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

Should you visit Carcassonne or Prague?

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 Prague. 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. It's a very nice small town not to be missed. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the food and museums.

Prague

Prague is a historical, beautiful, and festive city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Other reasons to visit include live music, shopping, and museums.

Carcassonne and Prague: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less popular old town
  • Less popular with couples
  • Public transit not as usable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Big city activities
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food


Is there more to do in Carcassonne or Prague?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Prague. Although Carcassonne and Prague are popular destinations, Prague has more sights and attractions for tourists. Prague is very popular for its museums, nightlife, music, historical sights, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Carcassonne attracts visitors for its food and small town charm. Prague is more touristy than Carcassonne and is popular for its world-famous old town, local beer, wild nightlife, historic landmarks, and the Charles Bridge. It is also well known for The Prague Castle. Carcassonne is famous for its medieval history, walled fortifications, and well-known castle.

How is Carcassonne different from Prague?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Carcassonne
Prague

Prague 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 Prague from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. Most of the city's historic sights are found in the Old Town. Famous landmarks include the Charles Bridge, the Prague Castle, and the National Museum.

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 Prague? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Carcassonne
Prague

Carcassonne is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. However, Prague is not a good city for its restaurants.

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.

Prague may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. The meals are hearty and filling. There's lots of stew and dumplings that make for a soothing meal on a cold winter day. Goulash is a favorite dish at most of the traditional restaurants around town.

Is Carcassonne or Prague Better for Nightlife?

Carcassonne
Prague

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

Prague is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. The city has long been famous as a beer drinking capital, and although prices are higher than they once were, the fun is the same. The nightlife vibe is great any night of the week, but weekends tend to be the most active.

Carcassonne is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Carcassonne or Prague Better for Music?

Carcassonne
Prague

Prague is very popular for live music. However, Carcassonne is not a live music destination.

Prague is known as a music capital around the world. The city has a long history of classical music, but rock, pop, and almost any other genre is popular here as well.

Carcassonne is not a live music destination.


Is Carcassonne or Prague Better for its Old Town?

Carcassonne
Prague

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

Prague has a world-famous historical area. Based around Old Town Square, this city has one of the most impressive old towns in the world.

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 Prague?

Carcassonne
Prague

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

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Prague. There are many brand name stores in New Town, particularly around Wenceslas Square. In Old Town, Czech porcelain and Bohemia Crystal are popular things to buy.

Carcassonne is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Carcassonne or Prague Better for Families?

Carcassonne
Prague

Prague 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.

Prague is a very family-friendly destination. The city has a fun energy that appeals to adults and kids alike. Make sure you check out the Astronomical Clock and tour the famous Prague Castle. You'll also find the best playgrounds in town around Slavonic Island.

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 Prague Better for Couples?

Carcassonne
Prague

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

Prague is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. Whether you're enjoy beautiful architecture, historical buildings, or a night out drinking, this city makes a great stop for a couple's vacation.

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 Prague Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Carcassonne
Prague

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

Many backpackers frequent Prague. It has its share of fun hostels that often have a social vibe that can't beat. The city is also a fun and affordable place to explore.

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 Prague Better for Students?

Carcassonne
Prague

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

Prague is a very popular place to visit for students. If you're studying abroad and want a cultural city with a young and fun vibe, the this is among the best.

Carcassonne is not popular with students.


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

Carcassonne
Prague

Prague is very popular for times when you don't have a car. Also, Carcassonne is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

Prague has an effecient and thorough public transportation system which can take you anywhere in the city. Metro lines, trams, and buses will take you smoothly through old and new town.

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 Carcassonne or Prague a more walkable city?

Carcassonne
Prague

Carcassonne and Prague 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 Prague on foot is easy. The tourist area through old town is easily explored on foot. Walking around town is the best way to soak up the atmosphere.

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

Should I spend more time in Prague or Carcassonne?

How long in Carcassonne or Prague?

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

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

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

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


  • How many days in Carcassonne or Prague? Ideal Length of Stay
    Carcassonne 1-2 
    Prague 2-7

One day in Carcassonne or Prague?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and food when visiting the destination of Carcassonne. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

Prague is a historical city where you can fill many days. 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 Prague?

Carcassonne is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Prague is a beautiful big city where you can fill many days. 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 Prague?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Carcassonne. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Prague is a historical city where you can fill many days. 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 Prague?

Travelers enjoy the food and museums when visiting the historical destination of Carcassonne. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Prague is a big city destination where you can fill many days. 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 Budget Tours to Czech Republic, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Czech Republic.


