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

Should you visit Cardiff or Versailles?

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

Should I visit Cardiff or Versailles? 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.

Versailles

Versailles is a extensive, beautiful, and grand palace. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the museums.

Cardiff and Versailles: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular with couples
  • Public transit not as usable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good public transit
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly


Is there more to do in Cardiff or Versailles?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Cardiff than Versailles. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Cardiff is very popular for its nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Versailles attracts visitors for its museums and impressive beauty. Versailles is more touristy than Cardiff and is popular for its long running history and its grand architecture. Cardiff is famous for having the most castles per square mile of any city in Europe. It is also well known for The Cardiff Castle.

How is Cardiff different from Versailles?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Cardiff
Versailles

Versailles 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 Versailles are among the most recognizable in the world. The palace is filled with history and impressive items relating to the royal family. Within and near the palace you should make sure you see the Gardens of Versailles, Grand Trianon, the Hall of Mirrors, and the Royal Opera of Versailles.

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 Versailles? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Cardiff
Versailles

Both Cardiff and Versailles offer a number of reasonable restaurants to choose from.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Cardiff. 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.

Versailles may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. There are a couple of restaurants and cafes on the grounds.

Is Cardiff or Versailles Better for Nightlife?

Cardiff
Versailles

Cardiff is a nice place to visit for nightlife. However, Versailles is not a destination with noteworthy 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.

Versailles is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is the Shopping Better in Cardiff or Versailles?

Cardiff
Versailles

Cardiff is a nice place to visit for shopping. However, Versailles is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Cardiff. Shopping options include shopping malls and boutique lined streets. There is a nice mix of independent shops and major chains to choose between.

Versailles is not a noteworthy shopping destination.


Is Cardiff or Versailles Better for Families?

Cardiff
Versailles

Cardiff is a nice place to visit for its kid-friendly activities. However, Versailles is not known for its family-friendly activities.

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.

Versailles does not offer many kid-friendly activities. While there are those unicorn children who fall in love with the grand setting, for most kids, a visit to Versailles can make for make for a long and draining day.

Is Cardiff or Versailles Better for Couples?

Cardiff
Versailles

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

Couples visit Versailles frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. It's opulence, grandeur, and history make this a wonderful place to explore as a couple. There are gardens and other unique settings that make Versailles very romantic.

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 Versailles Better for Students?

Cardiff
Versailles

Cardiff is a nice place to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Versailles is not popular with 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.

Versailles is not popular with students.


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

Cardiff
Versailles

Versailles 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 Versailles can get you around easily. There are SNCF trains that travel from Gare Montparnasse to Versailles Chantiers train station and additional trains that travel between Gare Saint Lazare and Versailles Rive Droite.

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

Is Cardiff or Versailles a more walkable city?

Cardiff
Versailles

Versailles 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.

Versailles is a very walkable palace. It's approximately a 20 minute walk from the Versailles Chantiers train station to the entrance to the palace. Versailles Rive Droite is slightly closer.

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 Versailles Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Versailles or Cardiff?

How long in Cardiff or Versailles?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Cardiff or Versailles to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Cardiff than Versailles because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Cardiff, and 1-2 days is enough time in Versailles.

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

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


  • How many days in Cardiff or Versailles? Ideal Length of Stay
    Cardiff 1-3 
    Versailles 1-2

One day in Cardiff or Versailles?

With museums and nightlife around the up-and-coming 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 Versailles, you'll find museums. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. This palace 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 Versailles?

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 Versailles, you'll find museums. 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 Versailles has to offer.

Five days in Cardiff or Versailles?

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.

Versailles 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 Versailles?

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 Versailles. Many people enjoy the museums when visiting Versailles. 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 Sightseeing Tours in France, and The Best Vineyard & Wine Tours in France.


Which place is cheaper, Versailles 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 Versailles is £200. 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 Versailles in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Cardiff £93
    Versailles £110
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Cardiff £186
    Versailles £220
Compare Hotels in Cardiff and Versailles

Looking for a hotel in Cardiff or Versailles? 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 Versailles


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 Versailles Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Cardiff £21
    Versailles £45

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Cardiff

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Cardiff:

  • Cardiff Airport (CWL): Transfer to Cardiff Accommodation: $139
  • Private Transfer from Mold to Manchester Airport (MAN): $125
  • Private Transfer from Holyhead Port to Manchester Airport (MAN): $102
  • 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
  • Cardiff Private Transfer from Cardiff Airport to City centre: $79
  • Newport Accommodation to Cardiff Airport (CWL) - Departure Private Transfer: $60
  • Private Cardiff Departure Transfer - Hotel / Accommodation to Airport: $58
  • Private Cardiff Arrival Transfer- Airport to Hotel / Accommodation : $58
  • Cardiff to Cardiff Airport (CWL) - Departure Private Transfer: $38
  • Barry Accommodation to Cardiff Airport (CWL) - Departure Private Transfer: $33
  • Heathrow Airport: Bus Transfer to/from Cardiff: $16

Is it cheaper to fly into Cardiff or Versailles?

