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

Should you visit Cardiff or Leipzig?

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

Should I visit Cardiff or Leipzig? 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.

Leipzig

Leipzig is a dynamic, cultural, and historic city. This destination also has one of those special and quaint feelings. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Cardiff and Leipzig: Pros and Cons

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


Is there more to do in Cardiff or Leipzig?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Cardiff than Leipzig. While Leipzig is larger than Cardiff, Cardiff has more sights and attractions for tourists. Cardiff is very popular for its big city activities and impressive beauty, while Leipzig attracts visitors for its museums, food, shopping, and quaint atmosphere. Cardiff is famous for having the most castles per square mile of any city in Europe. It is also well known for The Cardiff Castle. Leipzig is famous for being the home of several great musicians such as Bach and Richard Wagner.

How is Cardiff different from Leipzig?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Cardiff
Leipzig

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

Leipzig offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. There are many historic landmarks like Old City Hall, St. Thomas Church, St. Nicholas Church, and the Battle of the Nations Monument.

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 Leipzig? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Cardiff
Leipzig

Leipzig 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 Leipzig. Coffee houses and cellar restaurants offer an unique atmosphere where you can enjoy local specialties. Sample beef roulade or Saxon dumplings while you soak up the cozy ambiance.

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 Leipzig Better for Nightlife?

Cardiff
Leipzig

It's hard to distinguish whether Cardiff or Leipzig 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 Leipzig has a few options to choose from. Nightlife in town centers around live theater, cultural centers, and live entertainment.

Is the Shopping Better in Cardiff or Leipzig?

Cardiff
Leipzig

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

Leipzig is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. The city center has most of the best shopping areas. There are pedestrian streets and squares like Petersstraße and Marktplatz, as well as large shopping malls like Promenaden Hauptbahnhof Leipzig and Petersbogen.

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 Leipzig Better for Families?

Cardiff
Leipzig

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Cardiff or Leipzig.

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.

Leipzig offers lots of family activities. Head to Belantis, which is an amusement park with rides, or take the kids to one of the many parks like Clara-Zetkin Park where they can unwind. The Leipzig Zoo makes a nice outing as well or Maya Mare is a fun waterpark. There are also several good museums like the Leipzig Panometer.

Is Cardiff or Leipzig Better for Couples?

Cardiff
Leipzig

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

Leipzig makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There are many beautiful outdoor parks and natural areas where couples can enjoy this beautiful 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 Leipzig Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cardiff
Leipzig

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

Plenty of budget travelers visit Leipzig. Many backpackers overlook this city, but there are a few hostels and some nice areas to explore for those who make their way here.

Cardiff is not a backpacker-friendly destination.


Is Cardiff or Leipzig Better for Students?

Cardiff
Leipzig

Cardiff is a nice place to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Leipzig is not popular with students.

It's common for students to visit Cardiff. Most students come to study at Cardiff University, which is a leading university in Great Britain.

Leipzig is not popular with students.

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

Cardiff
Leipzig

Leipzig 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 Leipzig can get you around easily. The city has 61 bus lines and 13 tram lines that connect Leizpig to elsewhere in the region.

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

Is Cardiff or Leipzig a more walkable city?

Cardiff
Leipzig

Cardiff and Leipzig both are nice when exploring on foot.

Cardiff is a somewhat walkable place. There are pedestrianized areas and the waterfront is nice to walk around but there is still room for improvement when it comes to walkability.

Leipzig is a somewhat walkable city. Parts of Leizpig are more walkable than others.


For even more information, also check out Is Cardiff Worth Visiting? and Is Leipzig Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Leipzig or Cardiff?

How long in Cardiff or Leipzig?

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

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

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

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


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

One day in Cardiff or Leipzig?

In Cardiff, you'll find museums and 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.

In Leipzig, 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 Leipzig?

In Cardiff, you'll find nightlife 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 Cardiff has to offer.

In Leipzig, 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 Leipzig has to offer.

Five days in Cardiff or Leipzig?

Cardiff 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.

Leipzig 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 Leipzig?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Cardiff. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Cardiff. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Leipzig. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Leipzig. 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 Romantic Tours for Couples in Germany, and The Best Walking Tours in Germany.


Which place is cheaper, Leipzig 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 Leipzig is £142. 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 Leipzig in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Cardiff £93
    Leipzig £78
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Cardiff £186
    Leipzig £156
Compare Hotels in Cardiff and Leipzig

Looking for a hotel in Cardiff or Leipzig? 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 Leipzig


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 Leipzig Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Cardiff £21
    Leipzig £23

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 Leipzig

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

  • Arrival Transfer Leipzig Airport LEJ to Leipzig by Car or Van: $93
  • Leipzig Halle Airport (LEJ) to Leipzig hotels - Arrival Private Transfer: $34
  • Leipzig Halle Airport (LEJ) to Leipzig hotels - Round-Trip Private Car Transfer: $68
  • Leipzig hotels to Leipzig Halle Airport (LEJ) - Departure Private Transfer: $34
  • Private Transfer from Leipzig City to Dresden City: $83

Is it cheaper to fly into Cardiff or Leipzig?

