A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Cardiff vs. Turin (Torino) for Attractions, Food, Couples, and Nightlife

Should you visit Cardiff or Turin (Torino)?

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

Should I visit Cardiff or Turin (Torino)? 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. Other popular activities here include museums, nightlife, and shopping.

Turin (Torino)

Turin (Torino) is a beautiful, authentic, and historic 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 Turin (Torino): Pros and Cons

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


Is there more to do in Cardiff or Turin (Torino)?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Cardiff than Turin (Torino). While Turin (Torino) is larger than Cardiff, Cardiff has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Cardiff is more popular for its big city activities, while Turin (Torino) is known for its museums, food, and impressive beauty. Cardiff is popular for having the most castles per square mile of any city in Europe. It is also home to The Cardiff Castle. Turin (Torino) is popular for its grand squares, beautiful palaces, and easy access to the Alps.

How is Cardiff different from Turin (Torino)?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Turin (Torino) 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 Turin (Torino)?

Cardiff
Turin (Torino)

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

Turin (Torino) offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The city boasts a number of museums including The Egyptian Museum, Museo Nazionale del Cinema, and Museo Nazionale dell'Automobile. Other landmarks include the Royal Armory, The Cathedral and the Holy Shroud, and Palazzo Madama.

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 Turin (Torino)? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Cardiff
Turin (Torino)

Turin (Torino) 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 Turin (Torino). The region has been credited with being the birthplace of the Slow Food Movement. The dishes often use locally made ingredients and there are very diverse flavors and recipes. Local favorites include antipasto misto, risotto ai funghi (mushroom risotto), and carne cruda (beef tartare).

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 Turin (Torino) Better for Nightlife?

Cardiff
Turin (Torino)

It's hard to distinguish whether Cardiff or Turin (Torino) 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 Turin (Torino) has a few options to choose from. There's a good nightlife scene that includes everything from bars to dance clubs. Via Po is one of the city's main bar hopping streets. For a more relaxed night out head to Via Garibaldi which has a number of restaurants and cocktail bars.

Is the Shopping Better in Cardiff or Turin (Torino)?

Cardiff
Turin (Torino)

Shopping is a popular activity in both Turin (Torino) and Cardiff.

Cardiff offers some nice shopping areas. Shopping options include shopping malls and boutique lined streets. There is a nice mix of independent shops and major chains to choose between.

Turin (Torino) has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. The city has everything from high end shopping to local boutiques. For the best luxury shopping head to Via Roma. Via Garibaldi is another popular pedestrian street that has many shops and restaurants.


Is Cardiff or Turin (Torino) Better for Families?

Cardiff
Turin (Torino)

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Cardiff or Turin (Torino).

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.

Turin (Torino) offers lots of family activities. If the kids need to stretch their legs, head to Valentino Park. For kid-friendly museums, check out The Cinema Museum The Egyptian Museum, or the Museum of Car. It's also fun to take a ride of the historic tram.

Is Cardiff or Turin (Torino) Better for Couples?

Cardiff
Turin (Torino)

Turin (Torino) is a great destination for its romantic activities. However, Cardiff is a city with minimal options for couples.

Couples visit Turin (Torino) frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. With grand squares, beautiful architecture, and excellent cuisine, couples will enjoy every minute of their trip to Turin. The city is also near the Alps, so outdoor adventure isn't far away.

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 Turin (Torino) Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cardiff
Turin (Torino)

Turin (Torino) is a great destination for backpackers. However, Cardiff is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Turin (Torino) is a great city to visit for backpackers. You'll find hostels around town and easy access to outdoor activities. The city also has great food and a lively atmosphere.

Cardiff is not a backpacker-friendly destination.


Is Cardiff or Turin (Torino) Better for Students?

Cardiff
Turin (Torino)

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

Turin (Torino) is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. It's relatively easy to find study abroad opportunities to the area. The city's atmosphere is diverse and fun with many activities that the student population can enjoy.

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 Turin (Torino) Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Cardiff
Turin (Torino)

Turin (Torino) 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 Turin (Torino) can get you around easily. The public transit system is operated by Gruppo Torinese Trasporti (GTT) and includes one metro line, nine tram lines, and a number of bus lines.

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

Is Cardiff or Turin (Torino) a more walkable city?

Cardiff
Turin (Torino)

Cardiff and Turin (Torino) both are good 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.

Turin (Torino) is a somewhat walkable city. While the city is large, the city center is generally compact and walkable.


For even more information, also check out Is Cardiff Worth Visiting? and Is Turin (Torino) Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Turin (Torino) or Cardiff?

How long in Cardiff or Turin (Torino)?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Turin (Torino) 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 Turin (Torino).


  • How many days in Cardiff or Turin (Torino)? Ideal Length of Stay
    Cardiff 1-3 
    Turin (Torino) 2-3

One day in Cardiff or Turin (Torino)?

In Cardiff, you'll find nightlife and shopping. So, one day is just the right amount of time to spend here.

In Turin (Torino), you'll find nightlife and 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 Turin (Torino)?

Cardiff is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Because of this, a weekend is usually enough time for a trip here.

In Turin (Torino), you'll find food and shopping. 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 Turin (Torino) has to offer.

