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

Should you visit Almeria or Carcassonne?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Almeria and Carcassonne. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Almeria

Almeria is a cultural, historic, and natural region. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Other reasons to visit include food, beaches, and hiking.

Carcassonne

Carcassonne is a fairytale, medieval, and historical town. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include food and museums.

Almeria and Carcassonne: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Very walkable


Is there more to do in Almeria or Carcassonne?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Almeria than Carcassonne, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Almeria is better known for its food, nightlife, resorts, beaches, historical sights, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Carcassonne is more popular for its museums and small town charm. Almeria is well known for its stunning beaches that feel pristine despite their popularity. Also, Almeria is famous for The Alcazaba. Carcassonne is well known for its medieval history, walled fortifications, and well-known castle.

How is Almeria different from Carcassonne?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Almeria
Carcassonne

Carcassonne is a great destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Almeria does not have museums and landmarks.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Carcassonne. The town is filled with medieval sights including the Château Comtal, the Basilica of Saints Nazarius and Celsus, and the Carcassonne Cathedral.

Almeria does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Almeria
Carcassonne

Almeria is very popular for its restaurants. Also, Carcassonne is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Eat your way through Almeria, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. The food is focused on local, fresh ingredients with many traditional recipes that have been passed down for centuries. Popular dishes change with the seasons because they rely so heavily on local produce. Particularly during the winter months you'll find hearty stews like patatas en ajopollo and gurullos con conejo, which is prepared with rabbit. Sardines are also popular year round.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Carcassonne. 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.

Is Almeria or Carcassonne Better for Nightlife?

Almeria
Carcassonne

Almeria 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 Almeria. The city's nightlife vibe is about enjoying a cold beer on a terrace with friends. The city has a laid back Mediterranean atmosphere and plenty of terraced bars along the main streets, particularly in old town. With mild temperatures year around, you'll find yourself spending time outside most evenings while you enjoy tapas and drinks with friends. Flamenco and bullfighting are also popular in the evenings.

Carcassonne is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Almeria or Carcassonne Better for Resorts?

Almeria
Carcassonne

Almeria is very popular for its luxury resorts. However, Carcassonne is not a resort destination.

Vacationers flock to Almeria for its luxury resorts. Stretched along the coastline you'll find many high end resorts with pools and nice atmospheres. There are all inclusive resorts as well as family-friendly and romantic options to choose from.

Carcassonne is not a resort destination.


Is Almeria or Carcassonne Better for Beaches?

Almeria
Carcassonne

Almeria is very popular for its beaches. However, Carcassonne is not a beach destination.

Almeria offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. Outside of town you'll find kilometers of stunning coastline and beaches. There are pristine natural beaches that still feel undiscovered with beautiful long stretches of sand. One of the biggest resort areas is Roquetas de Mar.

Carcassonne is not a beach destination.

Is Almeria or Carcassonne Better for its Old Town?

Almeria
Carcassonne

Almeria 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 Almeria. The old town is at the cultural heart of the city. It has the most energy during the evenings, as well as many museums and sights worth visiting.

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 Almeria or Carcassonne Better for Hiking?

Almeria
Carcassonne

Almeria is a very popular place for its hiking trails. However, Carcassonne is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Almeria. The area has stunning hikes that run along the coastline or into the beautiful interior countryside. For some of the area's best hikes head into Cabo de Gata-Níjar Natural Park.

Carcassonne is not a hiking destination.


Is Almeria or Carcassonne Better for Families?

Almeria
Carcassonne

Almeria 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.

Almeria is a very family-friendly destination. The area has many beautiful beaches as well as waterparks, amusement parks, and fun activities like sailing and water sports. There's also a very impressive fort that the kids will enjoy exploring.

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 Almeria or Carcassonne Better for Couples?

Almeria
Carcassonne

Almeria is a very popular place for romance. Also, Carcassonne is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its romantic activities.

Almeria makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Nature lovers and beach enthusiasts will find this to be the perfect romantic getaway. There are many outdoor activities and places to immerse yourself in nature. A highlight of a trip is a visit to Crystal Cave.

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 Almeria or Carcassonne Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Almeria
Carcassonne

Almeria and Carcassonne are excellent places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Almeria is a very popular region for backpackers and budget travelers. There's plenty of affordable accommodation to choose from as well as all kinds of activities that backpackers will enjoy. If you like nature and enjoy spending time outside, then this is your place.

Carcassonne is very popular with the backpacker crowd. There are interesting hostels in the area including a converted 17th century convent.


