A Travel Price Comparison for United Kingdom Huddersfield vs. Cardiff for Attractions, Nightlife, Families, and Food

Should you visit Huddersfield or Cardiff?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Huddersfield and Cardiff can help you decide which place is right for you.

Huddersfield

Huddersfield is a off-the-beaten-path, authentic, and historic town. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities.

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.

Huddersfield and Cardiff: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with couples
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples


Is there more to do in Huddersfield or Cardiff?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Cardiff than Huddersfield, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Cardiff is more popular for its museums, nightlife, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Huddersfield is known for its small town charm. Cardiff is more touristy than Huddersfield and is known for having the most castles per square mile of any city in Europe. It is also home to The Cardiff Castle. Huddersfield is popular for its small town atmosphere and its university.

How is Huddersfield different from Cardiff?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Cardiff and Huddersfield. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Huddersfield or Cardiff?

Huddersfield
Cardiff

Cardiff is very good for its museums and landmarks. However, Huddersfield is not particularly known for its historical sights.

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.

While most people don't head to Huddersfield specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. The town has nice 19th century architecture. You can check out the Huddersfield Town Hall or the Lawrence Batley Theater.


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

Huddersfield
Cardiff

Both Huddersfield and Cardiff offer a number of decent restaurants to choose from.

Huddersfield may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. The town has a handful of good restaurants, some that take a modern twist to old town classics.

Cardiff offers some easy restaurants to choose from. 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 Huddersfield or Cardiff Better for Nightlife?

Huddersfield
Cardiff

Cardiff is very good for its evening party scene. However, Huddersfield is not particularly known for nightlife.

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.

Huddersfield doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. While there are a few good pubs around town, for the most part the nightlife scene is quiet and a little slow.

Is the Shopping Better in Huddersfield or Cardiff?

Huddersfield
Cardiff

Cardiff is very good for its shopping areas. However, Huddersfield is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

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

Huddersfield is not a noteworthy shopping destination.


Is Huddersfield or Cardiff Better for Families?

Huddersfield
Cardiff

You'll find good kid-friendly activities in either Huddersfield or Cardiff.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Huddersfield. The town has a number of parks that are fun to explore with kids and many have playgrounds. There are also several indoor play areas like LaserZone for when the weather isn't great. Animal lovers will enjoy Stepping Out Alpaca Trekking.

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 Huddersfield or Cardiff Better for Couples?

Huddersfield
Cardiff

Most people don't think of either Huddersfield or Cardiff as a couple's destination.

Huddersfield is not always the best place to visit for a couple. The town's parks are great for taking a stroll hand in hand. You could also check out a show at the Lawrence Batley Theater or visit a spa as a couple.

Cardiff is not the best destination for a couple to visit. 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 Huddersfield or Cardiff Better for Students?

Huddersfield
Cardiff

Cardiff is very good for students. However, Huddersfield is not popular with students.

Cardiff is popular with students. Most students come to study at Cardiff University, which is a leading university in Great Britain.

Huddersfield is not popular with students.


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

Huddersfield
Cardiff

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Huddersfield and Cardiff.

Public transit is generally limited in Huddersfield. There are buses around town.

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

Is Huddersfield or Cardiff a more walkable city?

Huddersfield
Cardiff

Cardiff is very good for its ease of walking around. However, Huddersfield is not particularly known for its walkability.

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.

Huddersfield is generally not a very walkable town. It's not the most walkable town in the UK.

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

Should I spend more time in Cardiff or Huddersfield?

How long in Huddersfield or Cardiff?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Huddersfield and Cardiff. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Cardiff than in Huddersfield. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Huddersfield, and 1-3 days is enough time in Cardiff.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Cardiff than Huddersfield 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 Cardiff.


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

One day in Huddersfield or Cardiff?

In Huddersfield, you'll find . This town offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

In Cardiff, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this up-and-coming city offers. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. In one day, you should have a good grasp of this city.


A weekend in Huddersfield or Cardiff?

In Huddersfield, you'll find . 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 Huddersfield has to offer.

Cardiff is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Huddersfield or Cardiff?

Huddersfield 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.

