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

Should you visit Wellington or Cardiff?

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

Should I visit Wellington or Cardiff? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Wellington

Wellington is a compact, laid-back, and funky city. 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.

Wellington and Cardiff: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Wellington or Cardiff?

You'll generally find more things to do in Wellington than Cardiff. Wellington is bigger than Cardiff, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Wellington is better known for its food, nightlife, beaches, hiking, and shopping, while Cardiff is more popular for its big city activities and impressive beauty. Wellington is more touristy than Cardiff and is popular for its waterfront promenade, quirky cafe culture, and relaxing beaches. Also, Wellington is famous for Zealandia Ecosanctuary. Cardiff is well known for having the most castles per square mile of any city in Europe.

How is Wellington different from Cardiff?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Visiting museums and landmarks is a fun activity in both Wellington and Cardiff.

Wellington offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. As the capital city, you'll find a number of museums and sights around town. Check out the Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa, the Beehive, the Wellington Museum, and the City Gallery.

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 Wellington or Cardiff? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Wellington 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 Wellington. There are waterfront restaurants and a vibrant cafe scene around town. You'll also find local markets and many diverse eateries that you can explore.

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 Wellington or Cardiff Better for Nightlife?

Wellington 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 Wellington know how to have a good time. The best nightlife scene is found along Courtenay Place. There you'll find nightclubs, pubs, and cocktail bars. Cuba Street is another fun area with a bit more of a local vibe, and the waterfront is another great nightlife district in the city.

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 Wellington or Cardiff Better for Beaches?

Wellington is a great destination for the beache. However, Cardiff is not a beach destination.

Wellington is considered a top beach destination. There are nice beaches within walking distance of the city center. There are also beaches that are well worth the drive if you're looking to get a bit out of town. In the summer months, there are swimming beaches, and year around they have nice views and a good atmosphere.

Cardiff is not a beach destination.

Is Wellington or Cardiff Better for Hiking?

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

Wellington is a good destination for hiking. The area has rolling hills and beautiful coastlines that are filled with walking trails and scenic views. Some of the more popular trails in the area are the Red Rocks walk and the City-to-Sea walk.

Cardiff is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Wellington or Cardiff?

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

Wellington is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. For the city's best shopping, head to the "Golden Mile". This is the area defined by Lambton Quay, Willis Street, Manners Street and Courtenay Place. There are boutique designers and high end fashion outlets throughout the area. The city also has many great markets and local shopping areas.

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 Wellington or Cardiff Better for Families?

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

Wellington is a very kid-friendly city. There's the Wellington Zoo as well as Island Bay Marine Education Centre, both of which are great for animal-lovers. Waitangi Park is a nice park where kids can run around and play, and if you're looking for something indoors, head to the Space Place at Carter Observatory. If everyone needs some down time, there's always the beach with is fun to hang out at.

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 Wellington or Cardiff Better for Couples?

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

Wellington makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The botanical gardens are beautiful to explore, and there is also a bird sanctuary in the area as well. Couple's will also enjoy the many nice restaurants and beautiful outdoor space 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 Wellington or Cardiff Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Wellington is a great city to visit for backpackers. Located on the south side of the North Island, many backpackers use this city as a gateway to the South Island. There are many hostels around town and other fellow backpackers to hang out with.

Cardiff is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Wellington or Cardiff Better for Students?

Both Wellington and Cardiff are notable destinations for students.

Plenty of students visit Wellington. The locals are friendly and welcoming, and the atmosphere is a nice setting for students.

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

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

Wellington 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 Wellington can get you around easily. There are city buses, trains, and ferries that are popular with tourists and locals alike.

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

Is Wellington or Cardiff a more walkable city?

Wellington 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.

Wellington is a very walkable city. This is one of New Zealand's most walkable cities and it has a compact city center.

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 Wellington Worth Visiting? and Is Cardiff Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Cardiff or Wellington?

How long in Wellington or Cardiff?

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

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

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

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

One day in Wellington or Cardiff?

In Wellington, you'll find nightlife and food. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

With museums and nightlife around the green city of Cardiff, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Cardiff, one day is sufficent for most.

A weekend in Wellington or Cardiff?

In Wellington, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Most people come for the beaches. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Wellington has to offer.

With nightlife and shopping around the destination of Cardiff, there's plenty to do. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.

Five days in Wellington or Cardiff?

Wellington is a great place to explore. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. 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, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Wellington or Cardiff?

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

Cardiff is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

For some great organized tour ideas, see Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in New Zealand, The Best Adventure Tours to New Zealand, 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 Wellington and Cardiff, we can see that Cardiff is more expensive. And not only is Wellington much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Wellington is in Pacific and Cardiff is in Europe, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. So, traveling to Wellington would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Wellington 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 Wellington.

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

Which is Bigger, Wellington or Cardiff?

Wellington has a larger population, and is about 26% larger than the population of Cardiff. When comparing the sizes of Wellington 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 Wellington or Cardiff?

Even though both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, they experience these seasons at different times of the year. Wellington is in the southern hemisphere and summer is in January and winter is in July, but Cardiff has summer in [NORTHERNSUMMERMONTH] and winter in [NORTHERNWINTERMONTH].

Should I visit Wellington or Cardiff in the Summer?

Both Cardiff and Wellington during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Wellington because of the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, the city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Cardiff this time of year.

Wellington is around the same temperature as Cardiff in the summer. The daily temperature in Wellington averages around 18°C (64°F) in January, and Cardiff fluctuates around 17°C (63°F)in July.

In Cardiff, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Wellington. In the summer, Wellington often gets more sunshine than Cardiffin July. Wellington gets 242 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cardiff receives 220 hours of full sun.

Wellington usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Cardiffin July. Wellington gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Cardiff receives 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Wellington or Cardiff in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Wellington and Cardiff. The hiking trails and the shopping scene are the main draw to Wellington this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Cardiff for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Wellington is a little warmer than Cardiff. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Wellington in April average around 15°C (58°F), and Cardiff averages at about 11°C (52°F)in October.

Wellington usually receives more sunshine than Cardiff during autumn. Wellington gets 163 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 April, Wellington usually receives less rain than Cardiffin October. Wellington gets 82 mm (3.2 in) of rain, while Cardiff receives 101 mm (4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Wellington or Cardiff in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Wellington as well as Cardiff. Many travelers come to Wellington for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, many visitors come to Cardiff in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Cardiff can get quite cold in the winter. In July, Wellington is generally much warmer than Cardiffin January. Daily temperatures in Wellington average around 10°C (49°F), and Cardiff fluctuates around 3°C (38°F).

In the winter, Wellington often gets more sunshine than Cardiffin January. Wellington gets 122 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cardiff receives 57 hours of full sun.

Wellington receives a lot of rain in the winter. Wellington usually gets more rain in July than Cardiffin January. Wellington gets 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain, while Cardiff receives 95 mm (3.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Wellington or Cardiff in the Spring?

Both Cardiff and Wellington are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Wellington in the spring for the beaches. Also, most visitors come to Cardiff for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months.

Wellington is a little warmer than Cardiff in the spring. The daily temperature in Wellington averages around 13°C (55°F) in October, and Cardiff fluctuates around 9°C (48°F)in April.

Wellington usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Cardiff during spring. Wellington gets 180 hours of sunny skies, while Cardiff receives 183 hours of full sun in the spring.

In October, Wellington usually receives more rain than Cardiffin April. Wellington gets 93 mm (3.7 in) of rain, while Cardiff receives 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Cardiff and Wellington