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

Almeria
Carcassonne

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Almeria and Carcassonne.

You'll find some public transit in Almeria, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are a number of bus lines that run through Almeria city and to Cabo de Gata.

While Carcassonne offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. 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 Almeria or Carcassonne a more walkable city?

Almeria
Carcassonne

Carcassonne is a must-visit destination for its ease of walking around. However, Almeria is a region with minimal options for its walkability.

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

Almeria is generally not a very walkable region. While there are many beautiful walks in the area, if you want to truly explore, you'll likely want to have access to a car.

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

Should I spend more time in Carcassonne or Almeria?

How long in Almeria or Carcassonne?

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

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

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

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


  • How many days in Almeria or Carcassonne? Ideal Length of Stay
    Almeria 1-3 
    Carcassonne 1-2

One day in Almeria or Carcassonne?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the breathtaking region of Almeria. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. One day should give you a good understanding of everything this region has to offer. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

In Carcassonne, you'll find food and museums. 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.


A weekend in Almeria or Carcassonne?

Visitors enjoy the food and nightlife when visiting the pristine destination of Almeria. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This region 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.

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

Five days in Almeria or Carcassonne?

The pristine region of Almeria offers nightlife and food. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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 great place to explore. 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.

A week in Almeria or Carcassonne?

Many people enjoy the food and nightlife when visiting Almeria. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Carcassonne. Many people enjoy the museums and food when visiting Carcassonne. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours from Madrid, The Best 10-Day Tours from Barcelona, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in France, and The Best Historical Tours in France.


Which place is cheaper, Carcassonne or Almeria?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Almeria is €99, while the average daily cost in Carcassonne is €106. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Almeria and Carcassonne in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Almeria 44
    Carcassonne 61
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Almeria 88
    Carcassonne 122
Compare Hotels in Almeria and Carcassonne

Looking for a hotel in Almeria or Carcassonne? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Almeria


Hotels in Carcassonne


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Carcassonne Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Almeria 20
    Carcassonne 7.14

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Almeria

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Almeria:

  • Transfers desde Aeropuerto de Almería (LEI) a Vera Playa - 4 pasajeros: $125
  • Tabernas: transfer + ticket Fort Bravo or Minihollywood: $62
  • Private Transfer from Almeria Airport to / from Almeria Spain: $42
  • Almería Private Transfer from the city centre or Cabo de Gata to Almería Airport: $66
  • Almería Private Transfer from Almería Airport to City centre or Cabo de Gata: $66

Is it cheaper to fly into Almeria or Carcassonne?

Prices for flights to both Carcassonne and Almeria change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Almeria 40
    Carcassonne 39

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Almeria

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Almeria.

  • Spanish Paella Private Online Cooking Class: $40

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Almeria 16
    Carcassonne 14

Tours and Activities in Almeria

Here are a few actual costs in Almeria for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Almería: Cathedral Entry Ticket: $7.49
  • Almería: Cathedral and Convent of the Puras Entry Ticket: $9.62
  • Almería: Guided City Discovery Tour: $16
  • Almería: Legends and Mysteries Evening Walking Tour: $11
  • Almeria : Private Custom Walking Tour With A Local Guide: $49
  • Almeria like a Local: Customized Private Tour : $52
  • Alcazaba Guided Tour: $16
  • Convent of the Puras Skip-the-Line Entry Ticket: $5.35
  • History and Hidden Corners Essential Walking Tour: $14
  • Private custom tour with a local guide: $48
  • Spanish Civil War Shelters Ticket and Official Tour: $11
  • Andalusia: Almeria Cathedral Entry with Guided Tour: $16

Tours and Activities in Carcassonne

For Carcassonne, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • City Exploration Game and Tour: $6.42
  • Highlights Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt & Tour: $6.42
  • Castle and Ramparts Entry Ticket: $12
  • A Self-Guided Tour of Carcassonne’s Ancient Basilica: $20
  • Medieval Walls Self-Guided Smartphone App Tour: $20
  • Carcassonne 's Medieval Walls: A Self-Guided Tour: $20
  • Languedoc: Tour and Tasting at Domaine de Baronarques: $21
  • Unusual guided tour of Carcassonne at the time of the Builders: $22
  • Unusual Guided Tour of the Medieval City of Carcassonne: $22
  • Small group tour of the Cité de Carcassonne: $49
  • Complete Private Tour City and Castle of Carcassonne: $109
  • Cité de Private Guided Tour: $160

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Almeria 4.29
    Carcassonne 13

Sample the Local Flavors in Almeria

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Almeria:

  • Almería Visit to Eco Winery Cortijo El Cura and wine tasting: $24
  • Almería Wine tour and tasting in English in Bio Winery: $24

Sample the Local Flavors in Carcassonne

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Carcassonne:

  • Wine tour Cathar country: $471


When comparing the travel costs between Almeria and Carcassonne, we can see that Carcassonne is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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


Which is Bigger, Almeria or Carcassonne?