Which place is cheaper, Prague or Carcassonne?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Carcassonne is €106, while the average daily cost in Prague is €102. 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 Carcassonne and Prague in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Carcassonne 61
    Prague 63
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Carcassonne 122
    Prague 126
Compare Hotels in Carcassonne and Prague

Looking for a hotel in Carcassonne or Prague? 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 Carcassonne


Hotels in Prague


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: Carcassonne Hotel Prices and Prague Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Carcassonne 7.14
    Prague 7.57

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Prague

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Prague:

  • Transfer from Prague to Salzburg with Tour Stop in Cesky Krumlov: $291
  • Transfer from Prague to Munich: Private with a 2 Hour Stop: $267
  • Transfer from Prague to Karlovy Vary: Private daytrip with 2h for sightseeing : $128
  • Transfer from Prague to Dresden: Private daytrip with 2 hours for sightseeing: $191
  • Transfer from Prague to Cesky Krumlov: Private daytrip with 2h for sightseeing: $138
  • Transfer from Prague Hotel to Airport Prague: $58
  • Terezin Tour Including Admission Ticket and Transfer & Audio: $64
  • Shared Departure Transfer: Prague Hotel to Prague Airport: $25
  • Scenic Private Transfer from Prague to Vienna or Vienna to Prague: $256
  • Private transfer from Prague to Munich: $695
  • Private transfer from Prague to Krakow: $1,059
  • Private transfer from Prague to Frankfurt am Main: $1,059

Is it cheaper to fly into Carcassonne or Prague?

Prices for flights to both Prague and Carcassonne 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
    Carcassonne 39
    Prague 24

Typical Food Prices in Prague

Some typical examples of dining costs in Prague are as follows:


  • Fruit
    3.94
  • Lunch for One
    12
  • Bananas
    0.56
  • Cookies
    0.31

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Prague

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Prague.

  • Anti Tour Prague - Self Guided Beer and Food Tour: $21
  • Hard Rock Cafe with Set Menu for Lunch or Dinner: $27
  • Sightseeing Boat Cruise with Buffet Dinner: $40
  • Prague by Night: 2-Hour Dinner Cruise with Live Music: $47
  • Sightseeing Boat Cruise with Buffet Dinner: $52
  • Vltava River Evening Dinner Cruise: $53
  • Folkloric Dinner Show with Unlimited Drinks: $57
  • 2-Hour Dinner Cruise with Transfers: $57
  • River Cruise with Dinner and Live Music: $58
  • Folklore dinner: $58
  • Medieval Dinner with Unlimited Drinks: $59
  • Prague 5 Courses Medieval Dinner and Live Performances: $60

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Carcassonne 14
    Prague 15

Tours and Activities in Carcassonne

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

  • City Exploration Game and Tour: $6.42
  • Highlights Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt & Tour: $6.42
  • Castle and Ramparts Entry Ticket: $12
  • A Self-Guided Tour of Carcassonne’s Ancient Basilica: $20
  • Medieval Walls Self-Guided Smartphone App Tour: $20
  • Carcassonne 's Medieval Walls: A Self-Guided Tour: $20
  • Languedoc: Tour and Tasting at Domaine de Baronarques: $21
  • Unusual guided tour of Carcassonne at the time of the Builders: $22
  • Unusual Guided Tour of the Medieval City of Carcassonne: $22
  • Small group tour of the Cité de Carcassonne: $49
  • Complete Private Tour City and Castle of Carcassonne: $109
  • Cité de Private Guided Tour: $160

Typical Entertainment Prices in Prague

Some typical examples of activities, tours, and entrance ticket prices in Prague are as follows:


  • Opera Tickets
    3.94
  • Two Tickets for Charles Bridge Tower
    5.51
  • Image Theatre for Two
    38

Tours and Activities in Prague

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Prague are as follows:

  • City Tour with Prague Castle with Live guide: $44
  • Live Virtual Tour of Prague: $58
  • Private live-guided E-Scooter TOURS around Prague : $44
  • 1 hour Prague Panoramic Vltava River sightseeing Cruise: $17
  • 1–Hour Vintage Car Tour: $128
  • 1,5 hour oldtimer convertible Prague sightseeing tour: $164
  • 1,5-Hour Prague Magical Segway Tour: $68
  • 1-Hour Introductory Tour of Prague Castle With Fast-GET Admission Ticket: $43
  • 1.5 Hour SEGWAY Tour of Prague: $63
  • 1000 years of history! Evening walking foodie tour: $145
  • 2 Countries Bohemian and Saxon Switzerland tour from Prague: $169
  • 2 Hours Guided Prague Behind The Iron Curtain Communism Tour: $24

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Carcassonne 13
    Prague 10

Sample the Local Flavors in Carcassonne

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Carcassonne:

  • Wine tour Cathar country: $471

Typical Alcohol Prices in Prague

Here are a few samples of the prices for alcohol and nightlife in Prague from other travelers:


