunny skies, while Hannover receives 150 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Cardiff usually receives around the same amount of rain as Hannover. Cardiff gets 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Hannover receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Cardiff 9°C (48°F) 
    Hannover 8°C (47°F)

Typical Weather for Hannover and Cardiff

Cardiff Hannover
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 3°C (38°F) 95 mm (3.7 in) 1°C (33°F) 52 mm (2.1 in)
Feb 4°C (40°F) 70 mm (2.7 in) 1°C (35°F) 37 mm (1.5 in)
Mar 6°C (42°F) 80 mm (3.2 in) 5°C (40°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)
Apr 9°C (48°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 8°C (47°F) 50 mm (2 in)
May 12°C (53°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 13°C (55°F) 62 mm (2.5 in)
Jun 15°C (59°F) 57 mm (2.3 in) 16°C (61°F) 73 mm (2.9 in)
Jul 17°C (63°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 18°C (64°F) 62 mm (2.5 in)
Aug 17°C (62°F) 75 mm (3 in) 17°C (63°F) 64 mm (2.5 in)
Sep 14°C (58°F) 95 mm (3.7 in) 14°C (58°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
Oct 11°C (52°F) 101 mm (4 in) 10°C (51°F) 42 mm (1.7 in)
Nov 7°C (45°F) 97 mm (3.8 in) 5°C (42°F) 52 mm (2.1 in)
Dec 5°C (40°F) 96 mm (3.8 in) 2°C (36°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)