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

Should you visit Cagliari or Carcassonne?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Cagliari and Carcassonne can help you decide which place is right for you.

Cagliari

Cagliari is a relaxed, historic, and under-rated city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. Other reasons to visit include food, beaches, and shopping.

Carcassonne

Carcassonne is a historical, fairytale, and medieval town. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the food and museums.

Cagliari 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
  • Good for students
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 Cagliari or Carcassonne?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Cagliari. Although Cagliari and Carcassonne are popular destinations, Cagliari has more sights and attractions for tourists. Cagliari is very popular for its nightlife, beaches, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Carcassonne attracts visitors for its small town charm and impressive beauty. Carcassonne is more touristy than Cagliari and is known for its medieval history, walled fortifications, and well-known castle. Cagliari is famous for its medieval quarter, beautiful hilltop setting, and impressive beaches. It is also well known for Castello.

How is Cagliari different from Carcassonne?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Cagliari
Carcassonne

Visiting museums and landmarks is a fun activity in both Cagliari and Carcassonne.

Many visitors head to Cagliari specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The Castello district is filled with ancient buildings including Bastione San Remy and the Duomo. Also make sure you check out the Archeology Museum.

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.


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

Cagliari
Carcassonne

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Cagliari and Carcassonne can be difficult as they are each high quality in their own way.

Cagliari has a huge number of terrific restaurants. The cuisine mixes the island's sea and mountain settings. You'll find many local pastas, breads, seafood dishes, and cheeses. There's a wealth of diversity in the food and you should definitely step away from the more traditional Italian flavors and try something uniquely Sardinian.

Dining out in Carcassonne is an experience not to be missed. 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 Cagliari or Carcassonne Better for Nightlife?

Cagliari
Carcassonne

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

Cagliari has a large number of nightlife venues. There's a thriving nightlife scene that is mostly centered around tourists. You'll find a number of the best bars in the Castello district and the atmosphere is usually relaxed and laid back, like the town itself.

Carcassonne is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Cagliari or Carcassonne Better for Beaches?

Cagliari
Carcassonne

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

Many people visit Cagliari for it's beautiful beaches. While you'll find some nice beaches in town, if you're willing to head to the surrounding areas just outside of town, you'll be rewarded with amazing beaches. The beaches are enjoyable any time of the year.

Carcassonne is not a beach destination.


Is Cagliari or Carcassonne Better for its Old Town?

Cagliari
Carcassonne

Cagliari 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 Cagliari. The Castello district is the city's old town. It's filled with narrow alleys, historic castles, and a truly unique atmosphere.

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 Cagliari or Carcassonne?

Cagliari
Carcassonne

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

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Cagliari. Head to the Marina district for some of the city's best shopping opportunities. There are a number of shopping malls to choose from. For souvenirs and other handicrafts, the port area has a few shops.

Carcassonne is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Cagliari or Carcassonne Better for Families?

Cagliari
Carcassonne

Cagliari 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.

Cagliari is a very family-friendly destination. There are a number of activities for kids to enjoy in the areas surrounding the city. If you're willing to get about an hour out of town, you can check out the Water Park of Pula. In town, there's a little train that young kids will enjoy. And, of course, there are the beaches!

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 Cagliari or Carcassonne Better for Couples?

Cagliari
Carcassonne

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

Cagliari makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The waterfront setting and nice beaches make this a great place for couples. There's also the Castello district, which is fun to wander through, and many parks and outdoor walking areas.

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 Cagliari or Carcassonne Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cagliari
Carcassonne

Carcassonne is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Cagliari is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

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

It's common for backpackers to visit Cagliari. There's a hostel or two in the area that offer accommodation that backpackers will appreciate.

Is Cagliari or Carcassonne Better for Students?

Cagliari
Carcassonne

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

Plenty of students visit Cagliari. There are some study abroad opportunities in town, and with the nearby beaches and wonderful weather, many international students enjoy their time here.

Carcassonne is not popular with students.


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

Cagliari
Carcassonne

Visitors will find nice public transit in both Cagliari and Carcassonne.

Cagliari has some public transit options. There are buses that travel around town relatively efficiently.

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 Cagliari or Carcassonne a more walkable city?

Cagliari
Carcassonne

Carcassonne is an amazing town to visit for its high level of walkability. Also, Cagliari is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its ease of walking around.

