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

Should you visit Arachova or Carcassonne?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Arachova or Carcassonne, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Arachova

Arachova is a beautiful, outdoorsy, and bustling town. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. Other reasons to visit include hiking, shopping, and museums.

Carcassonne

Carcassonne is a medieval, historical, and fairytale town. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for food and museums.

Arachova and Carcassonne: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • 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 Arachova or Carcassonne?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Arachova. Although Arachova and Carcassonne are both popular with visitors, Arachova has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Arachova is more popular for its skiing, nightlife, historical sights, hiking, and shopping, while Carcassonne is known for its museums and impressive beauty. Arachova is popular for its surrounding mountain beauty, festive Christmas atmosphere, and nearby winter skiing. It is also home to Mount Parnassus Ski Resort. Carcassonne is popular for its medieval history, walled fortifications, and well-known castle.

How is Arachova different from Carcassonne?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Arachova or Carcassonne Better for Skiing?

Arachova
Carcassonne

Arachova is a good destination for skiing and snowboarding. However, Carcassonne is not a skiing destination.

Arachova is a great destination for skiing with plenty areas to explore. The Parnassos Ski Resort is located just 24 kilometers from town and offers skiing that is beautiful and fun. There are spectacular views and the area has gained popularity in recent years. There are lessons for kids and many other fun winter activities nearby.

Carcassonne is not a skiing destination.


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

Arachova
Carcassonne

Carcassonne is well known for its museums and landmarks. Also, Arachova is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Carcassonne can be an interesting and educational experience. The town is filled with medieval sights including the Château Comtal, the Basilica of Saints Nazarius and Celsus, and the Carcassonne Cathedral.

Arachova offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are some interesting sights in the surrounding area, as well as the unique Ai Giorgis Church near town.

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

Arachova
Carcassonne

Dining out at restaurants in both Arachova and Carcassonne can be an enjoyable experience.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Arachova makes for a great culinary experience. The town is filled with old tavernas that serve up traditional local cuisine. You'll find a lot of the local cheese, formaela, as well as a local noodle dish called hilopites. Pork ribs and delicate desserts are also popular.

Carcassonne has a huge number of terrific restaurants. 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 Arachova or Carcassonne Better for Nightlife?

Arachova
Carcassonne

Arachova is a very popular place for nightlife. However, Carcassonne is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Arachova has a large number of nightlife venues. There are many charming bars around town that stay open late into the night. During the popular winter months, you'll find the streets filled with people that come for the unique winter atmosphere.

Carcassonne is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.


Is Arachova or Carcassonne Better for its Old Town?

Arachova
Carcassonne

Arachova 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 Arachova. The charming old town is at its best during the Christmas season when there are decorations around the town square and the streets are filled with people.

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 Arachova or Carcassonne Better for Hiking?

Arachova
Carcassonne

Arachova 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 Arachova. For the best outdoor activities, head to nearby Mount Parnassos, where there's skiing and snowboarding during the winter months and beautiful hikes through the mountainous terrain during the summer months.

Carcassonne is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Arachova or Carcassonne?

Arachova
Carcassonne

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

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Arachova. The charming town has many unique shops that sell carpets, woven goods, and local food items.

Carcassonne is not a noteworthy shopping destination.


Is Arachova or Carcassonne Better for Families?

Arachova
Carcassonne

Arachova 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.

Arachova is a very family-friendly destination. The charming town has long served as a winter escape for those living in Athens. There's plenty for kids to do including and ice skating rink, a horse ranch, and even nearby skiing.

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 Arachova or Carcassonne Better for Couples?

Arachova
Carcassonne

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

Arachova makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. It's a romantic setting with nice accommodation, delicious local taverns, and plenty of unique activities that couples can enjoy.

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 Arachova or Carcassonne Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Arachova
Carcassonne

Carcassonne is well known for backpackers. However, Arachova is not particularly known for backpackers and budget travelers.

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

Arachova is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Most backpackers don't think to visit this area on their trip to Greece. There are some guesthouses, but not a lot of hostels, so you might find a limited number of social activities.


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

Arachova
Carcassonne

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

You'll find some public transit in Arachova, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are some public buses in the area.

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 Arachova or Carcassonne a more walkable city?

Arachova
Carcassonne

Carcassonne is an unbeatable place for its walkability. Also, Arachova is still popular, but not quite as popular for its high level of walkability.

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

Arachova is a somewhat walkable place. The town has many walkable streets that are fun to explore on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Carcassonne or Arachova?

How long in Arachova or Carcassonne?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Arachova or Carcassonne to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Arachova 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 Arachova, and 1-2 days is enough time in Carcassonne.

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

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

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


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

One day in Arachova or Carcassonne?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the beautiful town of Arachova. 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 Arachova or Carcassonne?

Visitors enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the bustling destination of Arachova. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This town 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 Arachova or Carcassonne?

