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

Should you visit Cardiff or Washington?

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

Should I visit Cardiff or Washington? 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.

Washington

Washington is a active, monument-filled, and international city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. This destination also has one of those special and quaint feelings. And you can't forget about the museums, theater, and nightlife.

Cardiff and Washington: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Cardiff or Washington?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Washington than Cardiff. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Washington is more touristy than Cardiff and is popular for its reputation as the capital of the United States, but it's also known for its many monuments, memorials, and museums. It is also well known for The Washington Monument and the White House. Cardiff is famous for having the most castles per square mile of any city in Europe.

How is Cardiff different from Washington?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Washington 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 Washington are among the most recognizable in the world. The city has world class museums that are often free. The Smithsonian Museums are arguably some of the most impressive museums in the United States. The city also has a large collection of monuments that are dedicated to past presidents or historical events. Many are best experienced at night when the sun sets and the lights come on.

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 Cardiff or Washington Better for Theater?

Washington is a great destination for its theatre productions. However, Cardiff is not a theatre destination.

While in town, many visitors enjoy seeing a show in Washington. Theater is popular in the city. From major theaters like the Kennedy Center and Ford's Theater, to lesser known smaller venues, there are options for everyone.

Cardiff is not a theatre destination.

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

Washington 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, Washington is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. This city is among the most diverse in the country, so you can find restaurants from almost any cuisine here. It's worth exploring and stepping out of your comfort zone. There are popular neighborhoods for Ethiopian, Korean, Thai, Japanese, and Chinese food, among many others.

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 Washington Better for Nightlife?

Washington 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 Washington know how to have a good time. Many visitors head straight to the museums and the National Mall, and don't realize what a livable and fun city this is. Some of the best nightlife is found in Dupont Circle, U Street, and even Arlington, VA. The city's young population ensures that there's never a dull moment.

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 Washington Better for Music?

Washington is a popular place for its live music scene. However, Cardiff is not a live music destination.

The music scene in Washington is active and vibrant. Notable live music venues include the 9:30 Club, the Anthem, and Union Stage.

Cardiff is not a live music destination.

Is Cardiff or Washington Better for Hiking?

Washington is a city with a few options for its hiking experiences. However, Cardiff is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors include a hike while visiting Washington. Just outside of Washington DC you'll find plenty of places to go hiking. There's also an elaborate bike and walking trail system in the city. To enjoy a bit of nature, head to Teddy Roosevelt Island.

Cardiff is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Cardiff or Washington?

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

Washington is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. Head to Georgetown and Dupont Circle for some of the city's best local shopping. There are name brand chains mixed in with local boutiques. You'll also find plenty of souvenir shops in the more touristy areas if you're looking to pick up some trinkets.

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 Washington Better for Christmas?

Washington is a must-visit destination for its Christmas activities. However, Cardiff does not offer Christmas activities.

Washington is a world class destination for shoppers. With it's beautiful lights and holiday shows, Christmas is beautiful in the capital of the United States.

Cardiff does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Cardiff or Washington Better for Families?

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

Washington is a very kid-friendly city. It is a fun and educational destination where kids can explore world class museums and try unique foods from all around the world. The city has nationally recognized landmarks, monuments, and memorials and it's also home to some of the best (free) museums in the United States including the world class Smithsonian Institutions. Many schools visit Washington DC as a field trip, particularly during the Spring months, so you'll kids groups in colorful t-shirts running around the National Mall.

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 Washington Better for Couples?

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

Couples visit Washington frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. The city lights up at night, so couples will enjoy wandering by the monuments in the evening or taking in a dinner and show. During the Spring months you'll find couples wandering through the Cherry Blossoms or along the waterfront.

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 Washington Better for Students?

Washington 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 Washington. International students come from around the world to study, learn, intern, and work in the capital of the United States. There are many internships available through the federal government as well as NGOs and nonprofits.

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

Washington is a must-visit destination for its public transit. However, Cardiff is a city with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

Washington has a world-class public transit network to take passengers everywhere in the city. The metro system and the bus system are reliable and efficient ways to explore the city.

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

Is Cardiff or Washington a more walkable city?

Washington is a must-visit destination for its high level of walkability. Also, Cardiff is still popular, but not quite as popular for its ease of walking around.

Getting around Washington on foot is easy. Many neighborhoods around the city are easy to explore on foot. Most tourists spend a lot of time in the Mall area, which is very pedestrian friendly.

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 Washington Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Washington or Cardiff?

How long in Cardiff or Washington?

Both Cardiff and Washington have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Washington than in Cardiff. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Cardiff, and 3-7 days is enough time in Washington.

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

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

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

One day in Cardiff or Washington?

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.

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

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.

Because Washington 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. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Cardiff or Washington?

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.

Washington is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Washington has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Cardiff or Washington?

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 Washington. Because Washington is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

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 Wildlife Tours to United States of America, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America.

When comparing the travel costs between Cardiff and Washington, we can see that Washington 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. Even though Cardiff is in Europe and Washington is in North America, both of these destinations have relatively similar prices of travel. Generally, the levels of luxury and expenses are the same for these cities even though they are geographically far apart.

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

Which is Bigger, Cardiff or Washington?

Washington has a larger population, and is about 83% larger than the population of Cardiff. When comparing the sizes of Cardiff and Washington, 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 Washington?

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 Washington in the Summer?

Both Washington 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. Furthermore, many travelers come to Washington for the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Cardiff is generally much colder than Washington. Daily temperatures in Cardiff average around 17°C (63°F), and Washington fluctuates around 79°F (26°C).

In Washington, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Cardiff. In the summer, Cardiff often gets less sunshine than Washington. Cardiff gets 220 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Washington receives 278 hours of full sun.

Cardiff usually gets less rain in July than Washington. Cardiff gets 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Washington receives 3.5 inches (88 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Cardiff or Washington in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Cardiff and Washington. Many travelers come to Cardiff for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, many visitors come to Washington in the autumn for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Cardiff is cooler than Washington in the autumn. The daily temperature in Cardiff averages around 11°C (52°F) in October, and Washington fluctuates around 60°F (15°C).

Cardiff usually receives less sunshine than Washington during autumn. Cardiff gets 95 hours of sunny skies, while Washington receives 197 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 Washington. Cardiff gets 101 mm (4 in) of rain, while Washington receives 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Cardiff or Washington in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Cardiff as well as Washington. Many visitors come to Cardiff in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, most visitors come to Washington for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine during these months.

Washington can be very cold during winter. Cardiff can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Cardiff is much warmer than Washington. Typically, the winter temperatures in Cardiff in January average around 3°C (38°F), and Washington averages at about 35°F (1°C).

In the winter, Cardiff often gets less sunshine than Washington. Cardiff gets 57 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Washington receives 139 hours of full sun.

Cardiff usually gets more rain in January than Washington. Cardiff gets 95 mm (3.7 in) of rain, while Washington receives 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Cardiff or Washington in the Spring?

Both Washington 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 Washington because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In April, Cardiff is generally much colder than Washington. Daily temperatures in Cardiff average around 9°C (48°F), and Washington fluctuates around 56°F (14°C).

It's quite sunny in Washington. Cardiff usually receives less sunshine than Washington during spring. Cardiff gets 183 hours of sunny skies, while Washington receives 228 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Cardiff usually receives less rain than Washington. Cardiff gets 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Washington receives 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Washington and Cardiff