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

Should you visit Tallinn or Cardiff?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Tallinn 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.

Tallinn

Tallinn is a quaint, whimsical, and historical city. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. It also has a unique and quaint vibe that attracts lots of visitors. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Cardiff

Cardiff is a industrial, up-and-coming, and green city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Tallinn and Cardiff: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
  • Impressive beauty
  • Quaint atmosphere
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Tallinn or Cardiff?

You'll generally find more things to do in Tallinn than Cardiff. Tallinn is bigger than Cardiff, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Tallinn is better known for its museums, food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Cardiff is more popular for its big city activities. Tallinn is more touristy than Cardiff and is popular for its well preserved old town and its active nightlife scene. Also, Tallinn is famous for The Old Town. Cardiff is well known for having the most castles per square mile of any city in Europe.

The Old Town
The Old Town

How is Tallinn different from Cardiff?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Tallinn
Cardiff

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

Tallinn offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. There are beautiful historic churches, particularly in the city's old town. A highlight is the stunning Alexander Nevski Cathedral. You'll also find some unique museums around town as well as Toompea Castle.

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 Tallinn or Cardiff? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Tallinn
Cardiff

Tallinn is a popular place for its restaurant scene. However, Cardiff is a city with minimal options for its local flavors and cuisine.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Tallinn. Food is affordable and hearty. Many dishes incorporate rye bread, pork, smoked fish, potatoes, or dairy products. You'll also find a lot of variation in dishes between seasons.

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 Tallinn or Cardiff Better for Nightlife?

Tallinn
Cardiff

Tallinn 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 Tallinn know how to have a good time. As it's grown in popularity with tourists, the city has put itself on the map as a top party destination in Eastern Europe. There's an active bar and club scene, but there are also art venues and other creative activities for everyone.

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 Tallinn or Cardiff Better for its Old Town?

Tallinn
Cardiff

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

The rich history of Tallinn can be explored in its historical center. The city's medieval old town is at the heart of it's tourist attractions. The Gothic architecture, local restaurants, and cobblestone streets give the city a fairytale charm.

Cardiff does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Tallinn or Cardiff?

Tallinn
Cardiff

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

Tallinn is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. There's a mix of quirky shops and recognizable brands around town. Old town is a popular shopping area, as is nearby Kalamaja. Visitors enjoy picking up marzipan, local crafts, and unique art.

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 Tallinn or Cardiff Better for Families?

Tallinn
Cardiff

Tallinn and Cardiff are both notable destinations for the whole family.

Tallinn is a family-friendly city. Your kids will feel like they stepped into a fairytale in this beautiful city. It has countless museums including an open air museum and a zoo. There's also nearby Pirita Beach, where you and your kids can enjoy ice cream in a seaside setting.

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 Tallinn or Cardiff Better for Couples?

Tallinn
Cardiff

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

Couples visit Tallinn frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Filled with gardens, romantic walks, and impressive views, this city makes for a great couple's getaway. Base yourself in the city's beautiful old town and dine in one of the many local restaurants. There are also nice hotels around town that are great for couples.

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 Tallinn or Cardiff Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Tallinn
Cardiff

Tallinn 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 Tallinn. The city is both affordable and unique, which is perfect for travelers on a budget. There are plenty of hostels around town as well as casual places to grab a cheap bite to eat.

Cardiff is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Tallinn or Cardiff Better for Students?

Tallinn
Cardiff

Both Tallinn and Cardiff are notable destinations for students.

Plenty of students visit Tallinn. International students appreciate the vibrant atmosphere and the affordable options around town.

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

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

Tallinn
Cardiff

Tallinn 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 Tallinn can get you around easily. There are buses trolleys and trams around town.

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


Is Tallinn or Cardiff a more walkable city?

Tallinn
Cardiff

Tallinn 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 Tallinn on foot is easy. The city is compact and easily explored on foot, particularly in the most touristy areas.

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 Tallinn Worth Visiting? and Is Cardiff Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Cardiff or Tallinn?

How long in Tallinn or Cardiff?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Tallinn and Cardiff. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Tallinn than in Cardiff. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Tallinn, and 1-3 days is enough time in Cardiff.

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

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

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


  • How many days in Tallinn or Cardiff? Ideal Length of Stay
    Tallinn 2-4 
    Cardiff 1-3

One day in Tallinn or Cardiff?

In Tallinn, you'll find nightlife and food. 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.

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

A weekend in Tallinn or Cardiff?

