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

Should you visit Valletta or Cardiff?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Valletta and Cardiff can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Valletta

Valletta is a cultural, waterfront, and historic town. 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 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.

Valletta and Cardiff: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Valletta or Cardiff?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Valletta. Although Valletta and Cardiff are both popular with visitors, Valletta has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Valletta is more popular for its museums, food, beaches, historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Cardiff is known for its big city activities. Valletta is popular for its ancient fortifications, Baroque palaces, and beautiful gardens. It is also home to The Grand Masters Palace. Cardiff is popular for having the most castles per square mile of any city in Europe.

How is Valletta different from Cardiff?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Valletta 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 Valletta are among the most recognizable in the world. With its rich culture and compact old town, there are countless museums, sights, and monuments that are worth visiting. Some options include Saint John's Co-Cathedral, the Grandmaster's Palace and Armory, the National Museum of Archaeology, Manoel Theater, and the Upper Barrakka Gardens.

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 Valletta or Cardiff? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Valletta 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, Valletta is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. The town's culinary scene has a long history with many traditional flavors. You really must experience a meal in one of the traditional stone cellar restaurants, which often serve local meze. Head to Republic Street for a stretch of longstanding restaurants in town. Local dishes include stuffat tal-fenek (rabbit stew), bragioli (rolled meat covered in sauce), and lampuki pie (fish pie).

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 Valletta or Cardiff Better for Nightlife?

The good nightlife scene is relatively similar in Valletta and Cardiff.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Valletta. It wasn't long ago that the town went quiet in the evenings, but recent years have brought a surge in bars and clubs around town. You'll find the liveliest nightlife in areas around Strait Street and the Valletta Waterfront. If you're looking for a true clubbing scene, you'll want to head north out of town to Paceville.

Cardiff has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The nightlife scene is all about fun and most of the activities are driven by the large and diverse student population.

Is Valletta or Cardiff Better for Beaches?

Valletta is a town with a few options for the beache. However, Cardiff is not a beach destination.

You can check out the beach in Valletta. There aren't any beaches in town, but if you head north to St. George’s Bay you'll find some nice beaches with a variety of resorts to choose from.

Cardiff is not a beach destination.

Is Valletta or Cardiff Better for its Old Town?

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

The rich history of Valletta can be explored in its historical center. The old town is laid out with a uniform grid and the streets are lined with hundreds of historic buildings. At the heart of old town is Republic Street, which divides the area in half and is where you'll find a large concentration of restaurants.

Cardiff does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Valletta or Cardiff?

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

Valletta is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. For the best shopping head to Republic Street and Merchants Street where you'll find craft shops, boutiques, and other local souvenirs. Many visitors enjoy picking up blown glass, a locally made miniature, or cactus liquor. Lace is also a common local item that you'll find around town.

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 Valletta or Cardiff Better for Families?

Both Valletta and Cardiff are good to visit with kids.

Valletta is a family-friendly town. This charming town has nearby beaches as well as a few museums that kids will enjoy, including a toy museum. There are also several multi-media shows that educate visitors on the area's history. Make sure you check out Malta 5D and the Malta Experience.

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 Valletta or Cardiff Better for Couples?

Valletta is a must-visit destination for its romantic activities. However, Cardiff is a city with minimal options for couples.

Valletta makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. The town offers beautiful walks, luxury spa experiences, and evening sunset cruises that are seeped in romance. During the evening you can enjoy a cocktail hour and then dine in one of the town's many unique restaurants.

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 Valletta or Cardiff Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Valletta is a great town to visit for backpackers. The island has grown in popularity with backpackers, particularly those coming from Europe, as there are affordable flights and easy accessibility. You'll also find some nice hostels around town where you can stay on a budget.

Cardiff is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Valletta or Cardiff Better for Students?

Cardiff is a city with good options for its student-friendly activities. However, Valletta is not popular with students.

Plenty of students visit Cardiff. Most students come to study at Cardiff University, which is a leading university in Great Britain.

Valletta is not popular with students.

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

Valletta 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 Valletta, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. If you're not up for walking up and down the hills, there are some buses around town.

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

Is Valletta or Cardiff a more walkable city?

Valletta 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 Valletta on foot is easy. The town is compact and easy to walk around with many sights within a short distance of each other. There's also very little street traffic.

Cardiff is a somewhat walkable town. 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 Valletta Worth Visiting? and Is Cardiff Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Cardiff or Valletta?

How long in Valletta or Cardiff?

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

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

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

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

One day in Valletta or Cardiff?

In Valletta, you'll find nightlife and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This town offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

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 Valletta or Cardiff?

In Valletta, 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 Valletta 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 Valletta or Cardiff?

Valletta 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 Valletta or Cardiff?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Valletta. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Valletta. 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 Historical Tours in Malta, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Malta, 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 Valletta and Cardiff, we can see that Cardiff is more expensive. And not only is Valletta much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Valletta would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Valletta 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 Valletta.

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

Which is Bigger, Valletta or Cardiff?

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

Cardiff has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, but Valletta experiences a warm climate with fairly sunny weather most of the year.

Should I visit Valletta or Cardiff in the Summer?

Both Cardiff and Valletta during the summer are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Valletta because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Furthermore, many visitors come to Cardiff in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Valletta is generally a little warmer than Cardiff. Daily temperatures in Valletta average around 26°C (79°F), and Cardiff fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

In Cardiff, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Valletta. In the summer, Valletta often gets more sunshine than Cardiff. Valletta gets 365 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cardiff receives 220 hours of full sun.

Valletta usually gets less rain in July than Cardiff. Valletta gets 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Cardiff receives 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Valletta or Cardiff in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Valletta and Cardiff. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Valletta year-round. Furthermore, most visitors come to Cardiff for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Valletta is much warmer than Cardiff in the autumn. The daily temperature in Valletta averages around 21°C (70°F) in October, and Cardiff fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

In Valletta, it's very sunny this time of the year. Valletta usually receives more sunshine than Cardiff during autumn. Valletta gets 221 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, Valletta usually receives less rain than Cardiff. Valletta gets 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Cardiff receives 101 mm (4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Valletta or Cardiff in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Valletta as well as Cardiff. Valletta attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Additionally, the winter months attract visitors to Cardiff because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Cardiff can be very cold. In the winter, Valletta is much warmer than Cardiff. Typically, the winter temperatures in Valletta in January average around 13°C (55°F), and Cardiff averages at about 3°C (38°F).

In the winter, Valletta often gets more sunshine than Cardiff. Valletta gets 159 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cardiff receives 57 hours of full sun.

Valletta usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Cardiff. Valletta gets 90 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Cardiff receives 95 mm (3.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Valletta or Cardiff in the Spring?

Both Cardiff and Valletta are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Valletta throughout the year. Also, the activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Cardiff this time of year.

In April, Valletta is generally much warmer than Cardiff. Daily temperatures in Valletta average around 16°C (61°F), and Cardiff fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Valletta. Valletta usually receives more sunshine than Cardiff during spring. Valletta gets 247 hours of sunny skies, while Cardiff receives 183 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Valletta usually receives less rain than Cardiff. Valletta gets 30 mm (1.2 in) of rain, while Cardiff receives 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Cardiff and Valletta