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

Should you visit Cardiff or Kilkenny?

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

Should I visit Cardiff or Kilkenny? 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. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Kilkenny

Kilkenny is a fascinating, active, and ancient town. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Cardiff and Kilkenny: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Cardiff or Kilkenny?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Cardiff than Kilkenny, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Cardiff is better known for its big city activities, while Kilkenny is more popular for its museums, food, and historical sights. Cardiff is well known for having the most castles per square mile of any city in Europe. Also, Cardiff is famous for The Cardiff Castle. Kilkenny is well known for its medieval castle and long running history.

How is Cardiff different from Kilkenny?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Kilkenny offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. It's seeped in history and there are many historic landmarks in the area including Kilkenny Castle. Also make sure you check out the National Design & Craft Gallery, Saint Mary's Cathedral, and the Medieval Mile 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 Kilkenny? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Kilkenny 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 Kilkenny. The town has two Michelin starred restaurants as well as many Irish pubs and international restaurants to choose from.

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 Kilkenny Better for Nightlife?

It's hard to distinguish whether Cardiff or Kilkenny 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 Kilkenny has a few options to choose from. You'll find traditional pubs and local breweries around town. The town also hosts several local music festivals.

Is Cardiff or Kilkenny Better for its Old Town?

Kilkenny 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 Kilkenny. Known as the Medieval Mile, the old town dates back 1,500 years and is filled with city walls, cathedrals, and meandering lanes.

Cardiff does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Cardiff or Kilkenny?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Kilkenny 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.

Kilkenny has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There's a mix of shopping malls, shopping streets, and local markets. Make sure you check out Market Cross Shopping Centre, MacDonagh Junction Shopping Centre, Connolly's Red Mills, and Castleinch Sunday Market.

Is Cardiff or Kilkenny Better for Families?

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

Kilkenny is a very kid-friendly town. The obvious activity is visiting the Kilkenny Castle, but there are so many other adventures that your family can have. You can do the zip line and other outdoor adventures at Castlecomer Discovery Park, try out falconry, or visit the National Reptile Museum. There's also river rafting, kayaking, and many other outdoor adventures in the area.

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 Kilkenny Better for Couples?

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

Couples visit Kilkenny frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Adventure lovers will enjoy rafting, kayaking, hiking, and cycling through the area. There are also Michelin starred restaurants and other romantic settings that make for a great couple's weekend.

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 Kilkenny Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Plenty of budget travelers visit Kilkenny. The area has some unique hostels that offer interesting experiences while you're in town.

Cardiff is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Cardiff or Kilkenny Better for Students?

Cardiff is very good for students. However, Kilkenny is not popular with students.

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

Kilkenny is not popular with students.

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

Kilkenny 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 Kilkenny, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are city buses through town.

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

Is Cardiff or Kilkenny a more walkable city?

Kilkenny 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.

Kilkenny is a very walkable town. The town is easy to walk around and most areas can be explored 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 Kilkenny Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Kilkenny or Cardiff?

How long in Cardiff or Kilkenny?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Cardiff or Kilkenny to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Cardiff than Kilkenny 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 Kilkenny.

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

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

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

One day in Cardiff or Kilkenny?

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

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 Kilkenny, 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 Kilkenny has to offer.

Five days in Cardiff or Kilkenny?

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.

Kilkenny 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 Kilkenny?

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 Kilkenny. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Kilkenny. 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 2-Week Tours in Ireland, and Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Ireland.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Cardiff or Kilkenny?

Cardiff has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Kilkenny. When comparing the sizes of Cardiff and Kilkenny, 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 Kilkenny?

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 Kilkenny in the Summer?

Both Kilkenny and Cardiff are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Cardiff this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Kilkenny for the family-friendly experiences.

Cardiff is a little warmer than Kilkenny in the summer. The daily temperature in Cardiff averages around 17°C (63°F) in July, and Kilkenny fluctuates around 15°C (60°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Cardiff. Cardiff usually receives more sunshine than Kilkenny during summer. Cardiff gets 220 hours of sunny skies, while Kilkenny receives 131 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Cardiff usually receives around the same amount of rain as Kilkenny. Cardiff gets 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Kilkenny receives 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Cardiff or Kilkenny in the Autumn?

Both Kilkenny and Cardiff during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Cardiff for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Kilkenny in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Cardiff is around the same temperature as Kilkenny. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Cardiff in October average around 11°C (52°F), and Kilkenny averages at about 11°C (51°F).

In the autumn, Cardiff often gets more sunshine than Kilkenny. Cardiff gets 95 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kilkenny receives 83 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Cardiff. Cardiff usually gets more rain in October than Kilkenny. Cardiff gets 101 mm (4 in) of rain, while Kilkenny receives 84 mm (3.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Cardiff or Kilkenny in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Cardiff and Kilkenny. Many visitors come to Cardiff in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Kilkenny for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Cardiff can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Cardiff is generally much colder than Kilkenny. Daily temperatures in Cardiff average around 3°C (38°F), and Kilkenny fluctuates around 5°C (41°F).

Cardiff usually receives more sunshine than Kilkenny during winter. Cardiff gets 57 hours of sunny skies, while Kilkenny receives 50 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Cardiff usually receives more rain than Kilkenny. Cardiff gets 95 mm (3.7 in) of rain, while Kilkenny receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Cardiff or Kilkenny in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Cardiff as well as Kilkenny. Most visitors come to Cardiff for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Kilkenny because of the natural beauty.

Cardiff is around the same temperature as Kilkenny in the spring. The daily temperature in Cardiff averages around 9°C (48°F) in April, and Kilkenny fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

In the spring, Cardiff often gets more sunshine than Kilkenny. Cardiff gets 183 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kilkenny receives 139 hours of full sun.

Cardiff usually gets less rain in April than Kilkenny. Cardiff gets 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Kilkenny receives 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Kilkenny and Cardiff