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

Should you visit Newcastle upon Tyne 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 Newcastle upon Tyne and Cardiff can help you decide which place is right for you.

Newcastle upon Tyne

Newcastle upon Tyne is a vibrant, high energy, and livable port city. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

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. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and shopping.

Newcastle upon Tyne and Cardiff: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Newcastle upon Tyne or Cardiff?

Both Cardiff and Newcastle upon Tyne have plenty of things to do for travelers. Both provide a wide variety of sights and activities for tourists. Newcastle upon Tyne is more popular for its museums, food, nightlife, historical sights, and shopping, while Cardiff is known for its big city activities and impressive beauty. Newcastle upon Tyne is popular for its compact and livable atmosphere as well as its active nightlife scene. Cardiff is popular for having the most castles per square mile of any city in Europe.

How is Newcastle upon Tyne different from Cardiff?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Newcastle upon Tyne or Cardiff?

Newcastle upon Tyne is a great destination for its museums and landmarks. Also, Cardiff is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

Newcastle upon Tyne offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. There are many historic and cultural sights around town. Some of the most interesting include the Historic Tyne Bridges, the Millennium Bridge, the Castle, Newcastle Cathedral, and the Great North Museum: Hancock.

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 Newcastle upon Tyne or Cardiff? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Newcastle upon Tyne 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 Newcastle upon Tyne. The city is known for its food and there are some interesting local flavors that you should try. For something unique, try the singing hinny (sweet bread), pan haggerty (similar to potato gratin), stottie cake (bread) or craster kippers (smoked herring). You'll also find a diversity of cosmopolitan restaurants around town.

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 Newcastle upon Tyne or Cardiff Better for Nightlife?

Newcastle upon Tyne 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 Newcastle upon Tyne know how to have a good time. Because of the large student population, you'll find a very active nightlife scene. There are several party districts in the city that you should check out including Quayside, the Gate, the Diamond Strip, Bigg Market, and Dean Street.

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 Newcastle upon Tyne or Cardiff Better for its Old Town?

Newcastle upon Tyne is a great destination for its old town. However, Cardiff does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Newcastle upon Tyne. Known as Grainger Town, the city's historic commercial center is famous for its Georgian and Victorian buildings.

Cardiff does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Newcastle upon Tyne or Cardiff?

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

Newcastle upon Tyne is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. The city has boutique shops as well as major shopping malls. Some of the best shopping areas include the pedestrian shopping street of Northumberland Street, the historic Grey Street, and Grainger Market.

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 Newcastle upon Tyne or Cardiff Better for Families?

You'll find good kid-friendly activities in either Newcastle upon Tyne or Cardiff.

Newcastle upon Tyne is a family-friendly port city. Kids will love visiting the Newcastle Castle, but there are also ropes courses and the Victoria Tunnel Tours. Museum lovers will enjoy a visit to Discovery Museum, the Life Science Center, or Beamish, the Living Museum of the North.

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.

Is Newcastle upon Tyne or Cardiff Better for Couples?

Newcastle upon Tyne is a popular place for its romantic activities. However, Cardiff is a city with minimal options for couples.

Newcastle upon Tyne makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The city boasts many romantic walks as well as fine dining restaurants and interesting entertainment options. It's not hard to enjoy a fun date night out on the town.

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 Newcastle upon Tyne or Cardiff Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Newcastle upon Tyne is a popular place for backpackers. However, Cardiff is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Newcastle upon Tyne. There are a number of hostels to choose from and plenty of entertainment choices so you shouldn't have much trouble meeting other people.

Cardiff is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Newcastle upon Tyne or Cardiff Better for Students?

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

Newcastle upon Tyne is a very popular port city for students and younger travelers. The city has a large student population and a lively nightlife scene, so it's a fun place for students to spend a semester or more.

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

Newcastle upon Tyne 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 Newcastle upon Tyne can get you around easily. There are bus, ferry, and light rail services in the city.

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

Is Newcastle upon Tyne or Cardiff a more walkable city?

Newcastle upon Tyne 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 Newcastle upon Tyne on foot is easy. The city is one of the most walkable in the UK.

Cardiff is a somewhat walkable port 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 Newcastle upon Tyne Worth Visiting? and Is Cardiff Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Cardiff or Newcastle upon Tyne?

