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

Should you visit Cardiff or Toulouse?

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

Should I visit Cardiff or Toulouse? 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.

Toulouse

Toulouse is a friendly, relaxed, and dynamic 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.

Cardiff and Toulouse: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Cardiff or Toulouse?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Toulouse than Cardiff, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Cardiff is more touristy than Toulouse and is popular for having the most castles per square mile of any city in Europe. Toulouse is popular for its impressive old town, many museums, and delicious local cuisine. It is also home to Basilique Saint-Sernin.

How is Cardiff different from Toulouse?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Toulouse offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. There is a long running history with countless landmarks and museums. Highlights include Basilique Saint-Sernin, Place du Capitole, Muséum de Toulouse, and Fondation Bemberg.

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 Toulouse? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Toulouse 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, Toulouse is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. There are many unique regional recipes that make use of poultry, cold meats, and foie gras. Toulouse sausage, cassoulet, Poulet à la Toulousaine, and Foie gras d’oie are all popular local dishes.

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 Toulouse Better for Nightlife?

Toulouse 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 Toulouse know how to have a good time. You'll find a large number of students in town so the nightlife scene is active and fun. For the most lively atmosphere head to Carmes, Saint-Cyprien, or Place Saint-Pierre.

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 Toulouse Better for its Old Town?

Toulouse is a great destination for its old town. However, Cardiff does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Toulouse. The old town is filled with terra-cota buildings and pedestrian walkways. The area flows out around the Capitole and is crossed by the Garonne.

Cardiff does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Cardiff or Toulouse?

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

Toulouse is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. There are many great shopping districts around town including Place du Capitole, The Saint Georges district, and Rue Alsace Lorraine.

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 Toulouse Better for Families?

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

Toulouse is a very kid-friendly city. The city's known for its space industry so the La Cite de l’Espace (Space Museum) is a favorite attraction for kids and adults alike. You can also visit Aeroscopia, the airplane museum. La Halle de la machine is a truly unique and impressive playground. The city also has many other museums and outdoor spaces to explore.

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 Toulouse Better for Couples?

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

Couples visit Toulouse frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. There are many beautiful parks, gardens, and walking paths. Make sure you take a stroll along the Canal du Midi and visit Jardin Japonais Pierre Baudis. This is also a great city for visiting a 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 Toulouse Better for Students?

Cardiff and Toulouse 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 Toulouse. You'll find a diverse student population with many international students.

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

Toulouse 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 Toulouse, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are a large number of bus routes that travel both locally and regionally.

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

Is Cardiff or Toulouse a more walkable city?

Toulouse 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.

Toulouse is a very walkable city. Within the city center it is very walkable and 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 Toulouse Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Toulouse or Cardiff?

How long in Cardiff or Toulouse?

It's fun to spend time in either Cardiff or Toulouse. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Toulouse due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Cardiff, and 2-4 days is enough time in Toulouse.

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

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

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

One day in Cardiff or Toulouse?

The city of Cardiff offers nightlife and shopping. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

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

Cardiff is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Cardiff, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

In Toulouse, 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. 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 Toulouse has to offer.

Five days in Cardiff or Toulouse?

Cardiff is a popular choice for travelers. Five days 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Toulouse 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 Toulouse?

Cardiff is a great place to explore. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

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

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

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

Which is Bigger, Cardiff or Toulouse?

Toulouse has a larger population, and is about 43% larger than the population of Cardiff. When comparing the sizes of Cardiff and Toulouse, 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 Toulouse?

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 Toulouse in the Summer?

Both Toulouse and Cardiff during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Cardiff in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Toulouse for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Cardiff is cooler than Toulouse. Typically, the summer temperatures in Cardiff in July average around 17°C (63°F), and Toulouse averages at about 22°C (72°F).

In Toulouse, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Cardiff. In the summer, Cardiff often gets less sunshine than Toulouse. Cardiff gets 220 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Toulouse receives 275 hours of full sun.

Cardiff usually gets more rain in July than Toulouse. Cardiff gets 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Toulouse receives 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Cardiff or Toulouse in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Cardiff and Toulouse. 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. Furthermore, the autumn months attract visitors to Toulouse because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Cardiff is generally cooler than Toulouse. Daily temperatures in Cardiff average around 11°C (52°F), and Toulouse fluctuates around 15°C (60°F).

Cardiff usually receives less sunshine than Toulouse during autumn. Cardiff gets 95 hours of sunny skies, while Toulouse receives 161 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 Toulouse. Cardiff gets 101 mm (4 in) of rain, while Toulouse receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Cardiff or Toulouse in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Cardiff as well as Toulouse. The winter months attract visitors to Cardiff because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Toulouse this time of year.

The weather in Cardiff can be very cold. Cardiff is much colder than Toulouse in the winter. The daily temperature in Cardiff averages around 3°C (38°F) in January, and Toulouse fluctuates around 6°C (44°F).

In the winter, Cardiff often gets less sunshine than Toulouse. Cardiff gets 57 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Toulouse receives 88 hours of full sun.

Cardiff usually gets more rain in January than Toulouse. Cardiff gets 95 mm (3.7 in) of rain, while Toulouse receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Cardiff or Toulouse in the Spring?

Both Toulouse and Cardiff are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Cardiff this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Toulouse for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Cardiff is cooler than Toulouse. Typically, the spring temperatures in Cardiff in April average around 9°C (48°F), and Toulouse averages at about 12°C (54°F).

Cardiff usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Toulouse during spring. Cardiff gets 183 hours of sunny skies, while Toulouse receives 178 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Cardiff usually receives less rain than Toulouse. Cardiff gets 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Toulouse receives 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Toulouse and Cardiff