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

Should you visit Cardiff or Strasbourg?

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

Should I visit Cardiff or Strasbourg? 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.

Strasbourg

Strasbourg is a picturesque, impressive, and quaint 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 Strasbourg: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Cardiff or Strasbourg?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Strasbourg. Although Cardiff and Strasbourg are popular destinations, Strasbourg has more sights and attractions for tourists. Strasbourg is very popular for its museums, food, historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Cardiff attracts visitors for its big city activities. Strasbourg is more touristy than Cardiff and is popular for its charming beauty, its impressive cathedral, and its quaint houses. It is also well known for The Strasbourg Cathedral. Cardiff is famous for having the most castles per square mile of any city in Europe.

How is Cardiff different from Strasbourg?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Strasbourg offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. It is filled with grand monuments and historic landmarks. Many are concentrated in La Petite France and highlights include Strasbourg Cathedral, Barrage Vauban, Ponts Couverts, and Église Saint-Thomas.

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 Strasbourg? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Strasbourg 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 Strasbourg. The cuisine combines French and German flavors for rich and hearty flavors. Popular dishes include Tarte Flambée, Alsatian Sausages, and Baeckeoffe (meat and vegetable stew). Also make sure you sample the Sauerkraut, munster cheese, and Reisling 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 Strasbourg Better for Nightlife?

It's hard to distinguish whether Cardiff or Strasbourg 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 Strasbourg has a few options to choose from. It's most famous for its monuments and charm, but the city also has plenty to do at night. The liveliest areas are The Krutenau (for students and tourists alike), The Grande-île, and La Petite France.

Is Cardiff or Strasbourg Better for its Old Town?

Strasbourg is a must-visit destination for its old town. However, Cardiff does not have a historic old town.

The rich history of Strasbourg can be explored in its historical center. Known as La Petite France, the old town is filled with charming squares, historic monuments, and beautiful architecture.

Cardiff does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Cardiff or Strasbourg?

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

Strasbourg is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. The city center is filled with pedestrian shopping streets and boutique stores. For some of the best shopping make sure you check out the main thoroughfare of Grand'Rue. If you want to pick up some trinkets or souvenirs, head to Place de la Cathédrale, and for department store shopping head to Galeries Lafayette Strasbourg.

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 Strasbourg Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Cardiff or Strasbourg.

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.

Strasbourg offers lots of family activities. Kids who love animals will enjoy a visit to Zoo de l’Orangerie or La Montagne des Singes. If the kids need to stretch their legs you can head to Deux-Rives Garden or on a rainy day check out Planetarium De Strasbourg or the Historical Museum of the City of Strasbourg.

Is Cardiff or Strasbourg Better for Couples?

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

Couples visit Strasbourg frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. It's arguably one of the most beautiful cities in the region and it is filled with romance. There is beautiful architecture, romantic restaurants, wine tours, and flower filled parks. The scenic squares and grand cathedrals offer a truly perfect couples getaway.

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 Strasbourg Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Plenty of budget travelers visit Strasbourg. The city has a handful of hostels that offer affordable accommodation for those on a shoestring budget.

Cardiff is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Cardiff or Strasbourg Better for Students?

Cardiff and Strasbourg are nice 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 Strasbourg. Students appreciate the mix of traditional culture and international opportunities.

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

Strasbourg 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 Strasbourg can get you around easily. The city has six tramlines and a number of bus routes.

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

Is Cardiff or Strasbourg a more walkable city?

Strasbourg 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.

Strasbourg is a very walkable city. One of the best ways to explore the city is 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 Strasbourg Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Strasbourg or Cardiff?

How long in Cardiff or Strasbourg?

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

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

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

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

One day in Cardiff or Strasbourg?

With museums and nightlife around the industrial city of Cardiff, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Cardiff, one day is sufficent for most.

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

With nightlife and shopping around the destination of Cardiff, there's plenty to do. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.

In Strasbourg, 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 Strasbourg has to offer.

Five days in Cardiff or Strasbourg?

Cardiff, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Strasbourg 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 Strasbourg?

Cardiff is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Strasbourg. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Strasbourg. 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 10-Day Tours from Paris, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Paris.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Cardiff or Strasbourg?

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

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 Strasbourg in the Summer?

Both Strasbourg and Cardiff during the summer are popular places to visit. The city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Cardiff this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Strasbourg for the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Cardiff is generally cooler than Strasbourg. Daily temperatures in Cardiff average around 17°C (63°F), and Strasbourg fluctuates around 20°C (68°F).

In Strasbourg, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Cardiff. In the summer, Cardiff often gets less sunshine than Strasbourg. Cardiff gets 220 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Strasbourg receives 240 hours of full sun.

Cardiff usually gets more rain in July than Strasbourg. Cardiff gets 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Strasbourg receives 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Cardiff or Strasbourg in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Cardiff and Strasbourg. 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 Strasbourg in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

Cardiff is around the same temperature as Strasbourg in the autumn. The daily temperature in Cardiff averages around 11°C (52°F) in October, and Strasbourg fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

Cardiff usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Strasbourg during autumn. Cardiff gets 95 hours of sunny skies, while Strasbourg receives 101 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 Strasbourg. Cardiff gets 101 mm (4 in) of rain, while Strasbourg receives 43 mm (1.7 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Cardiff or Strasbourg in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Cardiff as well as Strasbourg. Many visitors come to Cardiff in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Strasbourg for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Strasbourg can be very cold during winter. Cardiff can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Cardiff is much warmer than Strasbourg. Typically, the winter temperatures in Cardiff in January average around 3°C (38°F), and Strasbourg averages at about 2°C (35°F).

In the winter, Cardiff often gets more sunshine than Strasbourg. Cardiff gets 57 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Strasbourg receives 42 hours of full sun.

Cardiff usually gets more rain in January than Strasbourg. Cardiff gets 95 mm (3.7 in) of rain, while Strasbourg receives 33 mm (1.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Cardiff or Strasbourg in the Spring?

Both Strasbourg and Cardiff are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. 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 Strasbourg because of the natural beauty.

In April, Cardiff is generally cooler than Strasbourg. Daily temperatures in Cardiff average around 9°C (48°F), and Strasbourg fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

Cardiff usually receives more sunshine than Strasbourg during spring. Cardiff gets 183 hours of sunny skies, while Strasbourg receives 161 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Cardiff usually receives around the same amount of rain as Strasbourg. Cardiff gets 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Strasbourg receives 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Strasbourg and Cardiff