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

Should you visit Hamburg or Carcassonne?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Hamburg and Carcassonne can help you decide which place is right for you.

Hamburg

Hamburg is a cultural, vibrant, and historic port city. It's a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include live music, food, and shopping.

Carcassonne

Carcassonne is a fairytale, medieval, and historical town. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include food and museums.

Hamburg and Carcassonne: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers


Is there more to do in Hamburg or Carcassonne?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Hamburg than Carcassonne, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Hamburg is better known for its nightlife, music, and shopping, while Carcassonne is more popular for its food, historical sights, and small town charm. Hamburg is well known for its music clubs, beautiful architecture, relaxing natural areas, and green space. Also, Hamburg is famous for St. Michael's Church. Carcassonne is well known for its medieval history, walled fortifications, and well-known castle.

How is Hamburg different from Carcassonne?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Carcassonne and Hamburg. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Hamburg or Carcassonne?

Hamburg
Carcassonne

For an educational experience, head to a museum or a notable sight in either Hamburg or Carcassonne.

Many visitors head to Hamburg specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The city's most famous district is the port area, which has a number of cultural sights and a pedestrian trail. There are also many museums and architectural landmarks around town.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Carcassonne can be an interesting and educational experience. 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 Hamburg or Carcassonne? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Hamburg
Carcassonne

Carcassonne is well known for its restaurant scene. Also, Hamburg is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Dining out in Carcassonne is an experience not to be missed. 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.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Hamburg. The city has a mix of cosmopolitan restaurants and traditional places where you can enjoy a classic German dish like currywurst or labskaus (a type of stew).

Is Hamburg or Carcassonne Better for Nightlife?

Hamburg
Carcassonne

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

Hamburg has a large number of nightlife venues. The city is often overlooked, but it's nightlife scene is actually among the best. There are techno concerts, music festivals, and nightclubs that appeal to all personalities.

Carcassonne is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Hamburg or Carcassonne Better for Music?

Hamburg
Carcassonne

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

Hamburg is known as a music capital around the world. The city is an influential power in the music scene around Europe. You'll find many clubs concentrated in the St. Pauli district.

Carcassonne is not a live music destination.


Is Hamburg or Carcassonne Better for its Old Town?

Hamburg
Carcassonne

Carcassonne is very good for its historic old town charm. However, Hamburg does not have a historic old town.

Carcassonne offers a nice historic old town area. The medieval walled city is seeped in history and filled with atmosphere. Cars are not allowed in town.

Hamburg does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Hamburg or Carcassonne?

Hamburg
Carcassonne

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

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Hamburg. The diversity of shopping venues includes flea markets and luxury shopping malls. One of the main shopping streets in town is the Mönkebergstrasse.

Carcassonne is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Hamburg or Carcassonne Better for Families?

Hamburg
Carcassonne

Hamburg 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.

Hamburg is a very family-friendly destination. The city has a surprising number of opportunities to see wildlife nearby including a zoo and a wildlife park just outside of town. The city also has great playgrounds that are fun for kids who need a break from sightseeing.

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 Hamburg or Carcassonne Better for Couples?

Hamburg
Carcassonne

Both Hamburg and Carcassonne are notable destinations to visit as a couple.

Hamburg is a good port city for couples to visit. Romantic activities in town include taking a boat ride or harbor cruise or grabbing a cocktail at one of the city's many bars.

Carcassonne is a nice destination for couples. 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 Hamburg or Carcassonne Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Hamburg
Carcassonne

Carcassonne is well known for backpackers. Also, Hamburg is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Carcassonne is a very popular town for backpackers and budget travelers. There are interesting hostels in the area including a converted 17th century convent.

It's common for backpackers to visit Hamburg. Many backpackers overlook the city, but there are a number of good hostels and a relaxing vibe that makes for a nice visit.

Is Hamburg or Carcassonne Better for Students?

Hamburg
Carcassonne

Hamburg is a good destination for its student-friendly activities. However, Carcassonne is not popular with students.

Plenty of students visit Hamburg. The city has a few great universities and a number of opportunities for international students.

Carcassonne is not popular with students.


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

Hamburg
Carcassonne

Hamburg 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 Hamburg is fairly effecient and thorough. There are trains and buses that make their way around 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 Hamburg or Carcassonne a more walkable city?

Hamburg
Carcassonne

Carcassonne is renowned for its ease of walking around. Also, Hamburg is still popular, but not quite as popular for its walkability.

Getting around Carcassonne on foot is easy. Cars aren't allowed in the medieval city so it's best to explore on foot.

Hamburg is very walkable. Most tourist areas can easily be explored on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Carcassonne or Hamburg?

How long in Hamburg or Carcassonne?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Hamburg or Carcassonne to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Hamburg than Carcassonne because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Hamburg, and 1-2 days is enough time in Carcassonne.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Carcassonne than Hamburg 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 Carcassonne.


