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

Should you visit Carcassonne or Sarajevo?

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 Sarajevo. 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. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the food and museums.

Sarajevo

Sarajevo is a cultural, beautiful, and overlooked city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include food, hiking, and shopping.

Carcassonne and Sarajevo: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Very walkable
Things to Consider
  • Less popular old town
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Carcassonne or Sarajevo?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Sarajevo. Although Carcassonne and Sarajevo are popular destinations, Sarajevo has more sights and attractions for tourists. Sarajevo is very popular for its food, nightlife, historical sights, hiking, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Carcassonne attracts visitors for its small town charm. Carcassonne is more touristy than Sarajevo and is known for its medieval history, walled fortifications, and well-known castle. Sarajevo is famous for its worn torn past, but today it is a city that is filled with culture, natural beauty, and incredible food. It is also well known for The Old Town.

How is Carcassonne different from Sarajevo?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Carcassonne
Sarajevo

Spend time exploring the excellent sights and museums in either Carcassonne or Sarajevo.

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.

Sarajevo offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The sights in the city reflect its history and culture. Famous places to visit include Gazi Husrev-beg Mosque, the Latin Bridge, Kovači Memorial Cemetery, and the Sarajevo Tunnel Museum.


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

Carcassonne
Sarajevo

Sarajevo 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 Sarajevo, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. Bosnia isn't the first place that comes to mind when you think of food, but it is actually among the best. The dishes are heavy on meat and pastry, with the perfect amount of seasoning. Favorite dishes include Bosnian burek and cevapi. And it's easy to dine your way through this beautiful city as restaurants are very affordable.

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 Sarajevo Better for Nightlife?

Carcassonne
Sarajevo

Sarajevo 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 Sarajevo. After immersing yourself in history for the day, the nighttime offers the perfect opportunity to unwind. Locals and tourists come together at the city's many bars and nightclubs where you can listen to music, dance, or chat with locals over a cold beer.

Carcassonne is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Carcassonne or Sarajevo Better for its Old Town?

Carcassonne
Sarajevo

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

Sarajevo has a world-famous historical area. The city's old town, which is known as Baščaršija, is filled with a history charm that is unlike any other European city. The wooden shops, wandering lanes, and striking minarets highlight the area's beautiful culture and long-running history.

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 Sarajevo Better for Hiking?

Carcassonne
Sarajevo

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

Sarajevo is well-known for its hiking and trekking. If you have a way to get out of town, you'll be rewarded with a natural beauty that is untouched and pristine - a rare find in Europe. There are a number of popular trails that are popular with locals and tourists alike. While landmines remain a concern in off-the-beaten-path areas, if you stay on marked trails, they pose no real threat.

Carcassonne is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Carcassonne or Sarajevo?

Carcassonne
Sarajevo

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

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Sarajevo. This city offers a unique opportunity to shop for traditional hand-crafted good in the old town. The goods are handmade and reflect the city's long running history as a center for trade. Popular items for purchase include coffee sets, jewelry, and handmade carpets.

Carcassonne is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Carcassonne or Sarajevo Better for Families?

Carcassonne
Sarajevo

Carcassonne is a good destination for its kid-friendly activities. However, Sarajevo is lacking in good options for its family-friendly activities.

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

Sarajevo doesn't usually come to mind when thinking about kid-friendly destinations. Older kids will really benefit from the history and cultural lessons that coincide with a visit to this beautiful city. There are also some fun activities that they can enjoy including a zoo, an indoor play area, and an amusement park not far outside of town.


Is Carcassonne or Sarajevo Better for Couples?

Carcassonne
Sarajevo

Carcassonne is a good destination for its romantic activities. However, Sarajevo is lacking in good options for couples.

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.

Sarajevo is not always the best place to visit for a couple. Romance isn't the first thing that comes to mind when you think of Sarajevo, but the city has amazing food and world class cultural sights that will make for a truly rewarding trip.

Is Carcassonne or Sarajevo Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Carcassonne
Sarajevo

Carcassonne and Sarajevo are both excellent destinations for backpackers.

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

Sarajevo is a great town to visit for backpackers. This city is among the most culturally captivating places in Europe. Although it's often overlooked by tourists and backpackers, the affordability, stunning beauty, and unique personality make it a truly amazing place to visit.

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

Carcassonne
Sarajevo

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

Public transit in Sarajevo is fairly effecient and thorough. It includes a tram, trolleybus, bus and minibus network.

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 Sarajevo a more walkable city?

Carcassonne
Sarajevo

Carcassonne is an unbeatable place for its high level of walkability. Also, Sarajevo is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its ease of walking around.

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.

Sarajevo is a somewhat walkable town. Most of the touristy areas in the central part of the city are walkable, but there are also some sights outside of town that you will need a taxi to visit.

