Cardiff is a green city known for having the most castles per square mile of any city in Europe. In this travel cost guide, we'll cover everything you need to know to plan your travel budget and have an amazing trip without spending too much. This guide includes average trip costs from previous travelers, typical hotel prices, food and dining costs, entertainment and sightseeing prices, and information about transportation.
How much does it cost to travel to Cardiff?
You should plan to spend around $243 (£188) per day on your vacation in Cardiff. This is the average daily price based on the expenses of other visitors.
Past travelers have spent, on average for one day:
- $98 (£76) on meals
- $27 (£21) on local transportation
- $240 (£186) on hotels
A one week trip to Cardiff for two people costs, on average, $3,400 (£2,632). This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
All of these average travel prices have been collected from other travelers to help you plan your own travel budget.
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One Week
Per person
$1,700
£1,316
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2 Weeks
Per person
$3,400
£2,632
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One Month
Per person
$7,285
£5,640
-
One Week
For a couple
$3,400
£2,632
-
2 Weeks
For a couple
$6,800
£5,264
-
One Month
For a couple
$14,571
£11,280
How much does a one week, two week, or one month trip to Cardiff cost?
A one week trip to Cardiff usually costs around $1,700 (£1,316) for one person and $3,400 (£2,632) for two people. This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
A two week trip to Cardiff on average costs around $3,400 (£2,632) for one person and $6,800 (£5,264) for two people. This cost includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
Please note, prices can vary based on your travel style, speed, and other variables. If you're traveling as a family of three or four people, the price per person often goes down because kid's tickets are cheaper and hotel rooms can be shared. If you travel slower over a longer period of time then your daily budget will also go down. Two people traveling together for one month in Cardiff will often have a lower daily budget per person than one person traveling alone for one week.
A one month trip to Cardiff on average costs around $7,285 (£5,640) for one person and $14,571 (£11,280) for two people. The more places you visit, the higher the daily price will become due to increased transportation costs.
Is Cardiff expensive to visit?
Cardiff is a smaller city that attracts a range of visitors, each with distinct travel styles, spending habits, and budgetary requirements. You'll find a wide array of accommodation options, such as luxury hotels, mid-range places, or budget-friendly hostels.
Cardiff has the potential to be expensive, but you can manage your budget by looking for discounts and coupons.
On average, budget travelers spend $107 (£82) per day, mid-range travelers spend $245 (£188) per day, and luxury travelers spend around $476 (£364) per day. These costs are calculated from the expenses of previous travelers to Cardiff.
Within Europe, which is known to be an expensive region, Cardiff is a moderately priced destination compared to other places. The overall cost of travel here is fair for the region and comparable to Naxos or Playa de las Americas.
For more details, and to find out if it's within your travel budget, see Is Cardiff Expensive?
How much money do I need for a trip to Cardiff?
The average Cardiff trip cost is broken down by category here for independent travelers. All of these Cardiff travel prices are calculated from the budgets of real travelers. Also, you can see more details at How much does a trip to Cardiff cost?
Cardiff on a Budget
|
Category
|
Budget
|
Mid-Range
|
Luxury
|
Accommodation 1
For 1 person in double occupancy
|
$53
(£41)
|
$120
(£93)
|
$218
(£169)
|
|
Local Transportation 1
|
$12
(£9.09)
|
$27
(£21)
|
$56
(£43)
|
|
Food 2
|
$42
(£33)
|
$98
(£76)
|
$200
(£155)
|
|
Entertainment 1
|
$14
(£11)
|
$32
(£25)
|
$63
(£49)
|
|
Alcohol 2
|
$4-11
(£3-8)
|
$8-25
(£6-19)
|
$16-47
(£12-37)
|
Realistic Expectations for Your Travel Budget
It's important to be realistic about your budget for Cardiff. Many assume they can visit on a shoestring, but most travelers find that to be very challenging. Think about what matters to you when traveling. Is it staying in a resort, visiting all the attractions, or dining out at nice restaurants? These factors will determine how much you spend on your trip.
Who are Budget Travelers?
You might think that you're a budget traveler. But unless you're willing to eliminate a lot of comforts from your trip, prepare to spend a lot more than the daily average of $107 that backpackers often get by on.
Young backpackers often get away with this shoestring budget, but it usually involves staying in hostel dorms, eating at the cheapest restaurants or fast food places, taking public transit or walking, and only visiting free attractions.
Could You Be an Average Traveler?
Couples and families on a fun trip will likely choose a mid-range hotel, enjoy meals at popular dining spots, and visit significant museums and attractions that have entry fees. Most guests in Cardiff will want to take in the essential attractions, museums, sights, and landmarks. After all, most activities are not free. So, it's realistic to expect your actual daily budget to be about $245 per person, per day.
Cardiff offers a diverse selection of hotels and vacation rentals. If you're traveling with companions, you can share a hotel room with a partner, friend, or your kids, making it easier on your wallet. Families should look for hotels and restaurants that are family-friendly. Number One Hundred Bed And Breakfast is an excellent option for kids, and Lincoln House Private Hotel is another fantastic choice. For more family and couple-friendly accommodations, check out our hotel guide for Cardiff here.
