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

Should you visit Carcassonne or Kotor?

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 Kotor. 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 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.

Kotor

Kotor is a charming, historic, and peaceful coastal town. Since it offers so much small town charm with a variety of activities, it attracts plenty of visitors, too. 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 scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and hiking.

Carcassonne and Kotor: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Carcassonne or Kotor?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Kotor. Although Carcassonne and Kotor are both popular with visitors, Kotor has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Kotor is more popular for its food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, hiking, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Carcassonne is known for its museums. Carcassonne is more touristy than Kotor and is popular for its medieval history, walled fortifications, and well-known castle. Kotor is popular for its medieval old town and its dramatic setting on the coastline surrounded by limestone cliffs. It is also home to The Cathedral of Saint Tryphon (Kotor Cathedral).

How is Carcassonne different from Kotor?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Carcassonne is well known for its museums and landmarks. However, Kotor does not have museums and landmarks.

Many visitors head to Carcassonne specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The town is filled with medieval sights including the Château Comtal, the Basilica of Saints Nazarius and Celsus, and the Carcassonne Cathedral.

Kotor does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Kotor 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 Kotor, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. Food is fresh and hearty, with many dishes including meats, cheeses, and bread. Popular local dishes include börek, black risotto, and pasulj (a type of baked beans prepared with meats and spices). Seafood is an obvious choice around town as well. Ask for whatever is fresh and enjoy a delicious meal. There are also a number of dessert cafes where you can enjoy pastries at a very affordable price.

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 Kotor Better for Nightlife?

Kotor is a decent place to visit for nightlife. However, Carcassonne is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Kotor. It has some of the best nightlife in Montenegro, but outside of the summer months you'll find things are very calm. Head to the old town for the highest concentration of bars and clubs.

Carcassonne is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Carcassonne or Kotor Better for Resorts?

Kotor is a decent place to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Carcassonne is not a resort destination.

Kotor has a few resort options worth checking out. The town has mostly boutique hotels and apartments, particularly if you want to stay in old town.

Carcassonne is not a resort destination.

Is Carcassonne or Kotor Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Kotor is a good destination for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Carcassonne is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Grab a mask and fins and explore the underwater scenery in Kotor. It's possible to book snorkeling trips with a local vendor, or you can pack your own mask and snorkel and venture into the water on your own.

Carcassonne is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Carcassonne or Kotor Better for Beaches?

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

Kotor offers a nice beach destination. Like many parts of the Mediterranean, the beaches are rocky and pebbly. Many of the beaches are small and quiet, giving them a personal and discovered vibe which many travelers appreciate.

Carcassonne is not a beach destination.

Is Carcassonne or Kotor Better for its Old Town?

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

Kotor has a world-famous historical area. The city walls and compact historic area make the old town a unique place 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 Carcassonne or Kotor Better for Hiking?

Kotor is very popular for its hiking trails. However, Carcassonne is not a hiking destination.

Kotor is well-known for its hiking and trekking. The dramatic cliffs and sea views create some of the most beautiful coastal hikes that you'll find. Trails range from walking paths to more strenuous routes like the Ladder of Kotor Hike, which has many switchbacks and stunning views.

Carcassonne is not a hiking destination.

Is Carcassonne or Kotor Better for Families?

Both Carcassonne and Kotor are good 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 Kotor. Kids will enjoy wandering the streets of old town, exploring the city's fortress, or making their way around the city walls. There are a few beaches to explore, but they are a bit rocky. It's also fun to get out on the water on a boat ride.

Is Carcassonne or Kotor Better for Couples?

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

Kotor makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The charming old town, picturesque views, and quaint personality of the town make this a great couple's get away. Whether you want to lounge on the water's edge or soak up the unique culture, there are many hidden sides to the coastal town.

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 Kotor Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Carcassonne and Kotor are both high quality destinations for backpackers.

Carcassonne is very popular with the backpacker crowd. There are interesting hostels in the area including a converted 17th century convent.