How long in Newcastle upon Tyne or Cardiff?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Newcastle upon Tyne and Cardiff. In our opinion, Newcastle upon Tyne has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Newcastle upon Tyne than Cardiff. In general, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Newcastle upon Tyne, and 1-3 days is enough time in Cardiff.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Newcastle upon Tyne 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 Newcastle upon Tyne.

One day in Newcastle upon Tyne or Cardiff?

In Newcastle upon Tyne, you'll find nightlife and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This port city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

In Cardiff, many people enjoy the museums and nightlife that this destination offers. 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 Newcastle upon Tyne or Cardiff?

In Newcastle upon Tyne, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Newcastle upon Tyne has to offer.

Many people visit Cardiff for a weekend. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. 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 Newcastle upon Tyne or Cardiff?

Newcastle upon Tyne is a great place to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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.

The destination of Cardiff offers shopping and museums. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Newcastle upon Tyne or Cardiff?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Newcastle upon Tyne. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Newcastle upon Tyne. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Cardiff. This city offers something for everyone. 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United Kingdom, The Best Historical Tours in United Kingdom, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United Kingdom, and The Best 3-Day Tours in United Kingdom.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Newcastle upon Tyne or Cardiff?

Cardiff has a larger population, and is about 57% larger than the population of Newcastle upon Tyne. When comparing the sizes of Newcastle upon Tyne 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 Newcastle upon Tyne or Cardiff?

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 Newcastle upon Tyne or Cardiff in the Summer?

Both Cardiff and Newcastle upon Tyne during the summer are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Newcastle upon Tyne for the family-friendly experiences during these months. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Cardiff because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Newcastle upon Tyne is generally cooler than Cardiff. Daily temperatures in Newcastle upon Tyne average around 15°C (59°F), and Cardiff fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

In Cardiff, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the summer, Newcastle upon Tyne often gets less sunshine than Cardiff. Newcastle upon Tyne gets 159 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cardiff receives 220 hours of full sun.

Newcastle upon Tyne usually gets more rain in July than Cardiff. Newcastle upon Tyne gets 99 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Cardiff receives 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Newcastle upon Tyne or Cardiff in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Newcastle upon Tyne and Cardiff. The autumn months attract visitors to Newcastle upon Tyne because of the shopping scene. 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.

Newcastle upon Tyne is cooler than Cardiff in the autumn. The daily temperature in Newcastle upon Tyne averages around 10°C (49°F) in October, and Cardiff fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

Newcastle upon Tyne usually receives less sunshine than Cardiff during autumn. Newcastle upon Tyne gets 69 hours of sunny skies, while Cardiff receives 95 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Cardiff receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Newcastle upon Tyne gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Newcastle upon Tyne usually receives more rain than Cardiff. Newcastle upon Tyne gets 163 mm (6.4 in) of rain, while Cardiff receives 101 mm (4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Newcastle upon Tyne or Cardiff in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Newcastle upon Tyne as well as Cardiff. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Newcastle upon Tyne this time of year. Additionally, 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 Newcastle upon Tyne in the winter. In the winter, Newcastle upon Tyne is around the same temperature as Cardiff. Typically, the winter temperatures in Newcastle upon Tyne in January average around 3°C (38°F), and Cardiff averages at about 3°C (38°F).

In the winter, Newcastle upon Tyne often gets less sunshine than Cardiff. Newcastle upon Tyne gets 40 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cardiff receives 57 hours of full sun.

Newcastle upon Tyne receives a lot of rain in the winter. Newcastle upon Tyne usually gets more rain in January than Cardiff. Newcastle upon Tyne gets 165 mm (6.5 in) of rain, while Cardiff receives 95 mm (3.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Newcastle upon Tyne or Cardiff in the Spring?

Both Cardiff and Newcastle upon Tyne are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Also, many visitors come to Cardiff in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In April, Newcastle upon Tyne is generally cooler than Cardiff. Daily temperatures in Newcastle upon Tyne average around 7°C (45°F), and Cardiff fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

Newcastle upon Tyne usually receives less sunshine than Cardiff during spring. Newcastle upon Tyne gets 134 hours of sunny skies, while Cardiff receives 183 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Newcastle upon Tyne usually receives more rain than Cardiff. Newcastle upon Tyne gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Cardiff receives 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Cardiff and Newcastle upon Tyne