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

Should you visit Cardiff or Linz?

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

Should I visit Cardiff or Linz? 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.

Linz

Linz is a beautiful, cultural, and historic town. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and food.

Cardiff and Linz: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife


Is there more to do in Cardiff or Linz?

You'll generally find more things to do in Cardiff than Linz. Cardiff is bigger than Linz, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Cardiff is better known for its nightlife and big city activities, while Linz is more popular for its museums, food, historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty. Linz is more touristy than Cardiff and is known for its Baroque architecture, modern art museums, and great pastries. 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.

How is Cardiff different from Linz?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Cardiff
Linz

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

Linz offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The city has a lot of history which can be experienced with visits to The Castle of Linz, St. Martin's Church, and the New Cathedral. There are also several modern museums such as Ars Electronica Center, the OK Center, and the Lentos Art 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 Linz? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Cardiff
Linz

Linz 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 Linz. You'll find an endless supply of bakeries around town that serve cakes, tarts, and biscuits. A trip to Linz isn't complete without a sampling of the local pastries.

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 Linz Better for Nightlife?

Cardiff
Linz

Cardiff is a city with good options for nightlife and partying. However, Linz is not a good town for its evening party scene.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Cardiff. The nightlife scene is all about fun and most of the activities are driven by the large and diverse student population.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Linz. The town isn't exactly a party place, but you'll find a good theater and some live music venues that are worth checking out.

Is Cardiff or Linz Better for its Old Town?

Cardiff
Linz

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

Many people head to Linz to see the old town. The old town is filled with Baroque architecture and a market square. There are a number of interesting buildings and great cafes in the area.

Cardiff does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Cardiff or Linz?

Cardiff
Linz

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

Linz is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. There are a number of shopping streets around town, but the most popular is Landstraße. You'll find all kinds of retail stores with everything from clothing to furniture available.

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 Linz Better for Families?

Cardiff
Linz

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Cardiff or Linz.

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.

Linz offers lots of family activities. Pöstlingberg Adventure World is a highlight for kids. You can take the tram up the mountain and see the views, visit the Grottenbahn, or explore the zoo. Kids will also appreciate the Ars Electronica Center, which is a futuristic museum in town as well as the The Linz Castle Museum.

Is Cardiff or Linz Better for Couples?

Cardiff
Linz

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

Couples visit Linz frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. The city is filled with beautiful baroque architecture. There's a lively main square and many great restaurants that couples will appreciate. There are also shopping areas and museums to 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 Linz Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cardiff
Linz

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

Plenty of budget travelers visit Linz. Backpackers will find more budget hotels than hostels in town, so it can be a bit challenging to meet other travelers. Even so, this is a beautiful city that is well worth a visit.

Cardiff is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Cardiff or Linz Better for Students?

Cardiff
Linz

Cardiff is a city with good options for students. However, Linz is not popular with students.

Cardiff is a good city to visit for students. Most students come to study at Cardiff University, which is a leading university in Great Britain.

Linz is not popular with students.

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

Cardiff
Linz

Linz 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 Linz, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are buses and streetcars that travel throughout the town.

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


Is Cardiff or Linz a more walkable city?

Cardiff
Linz

Linz 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.

Linz is a very walkable town. The tourist areas are easy 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 Linz Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Linz or Cardiff?

How long in Cardiff or Linz?

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

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

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

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


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

One day in Cardiff or Linz?

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 Linz, you'll find museums and food. 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 Linz?

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 Linz, 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 Linz has to offer.


Five days in Cardiff or Linz?

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

Linz 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 Linz?

The green 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 Linz. Many people enjoy the museums and food when visiting Linz. 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 One Week (7-Day) Tours in Austria, and The Best 10-Day Tours in Austria.


Which place is cheaper, Linz 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 Linz is £98. 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 Linz in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Cardiff £93
    Linz £50
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Cardiff £186
    Linz £100
Compare Hotels in Cardiff and Linz

Looking for a hotel in Cardiff or Linz? 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 Linz


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 Linz Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Cardiff £21
    Linz £35

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Cardiff

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Cardiff:

  • Bristol Airport: Bus Transfer to/from Cardiff: $13
  • Heathrow Airport: Bus Transfer to/from Cardiff: $16
  • Barry Accommodation to Cardiff Airport (CWL) - Departure Private Transfer: $33
  • Cardiff to Cardiff Airport (CWL) - Departure Private Transfer: $38
  • Private Cardiff Departure Transfer - Hotel / Accommodation to Airport: $58
  • Private Cardiff Arrival Transfer- Airport to Hotel / Accommodation : $58
  • Newport Accommodation to Cardiff Airport (CWL) - Departure Private Transfer: $60
  • Cardiff Private Transfer from Cardiff Airport to City centre: $79
  • 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
  • Private Transfer from Holyhead Port to Manchester Airport (MAN): $102
  • Private Transfer from Mold to Manchester Airport (MAN): $125

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Linz

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Linz:

  • Linz Private Transfer from Linz Airport to City centre: $70
  • Linz Private Transfer from Linz Airport to Wels city: $68
  • Linz Private Transfer from Linz city centre to Linz Airport: $70
  • Private Transfer from Linz to Munich, Hotel-to-hotel, English-speaking driver: $180
  • Transfer from Linz to Munich: Private daytrip with 2 hours for sightseeing: $212

Is it cheaper to fly into Cardiff or Linz?