The beautiful town of Arachova offers museums and skiing. 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 Arachova or Carcassonne?

Many people enjoy the skiing and nightlife when visiting Arachova. 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 Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Greece, The Best Coach Bus Tours in Greece, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in France, and The Best Historical Tours in France.


Which place is cheaper, Carcassonne or Arachova?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Arachova is €112, 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 Arachova and Carcassonne in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Arachova 50
    Carcassonne 61
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Arachova 100
    Carcassonne 122
Compare Hotels in Arachova and Carcassonne

Looking for a hotel in Arachova 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 Arachova


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.
    Arachova 51
    Carcassonne 7.14

Is it cheaper to fly into Arachova or Carcassonne?

Prices for flights to both Carcassonne and Arachova 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
    Arachova 29
    Carcassonne 39

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Arachova 28
    Carcassonne 14

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
    Arachova 6.43
    Carcassonne 13

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 Arachova and Carcassonne, we can see that Arachova 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 Arachova Expensive? and Is Carcassonne Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Arachova or Carcassonne?

Carcassonne has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Arachova. When comparing the sizes of Arachova 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 Arachova 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 Arachova or Carcassonne in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Arachova as well as Carcassonne. Many travelers come to Arachova for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, many visitors come to Carcassonne in the summer for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences.

Arachova is a little warmer than Carcassonne in the summer. The daily temperature in Arachova averages around 27°C (81°F) in July, and Carcassonne fluctuates around 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 Arachova this time of the year. In the summer, Arachova often gets more sunshine than Carcassonne. Arachova gets 357 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Carcassonne receives 275 hours of full sun.

Arachova usually gets less rain in July than Carcassonne. Arachova gets 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Carcassonne receives 17 mm (0.7 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Arachova 27°C (81°F) 
    Carcassonne 24°C (75°F)

Should I visit Arachova or Carcassonne in the Autumn?

Both Carcassonne and Arachova are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Arachova in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the small town atmosphere. Also, most visitors come to Carcassonne for the small town atmosphere and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In the autumn, Arachova is a little warmer than Carcassonne. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Arachova in October average around 19°C (67°F), and Carcassonne averages at about 17°C (62°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Arachova. Arachova usually receives more sunshine than Carcassonne during autumn. Arachova gets 206 hours of sunny skies, while Carcassonne receives 161 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Arachova usually receives less rain than Carcassonne. Arachova gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Carcassonne receives 90 mm (3.5 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Arachova 19°C (67°F) 
    Carcassonne 17°C (62°F)

Should I visit Arachova or Carcassonne in the Winter?

Both Carcassonne and Arachova during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Arachova for the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Carcassonne because of the museums and the cuisine.

In January, Arachova is generally a little warmer than Carcassonne. Daily temperatures in Arachova average around 10°C (51°F), and Carcassonne fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

In the winter, Arachova often gets more sunshine than Carcassonne. Arachova gets 143 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Carcassonne receives 88 hours of full sun.

Arachova usually gets less rain in January than Carcassonne. Arachova gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Carcassonne receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Arachova 10°C (51°F) 
    Carcassonne 8°C (47°F)

Should I visit Arachova or Carcassonne in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Arachova and Carcassonne. The spring months attract visitors to Arachova because of the small town charm. Also, the small town charm and the natural beauty are the main draw to Carcassonne this time of year.

Arachova is a little warmer than Carcassonne in the spring. The daily temperature in Arachova averages around 16°C (60°F) in April, and Carcassonne fluctuates around 14°C (56°F).

In Arachova, it's very sunny this time of the year. Arachova usually receives more sunshine than Carcassonne during spring. Arachova gets 226 hours of sunny skies, while Carcassonne receives 178 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Arachova usually receives less rain than Carcassonne. Arachova gets 25 mm (1 in) of rain, while Carcassonne receives 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Arachova 16°C (60°F) 
    Carcassonne 14°C (56°F)

Typical Weather for Carcassonne and Arachova

Arachova Carcassonne
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 10°C (51°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 8°C (47°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Feb 11°C (51°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 9°C (49°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)
Mar 12°C (54°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 11°C (52°F) 44 mm (1.7 in)
Apr 16°C (60°F) 25 mm (1 in) 14°C (56°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
May 20°C (68°F) 14 mm (0.6 in) 17°C (63°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Jun 24°C (76°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 21°C (70°F) 28 mm (1.1 in)
Jul 27°C (81°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 24°C (75°F) 17 mm (0.7 in)
Aug 27°C (81°F) 8 mm (0.3 in) 24°C (74°F) 32 mm (1.3 in)
Sep 24°C (76°F) 10 mm (0.4 in) 21°C (69°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Oct 19°C (67°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 17°C (62°F) 90 mm (3.5 in)
Nov 16°C (60°F) 51 mm (2 in) 12°C (53°F) 59 mm (2.3 in)
Dec 12°C (54°F) 66 mm (2.6 in) 9°C (49°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)