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

One day in Hamburg or Carcassonne?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the vibrant port city of Hamburg. Most people visit for the live music. One day should give you a good understanding of everything this port city has to offer. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

In Carcassonne, you'll find food and museums. This town offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.


A weekend in Hamburg or Carcassonne?

Visitors enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the historic destination of Hamburg. This port 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.

In Carcassonne, you'll find museums and food. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Carcassonne has to offer.

Five days in Hamburg or Carcassonne?

The vibrant port city of Hamburg offers museums and nightlife. 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.

Carcassonne is a great place to explore. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Hamburg or Carcassonne?

Many people enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting Hamburg. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most people visit for the live music. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Carcassonne. Many people enjoy the museums and food when visiting Carcassonne. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours from Berlin, The Best 2-Week Tours from Berlin, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in France, and The Best Historical Tours in France.


Which place is cheaper, Carcassonne or Hamburg?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Hamburg is €117, while the average daily cost in Carcassonne is €106. 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 Hamburg and Carcassonne in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Hamburg 54
    Carcassonne 61
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Hamburg 108
    Carcassonne 122
Compare Hotels in Hamburg and Carcassonne

Looking for a hotel in Hamburg or Carcassonne? 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 Hamburg


Hotels in Carcassonne


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: Hamburg Hotel Prices and Carcassonne Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Hamburg 29
    Carcassonne 7.14
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Hamburg

Here are some examples of typical transportation prices from actual travelers in Hamburg:


  • Short Distance Ubahn Ticket
    1.70

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Hamburg

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Hamburg:

  • Roundtrip Private Transfer from Hamburg Airport HAM to Hamburg: $83
  • Round Trip Transfer Hamburg Airport HAM to Hamburg City by van: $209
  • Rickmer Rickmers Museum Guided Tour with Transfers : $267
  • Rickmer Rickmers Museum Guided Tour with Transfers: $262
  • Private transfer from Fuhlsbüttel Airport to Hamburg City Center: $114
  • Private Transfer from Hamburg to Hannover with 2h of Sightseeing: $271
  • Private Transfer from Hamburg to Hamburg Airport HAM Departure : $41
  • Private Transfer from Hamburg to Bremen with an English Speaking Driver: $234
  • Private Transfer from Hamburg Hotels to Bremerhaven Cruise Port: $65
  • Private Transfer from Hamburg Cruise Port to Hamburg City Hotels: $51
  • Private Transfer from Hamburg Cruise Port to Hamburg Airport(HAM): $38
  • Private Transfer from Hamburg City to Ostseekai Kiel Cruise Port: $78

Is it cheaper to fly into Hamburg or Carcassonne?

Prices for flights to both Carcassonne and Hamburg 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
    Hamburg 35
    Carcassonne 39
Typical Food Prices in Hamburg

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Hamburg:


  • Pink Thai Soup Dinner and Spring Rolls
    15
  • Currywurst and Pommes Frites
    5.00
  • Donner Kebab and Coke
    6.00
  • Traditional Hamburg Dinner w/ Beer
    15
  • Donner Kebab Lunch
    4.00
  • Sandwich and Coffee Break
    6.00
  • Fish Sandwich from Fish Market
    3.50
  • Coffee and Donut
    4.00

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Hamburg

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

  • St. Pauli kulinarisch – Die Food Tour: $48
  • Elphi Plaza und HafenCity kulinarisch – Die Food Tour: $59
  • Original Musical Dinner Cruise 2024: $117
  • Hamburg Private Food Tours with a Local: 100% Personalized : $186
  • St. Pauli: Guided Food Tour with 5 Tastings: $481
  • Elbphilharmonie Plaza and HafenCity Food Tour: $588
  • Elbphilharmonie Plaza and HafenCity Food Tour: $588

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Hamburg 39
    Carcassonne 14
Typical Entertainment Prices in Hamburg

Here are a few typical costs in Hamburg for activities, ticket prices, and tours that come from previous visitors:


  • Tower at St. Michael's Church
    3.50

Tours and Activities in Hamburg

Here are a few actual costs in Hamburg for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Hamburg Private Walking Tour With A Professional Guide: $287
  • Safari tour in St Pauli: $33
  • "Cruise in the City" - Sailing Yacht Event, Hamburg/Elbe: $69
  • "Hafengeburtstag Hamburg" 2024. Cruise&Sail from/to Wedel: $181
  • "Highlights of Hamburg" Biketour: $39
  • 1 Hour Kiez Speed Tour for Adults: $19
  • 1-Day Hop On Hop Off Bus Tour of Hamburg Line D: $20
  • 10 secrets of Hamburg's old town - exciting scavenger hunt tour: $34
  • 2 Hours Guided Hamburg E-Scooter Tour: $71
  • 2 Hours Guided Hamburg Segway Night Tour: $93
  • 2 Hours Guided Hamburg Segway Tour: $75
  • 2 Hours Hamburg E-scooter Tour: $35