Prices for flights to both Linz 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
    Linz £27

Typical Food Prices in Linz

Some typical examples of dining costs in Linz are as follows:


  • Leberkäse (Sausage Loaf)
    £3.59
  • Lunch
    £7.27

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Cardiff £25
    Linz £11

Tours and Activities in Cardiff

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

  • Ghosts of Llandaff Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.99
  • A Journey through Tudor A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.99
  • Cardiff’s Bay and Waterfront: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.99
  • The Ghosts of Llandaff: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.99
  • Self-Guided Audio Tour of Bay and Barrage: $5.99
  • Cardiff's Civic Centre: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.99
  • Essential Caerphilly: Explore the town’s history on a self-guided audio tour: $6.22
  • Uncover Ghostly Chester: In-App Audio Tour of Eerie Tales: $11
  • Uncover Spectral Secrets with the Llandaff Ghosts Audio Tour: $11
  • Cardiff Bay Private Self-Guided Tour: $11
  • Llanberis, Conwy and Caernarfon Castle: A Self-Guided Driving Tour of Snowdonia: $15
  • Cardiff Bay Boat Tour: $15

Tours and Activities in Linz

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Linz are as follows:

  • Linz Harbor Cruise: $15
  • Detective Trail puzzle tour for the whole family: $16
  • What the bloody hell is there in Linz? 1,5 hour walking tour: $24
  • Linz Crime Experience: self-guided crime tour: $42
  • Murder Crime Game Self-Guided Interactive Tour: $74
  • Private History Tour with a Linzer Cake Tasting: $149
  • Linz Exploration: Private Walking Tour with Local Guide: $176
  • Linz Old Town Highlights Walking Tour with Pöstlingbergbahn: $191
  • Linz Cultural Marvels Walking Tour: $205
  • Literature in Adalbert Stifter Institute Private Tour: $210
  • Family Tour of Linz's Old Town, Pöstlingberg and Grottenbahn: $210
  • Literature in Adalbert Stifter Institute Private Tour : $214

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Cardiff £13
    Linz £14

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 Linz, we can see that Cardiff is more expensive. And not only is Linz much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Linz would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Linz 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 Linz.

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


Which is Bigger, Cardiff or Linz?

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

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 Linz in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Cardiff and Linz. Many visitors come to Cardiff in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Linz for the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Cardiff is cooler than Linz in the summer. The daily temperature in Cardiff averages around 17°C (63°F) in July, and Linz fluctuates around 20°C (68°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Linz this time of the year. In Cardiff, it's very sunny this time of the year. Cardiff usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Linz during summer. Cardiff gets 220 hours of sunny skies, while Linz receives 236 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Cardiff usually receives less rain than Linz. Cardiff gets 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Linz receives 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Cardiff 17°C (63°F) 
    Linz 20°C (68°F)

Should I visit Cardiff or Linz in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Cardiff as well as Linz. Most visitors come to Cardiff for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Linz because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

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

In the autumn, Cardiff often gets less sunshine than Linz. Cardiff gets 95 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Linz receives 129 hours of full sun.

Cardiff receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Cardiff usually gets more rain in October than Linz. Cardiff gets 101 mm (4 in) of rain, while Linz receives 38 mm (1.5 in) of rain this time of the year.


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

Should I visit Cardiff or Linz in the Winter?

Both Linz and Cardiff are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Cardiff because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Linz this time of year.

It's quite cold in Linz in the winter. The weather in Cardiff can be very cold. In January, Cardiff is generally much warmer than Linz. Daily temperatures in Cardiff average around 3°C (38°F), and Linz fluctuates around -0°C (31°F).

Cardiff usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Linz during winter. Cardiff gets 57 hours of sunny skies, while Linz receives 57 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Cardiff usually receives more rain than Linz. Cardiff gets 95 mm (3.7 in) of rain, while Linz receives 34 mm (1.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Cardiff 3°C (38°F) 
    Linz -0°C (31°F)

Should I visit Cardiff or Linz in the Spring?

Both Linz and Cardiff during the spring are popular places to visit. The activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Cardiff this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Linz for the natural beauty.

Cardiff is cooler than Linz in the spring. The daily temperature in Cardiff averages around 9°C (48°F) in April, and Linz fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

In the spring, Cardiff often gets more sunshine than Linz. Cardiff gets 183 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Linz receives 163 hours of full sun.

Cardiff usually gets less rain in April than Linz. Cardiff gets 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Linz receives 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Cardiff 9°C (48°F) 
    Linz 11°C (51°F)

Typical Weather for Linz and Cardiff

Cardiff Linz
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 3°C (38°F) 95 mm (3.7 in) -0°C (31°F) 34 mm (1.3 in)
Feb 4°C (40°F) 70 mm (2.7 in) 2°C (36°F) 39 mm (1.5 in)
Mar 6°C (42°F) 80 mm (3.2 in) 6°C (43°F) 42 mm (1.7 in)
Apr 9°C (48°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 11°C (51°F) 57 mm (2.2 in)
May 12°C (53°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 15°C (59°F) 74 mm (2.9 in)
Jun 15°C (59°F) 57 mm (2.3 in) 18°C (65°F) 88 mm (3.5 in)
Jul 17°C (63°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 20°C (68°F) 94 mm (3.7 in)
Aug 17°C (62°F) 75 mm (3 in) 19°C (67°F) 81 mm (3.2 in)
Sep 14°C (58°F) 95 mm (3.7 in) 16°C (61°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)
Oct 11°C (52°F) 101 mm (4 in) 11°C (52°F) 38 mm (1.5 in)
Nov 7°C (45°F) 97 mm (3.8 in) 5°C (42°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Dec 5°C (40°F) 96 mm (3.8 in) 1°C (35°F) 43 mm (1.7 in)