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

Should I spend more time in Sarajevo or Carcassonne?

How long in Carcassonne or Sarajevo?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Carcassonne and Sarajevo. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Sarajevo than in Carcassonne. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Carcassonne, and 1-3 days is enough time in Sarajevo.

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

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

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


  • How many days in Carcassonne or Sarajevo? Ideal Length of Stay
    Carcassonne 1-2 
    Sarajevo 1-3

One day in Carcassonne or Sarajevo?

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 beautiful city of Sarajevo. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. One day should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A weekend in Carcassonne or Sarajevo?

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 cultural destination of Sarajevo. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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 Sarajevo?

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.

The cultural city of Sarajevo offers shopping and museums. 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 Sarajevo?

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.

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Sarajevo. 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 Cultural Tours in Bosnia and Herzegowina, and The Best Budget Tours to Bosnia and Herzegowina.


Which place is cheaper, Sarajevo 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 Sarajevo is €66. 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 Sarajevo in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Carcassonne 61
    Sarajevo 26
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Carcassonne 122
    Sarajevo 52
Compare Hotels in Carcassonne and Sarajevo

Looking for a hotel in Carcassonne or Sarajevo? 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 Sarajevo


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 Sarajevo Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Carcassonne 7.14
    Sarajevo 6.58

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Sarajevo

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for transportation costs in Sarajevo:


  • Tram Tickets (for 2)
    1.53

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Sarajevo

Also for Sarajevo, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Transfer tour Sarajevo-Dubrovnik: $163
  • Transfer from/to Sarajevo - Neum: $176
  • Transfer from/to Sarajevo - Belgrade: $288
  • Transfer from city of Sarajevo to city of Mostar: $251
  • Transfer from Sarajevo to Kotor+Herzegovina tour: $126
  • Split Private Transfer Service: $299
  • Private Transfer to and from Sarajevo Airport: $25
  • Private 1-Way Transfer to/from Split: $321
  • Dubrovnik Private Transfer Service: $299
  • Airport transfers and all other transfers 4 people: $27
  • Sarajevo ⇄ Mostar / Private Transfer: $203
  • Sarajevo to/from Zagreb Transfer Day Tour (North-central Bosnia): $153

Is it cheaper to fly into Carcassonne or Sarajevo?

Prices for flights to both Sarajevo 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
    Sarajevo 29

Typical Food Prices in Sarajevo

For Sarajevo, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Restaurant Dinner (for 2)
    11

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Sarajevo

For Sarajevo, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Sarajevo Local Food Tour: $27
  • Walking Food Tour with Local Craft Experience: $43
  • Traditional Bosnian Dinner with your Host Family: $44
  • Traditional Bosnian Dinner with Host Family: $53
  • Bosnian Cooking Lessons: $80

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Carcassonne 14
    Sarajevo 11

Tours and Activities in Carcassonne

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

  • A Self-Guided Tour of Carcassonne’s Ancient Basilica: $20
  • Best of Cathar Country: Full-Day Private Tour.: $207
  • Carcassonne 's Medieval Walls: A Self-Guided Tour: $20
  • Carcassonne Private Guided Walking Tour: $294
  • 2-Hour Private Walking Tour : $201
  • Castle and Ramparts Entry Ticket: $12
  • City Exploration Game and Tour: $6.42
  • Fortress Walking Tour: $171
  • Highlights Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt & Tour: $6.42
  • Medieval Walls Self-Guided Smartphone App Tour: $20
  • Photoshoot Experience: $160
  • Private Walking Tour with Cité de Carcassonne: $187

Typical Entertainment Prices in Sarajevo

Below are a few sample prices from actual travelers for Sarajevo's activities, tours, and tickets:


  • National Museum (for 2)
    7.16

Tours and Activities in Sarajevo

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

  • 2 Days Private Guided Tour in Sarajevo and Mostar: $163
  • 4-Hour Sightseeing Walking Tour with Food Tastings and Craft Experience: $44
  • 8 to 9 Hours Daily Tour To Travnik and Jajce From Sarajevo: $104
  • Amazing Prokoško jezero - Full day Tour: $82
  • Assassination Tour: $27
  • BOSNIAN PYRAMIDS TOUR (nature, history & archeology): $64
  • Best of Sarajevo - Full Day All Inclusive Tour: $76
  • Bijambare Cave & Bosnia Spring Park: Half-Day Tour from Sarajevo: $81
  • Bijambare Cave & Bosnia Spring Park: Tour from Sarajevo: $79
  • Bijambare Cave and Spring of River Bosna Tour: $45
  • Bosnia's Treasures: 7-Day Private Tour: $1,310
  • Bosnian Castles Tour: Vranduk Tešanj Srebrenik from Sarajevo: $161

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Carcassonne 13
    Sarajevo 6.88

Sample the Local Flavors in Carcassonne

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Carcassonne:

  • Wine tour Cathar country: $471

Sample the Local Flavors in Sarajevo

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

  • Small-group Wine Tasting Expiriance, with lunch in vineyard: $70


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Carcassonne and Sarajevo, we can see that Carcassonne is more expensive. And not only is Sarajevo much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Sarajevo would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Sarajevo 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 Carcassonne would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Carcassonne than you might in Sarajevo.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Carcassonne Expensive? and Is Sarajevo Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Carcassonne or Sarajevo?

