A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Aberdeen vs. Carcassonne for Attractions, Food, Old Town, and Families

Should you visit Aberdeen or Carcassonne?

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

Should I visit Aberdeen or Carcassonne? 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.

Aberdeen

Aberdeen is a cultural, architectural, and authentic city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums.

Carcassonne

Carcassonne is a medieval, historical, and fairytale town. It's a very nice small town not to be missed. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for food and museums.

Aberdeen and Carcassonne: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Aberdeen or Carcassonne?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Aberdeen. Although Aberdeen and Carcassonne are both popular with visitors, Aberdeen has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Aberdeen is more popular for its nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Carcassonne is known for its food, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Carcassonne is more touristy than Aberdeen and is popular for its medieval history, walled fortifications, and well-known castle. Aberdeen is popular for its longstanding maritime history and its many cultural sights and activities. It is also home to St Machar's Cathedral Aberdeen.

How is Aberdeen different from Carcassonne?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Aberdeen or Carcassonne?

Both Aberdeen and Carcassonne have superb landmarks and museums for visitors.

Aberdeen offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The city's long running history means that there are plenty of sights and museums worth exploring. Highlights include St. Machar's Cathedral, the University and King's College of Aberdeen, Brig o'Balgownie, and the Tolbooth Museum.

Many visitors head to Carcassonne specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The town is filled with medieval sights including the Château Comtal, the Basilica of Saints Nazarius and Celsus, and the Carcassonne Cathedral.

Is the Food Better in Aberdeen or Carcassonne? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Carcassonne is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Aberdeen is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Carcassonne makes for a great culinary experience. There are a number of local restaurants that serve regional specialties such as cassoulet. You can spend a few hours exploring the castle and then grab a delicious bite to eat.

Aberdeen has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. Everything from brunch bistros to fine dining are available in this city. You can enjoy local specialties or international options at any of the unique restaurants around town.

Is Aberdeen or Carcassonne Better for Nightlife?

Aberdeen is a good destination for nightlife. However, Carcassonne is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Aberdeen. The nightlife scene is diverse with whisky dens, local pubs, and even trendy nightclubs to choose from.

Carcassonne is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Aberdeen or Carcassonne Better for its Old Town?

Aberdeen is a very popular place for its historic old town. Also, Carcassonne is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its old town.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Aberdeen. This city's old town is a hidden gem in Scotland. The cobblestone streets and long history make for a fascinating place to explore.

Many people head to Carcassonne to see the old town. The medieval walled city is seeped in history and filled with atmosphere. Cars are not allowed in town.

Is the Shopping Better in Aberdeen or Carcassonne?

Aberdeen is a good destination for shopping. However, Carcassonne is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Aberdeen. A mix of modern shopping centers, antique vendors, and local boutiques make for an interesting shopping scene. For some of the city's best shopping head to Union Square Shopping Centre, the Trinity Centre, or Bon Accord Aberdeen.

Carcassonne is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Aberdeen or Carcassonne Better for Families?

Aberdeen is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Carcassonne is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Aberdeen is a very family-friendly destination. Explore the city's history or wander through one of the many museums. Some of the best museums for kids include the Aberdeen Maritime Museum, Little Treasures Toy Museum, the Aberdeen Science Center, and the Gordon Highlanders Museum. Adrenaline seekers will enjoy rock climbing and ropes courses at Transition Extreme or ziplining at Go Ape Crathes Castle. Also nearby is horseback riding and Codona’s Amusement Park.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Carcassonne. Kids who love castles will enjoy wandering the maze of rooms and getting lost in the medieval atmosphere.

Is Aberdeen or Carcassonne Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Aberdeen and Carcassonne make for a good place to visit.

Aberdeen is a nice destination for couples. There are many of the standard activities for couples such as interesting restaurants, theaters, and fun concerts.

Carcassonne makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. It's a medieval city with an impressive castle and walled fortifications. It's a uniquely European sight that is great for couples who enjoy history.

Is Aberdeen or Carcassonne Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Carcassonne is a well-known place for backpackers. However, Aberdeen is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Carcassonne. There are interesting hostels in the area including a converted 17th century convent.

Aberdeen is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Aberdeen or Carcassonne Better for Students?

Aberdeen is a good destination for its student-friendly activities. However, Carcassonne is not popular with students.

Plenty of students visit Aberdeen. The city is a nice affordable option for students who want to study at the University of Aberdeen.

Carcassonne is not popular with students.

Is Aberdeen or Carcassonne Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Both Aberdeen and Carcassonne offer good public transit options.

