A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Carcassonne vs. Split for Couples, Backpackers, Attractions, and Food

Should you visit Carcassonne or Split?

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 Split. 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.

Split

Split is a active, touristy, and fun-filled city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. Other reasons to visit include beaches, shopping, and museums.

Carcassonne and Split: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Carcassonne or Split?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Split. Although Carcassonne and Split are popular destinations, Split has more sights and attractions for tourists. Split is very popular for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, shopping, and big city activities, while Carcassonne attracts visitors for its small town charm and impressive beauty. Split is more touristy than Carcassonne and is known for its historical sights, high energy coastal setting, and waterfront promenades. It is also well known for Diocletian's Palace. Carcassonne is famous for its medieval history, walled fortifications, and well-known castle.

How is Carcassonne different from Split?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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.

Split offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The city is filled with historical sights, some of which were used in the shooting of the famed television series, Game of Thrones. Highlights include Diocletian's Palace, the Cathedral of St. Domnius, and the Ivan Mestrovic Gallery.

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

Both Carcassonne and Split offer excellent local cuisine and restaurants.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in 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.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Split. It's the second largest city in Croatia and the food scene reflects this. You'll find a mix of Dalmatian restaurants and international options. There's also everything from fine dining to local taverns, so whatever your budget or food preference, you won't be disappointed.

Is Carcassonne or Split Better for Nightlife?

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

Split is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. It has some of the best nightlife on mainland Croatia. Backpackers and students flock to this city for its parties and nightclubs. There's a great live music scene as well as DJs who keep the party going well into the early morning.

Carcassonne is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Carcassonne or Split Better for Resorts?

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

There are plenty of resorts in Split to choose from. You'll find a mix of popular resort chains, local boutique hotels, vacation rentals, and hostels. Whatever your budget or travel style there are options available.

Carcassonne is not a resort destination.

Is Carcassonne or Split Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Split is a very popular place for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Carcassonne is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

There are many scuba diving and snorkeling spots near Split. Some of the best snorkeling is found around the Kornati Islands. There are many boat trips that take visitors to some of the best snorkeling spots near Split.

Carcassonne is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Carcassonne or Split Better for Beaches?

Split is a very popular place for its beaches. However, Carcassonne is not a beach destination.

Many people visit Split for it's beautiful beaches. There are many beaches in the area that are a mix of pebbly or sandy. Many have restaurants or bars nearby and the vibe is social and laid back. Some of the best beaches near town are Bacvice Beach, Žnjan Beach, and Kasjuni Beach.

Carcassonne is not a beach destination.

Is Carcassonne or Split Better for its Old Town?

Visitors enjoy the nice old town areas in both Carcassonne and Split.

Carcassonne is a good destination for visiting its old town. The medieval walled city is seeped in history and filled with atmosphere. Cars are not allowed in town.

Many people head to Split to see the old town. The old town spreads out from Diocletian's Palace and People's Square. It's filled with cobblestone streets and restaurants that spill into the outdoors.

Is the Shopping Better in Carcassonne or Split?

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

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Split. Shopping and sightseeing are intermixed in town. Make sure you don't miss the Old Market, which is the city's main outdoor market. There are many shops all through the old town as well.

Carcassonne is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Carcassonne or Split Better for Families?

Split 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.

Split is a very family-friendly destination. With its parks, beaches, and outdoor activities, kids will love this spot. Zvonac Park is one of the best in town for kids. Young kids will appreciate the Dinasour Playground. Also make sure you allow time to explore Diocletian's Palace and Klis Fortress. There are also beaches and other water activities that are fun for the whole family.

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 Split Better for Couples?

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

Split is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. It's not uncommon for couples to choose Split as their honeymoon destination. The old town is filled with character and charm. There are also parks where you can enjoy a picnic and beaches where you can soak up the fun of the Adriatic Sea. Cafes serving local cuisine spill into the streets and the old world charm offers a romantic ambiance that can only be found in Croatia.

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 Split Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Many backpackers frequent Split. There's no shortage of hostels in town. This is a not-to-be-missed backpacker destination in Croatia and the social scene, beaches, water activities, and history all make Split a highlight for many backpackers.

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 Split Better for Students?

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

Many students visit Split. It's easy to visit on a student's budget. There are plenty of hostels and a huge party scene that bring backpackers and students together.

Carcassonne is not popular with students.

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

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

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 Split, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are bus services that will help you get around town.

Is Carcassonne or Split a more walkable city?

Carcassonne is terrific for its high level of walkability. Also, Split 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.

Split is a very walkable destination. The city is laid out in a pedestrian-friendly way so it's easy to explore on foot, particularly in the old town. It's also easy to get lost, but that's all part of the fun.

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

Should I spend more time in Split or Carcassonne?

How long in Carcassonne or Split?

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

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

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

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

One day in Carcassonne or Split?

In Carcassonne, many people enjoy the food and museums that this medieval 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.

Visitors enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the active city of Split. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Most people visit for the nightlife. 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 Split?

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.

Visitors enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the budget-friendly destination of Split. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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 Split?

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.

The fun-filled city of Split offers museums and nightlife. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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 Split?

You'll find museums and food around the fairytale 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.

Many people enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting Split. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. Most people visit for the nightlife. 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 Walking Tours in Croatia, and The Best Luxury Tours to Croatia.

When comparing the travel costs between Carcassonne and Split, we can see that Split 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 Split Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Carcassonne or Split?

Split has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Carcassonne. When comparing the sizes of Carcassonne and Split, 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 Split?

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 Split in the Summer?

Both Split 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 beaches, snorkeling, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Split this time of year.

In the summer, Carcassonne is around the same temperature as Split. Typically, the summer temperatures in Carcassonne in July average around 24°C (75°F), and Split averages at about 26°C (80°F).

It's quite sunny in Split. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Carcassonne. Carcassonne usually receives less sunshine than Split during summer. Carcassonne gets 275 hours of sunny skies, while Split receives 345 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Carcassonne usually receives less rain than Split. Carcassonne gets 17 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Split receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Carcassonne or Split in the Autumn?

Both Split 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. Furthermore, many travelers come to Split for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

In October, Carcassonne is generally around the same temperature as Split. Daily temperatures in Carcassonne average around 17°C (62°F), and Split fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

In Split, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the autumn, Carcassonne often gets less sunshine than Split. Carcassonne gets 161 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Split receives 200 hours of full sun.

Carcassonne usually gets more rain in October than Split. Carcassonne gets 90 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Split receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Carcassonne or Split in the Winter?

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

Carcassonne is around the same temperature as Split in the winter. The daily temperature in Carcassonne averages around 8°C (47°F) in January, and Split fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

Carcassonne usually receives less sunshine than Split during winter. Carcassonne gets 88 hours of sunny skies, while Split receives 128 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Carcassonne usually receives less rain than Split. Carcassonne gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Split receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Carcassonne or Split in the Spring?

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

In the spring, Carcassonne is around the same temperature as Split. Typically, the spring temperatures in Carcassonne in April average around 14°C (56°F), and Split averages at about 15°C (59°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Split. In the spring, Carcassonne often gets less sunshine than Split. Carcassonne gets 178 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Split receives 212 hours of full sun.

Carcassonne usually gets less rain in April than Split. Carcassonne gets 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Split receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Split and Carcassonne