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

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Hamburg 17
    Carcassonne 13

Sample the Local Flavors in Hamburg

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Hamburg:

  • Night Pub Crawl through The Repperbahn: $21
  • Weekend Night Pub Crawl through the Reeperbahn: $34
  • Pub Crawl - Ultimate party pub crawl incl. One-hour drinks flat rate: $44
  • Hamburg Pub Crawl including 1 hour flatrate for beer: $51
  • Bachelor(ette) Premium Party with Pub Crawl: $401
  • Private Pub Crawl Tour: $401
  • Private Premium Pub Crawl: $513

Sample the Local Flavors in Carcassonne

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Carcassonne:

  • Wine tour Cathar country: $471


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


Which is Bigger, Hamburg or Carcassonne?

Hamburg has a larger population, and is about 40 times larger than the population of Carcassonne. When comparing the sizes of Hamburg and Carcassonne, 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 Hamburg or Carcassonne?

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 Hamburg or Carcassonne in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Hamburg as well as Carcassonne. Many visitors come to Hamburg in the summer for the music scene and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, most visitors come to Carcassonne for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Hamburg is cooler than Carcassonne. Typically, the summer temperatures in Hamburg in July average around 17°C (62°F), and Carcassonne averages at about 24°C (75°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Carcassonne. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Hamburg this time of the year. In the summer, Hamburg often gets less sunshine than Carcassonne. Hamburg gets 207 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Carcassonne receives 275 hours of full sun.

Hamburg usually gets more rain in July than Carcassonne. Hamburg gets 82 mm (3.2 in) of rain, while Carcassonne receives 17 mm (0.7 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Hamburg 17°C (62°F) 
    Carcassonne 24°C (75°F)

Should I visit Hamburg or Carcassonne in the Autumn?

Both Carcassonne and Hamburg are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Hamburg for the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Carcassonne because of the small town atmosphere and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Hamburg is generally much colder than Carcassonne. Daily temperatures in Hamburg average around 10°C (50°F), and Carcassonne fluctuates around 17°C (62°F).

Hamburg usually receives less sunshine than Carcassonne during autumn. Hamburg gets 101 hours of sunny skies, while Carcassonne receives 161 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Hamburg usually receives less rain than Carcassonne. Hamburg gets 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Carcassonne receives 90 mm (3.5 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Hamburg 10°C (50°F) 
    Carcassonne 17°C (62°F)

Should I visit Hamburg or Carcassonne in the Winter?

Both Carcassonne and Hamburg during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to Hamburg because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums and the cuisine are the main draw to Carcassonne this time of year.

The weather in Hamburg can be very cold. Hamburg is much colder than Carcassonne in the winter. The daily temperature in Hamburg averages around 0°C (33°F) in January, and Carcassonne fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

In the winter, Hamburg often gets less sunshine than Carcassonne. Hamburg gets 42 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Carcassonne receives 88 hours of full sun.

Hamburg usually gets more rain in January than Carcassonne. Hamburg gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Carcassonne receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Hamburg 0°C (33°F) 
    Carcassonne 8°C (47°F)

Should I visit Hamburg or Carcassonne in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Hamburg and Carcassonne. The natural beauty are the main draw to Hamburg this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Carcassonne for the small town charm and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Hamburg is much colder than Carcassonne. Typically, the spring temperatures in Hamburg in April average around 8°C (46°F), and Carcassonne averages at about 14°C (56°F).

Hamburg usually receives less sunshine than Carcassonne during spring. Hamburg gets 161 hours of sunny skies, while Carcassonne receives 178 hours of full sun in the spring.

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


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Hamburg 8°C (46°F) 
    Carcassonne 14°C (56°F)

Typical Weather for Carcassonne and Hamburg

Hamburg Carcassonne
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 0°C (33°F) 61 mm (2.4 in) 8°C (47°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Feb 1°C (34°F) 41 mm (1.6 in) 9°C (49°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)
Mar 4°C (39°F) 56 mm (2.2 in) 11°C (52°F) 44 mm (1.7 in)
Apr 8°C (46°F) 51 mm (2 in) 14°C (56°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
May 12°C (54°F) 57 mm (2.3 in) 17°C (63°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Jun 15°C (60°F) 74 mm (2.9 in) 21°C (70°F) 28 mm (1.1 in)
Jul 17°C (62°F) 82 mm (3.2 in) 24°C (75°F) 17 mm (0.7 in)
Aug 17°C (62°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 24°C (74°F) 32 mm (1.3 in)
Sep 14°C (57°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 21°C (69°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Oct 10°C (50°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 17°C (62°F) 90 mm (3.5 in)
Nov 5°C (41°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 12°C (53°F) 59 mm (2.3 in)
Dec 2°C (35°F) 72 mm (2.8 in) 9°C (49°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)