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

Should you visit Valencia or Cardiff?

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

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

Valencia

Valencia is a historic, architectural, and friendly coastal city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. 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. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Valencia and Cardiff: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Valencia or Cardiff?

You'll generally find more things to do in Valencia than Cardiff. Valencia is bigger than Cardiff, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Valencia is more touristy than Cardiff and is known for its rich cultural, world class museums, beautiful old town, and local cuisine (which includes paella). Also, Valencia is famous for La Ciutat de les Arts i les Ciències. Cardiff is well known for having the most castles per square mile of any city in Europe.

How is Valencia different from Cardiff?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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

Valencia offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The city is famous for its architecture and culture. Most of the main attractions are concentrated in Ciutat Vella and can be easily accessed on foot. Notable landmarks include La Lonja de Seda, Catedral de València, and Plaza de la Virgen. There are also several world class museums including Oceanogràfic de València and La Ciutat de les Arts i les Ciències de València.

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 Valencia or Cardiff? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Valencia 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, Valencia is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. The city is famous as the birthplace of paella, which is one of Spain's most famous dishes. Beyond the paella, there are a number of other amazing traditional dishes. Fideuà is similar to paella but made with noodles instead of rice. All i pebre is an eel and potato dish and clóchinas are tiny local mussels. For dessert make sure you try the flan de calabaza, which is pumpkin flavored. Many restaurants also have tapas that can be shared. Restaurants in the old town are charming and delicious, but out by the beaches the quality isn't as good.

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 Valencia or Cardiff Better for Nightlife?

Valencia is a must-visit destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Cardiff is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

Valencia is a world class party destination. Dinner starts late, so you can expect the nightlife to pick up even later. During the summer there are all night terrace parties and year round you'll find nightclubs filled from evening to dawn. If all night raves aren't really your thing, you'll also find plenty of local bars where you can hang out with friends in a more relaxed setting. The nightlife scene really is varied enough that there's something 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 Valencia or Cardiff Better for Resorts?

Valencia is a popular place for its resorts. However, Cardiff is not a resort destination.

With a selection of resorts, Valencia makes a nice vacation spot. You can choose between staying near the old town (Ciutat Vella) or out by the beach. One of the best beach areas is El Cabanyal. It's still close enough in to be well connected by public transit but offers a great coastal vibe as well.

Cardiff is not a resort destination.

Is Valencia or Cardiff Better for Beaches?

Valencia is a popular place for the beache. However, Cardiff is not a beach destination.

Valencia is a good option for a beach vacation. There are several urban beaches in town that are accessible by public transit. Many offer surprisingly long stretches of sand with wide beaches and plenty of activity. The beaches can get crowded during the summer months, but they are generally large enough to accommodate the crowds. La Malvarrosa Beach is one of the most popular because of its proximity to the city. El Saler Beach is further out and popular with the locals and Port Saplaya is a colorful area with shopping and beaches.

Cardiff is not a beach destination.

Is Valencia or Cardiff Better for its Old Town?

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

The rich history of Valencia can be explored in its historical center. For culture, history, and the majority of the city's attractions, you'll want to spend your time in Ciutat Vella (old town).

Cardiff does not have a historic old town.

Is Valencia or Cardiff Better for Hiking?

Valencia is a popular place for its hiking experiences. However, Cardiff is not a hiking destination.

Valencia is a good destination for hiking. Most people miss out on the beautiful hikes through the nearby countryside, but if you venture out of town you can enjoy some beautiful walking trails. Many run along the coastline or pass through rolling hills. There is varied landscape in the area with pine forests, orange groves, and vineyards all common.

Cardiff is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Valencia or Cardiff?

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

Valencia is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. As the third largest city in Spain, you'll find most designer brands around town. The main shopping street is Calle Colon where you'll find the well-known European brands mixed in with the lesser-known Spanish brands. For a more local experience head to Mercado Central where you'll find local produce, colorful seafood, and a unique foodie vibe.

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 Valencia or Cardiff Better for Families?

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

Valencia is a very kid-friendly coastal city. The city has some kid-friendly museums, an impressive zoo, and the largest aquarium in Europe (with its own dolphin show). Head to the Science Museum or simply wander around the museum complex. There are water activities and a beautiful futuristic style that attracts families and influencers with its photogenic atmosphere. There are also countless playgrounds of all sizes around town and a number of parks and outdoor spaces where kids can run around. There's a city park that runs through town and has playgrounds and bike trails. You can also spend a fun-filled day at the beach.