  • A Bottle of Wine
    6.26

Sample the Local Flavors in Prague

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

  • Staropramem Brewery Self-Guided Tour with Tasting: $13
  • Clock Tower Bar Crawl with Drinks and Shots: $23
  • Clock Tower Bar Crawl in Prague: $26
  • 1 Hour Exclusive Moravian Wine Tasting in an Art Gallery : $28
  • Pub Crawl in Prague: $32
  • Pub Crawl and International Party: $34
  • Pub Crawl with Open Bar and VIP Entry: $34
  • Pub Crawl with 2-Hour Open Bar at Drunken Monkey: $35
  • Drunken Monkey Pub Crawl: $36
  • Golden Burlesque Show & Live Music w/ Lady & The Devil: $36
  • Golden BURLESQUE: $42
  • Prague beer tour with brewery visit and tasting: $46


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


Which is Bigger, Carcassonne or Prague?

Prague has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Carcassonne. When comparing the sizes of Carcassonne and Prague, 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 Prague?

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 Prague in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Carcassonne as well as Prague. The summer months attract visitors to Carcassonne because of the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Prague this time of year.

In the summer, Carcassonne is a little warmer than Prague. Typically, the summer temperatures in Carcassonne in July average around 24°C (75°F), and Prague averages at about 19°C (66°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Prague. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Carcassonne this time of the year. In the summer, Carcassonne often gets more sunshine than Prague. Carcassonne gets 275 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Prague receives 216 hours of full sun.

Carcassonne usually gets less rain in July than Prague. Carcassonne gets 17 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Prague receives 70 mm (2.7 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Carcassonne 24°C (75°F) 
    Prague 19°C (66°F)

Should I visit Carcassonne or Prague in the Autumn?

Both Prague and Carcassonne are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. 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 Prague for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Carcassonne is generally a little warmer than Prague. Daily temperatures in Carcassonne average around 17°C (62°F), and Prague fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

Carcassonne usually receives more sunshine than Prague during autumn. Carcassonne gets 161 hours of sunny skies, while Prague receives 124 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Carcassonne usually receives more rain than Prague. Carcassonne gets 90 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Prague receives 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Carcassonne 17°C (62°F) 
    Prague 11°C (52°F)

Should I visit Carcassonne or Prague in the Winter?

Both Prague and Carcassonne during the winter are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Carcassonne for the museums and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Prague in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Prague can get quite cold in the winter. Carcassonne is much warmer than Prague in the winter. The daily temperature in Carcassonne averages around 8°C (47°F) in January, and Prague fluctuates around 1°C (33°F).

In the winter, Carcassonne often gets more sunshine than Prague. Carcassonne gets 88 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Prague receives 49 hours of full sun.

Carcassonne usually gets more rain in January than Prague. Carcassonne gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Prague receives 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Carcassonne 8°C (47°F) 
    Prague 1°C (33°F)

Should I visit Carcassonne or Prague in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Carcassonne and Prague. Many visitors come to Carcassonne in the spring for the small town charm and the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Prague for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months.

In the spring, Carcassonne is a little warmer than Prague. Typically, the spring temperatures in Carcassonne in April average around 14°C (56°F), and Prague averages at about 10°C (49°F).

Carcassonne usually receives more sunshine than Prague during spring. Carcassonne gets 178 hours of sunny skies, while Prague receives 145 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Carcassonne usually receives more rain than Prague. Carcassonne gets 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Prague receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Carcassonne 14°C (56°F) 
    Prague 10°C (49°F)

Typical Weather for Prague and Carcassonne

Carcassonne Prague
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 8°C (47°F) 51 mm (2 in) 1°C (33°F) 42 mm (1.7 in)
Feb 9°C (49°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 2°C (35°F) 36 mm (1.4 in)
Mar 11°C (52°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 6°C (42°F) 39 mm (1.5 in)
Apr 14°C (56°F) 56 mm (2.2 in) 10°C (49°F) 51 mm (2 in)
May 17°C (63°F) 50 mm (2 in) 14°C (57°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)
Jun 21°C (70°F) 28 mm (1.1 in) 18°C (64°F) 76 mm (3 in)
Jul 24°C (75°F) 17 mm (0.7 in) 19°C (66°F) 70 mm (2.7 in)
Aug 24°C (74°F) 32 mm (1.3 in) 19°C (66°F) 78 mm (3.1 in)
Sep 21°C (69°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 16°C (60°F) 52 mm (2.1 in)
Oct 17°C (62°F) 90 mm (3.5 in) 11°C (52°F) 42 mm (1.7 in)
Nov 12°C (53°F) 59 mm (2.3 in) 6°C (43°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Dec 9°C (49°F) 54 mm (2.1 in) 2°C (36°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)