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

Should you visit Carcassonne or Positano?

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 Positano. 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.

Positano

Positano is a colorful, stunning, and luxurious Mediterranean village. 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 beaches, hiking, and shopping.

Carcassonne and Positano: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Carcassonne or Positano?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Positano than Carcassonne, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Positano is better known for its food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, hiking, shopping, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Carcassonne is more popular for its museums. Positano is more touristy than Carcassonne and is known for its beautiful cliffside setting, its colorful buildings, and its quintessential Amalfi atmosphere. Also, Positano is famous for The Church of Santa Maria Assunta. Carcassonne is well known for its medieval history, walled fortifications, and well-known castle.

How is Carcassonne different from Positano?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Carcassonne is great for its historical sights. However, Positano does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Positano does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Positano 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 Positano, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. Seafood is the obvious choice along the Amalfi Coast but Positano is also famous for its salami, chestnuts, cheese, and figs.

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 Positano Better for Nightlife?

Positano 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 Positano. The town has a relaxing nightlife that is usually centered around the clubs found at nearby resorts.

Carcassonne is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Carcassonne or Positano Better for Resorts?

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

Vacationers flock to Positano for its luxury resorts. The town has a number of luxury resorts including Le Sirenuse, Il San Pietro di Positano, and Hotel Le Agavi.

Carcassonne is not a resort destination.

Is Carcassonne or Positano Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Positano 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 Positano. There are snorkeling boat trips that you can book to enjoy exploring the undersea world.

Carcassonne is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Carcassonne or Positano Better for Beaches?

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

Positano offers a nice beach destination. Like the rest of the Amalfi Coast, beaches near Positano tend to be pebbly instead of sandy. They can also get a bit crowded during the summer months. Still, the picturesque setting makes these beaches truly amazing. The main beach at the edge of town is Spiaggia Grande, but there are several others nearby as well.

Carcassonne is not a beach destination.

Is Carcassonne or Positano Better for its Old Town?

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

Positano has a world-famous historical area. Exploring the old town, soaking up the atmosphere, and simply enjoying the colorful buildings is what a trip to Positano is all about.

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 Positano Better for Hiking?

Positano 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 Positano. The best way to explore the area out of town is on foot. There are a number of foot paths and trails that will take you through the stunning landscapes.

Carcassonne is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Carcassonne or Positano?

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

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Positano. The main street in town is lined with quaint shops that sell local lemon products, ceramics, clothing, and more.

Carcassonne is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Carcassonne or Positano Better for Families?

Both Carcassonne and Positano are notable 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 Positano. Fun activities include boat rides, eating gelato, and hanging out at the beach. Some of the best family-friendly beaches are Spiaggia Grande, Fornillo Beach, and Arienzo Beach.

Is Carcassonne or Positano Better for Couples?

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

Positano is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. It is a picturesque coast town that is both romantic and fun. Wandering through the streets and sampling Italian food make this the perfect honeymoon getaway.

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 Positano Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Carcassonne is great for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Positano is not as popular, but is still a nice Mediterranean village for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Carcassonne. There are interesting hostels in the area including a converted 17th century convent.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Positano. The town has a handful of great hostels that make the Amalfi Coast accessible to backpackers on a budget.

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

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

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 Positano, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. You can walk everywhere once you arrive, and the SITA bus travels to and from the town.

Is Carcassonne or Positano a more walkable city?

Carcassonne and Positano are terrific 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 Positano on foot is easy. The town is best explored on foot. You can wander the quaint streets or take the foot path to the beach or nearby castles.

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

Should I spend more time in Positano or Carcassonne?

How long in Carcassonne or Positano?

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

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

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

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

One day in Carcassonne or Positano?

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.

Positano is a small town with plenty to do. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Most people visit for the food. 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 Positano?

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.

Positano 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 Mediterranean village 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 Positano?

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.

Even though Positano is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. 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 Positano?

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.

Positano is a small town where visitors enjoy the shopping and food. Anyone can find something fun to do here. This is a popular place to visit for one week. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. Most people visit for the food. In one week, you should have a good grasp of this Mediterranean village.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in France, The Best Historical Tours in France, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Italy, and The Best Coach Bus Tours in Italy.

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

Which is Bigger, Carcassonne or Positano?

Carcassonne has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Positano. When comparing the sizes of Carcassonne and Positano, 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 Positano?

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 Positano in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Carcassonne and Positano. The summer months attract visitors to Carcassonne because of the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Positano this time of year.

In July, Carcassonne is generally around the same temperature as Positano. Daily temperatures in Carcassonne average around 24°C (75°F), and Positano fluctuates around 23°C (74°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Positano this time of the year. In Carcassonne, it's very sunny this time of the year. Carcassonne usually receives less sunshine than Positano during summer. Carcassonne gets 275 hours of sunny skies, while Positano receives 313 hours of full sun in the summer.

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

Should I visit Carcassonne or Positano in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Carcassonne as well as Positano. The small town atmosphere and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Carcassonne this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Positano for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

Carcassonne is around the same temperature as Positano in the autumn. The daily temperature in Carcassonne averages around 17°C (62°F) in October, and Positano fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

In the autumn, Carcassonne often gets less sunshine than Positano. Carcassonne gets 161 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Positano receives 189 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Positano. Carcassonne usually gets less rain in October than Positano. Carcassonne gets 90 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Positano receives 132 mm (5.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Carcassonne or Positano in the Winter?

Both Positano and Carcassonne are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Carcassonne for the museums and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Positano in the winter for the shopping scene and the cuisine.

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

Carcassonne usually receives less sunshine than Positano during winter. Carcassonne gets 88 hours of sunny skies, while Positano receives 115 hours of full sun in the winter.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Positano. In January, Carcassonne usually receives less rain than Positano. Carcassonne gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Positano receives 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Carcassonne or Positano in the Spring?

Both Positano and Carcassonne during the spring are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Carcassonne in the spring for the small town charm and the natural beauty. Furthermore, most visitors come to Positano for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty during these months.

In April, Carcassonne is generally around the same temperature as Positano. Daily temperatures in Carcassonne average around 14°C (56°F), and Positano fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

In the spring, Carcassonne often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Positano. Carcassonne gets 178 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Positano receives 189 hours of full sun.

Carcassonne usually gets less rain in April than Positano. Carcassonne gets 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Positano receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Positano and Carcassonne