You'll find nightlife and shopping around the green destination of Cardiff. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

A week in Huddersfield or Cardiff?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Huddersfield. Many people enjoy the when visiting Huddersfield. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Cardiff is a popular place to visit. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Budget Tours to United Kingdom, The Best Tours for Seniors to United Kingdom, The Best 3-Day Tours from Edinburgh, and The Best 3-Day Tours from London.


Which place is cheaper, Cardiff or Huddersfield?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Huddersfield is £34, while the average daily cost in Cardiff is £156. 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 Huddersfield and Cardiff in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Huddersfield £7.00
    Cardiff £93
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Huddersfield £14
    Cardiff £186
Compare Hotels in Huddersfield and Cardiff

Looking for a hotel in Huddersfield or Cardiff? 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 Huddersfield


Hotels in Cardiff


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: Huddersfield Hotel Prices and Cardiff Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Huddersfield £1.25
    Cardiff £21
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Huddersfield

Here are some examples of typical transportation prices from actual travelers in Huddersfield:


  • Parking
    £2.00

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Huddersfield

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Huddersfield:

  • Private Leeds Bradford Arrival Transfer - Airport to Hotel / Accommodation: $45
  • Private Leeds Bradford Departure Transfer - Hotel / Accommodation to Airport: $45
  • Private Transfer from Harrogate to Manchester Airport (MAN): $194
  • Private Transfer from Leeds to Manchester Airport (MAN): $288

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Cardiff

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Cardiff:

  • Arrival Private Transfer from Cardiff Airport CWL to Cardiff by Luxury Vehicle: $95
  • Barry Accommodation to Cardiff Airport (CWL) - Departure Private Transfer: $33
  • Bristol Airport: Bus Transfer to/from Cardiff: $13
  • Cardiff Airport (CWL): Transfer to Cardiff Accommodation: $139
  • Cardiff Private Transfer from Cardiff Airport to City centre: $78
  • Cardiff to Cardiff Airport (CWL) - Departure Private Transfer: $38
  • Departure Private Transfer from Cardiff to Cardiff Airport CWL by Luxury Vehicle: $95
  • Heathrow Airport: Bus Transfer to/from Cardiff: $16
  • Newport Accommodation to Cardiff Airport (CWL) - Departure Private Transfer: $60
  • Private Cardiff Arrival Transfer- Airport to Hotel / Accommodation : $58
  • Private Cardiff Departure Transfer - Hotel / Accommodation to Airport: $58
  • Private Transfer from Holyhead Port to Manchester Airport (MAN): $102

Is it cheaper to fly into Huddersfield or Cardiff?

Prices for flights to both Cardiff and Huddersfield 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
    Huddersfield £27
    Cardiff £44
Typical Food Prices in Huddersfield

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Huddersfield:


  • Lunch for 2
    £17

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Huddersfield

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Huddersfield.

  • Harrogate Walking Food Tour: $76
  • Small-Group Vegan Food Tour of Harrogate: $76
  • Leeds 'Hidden Gems' Food Tour: $98

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Huddersfield -
    Cardiff £25

Tours and Activities in Huddersfield

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

  • Unique Scavenger Hunt Experience in Leeds by Operation City Quest: $10
  • Leeds Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $11
  • 1-Hour Public Cruise: $12
  • 2 Hour Leeds Highlights Walking Tour : $15
  • Leeds Tour App, Hidden Gems Game and Big Britain Quiz (1 Day Pass) UK: $19
  • 1 Hour Private Otley Ghost Tour : $20
  • Unique Scavenger Hunt Experience in Leeds by Zombie Scavengers: $20
  • North York Moors Tour App, Hidden Gems Game and Big Britain Quiz (7 Day Pass) UK: $31
  • Afternoon Tea Cruise in North Yorkshire: $35
  • Harrogate Beer Tours: $44
  • Emmerdale Classic Locations Bus Tour from Leeds: $50
  • 3 Hours Guided Tasting Experience of Ripon: $82

Tours and Activities in Cardiff

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

  • Cardiff’s Bay and Waterfront: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.99
  • Self-Guided Audio Tour of Bay and Barrage: $5.99
  • A Journey through Tudor A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.99
  • The Ghosts of Llandaff: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.99
  • Cardiff's Civic Centre: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.99
  • Ghosts of Llandaff Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.99
  • Essential Caerphilly: Explore the town’s history on a self-guided audio tour: $6.22
  • Cardiff Bay Private Self-Guided Tour: $11
  • Cardiff Bay Boat Tour: $15
  • Llanberis, Conwy and Caernarfon Castle: A Self-Guided Driving Tour of Snowdonia: $15
  • City Highlights Guided Walking Tour: $19
  • 30 Minute Axe Throwing Experience in Llangollen: $19

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Huddersfield £11
    Cardiff £13

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: $43


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

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


Which is Bigger, Huddersfield or Cardiff?

