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

Should you visit Carcassonne or Florence?

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 Florence. 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 historical, fairytale, and medieval town. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the food and museums.

Florence

Florence is a historical, artistic, and iconic city. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums.

Carcassonne and Florence: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Carcassonne or Florence?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Florence. Although Carcassonne and Florence are popular destinations, Florence has more sights and attractions for tourists. Florence is very popular for its museums, food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Carcassonne attracts visitors for its small town charm. Florence is more touristy than Carcassonne and is known for its iconic beauty, world-renowned Renaissance art and architecture, and beautifully maintained gardens. It is also well known for The Duomo (Santa Maria del Fiore). Carcassonne is famous for its medieval history, walled fortifications, and well-known castle.

How is Carcassonne different from Florence?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Florence 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 Florence?

Florence is very popular for its museums and history. Also, Carcassonne is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

Travelers visit Florence from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. Because of it's important role in the Renaissance, the city has many world-renowned museums that you can visit. Famous sights and landmarks include the Uffizi Gallery, the Duomo, and the Academy Gallery.

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 Carcassonne or Florence? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Florence 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 Florence, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. Once you've worked up an appetite exploring museums and churches, you'll find many amazing local restaurants around town. Local dishes incorporate a lot of hearty vegetables and meats. Famous dishes include a Florentine steak dish, rabbit, and a bean bed and cabbage soup.

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 Florence Better for Nightlife?

Florence 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 Florence. You'll find the most active nightlife in the Santa Croce neighborhood. The area attracts study abroad students as well as tourists who party late into the night.

Carcassonne is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Carcassonne or Florence Better for its Old Town?

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

Florence has a world-famous historical area. The historic center of the city is where you'll find many of the most beautiful buildings, art works, and quaint streets. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and it was at the heart of the Renaissance period.

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 Carcassonne or Florence?

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

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Florence. There are many shops in the tourist heart of the city. Most are geared specifically to tourists so you may have to search to find a more authentic shopping experience. Famous items available in the city include gold jewelry, ceramics, leather, and perfume.

Carcassonne is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Carcassonne or Florence Better for Families?

Both Carcassonne and Florence are nice family-friendly destinations.

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

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Florence. Most famous for its art and history, the city also has a number of activities that kids will enjoy. There's a carousel and a park that are perfect to let the little ones run around. There are a few kid-friendly museums, as well as a historic city center that will mesmerize the old and young alike.

Is Carcassonne or Florence Better for Couples?

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

Florence is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. Art and history lovers will enjoy a visit to this truly beautiful city. Couples who enjoy museums, historic buildings, and world-renowned art, will find plenty to do in this 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 Carcassonne or Florence Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Many backpackers frequent Florence. The city is part of a popular route through Italy, and you'll find many backpackers and students in town. There are also many hostels, so you should have no trouble meeting other young travelers.

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 Florence Better for Students?

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

Florence is a very popular place to visit for students. Many students visit this city as part of a short term study abroad program, or for the entire length of their studies. The city is beautiful, and whether your focus is art, history, or culture, this city will not disappoint.

Carcassonne is not popular with students.

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

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

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 Florence, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There is a comprehensive bus system.

Is Carcassonne or Florence a more walkable city?

Carcassonne and Florence are world-class 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 Florence on foot is easy. Most people explore the city on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Florence or Carcassonne?

How long in Carcassonne or Florence?

Both Carcassonne and Florence have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Florence than in Carcassonne. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Carcassonne, and 2-7 days is enough time in Florence.

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

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

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

One day in Carcassonne or Florence?

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.

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the alluring city of Florence. 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.

A weekend in Carcassonne or Florence?

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.

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the artistic destination of Florence. 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.

Five days in Carcassonne or Florence?

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.

Visitors enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the artistic city of Florence. 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.

A week in Carcassonne or Florence?

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.

Visitors enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Florence. Anyone can find something fun to do here. This is a popular place to visit for one week. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. In one week, you should have a good grasp of this city.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in France, The Best Historical Tours in France, The Best Luxury Tours to Italy, and The Best Budget Tours to Italy.

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

Which is Bigger, Carcassonne or Florence?

Florence has a larger population, and is about 7 times larger than the population of Carcassonne. When comparing the sizes of Carcassonne and Florence, 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 Florence?

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 Florence in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Carcassonne and Florence. Many visitors come to Carcassonne in the summer for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Florence for the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Carcassonne is around the same temperature as Florence. Typically, the summer temperatures in Carcassonne in July average around 24°C (75°F), and Florence averages at about 25°C (77°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Florence this time of the year. In Carcassonne, it's very sunny this time of the year. Carcassonne usually receives less sunshine than Florence during summer. Carcassonne gets 275 hours of sunny skies, while Florence receives 316 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Carcassonne usually receives less rain than Florence. Carcassonne gets 17 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Florence receives 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Carcassonne or Florence in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Carcassonne as well as Florence. Most visitors come to Carcassonne for the small town atmosphere and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Additionally, the autumn months attract visitors to Florence because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Carcassonne is generally around the same temperature as Florence. Daily temperatures in Carcassonne average around 17°C (62°F), and Florence fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

In the autumn, Carcassonne often gets less sunshine than Florence. Carcassonne gets 161 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Florence receives 177 hours of full sun.

Carcassonne usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Florence. Carcassonne gets 90 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Florence receives 96 mm (3.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Carcassonne or Florence in the Winter?

Both Florence and Carcassonne are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Carcassonne because of the museums and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Florence this time of year.

Carcassonne is a little warmer than Florence in the winter. The daily temperature in Carcassonne averages around 8°C (47°F) in January, and Florence fluctuates around 7°C (45°F).

Carcassonne usually receives less sunshine than Florence during winter. Carcassonne gets 88 hours of sunny skies, while Florence receives 105 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Carcassonne usually receives less rain than Florence. Carcassonne gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Florence receives 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Carcassonne or Florence in the Spring?

Both Florence and Carcassonne during the spring are popular places to visit. The small town charm and the natural beauty are the main draw to Carcassonne this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Florence for the natural beauty.

In the spring, Carcassonne is around the same temperature as Florence. Typically, the spring temperatures in Carcassonne in April average around 14°C (56°F), and Florence averages at about 14°C (57°F).

In the spring, Carcassonne often gets less sunshine than Florence. Carcassonne gets 178 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Florence receives 192 hours of full sun.

Carcassonne usually gets less rain in April than Florence. Carcassonne gets 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Florence receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Florence and Carcassonne