Aberdeen has a few public transit options. There are public buses through town and it's possible to pick up a Grasshopper ticket that lets you ride on most of the bus companies.

Carcassonne has some public transit options. You can reach the town by train from Dijon, Lyon, Marseille, Toulouse, or Bordeaux and many people visit the town as a day trip.

Is Aberdeen or Carcassonne a more walkable city?

Carcassonne is an unbeatable place for its walkability. Also, Aberdeen is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its high level of walkability.

It is easy to get around Carcassonne on foot. Cars aren't allowed in the medieval city so it's best to explore on foot.

Aberdeen is a very walkable city. It's easy to walk to most of the city's attractions.

For even more information, also check out Is Aberdeen Worth Visiting? and Is Carcassonne Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Carcassonne or Aberdeen?

How long in Aberdeen or Carcassonne?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Aberdeen or Carcassonne to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Aberdeen than Carcassonne because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Aberdeen, and 1-2 days is enough time in Carcassonne.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Carcassonne than Aberdeen 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 Carcassonne.

One day in Aberdeen or Carcassonne?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the architectural city of Aberdeen. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

The town of Carcassonne offers museums and food. 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 Aberdeen or Carcassonne?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the historic destination of Aberdeen. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. This city offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Carcassonne is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this town makes for a great vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Carcassonne, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Aberdeen or Carcassonne?

The historic city of Aberdeen offers shopping and museums. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

Carcassonne 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 Aberdeen or Carcassonne?

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Aberdeen. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Carcassonne 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 town offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Budget Tours to United Kingdom, The Best Tours for Seniors to United Kingdom, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in France, and The Best Historical Tours in France.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Aberdeen and Carcassonne, we can see that Aberdeen is more expensive. And not only is Carcassonne much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Carcassonne would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Carcassonne 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 Aberdeen would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Aberdeen than you might in Carcassonne.

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

Which is Bigger, Aberdeen or Carcassonne?

Aberdeen has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Carcassonne. When comparing the sizes of Aberdeen and Carcassonne, 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 Aberdeen or Carcassonne?

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 Aberdeen or Carcassonne in the Summer?

Both Carcassonne and Aberdeen during the summer are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Aberdeen for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Carcassonne because of the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences.

Aberdeen is much colder than Carcassonne in the summer. The daily temperature in Aberdeen averages around 14°C (58°F) in July, and Carcassonne fluctuates around 24°C (75°F).

In Carcassonne, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the summer, Aberdeen often gets less sunshine than Carcassonne. Aberdeen gets 157 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Carcassonne receives 275 hours of full sun.

Aberdeen usually gets more rain in July than Carcassonne. Aberdeen gets 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Carcassonne receives 17 mm (0.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Aberdeen or Carcassonne in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Aberdeen and Carcassonne. The autumn months attract visitors to Aberdeen because of the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Also, the small town atmosphere and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Carcassonne this time of year.

In the autumn, Aberdeen is much colder than Carcassonne. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Aberdeen in October average around 9°C (49°F), and Carcassonne averages at about 17°C (62°F).

Aberdeen usually receives less sunshine than Carcassonne during autumn. Aberdeen gets 93 hours of sunny skies, while Carcassonne receives 161 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Aberdeen usually receives less rain than Carcassonne. Aberdeen gets 77 mm (3 in) of rain, while Carcassonne receives 90 mm (3.5 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Aberdeen or Carcassonne in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Aberdeen as well as Carcassonne. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Aberdeen this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Carcassonne for the museums and the cuisine.

It's quite cold in Aberdeen in the winter. In January, Aberdeen is generally much colder than Carcassonne. Daily temperatures in Aberdeen average around 3°C (38°F), and Carcassonne fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

In the winter, Aberdeen often gets less sunshine than Carcassonne. Aberdeen gets 52 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Carcassonne receives 88 hours of full sun.

Aberdeen usually gets more rain in January than Carcassonne. Aberdeen gets 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain, while Carcassonne receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Aberdeen or Carcassonne in the Spring?

Both Carcassonne and Aberdeen are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Aberdeen for the activities around the city. Also, many visitors come to Carcassonne in the spring for the small town charm and the natural beauty.

Aberdeen is much colder than Carcassonne in the spring. The daily temperature in Aberdeen averages around 7°C (44°F) in April, and Carcassonne fluctuates around 14°C (56°F).

Aberdeen usually receives less sunshine than Carcassonne during spring. Aberdeen gets 144 hours of sunny skies, while Carcassonne receives 178 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Aberdeen usually receives around the same amount of rain as Carcassonne. Aberdeen gets 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Carcassonne receives 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Carcassonne and Aberdeen