A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Pamukkale vs. Cardiff for Vacations, Tours, and Honeymoons

Should you visit Pamukkale 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 Pamukkale and Cardiff can help you decide which place is right for you.

Where Should I go: Pamukkale or Cardiff?

Pamukkale

Pamukkale is in southeastern Aegean Turkey and is historically a spa town that has been in existence since the 2nd century BC. It is popular with tourists for its beautiful hot springs and travertines, or pools that are coated in a very unique calcium covering. The area is very rich in mineral content and the water, which has been flowing for thousands of years, has deposited calcium in each pool. This unique whiteness creates an unworldly beauty that draws visitors from around the world. If you're visiting during the summer months when the sun is out in full force, don't forget the sunscreen, as the white reflects the light and you can end up with a sunburn quite quickly. You'll also want to make sure you have sunglasses available because the glare can be quite extreme.

Cardiff

Cardiff is the capital city of Wales, and a major port on the country's southern coast. Though Cardiff boomed with the coal industry during the Industrial Revolution, the city began its history as a Roman fort on the River Taff-perhaps taking its name from a combination of the Welsh word for fort (caer) and the name of the river (Taff). The fort still stands today along with many other landmarks that attract tourists each year.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Tours for Seniors to Turkey, The Best G Adventures Tours to Turkey, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in United Kingdom, and The Best Coach Bus Tours in United Kingdom.


Which place is cheaper, Cardiff or Pamukkale?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Pamukkale is $156, while the average daily cost in Cardiff is $194. 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 Pamukkale and Cardiff in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Pamukkale $56
    Cardiff $116
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Pamukkale $112
    Cardiff $232
Compare Hotels in Pamukkale and Cardiff

Looking for a hotel in Pamukkale 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 Pamukkale


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: Pamukkale Hotel Prices and Cardiff Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Pamukkale $35
    Cardiff $26

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Pamukkale

Also for Pamukkale, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Antalya: Guided Pamukkale Tour w/Lunch/Transfer: $84
  • Antalya; Pamukkale Hot Air Balloon Tour with Transfer: $280
  • City of Pamukkale/Denizli: Antalya Airport Private Transfer: $165
  • Denizli Cardak Airport Transfers to Denizli City Hotels: $104
  • Denizli Cardak Airport Transfers to Pamukkale Karahayit Hotels: $104
  • Denizli Cardak Airport Transfers to Pamukkale Saraykoy Hotels: $81
  • Denizli City Hotels to Denizli Cardak Airport Transfers: $136
  • Pamukkale - Karahayit Transfer from Denizli Cardak Airport: $100
  • Pamukkale Hot Air Balloon w/Flight Certificates,Champagne Toast & Hotel Transfer: $90
  • Pamukkale Saraykoy Hotels to Denizli Cardak Airport Transfers: $109
  • Pamukkale to Izmir Adnan Menderes Airport-Departure Transfer: $125
  • Private Denizli Pamukkale Airport Transfer Service: $98

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 Pamukkale or Cardiff?

Prices for flights to both Cardiff and Pamukkale 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
    Pamukkale $69
    Cardiff $55

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Pamukkale $54
    Cardiff $31
Typical Entertainment Prices in Pamukkale

For Pamukkale, here are some examples of average entertainment and activity prices from previous travelers:


  • Entrance fees Travertines & Pool
    $2.01

Tours and Activities in Pamukkale

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

  • Antalya: Pamukkale Guided Tour With Optional Balloon Flight: $37
  • Pamukkale City Highlights Small Group Guided Tour with Lunch: $40
  • Full Day Pamukkale City Tour From Pamukkale And Karahayit Hotels: $45
  • Pamukkale Paragliding Experience By Local Expert Pilots: $48
  • From Antalya: Pamukkale and Hierapolis Tour with Lunch: $48
  • Shared Pamukkale Group Tour from Pamukkale: $57
  • From Bodrum: Pamukkale & Hierapolis Guided Tour with Lunch: $63
  • Kusadasi or Selcuk: Pamukkale Guided Group Tour: $67
  • Pamukkale Tour From Pamukkale : $71
  • Antalya: Full-Day Pamukkale Tour: $80
  • Shared Cultural Tour in Pamukkale and Hierapolis: $81
  • Pamukkale and Hierapolis Tour: $85

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

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Pamukkale $15
    Cardiff $16

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 Pamukkale and Cardiff, we can see that Cardiff is more expensive. And not only is Pamukkale much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Pamukkale would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Pamukkale 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 Pamukkale.

