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

Should you visit Cadiz or Carcassonne?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Cadiz and Carcassonne can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Cadiz

Cadiz is a undiscovered, historic, and authentic port city. It's a gorgeous place to visit. 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.

Cadiz and Carcassonne: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers


Is there more to do in Cadiz or Carcassonne?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Cadiz. Although Cadiz and Carcassonne are both popular with visitors, Cadiz has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Cadiz is more popular for its nightlife, beaches, historical sights, and shopping, while Carcassonne is known for its museums, food, and small town charm. Carcassonne is more touristy than Cadiz and is popular for its medieval history, walled fortifications, and well-known castle. Cadiz is popular for its long-running maritime history and its charming old town. It is also home to Cadiz Cathedral.

How is Cadiz different from Carcassonne?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Cadiz
Carcassonne

Carcassonne is a well-known place for its sights and museums. Also, Cadiz is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for its museums and history.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Carcassonne. The town is filled with medieval sights including the Château Comtal, the Basilica of Saints Nazarius and Celsus, and the Carcassonne Cathedral.

Cadiz offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. As the oldest city in Europe, there are countless historic sights and monuments to see. Some of the most interesting historic sights include Catedral Nueva, the Arcos de los Blancos, Torre Tavira, and Museo de Cádiz.


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

Cadiz
Carcassonne

Carcassonne is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Cadiz is not as famous, but is still a good port 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.

Cadiz has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. The restaurants are good, but if you don't have reservations you're out of luck. Many restaurants fill up during the peak summer months. If you do have reservations then you can expect fresh seafood including everything from oysters to prawns and even fresh caught fish like Bluefin tuna. Make sure you try the shrimp fritters and papas con choco (cuttlefish and potato stew). Tapas are a great way to sample a number of small local dishes. Also finish your meal off with some churros.

Is Cadiz or Carcassonne Better for Nightlife?

Cadiz
Carcassonne

Cadiz 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 Cadiz. The nightlife scene is diverse, with both cultural activities and dance clubs to choose from. Whether you're looking for a late night party or a more mellow evening on the town, there are a number of options available.

Carcassonne is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Cadiz or Carcassonne Better for Beaches?

Cadiz
Carcassonne

Cadiz is a decent place to visit for its beaches. However, Carcassonne is not a beach destination.

Cadiz is a good spot to see the beach. The beaches remain relatively undiscovered on the international level, so you won't have to deal with the crowds that you find at many Spanish beaches. They are urban beaches that make a good place to cool off, but aren't particularly scenic. The beaches are popular with nearby locals, and the atmosphere remains chill and relaxed. While there are many beaches to choose from outside of town, the closest in town beach is La Caleta. It's even been featured in a few Hollywood films such as Die Another Day.

Carcassonne is not a beach destination.


Is Cadiz or Carcassonne Better for its Old Town?

Cadiz
Carcassonne

Cadiz 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 Cadiz. The old town offers a patchwork network of cobblestone streets that intertwine plazas, churches, and historic buildings.

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 Cadiz or Carcassonne?

Cadiz
Carcassonne

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

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Cadiz. There's a diverse mix of local boutiques, food markets, shopping centers, and street markets where you can pick up everything from local items to European fashion. If you happen to be in town on a weekend, keep in mind that many shops are only open in the morning on Saturdays and closed all day Sundays.

Carcassonne is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Cadiz or Carcassonne Better for Families?

Cadiz
Carcassonne

Both Cadiz and Carcassonne are good to visit with kids.

Cadiz is a family-friendly place to visit. The city has beaches where everyone can splash around, as well as some parks and playgrounds where kids can get their energy out. Outside of town you'll find waterparks and other fun activities as well.

Carcassonne is a family-friendly port city. Kids who love castles will enjoy wandering the maze of rooms and getting lost in the medieval atmosphere.


Is Cadiz or Carcassonne Better for Couples?

Cadiz
Carcassonne

Both Cadiz and Carcassonne are good destinations for a couple's getaway.

Cadiz is a nice destination for couples. With its history and beaches, there are many romantic activities that couples can enjoy. Wander around old town and enjoy local cuisine. Visit the historic ruins and take a hike outside of the city.