Dreaming of a Stylish Getaway?
For those wanting a high-end experience complete with every luxury and high-quality service, expect to spend about $476 each day. To enjoy nicer accommodations, award-winning dining, extravagant adventures, and convenient transport like taxis or private chauffeurs in the city, prepare for a pricier experience. Also, higher-end tours are common with luxury travelers, such as Cardiff City Private Guided Walking Tour - offered by Viator.
Accommodation Budget in Cardiff
The hotel prices in Cardiff might surprise you. Some places charge much more for added luxury and amenities, especially during peak season. In the off-season, a room averages $83, but during peak summer season, expect to pay around $155. Prices vary from $52 to $218, but hostels are often cheaper. Booking in advance and traveling during the low season can help save you money.
Calculated from travelers like you
The average price paid in Cardiff for two people for a typical double-occupancy hotel room is $240 (£186). For one person sharing a room, the average price paid for a hotel room is $120 (£93) per night. These costs are from the reported spending of actual travelers.
Looking for a hotel in Cardiff? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options.
The most affordable highest rated hotels in Cardiff include:
- New House Country Hotel starting at $169
- Clayton Hotel Cardiff starting at $100
- Future Inn Cardiff Bay starting at $87
- Premier Inn Cardiff City Centre starting at $87
- Manor Parc Hotel starting at $83
By avoiding the peak summer season and traveling in the low or shoulder seasons, you will be rewarded with lower accommodation prices and fewer crowds.
Transportation Budget in Cardiff
In Cardiff, the public transit system is not very good. There is a bus system that you can use to get around.
In certain neighborhoods, Cardiff is walkable, making it simple to explore the attractions. There are pedestrianized areas and the waterfront is nice to walk around but there is still room for improvement when it comes to walkability.
Public Transit: 
(moderate)
Walkability: (good)
Calculated from travelers like you
-
On average, past travelers have spent $27 (£21) per person, per day, on local transportation in Cardiff. The cost of a taxi ride or rideshare service (Uber/Lyft) in Cardiff is significantly more than public transportation.
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Transportation1
Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
$27
£21
If you're taking a car, verify that your hotel offers convenient parking.
A few of the typical hotel transfers and transportation services include:
- Barry Accommodation to Cardiff Airport (CWL) - Departure Private Transfer for $33 details
- Private Cardiff Arrival Transfer- Airport to Hotel / Accommodation for $59 details
- Private Cardiff Departure Transfer - Hotel / Accommodation to Airport for $59 details
How much does it cost to go to Cardiff? Naturally, it depends on the dates. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all airlines.
The price of renting a car in Cardiff will depends on dates, the type of car, the location, and your age. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all car rental companies.
Food Budget in Cardiff
The food scene in Cardiff isn't very expansive, and the quality isn't stellar. Consider saving your money for more rewarding activities rather than dining out. 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.
Calculated from travelers like you
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While restaurant and meal prices in Cardiff can vary significantly, the average cost of food in Cardiff is $98 (£76) per day, per person, based on the spending habits of previous travelers.
-
Food2
Meals for one day
$98
£76
When dining out, the average daily cost for food in Cardiff is around $99 (£76) per person, with previous travelers spending from $42 to $202. Generally, breakfast and lunch cost less than dinner, but this will depend on the type of restaurant and what you order.
Typical meal prices in Cardiff are as follows:
- Breakfast: $10 to $30
- Lunch: $15 to $40
- Dinner: $30 to $69
- Coffee: $8
- Fast Food or Street Food: $15
Being a modern city, Cardiff's dining scene is rich and varied. There are plenty of pubs, serving classic pub fare that you would find in the UK-fish and chips, bangers and mash (sausages and mashed potatoes), stews, soups, and just about any kind of meat pie you could ask for. Wales also has a selection of traditional fare of its own. Any soup or broth is referred to as cawl, while Welsh rarebit involves a savory cheese sauce served over toasted bread or in a dish like fondue. Welsh cakes are a kind of flat-bread cooked on a griddle (sometimes including dried fruits and sugar), bara brith or speckled bread is a yeast bread (often flavored with dried fruits, tea, and mixes spices), and Glamorgan sausage is a traditional vegetarian sausage consisting of cheese, leeks, and breadcrumbs. Cardiff also has plenty of options for international cuisine as well, including anything from French, Italian, and Middle Eastern to Indian, Japanese, or Mexican.
Many accommodations throw in breakfast at no extra cost, though others might charge you for it. The price and quality can greatly vary by hotel. Knowing this in advance can help you figure out if you need to spend more money. You might find the hotel's buffet is worth it, or you may prefer to grab a cheaper bite at a local bakery or cafe.
Pack a water bottle to avoid buying drinks on the go. Plus, it's beneficial for the planet.
Before you head out on a tour, be sure to find out which meals are included. You could end up paying for some meals out of pocket, which can impact your budget.
Sightseeing and Activities Budget in Cardiff
The allure of Cardiff is undeniable, especially since it offers museums and attractions, nightlife, and family-friendly activities.
