A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Cardiff vs. The Hague for Food, Nightlife, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Cardiff or The Hague?

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

Should I visit Cardiff or The Hague? 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.

The Hague

The Hague is a bustling, diverse, and global city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. And you can't forget about the food, shopping, and nightlife.

Cardiff and The Hague: Pros and Cons

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


Is there more to do in Cardiff or The Hague?

Tourists will generally find more to do in The Hague than Cardiff. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. The Hague is very popular for its food, nightlife, music, shopping, and big city activities, while Cardiff attracts visitors for its museums and impressive beauty. Cardiff is more touristy than The Hague and is popular for having the most castles per square mile of any city in Europe. The Hague is famous for its large international population and its roll in international politics and diplomacy. It is also well known for The Peace Palace.

How is Cardiff different from The Hague?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Cardiff
The Hague

Cardiff is very good for its museums and history. However, The Hague does not have museums and landmarks.

Cardiff is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. 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.

The Hague does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Cardiff
The Hague

The Hague 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 The Hague. The city has a diverse population and the large number of ethnic restaurants reflects that.

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 The Hague Better for Nightlife?

Cardiff
The Hague

The Hague 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 The Hague know how to have a good time. Many of the city's restaurants turn into clubs at night. Head to The Grote Markt for some of the most energetic nightlife.

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 The Hague Better for Music?

Cardiff
The Hague

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

The Hague has become a hotbed of musicians and artists. There's an active music scene here and the city actually played an active role in the development and popularity of electronic music.

Cardiff is not a live music destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Cardiff or The Hague?

Cardiff
The Hague

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

The Hague is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. There's a dynamic shopping scene with indoor malls, outdoor markets, and a number of neighborhoods that have shops that sell eclectic items.

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 The Hague Better for Families?

Cardiff
The Hague

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Cardiff or The Hague.

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.

The Hague offers lots of family activities. This city has a bit more of a family-friendly vibe than nearby Amsterdam. Kids enjoy exploring by bike or heading to the Scheveningen Beach Resort.

Is Cardiff or The Hague Better for Couples?

Cardiff
The Hague

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

The Hague makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples can enjoy the diverse restaurants and the busting atmosphere that the city offers.

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 The Hague Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cardiff
The Hague

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

Plenty of budget travelers visit The Hague. While most backpackers head to the more popular city of Amsterdam, The Hague has a fun atmosphere with a diversity of activities and restaurants.

Cardiff is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Cardiff or The Hague Better for Students?

Cardiff
The Hague

The Hague is a must-visit destination for students. Also, Cardiff is still popular, but not quite as popular for its student-friendly activities.

Many students frequent The Hague. This is a very popular study abroad destination so you'll find plenty of international students living here. It's an internationally oriented city so everyone feels right at home.

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 The Hague Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Cardiff
The Hague

The Hague 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 The Hague can get you around easily. There are bus and tram lines throughout the city.

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


Is Cardiff or The Hague a more walkable city?

Cardiff
The Hague

Cardiff and The Hague 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.

The Hague is a somewhat walkable city. There are a number of walk tours through the city center.

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

Should I spend more time in The Hague or Cardiff?

How long in Cardiff or The Hague?

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in The Hague 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 The Hague.


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

One day in Cardiff or The Hague?

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Cardiff. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Cardiff has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Because The Hague is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. 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 The Hague?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the green destination of Cardiff. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Because The Hague 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. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that The Hague has to offer.


Five days in Cardiff or The Hague?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and shopping when visiting the industrial city of Cardiff. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

The Hague 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 The Hague?

Cardiff is a popular choice for travelers. 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 will give you the chance to have new experiences.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in The Hague. Many people enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting The Hague. 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 Luxury Tours to Netherlands, and The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Netherlands.


Which place is cheaper, The Hague 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 The Hague is £152. 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 The Hague in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Cardiff £93
    The Hague £89
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Cardiff £186
    The Hague £178
Compare Hotels in Cardiff and The Hague

Looking for a hotel in Cardiff or The Hague? 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 The Hague


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 The Hague Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Cardiff £21
    The Hague £16

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Cardiff

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Cardiff:

  • Private Transfer from Mold to Manchester Airport (MAN): $125
  • Private Transfer from Holyhead Port to Manchester Airport (MAN): $102
  • 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
  • Heathrow Airport: Bus Transfer to/from Cardiff: $16
  • Departure Private Transfer from Cardiff to Cardiff Airport CWL by Luxury Vehicle: $95
  • Cardiff to Cardiff Airport (CWL) - Departure Private Transfer: $38
  • Cardiff Private Transfer from Cardiff Airport to City centre: $79
  • Cardiff Airport (CWL): Transfer to Cardiff Accommodation: $139
  • Bristol Airport: Bus Transfer to/from Cardiff: $13
  • Barry Accommodation to Cardiff Airport (CWL) - Departure Private Transfer: $33

Hired Cars and Shuttles in The Hague

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

  • Amsterdam: Private Transfer to/from The Hague: $278
  • Amsterdam: Train Transfer Amsterdam from/to Den Haag: $17
  • Amsterdam: Train Transfer Schiphol Airport from/to Den Haag: $20
  • Den Haag: Train Transfer Den Haag from/to Rotterdam: $8.23
  • Eindhoven: Train Transfer Eindhoven from/to Den Haag: $28
  • From One-Way Private Transfer to Schiphol Airport: $257
  • Private Transfer from The Hague City to Schiphol Airport : $137
  • Private Transfer from The Hague to Amsterdam: $137
  • Taxi Transfer from The Hague to Amsterdam Schiphol Airport: $126
  • Utrecht: Train Transfer Utrecht from/to Den Haag: $16

Is it cheaper to fly into Cardiff or The Hague?