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 Cadiz or Carcassonne Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cadiz
Carcassonne

Carcassonne is a well-known place for backpackers. Also, Cadiz is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit 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.

Plenty of backpackers visit Cadiz. One of the biggest draws to the city is there huge Carnival festival every February. This is a popular time to visit and backpackers will appreciate the lively atmosphere.

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

Cadiz
Carcassonne

Both Cadiz and Carcassonne offer good public transit options.

Cadiz has a few public transit options. There are five bus lines around town. The buses are comfortable and air conditioned.

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 Cadiz or Carcassonne a more walkable city?

Cadiz
Carcassonne

Carcassonne is renowned for its walkability. Also, Cadiz is not as famous, but is still a good port 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.

Cadiz is a very walkable port city. It is a walkable city that is historic and compact enough to explore on foot. It can be a bit of a walk to get from the old town to the beach though.

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

Should I spend more time in Carcassonne or Cadiz?

How long in Cadiz or Carcassonne?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Cadiz or Carcassonne to fill your time. You can spend a similar amount of time exploring either. However, 1-2 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Carcassonne than Cadiz 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 Cadiz or Carcassonne? Ideal Length of Stay
    Cadiz 1-2 
    Carcassonne 1-2

One day in Cadiz or Carcassonne?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the friendly port city of Cadiz. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. One day should give you a good understanding of everything this port city has to offer. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

In Carcassonne, many people enjoy the food and museums that this historical destination offers. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

A weekend in Cadiz or Carcassonne?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the undiscovered destination of Cadiz. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. This port 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Carcassonne. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.


Five days in Cadiz or Carcassonne?

The friendly port city of Cadiz 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 fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the food and museums when visiting the destination of Carcassonne. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Cadiz or Carcassonne?

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Cadiz. 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.

You'll find museums and food around the medieval destination of Carcassonne. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Contiki Tours to Spain, The Best G Adventures Tours to Spain, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in France, and The Best Historical Tours in France.


Which place is cheaper, Carcassonne or Cadiz?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Cadiz is €152, 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 Cadiz and Carcassonne in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Cadiz 77
    Carcassonne 61
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Cadiz 154
    Carcassonne 122
Compare Hotels in Cadiz and Carcassonne

Looking for a hotel in Cadiz 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 Cadiz


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: Cadiz Hotel Prices and Carcassonne Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Cadiz 30
    Carcassonne 7.14

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Cadiz

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Cadiz:

  • Private Transfer from/to Cadiz Airport to/from Hotel: $87
  • Private Transfer from Cadiz city hotels to Cadiz Cruise Port: $28

Is it cheaper to fly into Cadiz or Carcassonne?

Prices for flights to both Carcassonne and Cadiz 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
    Cadiz 45
    Carcassonne 39
Typical Food Prices in Cadiz

Some typical examples of dining costs in Cadiz are as follows:


  • Dinner and Tapas
    15
  • Lunch for 1
    10

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Cadiz

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

  • Tapas Food Tour in Jerez de la Frontera: $39
  • Food Tour Cadiz: $75
  • Tabancos Food Tour Jerez: $92

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Cadiz 27
    Carcassonne 14
Typical Entertainment Prices in Cadiz

Some typical examples of activities, tours, and entrance ticket prices in Cadiz are as follows:


  • Cadiz Sightseeing Tour
    15

Tours and Activities in Cadiz

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Cadiz are as follows:

  • 2 Hours Private Historical Tour in Cadiz : $87
  • 3 Hour Tapa and Cultural Experience Walking Tour: $120
  • 3-Hour Private Tour of Cádiz: $17
  • Audioguided Tour of Cádiz Monumental, at your pace: $4.27
  • Cádiz 2:45h Bike Tour: $38
  • Cádiz Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $8.96
  • Cádiz: Cadiz Milenaria Guided Tour: $13
  • Cádiz: Guided Bike Tour: $37
  • Cádiz: Local Tapas Experience: $160
  • Cádiz: Mysteries and Legends Walking Tour with Souvenir: $25
  • Cádiz: Private Guided Tour with Flexible Route: $106
  • Cádiz: Private Sun Cruise for 2 with Aperitivo and Wine: $481

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
    Cadiz 28
    Carcassonne 13

Sample the Local Flavors in Cadiz

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Cadiz:

  • Private Tour with Tapas, Wine Tasting and Bike Rental: $107
  • Countryside Olive Oil & Wine Tasting: $128

Sample the Local Flavors in Carcassonne

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Carcassonne:

  • Wine tour Cathar country: $471


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


Which is Bigger, Cadiz or Carcassonne?

