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

Should you visit Cardiff or Philadelphia?

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

Should I visit Cardiff or Philadelphia? 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. Visitors also love the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Philadelphia

Philadelphia is a historic, cultural, and diverse city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the museums, theater, and nightlife.

Cardiff and Philadelphia: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Cardiff or Philadelphia?

You'll generally find more things to do in Philadelphia than Cardiff. Philadelphia is bigger than Cardiff, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Cardiff is well known for having the most castles per square mile of any city in Europe. Philadelphia is well known for its diverse population, large number of universities, great restaurant and market scene, and its role in American history. Also, Philadelphia is famous for The Liberty Bell.

How is Cardiff different from Philadelphia?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Philadelphia is a must-visit destination for its museums and landmarks. Also, Cardiff is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Philadelphia are among the most recognizable in the world. The city has a rich history with a number of museums and monuments. Popular sites around the city include the Liberty Bell, Independence Hall, the Philadelphia Museum of Art, and the National Museum of Jewish American History.

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 Cardiff or Philadelphia Better for Theater?

Philadelphia is a great destination for its theatre productions. However, Cardiff is not a theatre destination.

While in town, many visitors enjoy seeing a show in Philadelphia. There are major Broadway shows as well as smaller venues. Head to The Avenue of the Arts along Broad Street for a popular stretch of theaters.

Cardiff is not a theatre destination.

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

Philadelphia 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 Philadelphia. It has grown into a well-recognized food destination. It's diversity of cultures and residents have influenced the restaurant scene and you'll find many great places to dine covering a number of international flavors. The city is famous for its Philly cheesesteak and roast pork sandwich. You can also grab some local favorites at Reading Terminal Market.

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 Philadelphia Better for Nightlife?

Philadelphia 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 Philadelphia know how to have a good time. The city's nightlife scene carries late into the evening with many rooftop and outdoor beer gardens. Most of the clubs and bars are found in the downtown area and you'll find places to dance, listen to live music, or sip a trendy cocktails.

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 Philadelphia Better for Music?

Philadelphia is a great destination for its live music scene. However, Cardiff is not a live music destination.

Philadelphia has become a hotbed of musicians and artists. The city's diverse music scene includes jazz, rock, and hip hop.

Cardiff is not a live music destination.

Is Cardiff or Philadelphia Better for its Old Town?

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

Many people head to Philadelphia to see the old town. The Old City has a number of Colonial-era sites including Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell, the Betsy Ross House.

Cardiff does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Cardiff or Philadelphia?

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

Philadelphia is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. With all items tax-free, this city is a great place to shop. It has many boutique shops as well as name brand stores and shopping areas. For a local vibe, head to Reading Terminal Market.

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 Philadelphia Better for Christmas?

Philadelphia is a great destination for its Christmas activities. However, Cardiff does not offer Christmas activities.

Visitors come from all around to experience the Christmas activities in Philadelphia. There are a number of holiday events, light shows, and festivals during the holiday season.

Cardiff does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Cardiff or Philadelphia Better for Christmas Markets?

Philadelphia is a popular place for its Christmas markets. However, Cardiff does not offer Christmas markets.

Many visitors go to the Christmas markets in Philadelphia. The city has its own German style Christmas market at Love Park and City Hall. It hosts over 80 vendors.

Cardiff does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Cardiff or Philadelphia Better for Families?

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

Philadelphia is a very kid-friendly city. The city has many museums and a fascinating history that is interesting to kids and adults alike. Popular activities include a zoo and Sesame Place. Kids also love the hands-on Please Touch Museum.

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 Philadelphia Better for Couples?

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

Philadelphia makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Like many large cities, it is a fun place to explore in the evening as a couple. This is also a great foodie destination with great markets, food trucks, and diverse restaurants that reflect the city's diverse population.

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 Philadelphia Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Plenty of budget travelers visit Philadelphia. There are a few good hostels for backpackers and budget travelers to choose from.

Cardiff is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Cardiff or Philadelphia Better for Students?

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

Philadelphia is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. With its many universities and diverse population, this city is a great place for international 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.