Prices for flights to both The Hague 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
    The Hague £47

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in The Hague

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

  • WALKING DINNER DELFT | 3 courses incl. 3 drinks and a lot of fun: $87

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Cardiff £25
    The Hague £29

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 The Hague

For The Hague, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • 2 Hours Walking Tour in The Hague: $3.27
  • 2 Hours Walking Tour in Delft: $3.27
  • The Hague Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $6.56
  • City Exploration Game and Tour: $6.95
  • The Historical Heart of A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $6.99
  • Highlights Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt and Tour: $8.02
  • Gilde Den Haag: City Walking Tour NL-DEU-ENG: $8.56
  • The Hague Self-Guided Audio Tour : $9.00
  • Walking Tour with Audio Guide on App: $9.36
  • Delft: Walking Tour with Audio Guide on App: $11
  • The Hague Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $11
  • Escher in The Palace Museum Ticket: $12

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Cardiff £13
    The Hague £25

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

Sample the Local Flavors in The Hague

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in The Hague:

  • The Hague Pub Trail: Pub crawl with interactive online game: $12


When comparing the travel costs between Cardiff and The Hague, 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 The Hague Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Cardiff or The Hague?

The Hague has a larger population, and is about 57% larger than the population of Cardiff. When comparing the sizes of Cardiff and The Hague, 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 The Hague?

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 The Hague in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Cardiff as well as The Hague. The city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Cardiff this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to The Hague for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Cardiff is generally around the same temperature as The Hague. Daily temperatures in Cardiff average around 17°C (63°F), and The Hague fluctuates around 17°C (62°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in The Hague. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Cardiff this time of the year. In the summer, Cardiff often gets more sunshine than The Hague. Cardiff gets 220 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while The Hague receives 202 hours of full sun.

Cardiff usually gets less rain in July than The Hague. Cardiff gets 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while The Hague receives 75 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Cardiff 17°C (63°F) 
    The Hague 17°C (62°F)

Should I visit Cardiff or The Hague in the Autumn?

Both The Hague and Cardiff are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. 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 The Hague in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene.

Cardiff is around the same temperature as The Hague in the autumn. The daily temperature in Cardiff averages around 11°C (52°F) in October, and The Hague fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

Cardiff usually receives less sunshine than The Hague during autumn. Cardiff gets 95 hours of sunny skies, while The Hague receives 105 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It's quite rainy in Cardiff. In October, Cardiff usually receives more rain than The Hague. Cardiff gets 101 mm (4 in) of rain, while The Hague receives 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Cardiff 11°C (52°F) 
    The Hague 11°C (51°F)

Should I visit Cardiff or The Hague in the Winter?

Both The Hague and Cardiff during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Cardiff in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to The Hague for the shopping scene and the cuisine during these months.

The Hague can be very cold during winter. Cardiff can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Cardiff is much warmer than The Hague. Typically, the winter temperatures in Cardiff in January average around 3°C (38°F), and The Hague averages at about 2°C (36°F).

In the winter, Cardiff often gets more sunshine than The Hague. Cardiff gets 57 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while The Hague receives 47 hours of full sun.

Cardiff usually gets more rain in January than The Hague. Cardiff gets 95 mm (3.7 in) of rain, while The Hague receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Cardiff 3°C (38°F) 
    The Hague 2°C (36°F)

Should I visit Cardiff or The Hague in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Cardiff and The Hague. 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 The Hague because of the activities around the city.

In April, Cardiff is generally a little warmer than The Hague. Daily temperatures in Cardiff average around 9°C (48°F), and The Hague fluctuates around 8°C (46°F).

Cardiff usually receives more sunshine than The Hague during spring. Cardiff gets 183 hours of sunny skies, while The Hague receives 158 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Cardiff usually receives less rain than The Hague. Cardiff gets 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while The Hague receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Cardiff 9°C (48°F) 
    The Hague 8°C (46°F)

Typical Weather for The Hague and Cardiff

Cardiff The Hague
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 3°C (38°F) 95 mm (3.7 in) 2°C (36°F) 66 mm (2.6 in)
Feb 4°C (40°F) 70 mm (2.7 in) 3°C (37°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Mar 6°C (42°F) 80 mm (3.2 in) 5°C (41°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)
Apr 9°C (48°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 8°C (46°F) 52 mm (2 in)
May 12°C (53°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 12°C (54°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Jun 15°C (59°F) 57 mm (2.3 in) 15°C (59°F) 68 mm (2.7 in)
Jul 17°C (63°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 17°C (62°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Aug 17°C (62°F) 75 mm (3 in) 17°C (62°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Sep 14°C (58°F) 95 mm (3.7 in) 14°C (57°F) 67 mm (2.6 in)
Oct 11°C (52°F) 101 mm (4 in) 11°C (51°F) 72 mm (2.8 in)
Nov 7°C (45°F) 97 mm (3.8 in) 6°C (43°F) 81 mm (3.2 in)
Dec 5°C (40°F) 96 mm (3.8 in) 3°C (38°F) 80 mm (3.1 in)