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

Should you visit Carcassonne or Dubrovnik?

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 Carcassonne and Dubrovnik. 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.

Carcassonne

Carcassonne is a fairytale, medieval, and historical town. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the food and museums.

Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik is a historic, charming, and famous coastal town. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It also has that perfectly quaint feel that is like no other place. Other reasons to visit include hiking, shopping, and museums.

Carcassonne and Dubrovnik: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Carcassonne or Dubrovnik?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Dubrovnik than Carcassonne, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Dubrovnik is better known for its food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, hiking, shopping, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Carcassonne is more popular for its small town charm. Dubrovnik is more touristy than Carcassonne and is known for its well-preserved medieval old town that is surrounded by stone walls and has been the production sight for many major movies and television shows. Also, Dubrovnik is famous for The Old Town Walls. Carcassonne is well known for its medieval history, walled fortifications, and well-known castle.

How is Carcassonne different from Dubrovnik?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Spend time exploring the superb sights and museums in either Carcassonne or Dubrovnik.

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.

Dubrovnik offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The old town is a living museum that is filled with historic landmarks like the old town walls, the Dubrovnik Cathedral and Treasury, and Loggia Square.

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

Dubrovnik 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 Dubrovnik, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. Restaurants are usually locally-sourced with fresh produce and seafood. Traditional local dishes include black risotto (made with squid ink), pašticada (a beef dish), and various pasta dishes.

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 Carcassonne or Dubrovnik Better for Nightlife?

Dubrovnik 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 Dubrovnik. There are many bars around town that take advantage of the unique architecture of the city. There are far less clubs, but for a drink in a laid back setting, you'll find plenty of options.

Carcassonne is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Carcassonne or Dubrovnik Better for Resorts?

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

There are plenty of resorts in Dubrovnik to choose from. The old town is the most famous and charming part of the city, but you'll find most of the resorts spanning the coastline outside of town. Inside the old town there are a few boutique hotels and a number of rooms available for rent, but make sure you book early during peak seasons. For a resort, look outside of the old town with popular options including Hotel Dubrovnik Palace, the Hilton Imperial, and Rixos Premium.

Carcassonne is not a resort destination.

Is Carcassonne or Dubrovnik Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Dubrovnik is a decent place to visit for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Carcassonne is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's possible to go snorkeling in Dubrovnik. On clear days, snorkeling can be a fun activity, but the weather and visibility can vary so conditions are unpredictable. Buža is a popular snorkeling spot in town, but you can also organize tours to other areas.

Carcassonne is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Carcassonne or Dubrovnik Better for Beaches?

Dubrovnik is a good destination for its beaches. However, Carcassonne is not a beach destination.

Dubrovnik offers a nice beach destination. The old town is the main appeal of the area, but there are several beaches that are nice for taking a swim or sunbathing. They are often pebbly, but the water is blue and the views are beautiful.

Carcassonne is not a beach destination.

Is Carcassonne or Dubrovnik Better for its Old Town?

Dubrovnik is very popular for its historic old town. Also, Carcassonne is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its old town.

Dubrovnik has a world-famous historical area. This walled old town is among the most famous in Europe. It's sits beautifully along the coast and it is pedestrian only. You can spend plenty of time exploring the historic lanes, popping in shops and restaurants, and soaking up the charming 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 Carcassonne or Dubrovnik Better for Hiking?

Dubrovnik 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 Dubrovnik. There are a number of hikes outside of town that take you along the dramatic coastal. The paths offer spectacular views back towards town or along the water.

Carcassonne is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Carcassonne or Dubrovnik?

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

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Dubrovnik. The old town offers some nice boutique shops where you can buy designer clothes, jewelry, or trinkets.

Carcassonne is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Carcassonne or Dubrovnik Better for Families?

Dubrovnik 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.

Dubrovnik is a very family-friendly destination. The city has nice beaches, beautiful hikes, and historic city walls that are fun to explore with kids. The food is also kid-friendly and the locals love meeting children.

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 Carcassonne or Dubrovnik Better for Couples?