In Tallinn, 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 Tallinn has to offer.

In Cardiff, you'll find nightlife and shopping. 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 Cardiff has to offer.


Five days in Tallinn or Cardiff?

Tallinn 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.

Cardiff 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.

A week in Tallinn or Cardiff?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Tallinn. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Tallinn. 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.

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


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from Tallinn, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Estonia, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in United Kingdom, and The Best Coach Bus Tours in United Kingdom.


Which place is cheaper, Cardiff or Tallinn?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Tallinn is €95, while the average daily cost in Cardiff is €182. 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 Tallinn and Cardiff in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Tallinn 47
    Cardiff 109
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Tallinn 94
    Cardiff 218
Compare Hotels in Tallinn and Cardiff

Looking for a hotel in Tallinn 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 Tallinn


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: Tallinn Hotel Prices and Cardiff Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Tallinn 12
    Cardiff 25
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Tallinn

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for transportation costs in Tallinn:


  • Tram Around Town for Two
    1.66

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Tallinn

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

  • Tallinn Party Bus Airport Transfer: $124
  • Arrival Private Transfer from Tallinn Airport or Port to Tallinn City by minibus: $91
  • Arrival Private Transfer from Tallinn Airport or Port to Tallinn by Luxury Car : $90
  • Arrival private transfer from Tallinn Airport or Port to Tallinn by Luxury Van: $41
  • Departure private transfer from Tallinn to Tallinn Airport or Port by Luxury Car: $90
  • Departure private transfer from Tallinn to Tallinn TLL Airport by Luxury Van: $41
  • From Helicopter transfer to Helsinki: $2,647
  • Private Transfer from Tallinn Cruise Port to Tallinn hotels : $16
  • Private Transfer from Tallinn hotels to Tallinn Cruise Port : $16
  • Talinn Airport and City Private Transfer: $44
  • Tallinn Airport (TLL) to Tallinn Cruise Port - Round-Trip Privat Transfer: $33
  • Tallinn Airport Transfer - Return: $87

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Cardiff

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Cardiff:

  • Private Transfer from Mold to Manchester Airport (MAN): $125
  • Private Transfer from Holyhead Port to Manchester Airport (MAN): $102
  • Private Cardiff Departure Transfer - Hotel / Accommodation to Airport: $58
  • Private Cardiff Arrival Transfer- Airport to Hotel / Accommodation : $58
  • Newport Accommodation to Cardiff Airport (CWL) - Departure Private Transfer: $60
  • Heathrow Airport: Bus Transfer to/from Cardiff: $16
  • Departure Private Transfer from Cardiff to Cardiff Airport CWL by Luxury Vehicle: $95
  • Cardiff to Cardiff Airport (CWL) - Departure Private Transfer: $38
  • Cardiff Private Transfer from Cardiff Airport to City centre: $79
  • Cardiff Airport (CWL): Transfer to Cardiff Accommodation: $139
  • Bristol Airport: Bus Transfer to/from Cardiff: $13
  • Barry Accommodation to Cardiff Airport (CWL) - Departure Private Transfer: $33

Is it cheaper to fly into Tallinn or Cardiff?

Prices for flights to both Cardiff and Tallinn 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
    Tallinn 36
    Cardiff 51
Typical Food Prices in Tallinn

For Tallinn, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Lunch for Two
    7.68
  • Dessert
    1.15

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Tallinn

For Tallinn, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Tallinn TV Tower evening dinner (2-course meal): $56
  • Tallinn TV Tower evening dinner (3-course meal): $63
  • Tallinn Russian Dinner: $84
  • Tallinn Beer House Dinner: $96
  • Tallinn Food Tour: $116
  • Tallinn 3-Hour Estonian Food Tour: $127
  • Tallinn Food Tour with Round-trip Transfer Port-City: $136
  • Vegan Food Tours Tallinn: $213

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Tallinn 5.63
    Cardiff 29

Tours and Activities in Tallinn

For Tallinn, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.21
  • Tallinn Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $6.55
  • Self-Guided Highlights Scavenger Hunt and Tour: $6.95
  • Aegna Island: Self-Guided Discovery Tour: $8.54
  • Private Self-Guided Audio Walking Tour in Tallinn Old Town: $8.73
  • Tales of Reval Smartphone App Self-Guided GPS Walking Tour: $11
  • Self-Guided Audio Tour: $11
  • Tallinn Self-Guided Audio Tour: $14
  • Self-Guided Tour to Most Instagrammable Places in Tallinn: $15
  • Terrific Tallinn Self-Guided Audio Tour: $15
  • Virtual Time Travel Experience VR Tallinn 1939/44 I: $16
  • Time Travel Experience "VR Tallinn 1939/44": $16