Cardiff has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Huddersfield. When comparing the sizes of Huddersfield and Cardiff, 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 Huddersfield or Cardiff?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Huddersfield or Cardiff in the Summer?

Both Cardiff and Huddersfield are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Huddersfield for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Cardiff because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Huddersfield is generally around the same temperature as Cardiff. Daily temperatures in Huddersfield average around 16°C (62°F), and Cardiff fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

It's quite sunny in Cardiff. Huddersfield usually receives less sunshine than Cardiff during summer. Huddersfield gets 176 hours of sunny skies, while Cardiff receives 220 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Huddersfield usually receives around the same amount of rain as Cardiff. Huddersfield gets 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Cardiff receives 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Huddersfield 16°C (62°F) 
    Cardiff 17°C (63°F)

Should I visit Huddersfield or Cardiff in the Autumn?

Both Cardiff and Huddersfield during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Huddersfield because of the small town atmosphere. Furthermore, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Cardiff this time of year.

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

In the autumn, Huddersfield often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Cardiff. Huddersfield gets 97 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cardiff receives 95 hours of full sun.

Cardiff gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Huddersfield usually gets less rain in October than Cardiff. Huddersfield gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Cardiff receives 101 mm (4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Huddersfield 11°C (52°F) 
    Cardiff 11°C (52°F)

Should I visit Huddersfield or Cardiff in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Huddersfield and Cardiff. The museums and the cuisine are the main draw to Huddersfield this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Cardiff for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Cardiff. It's quite cold in Huddersfield in the winter. In the winter, Huddersfield is around the same temperature as Cardiff. Typically, the winter temperatures in Huddersfield in January average around 4°C (39°F), and Cardiff averages at about 3°C (38°F).

Huddersfield usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Cardiff during winter. Huddersfield gets 53 hours of sunny skies, while Cardiff receives 57 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Huddersfield usually receives less rain than Cardiff. Huddersfield gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Cardiff receives 95 mm (3.7 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Huddersfield 4°C (39°F) 
    Cardiff 3°C (38°F)

Should I visit Huddersfield or Cardiff in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Huddersfield as well as Cardiff. Many travelers come to Huddersfield for the small town charm. Additionally, many visitors come to Cardiff in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In April, Huddersfield is generally around the same temperature as Cardiff. Daily temperatures in Huddersfield average around 8°C (46°F), and Cardiff fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

In the spring, Huddersfield often gets less sunshine than Cardiff. Huddersfield gets 144 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cardiff receives 183 hours of full sun.

Huddersfield usually gets more rain in April than Cardiff. Huddersfield gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Cardiff receives 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


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

Typical Weather for Cardiff and Huddersfield

Huddersfield Cardiff
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 4°C (39°F) 69 mm (2.7 in) 3°C (38°F) 95 mm (3.7 in)
Feb 4°C (39°F) 50 mm (2 in) 4°C (40°F) 70 mm (2.7 in)
Mar 6°C (43°F) 61 mm (2.4 in) 6°C (42°F) 80 mm (3.2 in)
Apr 8°C (46°F) 51 mm (2 in) 9°C (48°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
May 11°C (53°F) 61 mm (2.4 in) 12°C (53°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Jun 15°C (58°F) 67 mm (2.6 in) 15°C (59°F) 57 mm (2.3 in)
Jul 16°C (62°F) 65 mm (2.6 in) 17°C (63°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Aug 16°C (61°F) 81 mm (3.2 in) 17°C (62°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Sep 14°C (57°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 14°C (58°F) 95 mm (3.7 in)
Oct 11°C (52°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 11°C (52°F) 101 mm (4 in)
Nov 7°C (44°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 7°C (45°F) 97 mm (3.8 in)
Dec 5°C (40°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 5°C (40°F) 96 mm (3.8 in)