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

Should you visit Istanbul or Cardiff?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Istanbul or Cardiff, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Istanbul

Istanbul is a beautiful, high-energy, and historic city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. 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

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. It's also known for nightlife, shopping, and museums.

Istanbul and Cardiff: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Istanbul or Cardiff?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Istanbul than Cardiff. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Istanbul is more touristy than Cardiff and is known for its world class historical sights, stunning mosques, and dynamic energy. It is also well known for The Blue Mosque. Cardiff is famous for having the most castles per square mile of any city in Europe.

How is Istanbul different from Cardiff?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Istanbul 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 Istanbul are among the most recognizable in the world. With such a long and diverse religious and political history, it has many museums, mosques, churches, and archeological sites that you can visit. Some of the most famous sights include the Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Sarayi, and the Blue Mosque.

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 Istanbul or Cardiff? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Istanbul 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, Istanbul is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. From Turkish classics to sweet desserts, the city has it all. Popular dishes include Turkish style pizza, kebabs, and doner, which you'll find everywhere for affordable prices. You'll also find many tourist-centered restaurants in the touristy areas but if you get away from the main sights, you'll find more local options that let you sample high quality food for affordable prices.

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 Istanbul or Cardiff Better for Nightlife?

Istanbul 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 Istanbul know how to have a good time. Dancing, dining, and partying have all become part of Istanbul's culture. Top nightclubs in the city include Reina, Sortie, and Supperclub. If you're looking for dance clubs and alcohol, your best bet is to head to the Beyoglu district.

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 Istanbul or Cardiff Better for its Old Town?

Istanbul is a must-visit destination for its old town. However, Cardiff does not have a historic old town.

The rich history of Istanbul can be explored in its historical center. The Old City in Istanbul is the most historic part of the city. It's where you'll find most of the city's historic sights. The area around Sultanahmet Square is the most popular tourist area to explore.

Cardiff does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Istanbul or Cardiff?

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

Istanbul is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. It is the capital of culture and fashion in Turkey, and there are many shopping areas that carry all kinds of brands. For a more traditional, but touristy experience head to the Grand Bazaar and the Spice Market. For modern brands, Istiklal Caddesi is the most popular area for shopping.

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 Istanbul or Cardiff Better for Families?

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

Istanbul is a very kid-friendly city. The city has several kid-friendly museums, a couple of aquariums, and fun theme parks. If the kids need a break from the city, you can spend a day at Vialand Theme Park or LEGOLAND Discovery Center Istanbul. Food in Istanbul is also very kid-friendly with many affordable dishes that young ones will enjoy.

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 Istanbul or Cardiff Better for Couples?

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

Couples visit Istanbul frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Couples who enjoy history, culture, and vibrant neighborhoods will enjoy a romantic stay here. The city lights up at night and there are many rooftop dessert cafes where you can take in the view. The waterfront setting is the perfect place to watch the sunset and there are many places to walk and soak up the atmosphere.

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 Istanbul or Cardiff Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Istanbul is a must-visit destination for backpackers. However, Cardiff is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Istanbul. There are plenty of hostels and budget accommodation options, and there's also plenty of ways to meet other travelers. You'll find plenty of hostels concentrated in the Sultanahmet area.

Cardiff is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Istanbul or Cardiff Better for Students?

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

Istanbul is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. Students appreciate the city's vibrant neighborhoods, constant activity, and diverse population.

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

Istanbul 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.

Istanbul has a world-class public transit network to take passengers everywhere in the city. It has a comprehensive and diverse public transit system that includes buses, trams, minibuses, ferries, funicular, and more.

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

Is Istanbul or Cardiff a more walkable city?

Istanbul 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.

Istanbul is a very walkable city. Although it is huge, most of the neighborhoods that tourists visit are incredibly walkable and 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 Istanbul Worth Visiting? and Is Cardiff Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Cardiff or Istanbul?

How long in Istanbul or Cardiff?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Istanbul and Cardiff. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Istanbul than in Cardiff. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Istanbul, and 1-3 days is enough time in Cardiff.

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

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

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

One day in Istanbul or Cardiff?

Because Istanbul is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

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.

A weekend in Istanbul or Cardiff?

Because Istanbul 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. Visiting the old town is also a must. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

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.

Five days in Istanbul or Cardiff?

Istanbul is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Istanbul has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

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.

A week in Istanbul or Cardiff?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Istanbul. Because Istanbul is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours in Turkey, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Turkey, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in United Kingdom, and The Best Coach Bus Tours in United Kingdom.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Istanbul or Cardiff?

Istanbul has a larger population, and is about 40 times larger than the population of Cardiff. When comparing the sizes of Istanbul 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 Istanbul 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 Istanbul or Cardiff in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Istanbul and Cardiff. Many visitors come to Istanbul in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Cardiff for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Istanbul is a little warmer than Cardiff. Typically, the summer temperatures in Istanbul in July average around 24°C (74°F), and Cardiff averages at about 17°C (63°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Cardiff this time of the year. In Istanbul, it's very sunny this time of the year. Istanbul usually receives more sunshine than Cardiff during summer. Istanbul gets 333 hours of sunny skies, while Cardiff receives 220 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Istanbul usually receives less rain than Cardiff. Istanbul gets 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Cardiff receives 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Istanbul or Cardiff in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Istanbul as well as Cardiff. Most visitors come to Istanbul for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Cardiff because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Istanbul is generally a little warmer than Cardiff. Daily temperatures in Istanbul average around 16°C (61°F), and Cardiff fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

In the autumn, Istanbul often gets more sunshine than Cardiff. Istanbul gets 169 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cardiff receives 95 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Cardiff. Istanbul usually gets less rain in October than Cardiff. Istanbul gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Cardiff receives 101 mm (4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Istanbul or Cardiff in the Winter?

Both Cardiff and Istanbul are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Istanbul because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Cardiff this time of year.

It's quite cold in Cardiff in the winter. Istanbul is much warmer than Cardiff in the winter. The daily temperature in Istanbul averages around 6°C (43°F) in January, and Cardiff fluctuates around 3°C (38°F).

Istanbul usually receives more sunshine than Cardiff during winter. Istanbul gets 75 hours of sunny skies, while Cardiff receives 57 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Istanbul usually receives around the same amount of rain as Cardiff. Istanbul gets 99 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Cardiff receives 95 mm (3.7 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Istanbul or Cardiff in the Spring?

Both Cardiff and Istanbul during the spring are popular places to visit. The activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Istanbul this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Cardiff for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Istanbul is a little warmer than Cardiff. Typically, the spring temperatures in Istanbul in April average around 13°C (55°F), and Cardiff averages at about 9°C (48°F).

In the spring, Istanbul often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Cardiff. Istanbul gets 180 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cardiff receives 183 hours of full sun.

Istanbul usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Cardiff. Istanbul gets 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Cardiff receives 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Cardiff and Istanbul