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
    Tallinn 15
    Cardiff 15

Sample the Local Flavors in Tallinn

Also in Tallinn, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Mad Monk’s Pub Crawl Tallinn: $21
  • Tallinn Pub Crawl (Ex The Epic Bar Crawl): $27
  • Tallinn Exclusive Pub & Bar Crawl - Free Drinks, Local Guide: $42
  • Tallinn Brewery Fiesta: $72
  • Tallinn Guided Bar Crawl: $123

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

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


Which is Bigger, Tallinn or Cardiff?

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

Both Cardiff and Tallinn during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Tallinn in the summer for the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Cardiff for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Tallinn is around the same temperature as Cardiff in the summer. The daily temperature in Tallinn averages around 17°C (62°F) in July, and Cardiff fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

In Cardiff, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Tallinn. In the summer, Tallinn often gets more sunshine than Cardiff. Tallinn gets 279 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cardiff receives 220 hours of full sun.

Tallinn usually gets more rain in July than Cardiff. Tallinn gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Cardiff receives 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


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

Should I visit Tallinn or Cardiff in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Tallinn and Cardiff. Most visitors come to Tallinn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Furthermore, 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 the autumn, Tallinn is much colder than Cardiff. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Tallinn in October average around 7°C (44°F), and Cardiff averages at about 11°C (52°F).

Tallinn usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Cardiff during autumn. Tallinn gets 92 hours of sunny skies, while Cardiff receives 95 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Cardiff receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, Tallinn usually receives less rain than Cardiff. Tallinn gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Cardiff receives 101 mm (4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Tallinn 7°C (44°F) 
    Cardiff 11°C (52°F)

Should I visit Tallinn or Cardiff in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Tallinn as well as Cardiff. The winter months attract visitors to Tallinn because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, 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. The weather in Tallinn can be very cold. In January, Tallinn is generally much colder than Cardiff. Daily temperatures in Tallinn average around -5°C (22°F), and Cardiff fluctuates around 3°C (38°F).

In the winter, Tallinn often gets less sunshine than Cardiff. Tallinn gets 25 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cardiff receives 57 hours of full sun.

Tallinn usually gets less rain in January than Cardiff. Tallinn gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Cardiff receives 95 mm (3.7 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Tallinn -5°C (22°F) 
    Cardiff 3°C (38°F)

Should I visit Tallinn or Cardiff in the Spring?

Both Cardiff and Tallinn are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The natural beauty are the main draw to Tallinn this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Cardiff for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

It's quite cold in Tallinn in the spring. Tallinn is much colder than Cardiff in the spring. The daily temperature in Tallinn averages around 4°C (39°F) in April, and Cardiff fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

Tallinn usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Cardiff during spring. Tallinn gets 186 hours of sunny skies, while Cardiff receives 183 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Tallinn usually receives less rain than Cardiff. Tallinn gets 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain, while Cardiff receives 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Tallinn 4°C (39°F) 
    Cardiff 9°C (48°F)

Typical Weather for Cardiff and Tallinn

Tallinn Cardiff
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan -5°C (22°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 3°C (38°F) 95 mm (3.7 in)
Feb -6°C (22°F) 29 mm (1.1 in) 4°C (40°F) 70 mm (2.7 in)
Mar -2°C (29°F) 29 mm (1.1 in) 6°C (42°F) 80 mm (3.2 in)
Apr 4°C (39°F) 36 mm (1.4 in) 9°C (48°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
May 10°C (50°F) 37 mm (1.5 in) 12°C (53°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Jun 15°C (58°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 15°C (59°F) 57 mm (2.3 in)
Jul 17°C (62°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 17°C (63°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Aug 16°C (60°F) 84 mm (3.3 in) 17°C (62°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Sep 11°C (52°F) 82 mm (3.2 in) 14°C (58°F) 95 mm (3.7 in)
Oct 7°C (44°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 11°C (52°F) 101 mm (4 in)
Nov 1°C (34°F) 68 mm (2.7 in) 7°C (45°F) 97 mm (3.8 in)
Dec -3°C (27°F) 55 mm (2.2 in) 5°C (40°F) 96 mm (3.8 in)