Five days in Cardiff or Turin (Torino)?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Cardiff. It offers something for everyone. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Turin (Torino) 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 Turin (Torino)?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and shopping when visiting the city of Cardiff. Your budget might influence how long you stay. 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's hard to know how much time to spend in Turin (Torino). Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Turin (Torino). 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 Vineyard & Wine Tours in Italy, and The Best Food and Culinary Tours in Italy.


Which place is cheaper, Turin (Torino) 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 Turin (Torino) is £135. 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 Turin (Torino) in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Cardiff £93
    Turin (Torino) £68
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Cardiff £186
    Turin (Torino) £136
Compare Hotels in Cardiff and Turin (Torino)

Looking for a hotel in Cardiff or Turin (Torino)? 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 Turin (Torino)


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 Turin (Torino) Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Cardiff £21
    Turin (Torino) £38

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Cardiff

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Cardiff:

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

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Turin (Torino)

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Turin (Torino):

  • Departure Private Transfer from Turin City to Turin Airport TRN by Luxury Van: $60
  • Departure by Van or Car from Transfer Turin to Turin Airport TRN: $50
  • Private Arrival Transfer from Turin Caselle Airport to Courchevel: $147
  • Private Direct Transfer From Turin to Milan: $256
  • Private Transfer from Turin City to Milan Airport/City by Sedan: $236
  • Turin Airport Private Departure Transfer: $60
  • Turin Airport to Val d'Isere/Morzine/Avoriaz-Arrival Transfer: $87
  • Turin Caselle Airport TRN to Breuil-Cervinia -Round-Trip Transfer: $142
  • Turin Caselle Airport to Chamonix - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $142
  • Turin Caselle Airport to Courchevel La Plagne Round Trip Transfer: $295
  • Turin Caselle Airport to Courmayeur - Arrival Private Transfer: $87
  • Turin Caselle Airport to Sestriere/Val Chisone-RoundTrip Transfer: $142

Is it cheaper to fly into Cardiff or Turin (Torino)?

Prices for flights to both Turin (Torino) 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
    Turin (Torino) £36

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Turin (Torino)

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Turin (Torino).

  • Bolognese a la Mode | Online Cooking with Chef Abram | Italy: $64
  • Turin Guided Food Tour with Chocolate and Wine Tasting: $69
  • Turin, food tour, taste our tradition.: $85
  • Dining Experience at a local's Home in Castelnuovo Belbo with Show Cooking: $93
  • Dining experience at a local's home in Nebbiuno with cooking demo: $93
  • Dining Experience at a local's Home in Leinì with Show Cooking: $93
  • Dining Experience at a local's Home in Lessona with Show Cooking: $93
  • Dining Experience at a local's Home in Casale Monferrato with Show Cooking: $93
  • Dining Experience at a local's Home in Casaleggio Boiro with Show Cooking: $93
  • Dining Experience at a local's Home in Cella Monte with Show Cooking: $93
  • Dining Experience at a local's Home in Alessandria with Show Cooking: $93
  • Turin Mix Aperitivo & Street Food Tour - Do Eat Better Experience: $97

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Cardiff £25
    Turin (Torino) £24

Tours and Activities in Cardiff

Here are a few actual costs in Cardiff for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Ghosts of Llandaff Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.99
  • A Journey through Tudor A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.99
  • Cardiff’s Bay and Waterfront: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.99
  • The Ghosts of Llandaff: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.99
  • Self-Guided Audio Tour of Bay and Barrage: $5.99
  • Cardiff's Civic Centre: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.99
  • Essential Caerphilly: Explore the town’s history on a self-guided audio tour: $6.22
  • Uncover Ghostly Chester: In-App Audio Tour of Eerie Tales: $11
  • Uncover Spectral Secrets with the Llandaff Ghosts Audio Tour: $11
  • Cardiff Bay Private Self-Guided Tour: $11
  • Llanberis, Conwy and Caernarfon Castle: A Self-Guided Driving Tour of Snowdonia: $15
  • Cardiff Bay Boat Tour: $15

Tours and Activities in Turin (Torino)

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Turin (Torino) are as follows:

  • Private Audio Guided Walking Tour in Turin: $8.72
  • Turin Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $8.95
  • Luci d'Artista City Tour: $20
  • City Sightseeing Turin Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour: $21
  • Entrance ticket with tasting at Casa Martini: $22
  • Private Tour in the Cellar and Tasting of Langhe Wines: $27
  • Historical Turin Tour and Historical Locations: $27
  • Turin Egyptian Museum Entry Ticket Including Special Exhibits: $27
  • MONFERRATO UNESCO WALKING EXPERIENCE - Guided tour: $27
  • Outlet Best Shopping Mall Tour: $28
  • Turin Highlights Small-group Walking Tour: $38
  • Magic Turin Evening Tour: $38

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Cardiff £13
    Turin (Torino) £7.33

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 Turin (Torino)

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Turin (Torino):

  • Tour of the Historical Cellars and Wine Tasting in Turin: $35
  • Wine Tour and Tasting with the Producer in the Monferrato-Classic: $41
  • 2 Hour Courtyard Aperitivo in Turin with Wine Tasting: $47
  • Wine Tasting near Royal Palace of Turin: $49
  • Cesarine: Turin Wine Tasting & Food Pairing with an Expert : $119


When comparing the travel costs between Cardiff and Turin (Torino), 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 Turin (Torino) Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Cardiff or Turin (Torino)?

Turin (Torino) has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Cardiff. When comparing the sizes of Cardiff and Turin (Torino), 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.