Kotor is a great town to visit for backpackers. The town is affordable and reasonably accessible, making it a great option for backpackers. It's not as touristy as some of the more popular coastal towns in the area, so you can enjoy a bit of authenticity without spending big bucks.

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

Carcassonne is very good for its public transit. However, Kotor is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

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.

Public transit is mostly limited in Kotor. Cars aren't allowed in the old town, but you can travel to nearby town's by bus. Most leave from the town's main bus station with higher frequency during the summer months.

Is Carcassonne or Kotor a more walkable city?

Carcassonne and Kotor are first-rate 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 Kotor on foot is easy. The old town is best explored on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Kotor or Carcassonne?

How long in Carcassonne or Kotor?

It's fun to spend time in either Carcassonne or Kotor. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Kotor due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Carcassonne, and 3-4 days is enough time in Kotor.

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

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

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

One day in Carcassonne or Kotor?

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.

Kotor is a small town with plenty to do. 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 Kotor?

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.

Kotor might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This coastal town offers something for everyone. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Carcassonne or Kotor?

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.

Because Kotor is a small town, it's easy to explore in a short amount of time. 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.

A week in Carcassonne or Kotor?

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.

Since Kotor is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. 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.

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 Montenegro, and The Best Budget Tours to Montenegro.

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

Which is Bigger, Carcassonne or Kotor?

Carcassonne has a larger population, and is about 9 times larger than the population of Kotor. When comparing the sizes of Carcassonne and Kotor, 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 Kotor?

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 Carcassonne or Kotor in the Summer?

Both Kotor and Carcassonne during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Carcassonne for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Kotor in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

Carcassonne is around the same temperature as Kotor in the summer. The daily temperature in Carcassonne averages around 24°C (75°F) in July, and Kotor fluctuates around 26°C (80°F).

In Kotor, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Carcassonne. In the summer, Carcassonne often gets less sunshine than Kotor. Carcassonne gets 275 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kotor receives 341 hours of full sun.

Carcassonne usually gets less rain in July than Kotor. Carcassonne gets 17 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Kotor receives 47 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Carcassonne or Kotor in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Carcassonne and Kotor. Many visitors come to Carcassonne in the autumn for the small town atmosphere and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Kotor for the hiking trails, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In the autumn, Carcassonne is around the same temperature as Kotor. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Carcassonne in October average around 17°C (62°F), and Kotor averages at about 17°C (63°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Kotor this time of the year. Carcassonne usually receives less sunshine than Kotor during autumn. Carcassonne gets 161 hours of sunny skies, while Kotor receives 203 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Kotor receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, Carcassonne usually receives less rain than Kotor. Carcassonne gets 90 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Kotor receives 174 mm (6.9 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Carcassonne or Kotor in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Carcassonne as well as Kotor. Most visitors come to Carcassonne for the museums and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Kotor because of the cuisine.

In January, Carcassonne is generally a little warmer than Kotor. Daily temperatures in Carcassonne average around 8°C (47°F), and Kotor fluctuates around 6°C (42°F).

In the winter, Carcassonne often gets less sunshine than Kotor. Carcassonne gets 88 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kotor receives 121 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Kotor. Carcassonne usually gets less rain in January than Kotor. Carcassonne gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Kotor receives 186 mm (7.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Carcassonne or Kotor in the Spring?

Both Kotor and Carcassonne are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to Carcassonne because of the small town charm and the natural beauty. Also, the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty are the main draw to Kotor this time of year.

Carcassonne is around the same temperature as Kotor in the spring. The daily temperature in Carcassonne averages around 14°C (56°F) in April, and Kotor fluctuates around 14°C (58°F).

Carcassonne usually receives less sunshine than Kotor during spring. Carcassonne gets 178 hours of sunny skies, while Kotor receives 194 hours of full sun in the spring.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Kotor. In April, Carcassonne usually receives less rain than Kotor. Carcassonne gets 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Kotor receives 154 mm (6.1 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Kotor and Carcassonne