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


Which is Bigger, Pamukkale or Cardiff?

Cardiff has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Pamukkale. When comparing the sizes of Pamukkale 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 Pamukkale 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 Pamukkale or Cardiff in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Pamukkale as well as Cardiff. Additionally, the summer months attract visitors to Cardiff because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Pamukkale is generally much warmer than Cardiff. Daily temperatures in Pamukkale average around 28°C (82°F), and Cardiff fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Cardiff. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Pamukkale this time of the year. In the summer, Pamukkale often gets more sunshine than Cardiff. Pamukkale gets 356 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cardiff receives 220 hours of full sun.

Pamukkale usually gets less rain in July than Cardiff. Pamukkale gets 3 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while Cardiff receives 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Pamukkale 28°C (82°F) 
    Cardiff 17°C (63°F)

Should I visit Pamukkale or Cardiff in the Autumn?

Both Cardiff and Pamukkale are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Also, 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.

Pamukkale is much warmer than Cardiff in the autumn. The daily temperature in Pamukkale averages around 19°C (67°F) in October, and Cardiff fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Pamukkale. Pamukkale usually receives more sunshine than Cardiff during autumn. Pamukkale gets 232 hours of sunny skies, while Cardiff receives 95 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Cardiff. In October, Pamukkale usually receives less rain than Cardiff. Pamukkale gets 39 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Cardiff receives 101 mm (4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Pamukkale 19°C (67°F) 
    Cardiff 11°C (52°F)

Should I visit Pamukkale or Cardiff in the Winter?

Both Cardiff and Pamukkale during the winter are popular places to visit. Also, many travelers come to Cardiff for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Cardiff. In the winter, Pamukkale is much warmer than Cardiff. Typically, the winter temperatures in Pamukkale in January average around 9°C (48°F), and Cardiff averages at about 3°C (38°F).

In the winter, Pamukkale often gets more sunshine than Cardiff. Pamukkale gets 137 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cardiff receives 57 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Pamukkale. Pamukkale usually gets more rain in January than Cardiff. Pamukkale gets 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain, while Cardiff receives 95 mm (3.7 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Pamukkale 9°C (48°F) 
    Cardiff 3°C (38°F)

Should I visit Pamukkale or Cardiff in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Pamukkale and Cardiff. Also, many visitors come to Cardiff in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In April, Pamukkale is generally much warmer than Cardiff. Daily temperatures in Pamukkale average around 17°C (62°F), and Cardiff fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

In Pamukkale, it's very sunny this time of the year. Pamukkale usually receives more sunshine than Cardiff during spring. Pamukkale gets 226 hours of sunny skies, while Cardiff receives 183 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Pamukkale usually receives more rain than Cardiff. Pamukkale gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Cardiff receives 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Pamukkale 17°C (62°F) 
    Cardiff 9°C (48°F)

Typical Weather for Cardiff and Pamukkale

Pamukkale Cardiff
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 9°C (48°F) 111 mm (4.4 in) 3°C (38°F) 95 mm (3.7 in)
Feb 10°C (50°F) 96 mm (3.8 in) 4°C (40°F) 70 mm (2.7 in)
Mar 13°C (55°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 6°C (42°F) 80 mm (3.2 in)
Apr 17°C (62°F) 52 mm (2 in) 9°C (48°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
May 21°C (70°F) 27 mm (1.1 in) 12°C (53°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Jun 26°C (78°F) 17 mm (0.7 in) 15°C (59°F) 57 mm (2.3 in)
Jul 28°C (82°F) 3 mm (0.1 in) 17°C (63°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Aug 27°C (81°F) 2 mm (0.1 in) 17°C (62°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Sep 24°C (76°F) 12 mm (0.5 in) 14°C (58°F) 95 mm (3.7 in)
Oct 19°C (67°F) 39 mm (1.5 in) 11°C (52°F) 101 mm (4 in)
Nov 14°C (58°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 7°C (45°F) 97 mm (3.8 in)
Dec 10°C (51°F) 129 mm (5.1 in) 5°C (40°F) 96 mm (3.8 in)