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

Cagliari is a very walkable destination. While the city is very walkable, it is built on a large hill so come prepared for some steep climbs.

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

Should I spend more time in Carcassonne or Cagliari?

How long in Cagliari or Carcassonne?

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

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

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


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

One day in Cagliari or Carcassonne?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the relaxed city of Cagliari. It's also a great beach destination, too. 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 Cagliari or Carcassonne?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the relaxed destination of Cagliari. 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 Cagliari or Carcassonne?

The laid back city of Cagliari offers shopping and museums. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. 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 Cagliari or Carcassonne?

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Cagliari. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most people come for the beaches. 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 One Week (7-Day) Tours in Italy, The Best 2-Week Tours in Italy, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in France, and The Best Historical Tours in France.


Which place is cheaper, Carcassonne or Cagliari?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Cagliari is €120, 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 Cagliari and Carcassonne in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Cagliari 66
    Carcassonne 61
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Cagliari 132
    Carcassonne 122
Compare Hotels in Cagliari and Carcassonne

Looking for a hotel in Cagliari 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 Cagliari


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: Cagliari Hotel Prices and Carcassonne Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Cagliari 31
    Carcassonne 7.14

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Cagliari

Also for Cagliari, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Transfer / taxi Cagliari Airport - Cagliari city: $60
  • Private Transfer from Cagliari hotels to Cagliari Cruise Port: $26
  • Private Transfer Cagliari airport City - Orosei city Marina: $513
  • Cagliari Elmas Airport: 1-Way Private Transfer to Cagliari: $65

Is it cheaper to fly into Cagliari or Carcassonne?

Prices for flights to both Carcassonne and Cagliari 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
    Cagliari 35
    Carcassonne 39

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Cagliari

For Cagliari, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Sardinia Cooking Class: Fresh Handmade Pasta: $75
  • Cooking Class and Wine Tasting: $80
  • Homemade fresh pasta cooking: $82
  • Sardinia Traditional Food Tour: $87
  • Sardinian Cooking Class with Meal and Drinks: $96
  • Traditional Sardinian Lunch and Cooking Class In Cagliari: $116
  • Romantic sunset dinner experience with private chef: $159

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Cagliari 17
    Carcassonne 14

Tours and Activities in Cagliari

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

  • 2 Hours Guided Tour of San Pancras and Castello: $43
  • 3 Hours Guided Tour of the Historical Cagliari: $64
  • Archaeological tour of Nora: $91
  • Barumini Unesco Site and Giara of Gesturi Tour from Cagliari: $98
  • Beach Tour Porto Pino & Piscinnì from Cagliari: $91
  • Beachtour Marina Rei & Sant'Elmo from Cagliari: $91
  • Beachtour Porto Giunco & Cala Sinzias from Cagliari: $91
  • Beachtour to Chia & Tuerredda from Cagliari: $91
  • Boat Tour at Devil's Saddle: 4 Swim Stops, Snorkeling & Prosecco: $60
  • Boat Tour in the Gulf of Cagliari with aperitif on board: $84
  • Cagliari : Highlights & Hidden gems Private Walking Tour: $70
  • Cagliari : Private Custom Walking Tour with Local Guide: $51

Tours and Activities in Carcassonne

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

  • A Self-Guided Tour of Carcassonne’s Ancient Basilica: $20
  • Best of Cathar Country: Full-Day Private Tour.: $207
  • Carcassonne 's Medieval Walls: A Self-Guided Tour: $20
  • Carcassonne Private Guided Walking Tour: $294
  • 2-Hour Private Walking Tour : $201
  • Castle and Ramparts Entry Ticket: $12
  • City Exploration Game and Tour: $6.42
  • Fortress Walking Tour: $171
  • Highlights Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt & Tour: $6.42
  • Medieval Walls Self-Guided Smartphone App Tour: $20
  • Photoshoot Experience: $160
  • Private Walking Tour with Cité de Carcassonne: $187

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Cagliari 7.57
    Carcassonne 13

Sample the Local Flavors in Cagliari

Also in Cagliari, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Guided Artisanal Food and Wine Tasting Experience: $48
  • WINE TOUR with sommelier in a winery near Cagliari: $66
  • Small-Group Food and Wine Tour from Cagliari: $98
  • Wine Tour Sardinia: $107
  • Wine tour aroud vineyards of Cagliari : $109
  • Wine Tasting & Winery Tour: $266
  • Full-Day Private Wine Tasting with Lunch: $641

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


Which is Bigger, Cagliari or Carcassonne?