Prices for flights to both Leipzig 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
    Leipzig £45

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Leipzig

For Leipzig, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • 3-Hour Sightseeing and Food Tour: $64

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Cardiff £25
    Leipzig £31

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 Leipzig

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

  • Secrets of Old The Lost Treasure Adventure: $4.27
  • Leipzig's Communist Past: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.20
  • City Exploration Game and Tour on your Phone: $6.36
  • Self-Guided Audio Tour of the City's Communist Past: $6.99
  • Historic Center Self-Guided Walking Tour: $8.45
  • Complete Self-guided Audio Tour on your Phone: $8.45
  • Smartphone Scavenger Hunt Sighteeing Tour: $12
  • Guided Crime-Themed Walking Tour: $13
  • Old Town Guided Tour: $13
  • 1.5-Hour Historical Walking Tour in German: $14
  • Self-Guided Audio Walking Tour - Explore Your Way: $14
  • Guided Tour of the Southern Cemetery: $15

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Cardiff £13
    Leipzig £22

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 comparing the travel costs between Cardiff and Leipzig, we can see that Cardiff is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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


Which is Bigger, Cardiff or Leipzig?

Leipzig has a larger population, and is about 67% larger than the population of Cardiff. When comparing the sizes of Cardiff and Leipzig, 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 Leipzig?

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 Leipzig in the Summer?

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

In July, Cardiff is generally around the same temperature as Leipzig. Daily temperatures in Cardiff average around 17°C (63°F), and Leipzig fluctuates around 19°C (67°F).

In Leipzig, 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 Leipzig. Cardiff gets 220 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Leipzig receives 206 hours of full sun.

Cardiff usually gets more rain in July than Leipzig. Cardiff gets 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Leipzig receives 52 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Cardiff 17°C (63°F) 
    Leipzig 19°C (67°F)

Should I visit Cardiff or Leipzig in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Cardiff and Leipzig. 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. Furthermore, most visitors come to Leipzig for the shopping scene during these months.

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

Cardiff usually receives less sunshine than Leipzig during autumn. Cardiff gets 95 hours of sunny skies, while Leipzig receives 107 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 Leipzig. Cardiff gets 101 mm (4 in) of rain, while Leipzig receives 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Cardiff 11°C (52°F) 
    Leipzig 11°C (52°F)

Should I visit Cardiff or Leipzig in the Winter?

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

The weather in Leipzig can be very cold. Cardiff can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Cardiff is much warmer than Leipzig. Typically, the winter temperatures in Cardiff in January average around 3°C (38°F), and Leipzig averages at about 1°C (33°F).

In the winter, Cardiff often gets more sunshine than Leipzig. Cardiff gets 57 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Leipzig receives 45 hours of full sun.

Cardiff usually gets more rain in January than Leipzig. Cardiff gets 95 mm (3.7 in) of rain, while Leipzig receives 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


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

Should I visit Cardiff or Leipzig in the Spring?

Both Leipzig 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.

In April, Cardiff is generally around the same temperature as Leipzig. Daily temperatures in Cardiff average around 9°C (48°F), and Leipzig fluctuates around 10°C (49°F).

Cardiff usually receives more sunshine than Leipzig during spring. Cardiff gets 183 hours of sunny skies, while Leipzig receives 143 hours of full sun in the spring.

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


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Cardiff 9°C (48°F) 
    Leipzig 10°C (49°F)

Typical Weather for Leipzig and Cardiff

Cardiff Leipzig
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 3°C (38°F) 95 mm (3.7 in) 1°C (33°F) 40 mm (1.6 in)
Feb 4°C (40°F) 70 mm (2.7 in) 2°C (35°F) 36 mm (1.4 in)
Mar 6°C (42°F) 80 mm (3.2 in) 5°C (42°F) 39 mm (1.5 in)
Apr 9°C (48°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 10°C (49°F) 50 mm (2 in)
May 12°C (53°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 14°C (58°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)
Jun 15°C (59°F) 57 mm (2.3 in) 18°C (64°F) 66 mm (2.6 in)
Jul 17°C (63°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 19°C (67°F) 52 mm (2.1 in)
Aug 17°C (62°F) 75 mm (3 in) 19°C (66°F) 66 mm (2.6 in)
Sep 14°C (58°F) 95 mm (3.7 in) 16°C (60°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Oct 11°C (52°F) 101 mm (4 in) 11°C (52°F) 41 mm (1.6 in)
Nov 7°C (45°F) 97 mm (3.8 in) 6°C (42°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)
Dec 5°C (40°F) 96 mm (3.8 in) 2°C (36°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)