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

Dubrovnik is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. With its beautiful old town, nice beaches, and laid back atmosphere, this makes the perfect couple's getaway destination. Pop in a local restaurant and try the seafood before exploring the charming squares and historic buildings.

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 Carcassonne or Dubrovnik Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Many backpackers frequent Dubrovnik. It's not hard to find a room in a local's home near old town at an affordable price. The food is delicious and affordable as well, and you'll find plenty of other backpackers in town to hang out with.

Carcassonne is a great town to visit for backpackers. There are interesting hostels in the area including a converted 17th century convent.

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

Visitors will find notable public transit in both Carcassonne and Dubrovnik.

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.

You'll find some public transit in Dubrovnik, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are 12 bus lines that connect all parts of the city with the city center.

Is Carcassonne or Dubrovnik a more walkable city?

Carcassonne and Dubrovnik are amazing when it comes to walkability.

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.

Getting around Dubrovnik on foot is easy. The old town is completely pedestrian-only and you can also explore the city's historic walls on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Dubrovnik or Carcassonne?

How long in Carcassonne or Dubrovnik?

In either Carcassonne or Dubrovnik, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Dubrovnik than Carcassonne because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Carcassonne, and 1-5 days is enough time in Dubrovnik.

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

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

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

One day in Carcassonne or Dubrovnik?

You'll find food and museums around the town of Carcassonne. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Carcassonne has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

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

A weekend in Carcassonne or Dubrovnik?

You'll find museums and food around the medieval destination of Carcassonne. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the famous destination of Dubrovnik. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This coastal 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.

Five days in Carcassonne or Dubrovnik?

Travelers enjoy the food and museums when visiting the fairytale town of Carcassonne. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Visitors enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the coastal coastal town of Dubrovnik. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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.

A week in Carcassonne or Dubrovnik?

Carcassonne is a popular choice for travelers. One week 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

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

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in France, The Best Historical Tours in France, The Best 2-Week Tours from Split, and The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Croatia.

When comparing the travel costs between Carcassonne and Dubrovnik, 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 Carcassonne Expensive? and Is Dubrovnik Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Carcassonne or Dubrovnik?

Carcassonne has a larger population, and is about 74% larger than the population of Dubrovnik. When comparing the sizes of Carcassonne and Dubrovnik, 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 Carcassonne or Dubrovnik?

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 Carcassonne or Dubrovnik in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Carcassonne and Dubrovnik. The small town charm and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Carcassonne this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Dubrovnik for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Carcassonne is generally around the same temperature as Dubrovnik. Daily temperatures in Carcassonne average around 24°C (75°F), and Dubrovnik fluctuates around 25°C (77°F).

In July, Carcassonne usually receives less rain than Dubrovnik. Carcassonne gets 17 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Dubrovnik receives 26 mm (1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Carcassonne or Dubrovnik in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Carcassonne as well as Dubrovnik. Many travelers come to Carcassonne for the small town atmosphere and the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, many visitors come to Dubrovnik in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Carcassonne is around the same temperature as Dubrovnik in the autumn. The daily temperature in Carcassonne averages around 17°C (62°F) in October, and Dubrovnik fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

It's quite rainy in Dubrovnik. Carcassonne usually gets less rain in October than Dubrovnik. Carcassonne gets 90 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Dubrovnik receives 162 mm (6.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Carcassonne or Dubrovnik in the Winter?

Both Dubrovnik and Carcassonne are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Carcassonne in the winter for the museums and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Dubrovnik for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

In the winter, Carcassonne is around the same temperature as Dubrovnik. Typically, the winter temperatures in Carcassonne in January average around 8°C (47°F), and Dubrovnik averages at about 9°C (48°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Dubrovnik. In January, Carcassonne usually receives less rain than Dubrovnik. Carcassonne gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Dubrovnik receives 139 mm (5.5 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Carcassonne or Dubrovnik in the Spring?

Both Dubrovnik and Carcassonne during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Carcassonne for the small town charm and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Dubrovnik because of the beaches and the natural beauty.

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

Dubrovnik gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Carcassonne usually gets less rain in April than Dubrovnik. Carcassonne gets 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Dubrovnik receives 104 mm (4.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Dubrovnik and Carcassonne