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

The summer brings many poeple to Almeria as well as Carcassonne. The summer months attract visitors to Almeria because of the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Carcassonne this time of year.

In the summer, Almeria is around the same temperature as Carcassonne. Typically, the summer temperatures in Almeria in July average around 26°C (78°F), and Carcassonne averages at about 24°C (75°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Carcassonne. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Almeria this time of the year. In the summer, Almeria often gets more sunshine than Carcassonne. Almeria gets 343 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Carcassonne receives 275 hours of full sun.

Almeria usually gets less rain in July than Carcassonne. Almeria gets 1 mm (0 in) of rain, while Carcassonne receives 17 mm (0.7 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Almeria 26°C (78°F) 
    Carcassonne 24°C (75°F)

Should I visit Almeria or Carcassonne in the Autumn?

Both Carcassonne and Almeria are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Almeria this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Carcassonne for the small town atmosphere and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Almeria is generally a little warmer than Carcassonne. Daily temperatures in Almeria average around 20°C (68°F), and Carcassonne fluctuates around 17°C (62°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Almeria. Almeria usually receives more sunshine than Carcassonne during autumn. Almeria gets 220 hours of sunny skies, while Carcassonne receives 161 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Almeria usually receives less rain than Carcassonne. Almeria gets 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain, while Carcassonne receives 90 mm (3.5 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Almeria 20°C (68°F) 
    Carcassonne 17°C (62°F)

Should I visit Almeria or Carcassonne in the Winter?

Both Carcassonne and Almeria during the winter are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Almeria for the cuisine. Furthermore, many visitors come to Carcassonne in the winter for the museums and the cuisine.

Almeria is a little warmer than Carcassonne in the winter. The daily temperature in Almeria averages around 13°C (55°F) in January, and Carcassonne fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

In the winter, Almeria often gets more sunshine than Carcassonne. Almeria gets 186 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Carcassonne receives 88 hours of full sun.

Almeria usually gets less rain in January than Carcassonne. Almeria gets 27 mm (1.1 in) of rain, while Carcassonne receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Almeria 13°C (55°F) 
    Carcassonne 8°C (47°F)

Should I visit Almeria or Carcassonne in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Almeria and Carcassonne. Many visitors come to Almeria in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty. Furthermore, most visitors come to Carcassonne for the small town charm and the natural beauty during these months.

In the spring, Almeria is a little warmer than Carcassonne. Typically, the spring temperatures in Almeria in April average around 16°C (61°F), and Carcassonne averages at about 14°C (56°F).

In Almeria, it's very sunny this time of the year. Almeria usually receives more sunshine than Carcassonne during spring. Almeria gets 235 hours of sunny skies, while Carcassonne receives 178 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Almeria usually receives less rain than Carcassonne. Almeria gets 26 mm (1 in) of rain, while Carcassonne receives 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Almeria 16°C (61°F) 
    Carcassonne 14°C (56°F)

Typical Weather for Carcassonne and Almeria

Almeria Carcassonne
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 13°C (55°F) 27 mm (1.1 in) 8°C (47°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Feb 13°C (56°F) 18 mm (0.7 in) 9°C (49°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)
Mar 14°C (58°F) 20 mm (0.8 in) 11°C (52°F) 44 mm (1.7 in)
Apr 16°C (61°F) 26 mm (1 in) 14°C (56°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
May 19°C (66°F) 12 mm (0.5 in) 17°C (63°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Jun 23°C (73°F) 8 mm (0.3 in) 21°C (70°F) 28 mm (1.1 in)
Jul 26°C (78°F) 1 mm (0 in) 24°C (75°F) 17 mm (0.7 in)
Aug 26°C (79°F) 1 mm (0 in) 24°C (74°F) 32 mm (1.3 in)
Sep 24°C (76°F) 11 mm (0.4 in) 21°C (69°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Oct 20°C (68°F) 28 mm (1.1 in) 17°C (62°F) 90 mm (3.5 in)
Nov 16°C (61°F) 31 mm (1.2 in) 12°C (53°F) 59 mm (2.3 in)
Dec 13°C (56°F) 20 mm (0.8 in) 9°C (49°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)