Calculated from travelers like you
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Sightseeing activities, entertainment, and entrance tickets in Cardiff typically cost an average of $32 (£25) per person, per day based on the spending of previous travelers. This includes fees paid for admission tickets to museums and attractions, day tours, and other sightseeing expenses.
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Entertainment1
Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
$32
£25
The fort where Cardiff takes its roots is at the heart of the city and is now known as Cardiff Castle. It features many interesting elements, including a Norman fort at its center, the Welsh regimental museum, excavated Roman ruins, and tours of a part of the castle that was once the household of the Marquis of Bute. Visitors can also learn much about the history of the area and greater Wales at the National Museum Cardiff, which showcases a vast collection of paintings, as well as archaeological and geological exhibits charting the history of the country. Another unique way to learn Welsh history is to visit St. Fagan's National Museum of History, an open-air history of Welsh life featuring reconstructed ancient buildings, beautiful gardens, and traditional crafters.
There are also plenty of modern landmarks around Cardiff. The Millennium Stadium, for example, (a.k.a. Principality Stadium) is the riverside home of Welsh rugby union, and hosts football, speedway, and concerts, with daily tours. The Wales Millennium Centre is another landmark of modern architecture, hosting free entrance to theatre, opera, ballet and music shows, and also features bars and dining.
Most visitors to Cardiff have three things on their to-do list: Cardiff Castle, Cardiff Bay, and City Centre shopping. The activities in these three locations encompasses a vast range of themes from historical sightseeing to waterfront enjoyment to commercial satisfaction. The city also offers cultural entertainment in the forms of theatre, dance, opera, music, art, as well as festivals mostly held during the summer months. Additionally, Cardiff features a large amount of green space both in and around the city. One of these beautiful natural escapes includes Bute Park, located along the riverside with an arboretum, Victorian gardens, and friary ruins. There are also opportunities to cruise the Bristol Channel, or enjoy boat rides in the Bay.
A nice way to explore destinations in Cardiff is with local tours that last just a few hours. This way you can see as much as possible in an efficient way with knowledgable guides. Prices vary by the type of activity or tour, the dates, and the size of the group. Here are a few of the highest rated tours by previous visitors:
- Complete Cardiff Doctor Who Walking Tour for $212 details
- Small Group Walking Tour Cardiff Bay for $39 details
- Cardiff All in One Walking Tour for $63 details
Nightlife Budget in Cardiff
While Cardiff features some nightlife activities, it doesn't reach the excitement levels of other, more renowned destinations. The nightlife scene is all about fun and most of the activities are driven by the large and diverse student population.
Calculated from travelers like you
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The average person spends about $16 (£13) on nightlife and alcoholic beverages in Cardiff per day. The more you spend on alcohol, the more fun you might be having despite your higher budget.
-
Alcohol2
Drinks for one day
$16
£13
Enjoying the nightlife is exciting, but if you want to save money, drinking less is an easy way to do it.
When enjoying the nightlife, stay alert and cautious, as you may attract the attention of pickpockets or other criminals. It's best to stay with a group of people you trust.
Nightlife activities and tasting tours are popular in Cardiff. A few favorites from other travelers include:
- Gin Tour at Hensol Castle Distillery for $32 details
- Cardiff Pub Crawl: Bar Crawl - Drink Deals & Free Shots for $19 details
- Cardiff : Private Stag Party Pub Crawl with Free Shots for $38 details
Traveling in Cardiff
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.
Neighborhoods & Around
Cardiff is divided into many districts, however, the main areas of interest include Cardiff city center, The Hayes, Cathays Park, Cardiff Bay, and Mermaid Quay. Cardiff city center is the central business district, home to the main railway stations as well as large shopping centers, arcades, smaller shops, and boutiques. Queen Street, St. Mary Street, and The Hayes are the main shopping thoroughfares here. The area around The Hayes is mostly pedestrianized and has an open-air snack bar. Cathays Park is also in the general vicinity and serves as the civic center of Cardiff, featuring Edwardian landmarks like the Temple of Peace, City Hall, the National Museum, and Gallery of Wales, as well as a central park area called Alexandra Gardens. Closer to the water, Cardiff Bay is home to icons like the Pierhead Building and encompasses the area known as Mermaid Quay, which is Cardiff's waterfront shopping and leisure district. Here visitors can enjoy a vast array of restaurants, bars, cafes, and shops.
We've been gathering travel costs from tens of thousands of actual travelers since 2010, and we use the data to calculate average daily travel costs for destinations around the world. We also systematically analyze the prices of hotels, hostels, and tours from travel providers such as Kayak, HostelWorld, TourRadar, Viator, and others. This combination of expenses from actual travelers, combined with pricing data from major travel companies, gives us a uniqe insight into the overall cost of travel for thousands of cities in countries around the world. You can see more here: How it Works.
Budget Your Trip is all about finding out how much everything costs so that you can travel cheaper and longer. Created by avid travelers Laurie and Bryan, our goal is to help you plan your next trip on the right budget. With average daily travel costs that are calculated from the budgets of real travelers, plus an analysis of hotel and tour prices, you can find out how much money you need to plan your next adventure. We also have plenty of travel advice, accommodation reviews, and activity suggestions.