Prices for flights to both Versailles 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
    Versailles £57

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Cardiff £25
    Versailles £39

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 Versailles

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Versailles.

  • Palace Guided Tour with Skip-the-Line Ticket: $67
  • Versailles Palace Private Family Tour Designed for Kids: $261
  • Private Guided Tour of the Palace: $261

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Cardiff £13
    Versailles £15

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


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Cardiff and Versailles, we can see that Versailles is more expensive. And not only is Cardiff much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Cardiff would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Cardiff 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 Versailles would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Versailles than you might in Cardiff.

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


Which is Bigger, Cardiff or Versailles?

Cardiff has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Versailles. When comparing the sizes of Cardiff and Versailles, 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 Versailles?

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 Versailles in the Summer?

Both Versailles and Cardiff during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Cardiff for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

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

In Versailles, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Cardiff. In the summer, Cardiff often gets less sunshine than Versailles. Cardiff gets 220 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Versailles receives 239 hours of full sun.

Cardiff usually gets around the same amount of rain in July as Versailles. Cardiff gets 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Versailles receives 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Cardiff 17°C (63°F) 
    Versailles 20°C (68°F)

Should I visit Cardiff or Versailles in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Cardiff and Versailles. 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 Versailles for the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Cardiff is cooler than Versailles in the autumn. The daily temperature in Cardiff averages around 11°C (52°F) in October, and Versailles fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

Cardiff usually receives less sunshine than Versailles during autumn. Cardiff gets 95 hours of sunny skies, while Versailles receives 126 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 Versailles. Cardiff gets 101 mm (4 in) of rain, while Versailles receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Cardiff 11°C (52°F) 
    Versailles 13°C (56°F)

Should I visit Cardiff or Versailles in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Cardiff as well as Versailles. Most visitors come to Cardiff for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Versailles because of the museums and the cuisine.

The weather in Versailles can be very cold. Cardiff can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Cardiff is cooler than Versailles. Typically, the winter temperatures in Cardiff in January average around 3°C (38°F), and Versailles averages at about 5°C (40°F).

In the winter, Cardiff often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Versailles. Cardiff gets 57 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Versailles receives 56 hours of full sun.

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


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Cardiff 3°C (38°F) 
    Versailles 5°C (40°F)

Should I visit Cardiff or Versailles in the Spring?

Both Versailles and Cardiff are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to Cardiff because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Also, the natural beauty are the main draw to Versailles this time of year.

In April, Cardiff is generally cooler than Versailles. Daily temperatures in Cardiff average around 9°C (48°F), and Versailles fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

Cardiff usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Versailles during spring. Cardiff gets 183 hours of sunny skies, while Versailles receives 173 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Cardiff usually receives around the same amount of rain as Versailles. Cardiff gets 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Versailles receives 50 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Cardiff 9°C (48°F) 
    Versailles 11°C (52°F)

Typical Weather for Versailles and Cardiff

Cardiff Versailles
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 3°C (38°F) 95 mm (3.7 in) 5°C (40°F) 55 mm (2.2 in)
Feb 4°C (40°F) 70 mm (2.7 in) 6°C (42°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)
Mar 6°C (42°F) 80 mm (3.2 in) 8°C (47°F) 52 mm (2.1 in)
Apr 9°C (48°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 11°C (52°F) 50 mm (1.9 in)
May 12°C (53°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 15°C (59°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Jun 15°C (59°F) 57 mm (2.3 in) 18°C (64°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
Jul 17°C (63°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 20°C (68°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Aug 17°C (62°F) 75 mm (3 in) 20°C (67°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Sep 14°C (58°F) 95 mm (3.7 in) 17°C (63°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
Oct 11°C (52°F) 101 mm (4 in) 13°C (56°F) 55 mm (2.2 in)
Nov 7°C (45°F) 97 mm (3.8 in) 8°C (47°F) 57 mm (2.2 in)
Dec 5°C (40°F) 96 mm (3.8 in) 5°C (42°F) 55 mm (2.2 in)