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

Should you visit Brussels 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 Brussels 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.

Brussels

Brussels is a historic, cosmopolitan, and authentic city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. Other reasons to visit include food, 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.

Brussels and Carcassonne: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Brussels or Carcassonne?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Brussels. Although Brussels and Carcassonne are both popular with visitors, Brussels has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Brussels is more popular for its nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Carcassonne is known for its small town charm and impressive beauty. Carcassonne is more touristy than Brussels and is popular for its medieval history, walled fortifications, and well-known castle. Brussels is popular for its beautiful architecture, grand squares, diverse population, and delicious waffles. It is also home to La Grand Place (Grote Markt).

La Grand Place (Grote Markt)

How is Brussels different from Carcassonne?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Both Brussels and Carcassonne have excellent landmarks and museums for visitors.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Brussels. Popular sights include Saint-Michel Cathedral, Place Royale, and the Belgian Royal Museum of Fine Arts. The city is filled with impressive architecture, fascinating art museums, and innovative science and technology museums.

Carcassonne offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. 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 Brussels or Carcassonne? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at excellent restaurants in both Brussels and Carcassonne.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Brussels makes for a great culinary experience. While the city is most known for its waffles and fries, the diversity of dishes and international restaurant selection continues to grow. There are Lebanese, Japanese, and Indian restaurants among others. Popular local dishes include moules-frites, waterzooi (a stew), and stoemp (made with mashed potatoes and vegetables).

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 Brussels or Carcassonne Better for Nightlife?

Brussels 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 Brussels. The city's nightlife is quieter and more mellow than some other major cities around Europe. That doesn't mean there aren't plenty of dance clubs and bars where you can hang out. Keep your wits about you after the sun goes down as some areas are a bit rougher than others.

Carcassonne is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Brussels or Carcassonne Better for its Old Town?

Brussels 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 Brussels. The old town in the city center is where you'll find the greatest concentration of historic sights. The area is surrounded by tree-lined boulevards and is easy 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 Brussels or Carcassonne?

Brussels is very popular for shopping. However, Carcassonne is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in Brussels. Although it's famous for diamonds, the city also has many shopping streets where you can find designer brands, vintage shops, and other unique boutiques that are fun to explore.

Carcassonne is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Brussels or Carcassonne Better for Families?

Brussels 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.

Brussels is a very family-friendly destination. The city has a number of unique kid-friendly activities including a Mini-Europe Museum, a Comic Strip Museum, and Train World. The city is also a chocolate lover's dream with many factories and chocolate shops around town.

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 Brussels or Carcassonne Better for Couples?

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

Brussels makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. From beautiful buildings and museums to shopping, dining, and chocolate shops, there are plenty of romantic spots around town. There's a vibrant nightlife scene and many diverse restaurants that couples can enjoy exploring.

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 Brussels or Carcassonne Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Backpackers come from all over to visit Brussels. The city has an active nightlife and a number of hostels that are great for backpackers, but do take note that some areas can get a bit rough at night, so make sure you understand where you are.

Many backpackers visit Carcassonne. There are interesting hostels in the area including a converted 17th century convent.

Is Brussels or Carcassonne Better for Students?

Brussels is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Carcassonne is not popular with students.

Many students visit Brussels. The city has a number of universities that attract students from around the world. The multicultural setting is great for students of the world.

Carcassonne is not popular with students.

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

Brussels is very popular for times when you don't have a car. Also, Carcassonne is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

Brussels has an effecient and thorough public transportation system which can take you anywhere in the city. Transit options include train, tram, metro, bus, and waterbuses.

You'll find some public transit in Carcassonne, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. 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 Brussels or Carcassonne a more walkable city?

Carcassonne is renowned for its walkability. Also, Brussels 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.

Brussels is a very walkable city. If you stay in the historical area, it's easy to walk around and many boulevards are being converted to pedestrian areas.

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

Should I spend more time in Carcassonne or Brussels?

How long in Brussels or Carcassonne?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Brussels or Carcassonne to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Brussels than Carcassonne because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 1-5 days is a good amount of time for Brussels, and 1-2 days is enough time in Carcassonne.

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

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

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

One day in Brussels or Carcassonne?

Brussels is a multicultural city where you can fill many days. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Most people visit for the shopping. One day should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. 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 Brussels or Carcassonne?

Brussels is a authentic big city where you can fill many days. 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 Brussels or Carcassonne?

Brussels is a multicultural city where you can fill many days. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Many people spend five days here.If you enjoy all that's offered here, then five days is just the right amount of time to spend here. 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 Brussels or Carcassonne?

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Brussels. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people visit for the shopping. 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 Cultural Tours in Belgium, The Best Luxury Tours to Belgium, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in France, and The Best Historical Tours in France.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Brussels and Carcassonne, we can see that Brussels 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 Brussels would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Brussels 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 Brussels Expensive? and Is Carcassonne Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Brussels or Carcassonne?

Brussels has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Carcassonne. When comparing the sizes of Brussels 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 Brussels 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 Brussels or Carcassonne in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Brussels as well as Carcassonne. The summer months attract visitors to Brussels because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Carcassonne this time of year.

Brussels is cooler than Carcassonne in the summer. The daily temperature in Brussels averages around 18°C (65°F) in July, and Carcassonne fluctuates around 24°C (75°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Carcassonne. In the summer, Brussels often gets less sunshine than Carcassonne. Brussels gets 186 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Carcassonne receives 275 hours of full sun.

Brussels usually gets more rain in July than Carcassonne. Brussels gets 75 mm (3 in) of rain, while Carcassonne receives 17 mm (0.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Brussels or Carcassonne in the Autumn?

Both Carcassonne and Brussels are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene are the main draw to Brussels this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Carcassonne for the small town atmosphere and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Brussels is cooler than Carcassonne. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Brussels in October average around 12°C (54°F), and Carcassonne averages at about 17°C (62°F).

Brussels usually receives less sunshine than Carcassonne during autumn. Brussels gets 114 hours of sunny skies, while Carcassonne receives 161 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Brussels usually receives less rain than Carcassonne. Brussels gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Carcassonne receives 90 mm (3.5 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Brussels or Carcassonne in the Winter?

Both Carcassonne and Brussels during the winter are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Brussels for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Carcassonne in the winter for the museums and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Brussels. In January, Brussels is generally much colder than Carcassonne. Daily temperatures in Brussels average around 3°C (38°F), and Carcassonne fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

In the winter, Brussels often gets less sunshine than Carcassonne. Brussels gets 49 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Carcassonne receives 88 hours of full sun.

Brussels usually gets more rain in January than Carcassonne. Brussels gets 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Carcassonne receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Brussels or Carcassonne in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Brussels and Carcassonne. Many visitors come to Brussels in the spring for the activities around the city. Also, most visitors come to Carcassonne for the small town charm and the natural beauty during these months.

Brussels is cooler than Carcassonne in the spring. The daily temperature in Brussels averages around 10°C (49°F) in April, and Carcassonne fluctuates around 14°C (56°F).

Brussels usually receives less sunshine than Carcassonne during spring. Brussels gets 147 hours of sunny skies, while Carcassonne receives 178 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Brussels usually receives around the same amount of rain as Carcassonne. Brussels gets 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Carcassonne receives 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Carcassonne and Brussels