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

Philadelphia 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 Philadelphia can get you around easily. The system includes a subway, trolleys, buses, and a commuter rail.

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

Is Cardiff or Philadelphia a more walkable city?

Philadelphia is a must-visit destination for its high level of walkability. Also, Cardiff is still popular, but not quite as popular for its ease of walking around.

Getting around Philadelphia on foot is easy. The Old City is particularly walkable, as is Avenue of the Arts, and Rittenhouse Square.

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 Philadelphia Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Philadelphia or Cardiff?

How long in Cardiff or Philadelphia?

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

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

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

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

One day in Cardiff or Philadelphia?

In Cardiff, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this up-and-coming city offers. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. In one day, you should have a good grasp of this city.

Because Philadelphia is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. 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 Philadelphia?

Cardiff is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Because Philadelphia is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. 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 museums. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Philadelphia has to offer.

Five days in Cardiff or Philadelphia?

You'll find nightlife and shopping around the green destination of Cardiff. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

Philadelphia 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 Philadelphia?

Cardiff is a popular place to visit. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Philadelphia. Many people enjoy the theater and nightlife when visiting Philadelphia. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. 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 from Anchorage, and The Best 2-Week Tours from San Francisco.

When comparing the travel costs between Cardiff and Philadelphia, 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. Even though Cardiff is in Europe and Philadelphia is in North America, both of these destinations have relatively similar prices of travel. Generally, the levels of luxury and expenses are the same for these cities even though they are geographically far apart.

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

Which is Bigger, Cardiff or Philadelphia?

Philadelphia has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Cardiff. When comparing the sizes of Cardiff and Philadelphia, 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 Philadelphia?

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 Philadelphia in the Summer?

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

Cardiff is cooler than Philadelphia in the summer. The daily temperature in Cardiff averages around 17°C (63°F) in July, and Philadelphia fluctuates around 77°F (25°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Philadelphia. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Cardiff this time of the year. In the summer, Cardiff often gets less sunshine than Philadelphia. Cardiff gets 220 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Philadelphia receives 273 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Philadelphia. Cardiff usually gets less rain in July than Philadelphia. Cardiff gets 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Philadelphia receives 3.9 inches (100 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Cardiff or Philadelphia in the Autumn?

Both Philadelphia 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 Philadelphia for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In the autumn, Cardiff is cooler than Philadelphia. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Cardiff in October average around 11°C (52°F), and Philadelphia averages at about 56°F (14°C).

It's quite sunny in Philadelphia. Cardiff usually receives less sunshine than Philadelphia during autumn. Cardiff gets 95 hours of sunny skies, while Philadelphia receives 202 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It's quite rainy in Cardiff. In October, Cardiff usually receives more rain than Philadelphia. Cardiff gets 101 mm (4 in) of rain, while Philadelphia receives 1.9 inches (48 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Cardiff or Philadelphia in the Winter?

Both Philadelphia 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. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Philadelphia because of the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine.

The weather in Philadelphia can be very cold. Cardiff can be very cold during winter. In January, Cardiff is generally much warmer than Philadelphia. Daily temperatures in Cardiff average around 3°C (38°F), and Philadelphia fluctuates around 30°F (-1°C).

In the winter, Cardiff often gets less sunshine than Philadelphia. Cardiff gets 57 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Philadelphia receives 152 hours of full sun.

Cardiff usually gets more rain in January than Philadelphia. Cardiff gets 95 mm (3.7 in) of rain, while Philadelphia receives 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Cardiff or Philadelphia in the Spring?

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

Cardiff is cooler than Philadelphia in the spring. The daily temperature in Cardiff averages around 9°C (48°F) in April, and Philadelphia fluctuates around 52°F (11°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Philadelphia this time of the year. Cardiff usually receives less sunshine than Philadelphia during spring. Cardiff gets 183 hours of sunny skies, while Philadelphia receives 216 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Cardiff usually receives less rain than Philadelphia. Cardiff gets 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Philadelphia receives 2.8 inches (70 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Philadelphia and Cardiff