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

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 Sarajevo in the Summer?

Both Sarajevo and Carcassonne are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Carcassonne because of the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Sarajevo this time of year.

In the summer, Carcassonne is around the same temperature as Sarajevo. Typically, the summer temperatures in Carcassonne in July average around 24°C (75°F), and Sarajevo averages at about 26°C (78°F).

It's quite sunny in Sarajevo. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Carcassonne. Carcassonne usually receives less sunshine than Sarajevo during summer. Carcassonne gets 275 hours of sunny skies, while Sarajevo receives 323 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Carcassonne usually receives less rain than Sarajevo. Carcassonne gets 17 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Sarajevo receives 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Carcassonne 24°C (75°F) 
    Sarajevo 26°C (78°F)

Should I visit Carcassonne or Sarajevo in the Autumn?

Both Sarajevo and Carcassonne during the autumn are popular places to visit. 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 Sarajevo for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

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

In the autumn, Carcassonne often gets less sunshine than Sarajevo. Carcassonne gets 161 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Sarajevo receives 178 hours of full sun.

Sarajevo gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Carcassonne usually gets less rain in October than Sarajevo. Carcassonne gets 90 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Sarajevo receives 153 mm (6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Carcassonne 17°C (62°F) 
    Sarajevo 17°C (62°F)

Should I visit Carcassonne or Sarajevo in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Carcassonne and Sarajevo. Many travelers come to Carcassonne for the museums and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Sarajevo in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Carcassonne is a little warmer than Sarajevo in the winter. The daily temperature in Carcassonne averages around 8°C (47°F) in January, and Sarajevo fluctuates around 6°C (42°F).

Carcassonne usually receives less sunshine than Sarajevo during winter. Carcassonne gets 88 hours of sunny skies, while Sarajevo receives 113 hours of full sun in the winter.

Sarajevo receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Carcassonne usually receives less rain than Sarajevo. Carcassonne gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Sarajevo receives 148 mm (5.8 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Carcassonne 8°C (47°F) 
    Sarajevo 6°C (42°F)

Should I visit Carcassonne or Sarajevo in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Carcassonne as well as Sarajevo. Many visitors come to Carcassonne in the spring for the small town charm and the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Sarajevo for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months.

In the spring, Carcassonne is around the same temperature as Sarajevo. Typically, the spring temperatures in Carcassonne in April average around 14°C (56°F), and Sarajevo averages at about 14°C (58°F).

In the spring, Carcassonne often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Sarajevo. Carcassonne gets 178 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Sarajevo receives 174 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Sarajevo. Carcassonne usually gets less rain in April than Sarajevo. Carcassonne gets 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Sarajevo receives 127 mm (5 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Carcassonne 14°C (56°F) 
    Sarajevo 14°C (58°F)

Typical Weather for Sarajevo and Carcassonne

Carcassonne Sarajevo
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 8°C (47°F) 51 mm (2 in) 6°C (42°F) 148 mm (5.8 in)
Feb 9°C (49°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 8°C (46°F) 134 mm (5.3 in)
Mar 11°C (52°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 11°C (51°F) 124 mm (4.9 in)
Apr 14°C (56°F) 56 mm (2.2 in) 14°C (58°F) 127 mm (5 in)
May 17°C (63°F) 50 mm (2 in) 19°C (66°F) 94 mm (3.7 in)
Jun 21°C (70°F) 28 mm (1.1 in) 22°C (72°F) 73 mm (2.9 in)
Jul 24°C (75°F) 17 mm (0.7 in) 26°C (78°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Aug 24°C (74°F) 32 mm (1.3 in) 26°C (78°F) 65 mm (2.5 in)
Sep 21°C (69°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 22°C (71°F) 109 mm (4.3 in)
Oct 17°C (62°F) 90 mm (3.5 in) 17°C (62°F) 153 mm (6 in)
Nov 12°C (53°F) 59 mm (2.3 in) 11°C (52°F) 203 mm (8 in)
Dec 9°C (49°F) 54 mm (2.1 in) 7°C (45°F) 196 mm (7.7 in)