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

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Cagliari or Carcassonne in the Summer?

Both Carcassonne and Cagliari are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Cagliari in the summer for the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Carcassonne for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Cagliari is generally around the same temperature as Carcassonne. Daily temperatures in Cagliari average around 24°C (75°F), and Carcassonne fluctuates around 24°C (75°F).

It's quite sunny in Carcassonne. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Cagliari. Cagliari usually receives more sunshine than Carcassonne during summer. Cagliari gets 337 hours of sunny skies, while Carcassonne receives 275 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Cagliari usually receives less rain than Carcassonne. Cagliari gets 4 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Carcassonne receives 17 mm (0.7 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Cagliari 24°C (75°F) 
    Carcassonne 24°C (75°F)

Should I visit Cagliari or Carcassonne in the Autumn?

Both Carcassonne and Cagliari during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Cagliari for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Carcassonne because of the small town atmosphere and the natural beauty of the area.

Cagliari is around the same temperature as Carcassonne in the autumn. The daily temperature in Cagliari averages around 18°C (65°F) in October, and Carcassonne fluctuates around 17°C (62°F).

In the autumn, Cagliari often gets more sunshine than Carcassonne. Cagliari gets 192 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Carcassonne receives 161 hours of full sun.

Cagliari usually gets less rain in October than Carcassonne. Cagliari gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Carcassonne receives 90 mm (3.5 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Cagliari 18°C (65°F) 
    Carcassonne 17°C (62°F)

Should I visit Cagliari or Carcassonne in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Cagliari and Carcassonne. The winter months attract visitors to Cagliari because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums and the cuisine are the main draw to Carcassonne this time of year.

In the winter, Cagliari is a little warmer than Carcassonne. Typically, the winter temperatures in Cagliari in January average around 10°C (50°F), and Carcassonne averages at about 8°C (47°F).

Cagliari usually receives more sunshine than Carcassonne during winter. Cagliari gets 131 hours of sunny skies, while Carcassonne receives 88 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Cagliari usually receives less rain than Carcassonne. Cagliari gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Carcassonne receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Cagliari 10°C (50°F) 
    Carcassonne 8°C (47°F)

Should I visit Cagliari or Carcassonne in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Cagliari as well as Carcassonne. The beaches and the activities around the city are the main draw to Cagliari this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Carcassonne for the small town charm and the natural beauty.

In April, Cagliari is generally around the same temperature as Carcassonne. Daily temperatures in Cagliari average around 14°C (57°F), and Carcassonne fluctuates around 14°C (56°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Cagliari this time of the year. In the spring, Cagliari often gets more sunshine than Carcassonne. Cagliari gets 202 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Carcassonne receives 178 hours of full sun.

Cagliari usually gets less rain in April than Carcassonne. Cagliari gets 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain, while Carcassonne receives 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Cagliari 14°C (57°F) 
    Carcassonne 14°C (56°F)

Typical Weather for Carcassonne and Cagliari

Cagliari Carcassonne
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 10°C (50°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 8°C (47°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Feb 10°C (51°F) 55 mm (2.2 in) 9°C (49°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)
Mar 12°C (53°F) 43 mm (1.7 in) 11°C (52°F) 44 mm (1.7 in)
Apr 14°C (57°F) 36 mm (1.4 in) 14°C (56°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
May 17°C (63°F) 24 mm (0.9 in) 17°C (63°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Jun 21°C (70°F) 11 mm (0.4 in) 21°C (70°F) 28 mm (1.1 in)
Jul 24°C (75°F) 4 mm (0.2 in) 24°C (75°F) 17 mm (0.7 in)
Aug 24°C (76°F) 9 mm (0.4 in) 24°C (74°F) 32 mm (1.3 in)
Sep 22°C (71°F) 26 mm (1 in) 21°C (69°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Oct 18°C (65°F) 50 mm (2 in) 17°C (62°F) 90 mm (3.5 in)
Nov 14°C (57°F) 56 mm (2.2 in) 12°C (53°F) 59 mm (2.3 in)
Dec 11°C (52°F) 54 mm (2.1 in) 9°C (49°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)