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

Should you visit Cardiff or Nantes?

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

Should I visit Cardiff or Nantes? 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 up-and-coming, green, and industrial city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and shopping.

Nantes

Nantes is a vibrant, welcoming, and friendly city. 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 nightlife.

Cardiff and Nantes: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Cardiff or Nantes?

Both Nantes and Cardiff have plenty of things to do for travelers. Both provide a wide variety of sights and activities for tourists. Cardiff is more popular for its big city activities, while Nantes is known for its museums, food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty. Cardiff is popular for having the most castles per square mile of any city in Europe. Nantes is popular for its castles and historical landmarks, local wine, and beautiful parks and gardens.

How is Cardiff different from Nantes?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Nantes offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The city is filled with historical monuments, particularly in the Bouffay District. Highlights include Cathédrale Saint-Pierre-et-Saint-Paul, Château des Ducs de Bretagne, and the Musée d'Arts de Nantes.

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 Nantes? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Nantes is a must-visit destination for its restaurant scene. However, Cardiff is a city with minimal options for its local flavors and cuisine.

For foodies, Nantes is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. The region lends itself to unique flavors with a great mix of seafood from the Atlantic, freshwater fish from the Loire, and dairy from the surrounding countryside. The region is also famous for its wine. Local dishes that you should try include Filet de Sandre au Beurre Blanc (fresh fish in butter sauce), Crepes Bretonnes (breakfast crepes), and Le Canard Nantais (duck with Muscadet wine).

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 Nantes Better for Nightlife?

Nantes 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 Nantes know how to have a good time. The large student population heavily influences the nightlife scene. You'll find a young vibe with a lot of bars and clubs to choose from, particularly around Île de Nantes.

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 Nantes Better for its Old Town?

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

Many people head to Nantes to see the old town. The city's old town is in the Bouffay District and it is filled with half-timbered houses and a maze of streets and shops.

Cardiff does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Cardiff or Nantes?

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

Nantes is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. There are impressive shopping streets, boutique stores, and grand shopping malls. Make sure you check out Rue Crébillon, Passage Pommeraye, and the shops around the Bouffay District. Talensac Market is also a historical covered market that you can explore.

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 Nantes Better for Families?

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

Nantes is a very kid-friendly city. It's filled with gardens, museums, and theme parks, making it a great combination of fascinating activities for adults and kids alike. Some of the top kid-friendly activities include a visit to Machine of the Isle of Nantes (both a theme park and a museum), seeing a show at Le Lieu Unique, or experiencing Naudières Park (a smaller theme park). Kids will also enjoy seeing Goulaine Castle or wandering around Jardin Extraordinaire or the Botanical Gardens.

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 Nantes Better for Couples?

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

Couples visit Nantes frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. There is a mix of both natural and historical beauty. Couples can enjoy a nice meal, stroll through one of the many parks and gardens, or even spend the day at the spa.

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 Nantes Better for Students?

Cardiff and Nantes are good places to visit for students.

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

It's common for students to visit Nantes. There's a decent sized student population and the city has a welcoming atmosphere. It's also easy to get around with public transportation.

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

Nantes 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 Nantes can get you around easily. There are both trams and buses throughout the city that are operated by TAN (Transport de l'Agglomeration Nantaise).

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

Is Cardiff or Nantes a more walkable city?

Nantes 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.

Nantes is a very walkable city. The city is very walkable. Both locals and tourists alike choose to walk in Nantes.

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 Nantes Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Nantes or Cardiff?

How long in Cardiff or Nantes?

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

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

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

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

One day in Cardiff or Nantes?

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the destination of Cardiff. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

In Nantes, you'll find nightlife and food. One reason most visitors come is for the food. 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 Nantes?

Cardiff is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

In Nantes, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. One reason most visitors come is for the food. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Nantes has to offer.

Five days in Cardiff or Nantes?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Cardiff. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Nantes 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 Nantes?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the up-and-coming destination of Cardiff. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Nantes. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Nantes. One reason most visitors come is for the food. 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 10-Day Tours in France, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in France.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Cardiff or Nantes?

Cardiff has a larger population, and is about 9% larger than the population of Nantes. When comparing the sizes of Cardiff and Nantes, 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 Nantes?

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 Nantes in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Cardiff as well as Nantes. Many travelers come to Cardiff for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Nantes in the summer for the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Cardiff is cooler than Nantes. Typically, the summer temperatures in Cardiff in July average around 17°C (63°F), and Nantes averages at about 19°C (67°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Nantes. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Cardiff this time of the year. In the summer, Cardiff often gets less sunshine than Nantes. Cardiff gets 220 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Nantes receives 267 hours of full sun.

Cardiff usually gets more rain in July than Nantes. Cardiff gets 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Nantes receives 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Cardiff or Nantes in the Autumn?

Both Nantes and Cardiff are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. 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. Also, most visitors come to Nantes for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In October, Cardiff is generally cooler than Nantes. Daily temperatures in Cardiff average around 11°C (52°F), and Nantes fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

Cardiff usually receives less sunshine than Nantes during autumn. Cardiff gets 95 hours of sunny skies, while Nantes receives 141 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It's quite rainy in Cardiff. In October, Cardiff usually receives more rain than Nantes. Cardiff gets 101 mm (4 in) of rain, while Nantes receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Cardiff or Nantes in the Winter?

Both Nantes and Cardiff during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Cardiff for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Nantes because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Cardiff can be very cold during winter. Cardiff is much colder than Nantes in the winter. The daily temperature in Cardiff averages around 3°C (38°F) in January, and Nantes fluctuates around 6°C (42°F).

In the winter, Cardiff often gets less sunshine than Nantes. Cardiff gets 57 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Nantes receives 72 hours of full sun.

Cardiff usually gets more rain in January than Nantes. Cardiff gets 95 mm (3.7 in) of rain, while Nantes receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Cardiff or Nantes in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Cardiff and Nantes. The spring months attract visitors to Cardiff because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Furthermore, the natural beauty are the main draw to Nantes this time of year.

In the spring, Cardiff is cooler than Nantes. Typically, the spring temperatures in Cardiff in April average around 9°C (48°F), and Nantes averages at about 11°C (51°F).

Cardiff usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Nantes during spring. Cardiff gets 183 hours of sunny skies, while Nantes receives 187 hours of full sun in the spring.

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

Typical Weather for Nantes and Cardiff