Cadiz has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Carcassonne. When comparing the sizes of Cadiz 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 Cadiz 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 Cadiz or Carcassonne in the Summer?

Both Carcassonne and Cadiz during the summer are popular places to visit. The beaches and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Cadiz this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Carcassonne for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences.

Cadiz is around the same temperature as Carcassonne in the summer. The daily temperature in Cadiz averages around 25°C (77°F) in July, and Carcassonne fluctuates around 24°C (75°F).

In Carcassonne, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Cadiz. In the summer, Cadiz often gets more sunshine than Carcassonne. Cadiz gets 356 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Carcassonne receives 275 hours of full sun.

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


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Cadiz 25°C (77°F) 
    Carcassonne 24°C (75°F)

Should I visit Cadiz or Carcassonne in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Cadiz and Carcassonne. Many travelers come to Cadiz for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Carcassonne in the autumn for the small town atmosphere and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Cadiz is a little warmer than Carcassonne. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Cadiz in October average around 20°C (68°F), and Carcassonne averages at about 17°C (62°F).

In Cadiz, it's very sunny this time of the year. Cadiz usually receives more sunshine than Carcassonne during autumn. Cadiz gets 235 hours of sunny skies, while Carcassonne receives 161 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Cadiz usually receives less rain than Carcassonne. Cadiz gets 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Carcassonne receives 90 mm (3.5 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


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

Should I visit Cadiz or Carcassonne in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Cadiz as well as Carcassonne. Many visitors come to Cadiz in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Carcassonne for the museums and the cuisine during these months.

In January, Cadiz is generally much warmer than Carcassonne. Daily temperatures in Cadiz average around 13°C (55°F), and Carcassonne fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

In the winter, Cadiz often gets more sunshine than Carcassonne. Cadiz gets 174 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Carcassonne receives 88 hours of full sun.

Cadiz usually gets more rain in January than Carcassonne. Cadiz gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Carcassonne receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.


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

Should I visit Cadiz or Carcassonne in the Spring?

Both Carcassonne and Cadiz are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Cadiz for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Carcassonne because of the small town charm and the natural beauty.

Cadiz is a little warmer than Carcassonne in the spring. The daily temperature in Cadiz averages around 17°C (63°F) in April, and Carcassonne fluctuates around 14°C (56°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Cadiz. Cadiz usually receives more sunshine than Carcassonne during spring. Cadiz gets 253 hours of sunny skies, while Carcassonne receives 178 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Cadiz usually receives less rain than Carcassonne. Cadiz gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Carcassonne receives 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Cadiz 17°C (63°F) 
    Carcassonne 14°C (56°F)

Typical Weather for Carcassonne and Cadiz

Cadiz Carcassonne
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 13°C (55°F) 69 mm (2.7 in) 8°C (47°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Feb 14°C (57°F) 59 mm (2.3 in) 9°C (49°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)
Mar 16°C (61°F) 34 mm (1.3 in) 11°C (52°F) 44 mm (1.7 in)
Apr 17°C (63°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 14°C (56°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
May 19°C (66°F) 27 mm (1.1 in) 17°C (63°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Jun 22°C (72°F) 7 mm (0.3 in) 21°C (70°F) 28 mm (1.1 in)
Jul 25°C (77°F) 0 mm (0 in) 24°C (75°F) 17 mm (0.7 in)
Aug 25°C (77°F) 2 mm (0.1 in) 24°C (74°F) 32 mm (1.3 in)
Sep 23°C (73°F) 24 mm (0.9 in) 21°C (69°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Oct 20°C (68°F) 67 mm (2.6 in) 17°C (62°F) 90 mm (3.5 in)
Nov 17°C (63°F) 98 mm (3.9 in) 12°C (53°F) 59 mm (2.3 in)
Dec 14°C (57°F) 92 mm (3.6 in) 9°C (49°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)