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 Valencia or Cardiff Better for Couples?

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

Couples visit Valencia frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. The city is filled with interesting culture, beautiful weather, and delightful cuisine. There are sandy beaches and luxury hotels that will make for an amazing romantic getaway. There are also many beautiful gardens and charming neighborhoods that you can explore. Couples can split a paella and sip sangrias in one of the many charming restaurants around 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 Valencia or Cardiff Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Valencia is a great destination for backpackers. However, Cardiff is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Valencia is a great coastal city to visit for backpackers. It's often overlooked for more popular destinations, but this city has plenty to offer in the form of affordable accommodation and food as well as interesting sights.

Cardiff is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Valencia or Cardiff Better for Students?

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

Many students frequent Valencia. The city is young and vibrant with a lot of culture and beautiful neighborhoods. It's also well connected to the rest of Spain with a convenient central train station.

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

Valencia is a popular place for its public transit. However, Cardiff is a city with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

You'll find some public transit in Valencia, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. Public transit is available in the form of buses and a tram/metro system but the system isn't as comprehensive as it could be and much of the city is surprisingly dependent on cars.

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

Is Valencia or Cardiff a more walkable city?

Valencia 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.

Valencia is a very walkable coastal city. Walking is the best way to explore many parts of the city and you can walk from one side of the Ciutat Vella to the other in about 20 minutes. This area is where you'll find most of the city's main attractions. There are other neighborhoods that are a bit less pedestrian-friendly.

Cardiff is a somewhat walkable coastal 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 Valencia Worth Visiting? and Is Cardiff Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Cardiff or Valencia?

How long in Valencia or Cardiff?

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

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

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

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

One day in Valencia or Cardiff?

Because Valencia 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 coastal 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 Valencia or Cardiff?

Because Valencia 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. 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 Valencia has to offer.

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 Valencia or Cardiff?

Valencia 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 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 Valencia or Cardiff?

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

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 G Adventures Tours to Spain, The Best 3-Day Tours from Madrid, 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 Valencia and Cardiff, we can see that Cardiff is more expensive. And not only is Valencia much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Valencia would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Valencia 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 Valencia.

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

Which is Bigger, Valencia or Cardiff?

Valencia has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Cardiff. When comparing the sizes of Valencia 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 Valencia 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 Valencia or Cardiff in the Summer?

Both Cardiff and Valencia are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Valencia in the summer for the beaches, the hiking, 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.

Valencia is a little warmer than Cardiff in the summer. The daily temperature in Valencia averages around 25°C (76°F) in July, and Cardiff fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

It's quite sunny in Cardiff. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Valencia. Valencia usually receives more sunshine than Cardiff during summer. Valencia gets 303 hours of sunny skies, while Cardiff receives 220 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Valencia usually receives less rain than Cardiff. Valencia gets 9 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Cardiff receives 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Valencia or Cardiff in the Autumn?

Both Cardiff and Valencia during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Valencia for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, 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, Valencia is much warmer than Cardiff. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Valencia in October average around 19°C (66°F), and Cardiff averages at about 11°C (52°F).

In the autumn, Valencia often gets more sunshine than Cardiff. Valencia gets 198 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. Valencia usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Cardiff. Valencia gets 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain, while Cardiff receives 101 mm (4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Valencia or Cardiff in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Valencia and Cardiff. The winter months attract visitors to Valencia because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, 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. In January, Valencia is generally much warmer than Cardiff. Daily temperatures in Valencia average around 12°C (53°F), and Cardiff fluctuates around 3°C (38°F).

Valencia usually receives more sunshine than Cardiff during winter. Valencia gets 162 hours of sunny skies, while Cardiff receives 57 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Valencia usually receives less rain than Cardiff. Valencia gets 32 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Cardiff receives 95 mm (3.7 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Valencia or Cardiff in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Valencia as well as Cardiff. The beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty are the main draw to Valencia this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Cardiff for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

Valencia is much warmer than Cardiff in the spring. The daily temperature in Valencia averages around 15°C (60°F) in April, and Cardiff fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Valencia this time of the year. In the spring, Valencia often gets more sunshine than Cardiff. Valencia gets 213 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cardiff receives 183 hours of full sun.

Valencia usually gets less rain in April than Cardiff. Valencia gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Cardiff receives 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Cardiff and Valencia