A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Kalampaka (Meteora) vs. Carcassonne for Attractions, Food, Backpackers, and Families

Should you visit Kalampaka (Meteora) or Carcassonne?

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 Kalampaka (Meteora) and Carcassonne. 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.

Kalampaka (Meteora)

Kalampaka (Meteora) is a historic, spiritual, and dramatic destination. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include food and museums.

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.

Kalampaka (Meteora) and Carcassonne: Pros and Cons

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


Is there more to do in Kalampaka (Meteora) or Carcassonne?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Carcassonne. Although Kalampaka (Meteora) and Carcassonne are popular destinations, Carcassonne has more sights and attractions for tourists. Carcassonne is very popular for its food, historical sights, and small town charm, while Kalampaka (Meteora) attracts visitors for its museums, nightlife, and impressive beauty. Kalampaka (Meteora) is famous for its striking beauty, spiritual setting, and other-worldly rock formations. Carcassonne is famous for its medieval history, walled fortifications, and well-known castle. It is also well known for La Cité de Carcassonne.

La Cité de Carcassonne
La Cité de Carcassonne

How is Kalampaka (Meteora) different from Carcassonne?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Kalampaka (Meteora) or Carcassonne?

Kalampaka (Meteora)
Carcassonne

Kalampaka (Meteora) 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 Kalampaka (Meteora) from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. The Meteora monasteries are an impressive spiritual site that are set against a dramatic rock formation. They date back centuries, and, of the original 24 monasteries, there are 6 that are currently open to the public. Several have museums and many people prefer to visit as a guided tour.

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 Kalampaka (Meteora) or Carcassonne? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Kalampaka (Meteora)
Carcassonne

Carcassonne is a very popular place for its restaurants. Also, Kalampaka (Meteora) is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Carcassonne has a huge number of terrific restaurants. 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 many up and coming restaurants in the Kalampaka (Meteora) area. In town you'll find some authentic Greek restaurants. The dishes are local, and very different from the seafood based cuisine that is found along the coast. Instead, many dishes involve meatballs or stew and are slow cooked with rich flavors.

Is Kalampaka (Meteora) or Carcassonne Better for Nightlife?

Kalampaka (Meteora)
Carcassonne

Kalampaka (Meteora) is not a good area for nightlife. However, Carcassonne is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Kalampaka (Meteora) doesn't offer many options. This is a spiritual destination where nightlife is not encouraged. There are some cafes in town that turn into bars at night and play relaxing music in a mellow setting. These can be found near the central square.

Carcassonne is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Kalampaka (Meteora) or Carcassonne Better for its Old Town?

Kalampaka (Meteora)
Carcassonne

Carcassonne is a good destination for its old town. However, Kalampaka (Meteora) does not have a historic old town.

Plenty of visitors enjoy exploring the old town in Carcassonne. The medieval walled city is seeped in history and filled with atmosphere. Cars are not allowed in town.

Kalampaka (Meteora) does not have a historic old town.


Is Kalampaka (Meteora) or Carcassonne Better for Families?

Kalampaka (Meteora)
Carcassonne

Both Kalampaka (Meteora) and Carcassonne are nice family-friendly destinations.

Kalampaka (Meteora) is a family-friendly destination. There are six monasteries of Meteora that will fascinate older children. There are also several museums affiliated with the monasteries including a Folklore Museum as well as spectacular views over the oddly shaped rock mountains.

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 Kalampaka (Meteora) or Carcassonne Better for Couples?

Kalampaka (Meteora)
Carcassonne

Kalampaka (Meteora) and Carcassonne both nice destinations for a couple.

Kalampaka (Meteora) makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The setting is beautiful and unique, and its an interesting and fascinating place to visit as a couple.

Carcassonne is a good destination for couples to visit. 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 Kalampaka (Meteora) or Carcassonne Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Kalampaka (Meteora)
Carcassonne

Carcassonne is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Kalampaka (Meteora) is lacking in good options for backpackers.

Many backpackers visit Carcassonne. There are interesting hostels in the area including a converted 17th century convent.

Kalampaka (Meteora) is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Unless you're willing to rent a car or scooter, or take an organized tour, this is a very difficult area to explore independently. Some visitors hire a taxi after they arrive to take them to the monasteries.


Is Kalampaka (Meteora) or Carcassonne Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Kalampaka (Meteora)
Carcassonne

Carcassonne is a good destination for times when you don't have a car. However, Kalampaka (Meteora) is lacking in good options for its public transit.

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.

Public transit is generally limited in Kalampaka (Meteora). While there is a bus service, many people prefer to explore the six monasteries with their own car or scooter. You could also hire a taxi to take you to and from. Alternatively, there are organized tours that will provide transportation as part of the package.

Is Kalampaka (Meteora) or Carcassonne a more walkable city?

Kalampaka (Meteora)
Carcassonne

Carcassonne is terrific for its high level of walkability. However, Kalampaka (Meteora) is lacking in good options 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.

Kalampaka (Meteora) is generally not very walkable. There are walking trails in the area but most people need access to a vehicle, whether its a rental car, scooter, taxi, or bus.

For even more information, also check out Is Kalampaka (Meteora) Worth Visiting? and Is Carcassonne Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Carcassonne or Kalampaka (Meteora)?

How long in Kalampaka (Meteora) or Carcassonne?

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Carcassonne than Kalampaka (Meteora) 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 Kalampaka (Meteora) or Carcassonne? Ideal Length of Stay
    Kalampaka (Meteora) 2-3 
    Carcassonne 1-2

One day in Kalampaka (Meteora) or Carcassonne?

Visitors enjoy the food and museums when visiting the spiritual destination of Kalampaka (Meteora). Most people visit for the museums. 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.

In Carcassonne, many people enjoy the food and museums that this destination offers. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.


A weekend in Kalampaka (Meteora) or Carcassonne?

Visitors enjoy the museums and food when visiting the spiritual destination of Kalampaka (Meteora). This destination 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.

Many people visit Carcassonne for a weekend. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. 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.

Five days in Kalampaka (Meteora) or Carcassonne?

The historic destination of Kalampaka (Meteora) offers food and museums. 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.

The destination of Carcassonne offers food and museums. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Kalampaka (Meteora) or Carcassonne?

Many people enjoy the museums and food when visiting Kalampaka (Meteora). Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most people visit for the museums. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Many people enjoy the museums and food when visiting Carcassonne. This town offers something for everyone. One week 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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Greece, The Best Honeymoon Tours in Greece, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in France, and The Best Historical Tours in France.


Which place is cheaper, Carcassonne or Kalampaka (Meteora)?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Kalampaka (Meteora) is €134, 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 Kalampaka (Meteora) and Carcassonne in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Kalampaka (Meteora) 65
    Carcassonne 61
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Kalampaka (Meteora) 130
    Carcassonne 122
Compare Hotels in Kalampaka (Meteora) and Carcassonne

Looking for a hotel in Kalampaka (Meteora) 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 Kalampaka (Meteora)


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: Carcassonne Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Kalampaka (Meteora) 37
    Carcassonne 7.14

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Kalampaka (Meteora)

Also for Kalampaka (Meteora), here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Private Transfer From Kalabaka - Meteora To Athens: $274
  • Meteora Small Group Hiking tour with Transfer and Monastery Visit: $43

Is it cheaper to fly into Kalampaka (Meteora) or Carcassonne?

Prices for flights to both Carcassonne and Kalampaka (Meteora) 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
    Kalampaka (Meteora) 39
    Carcassonne 39

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Kalampaka (Meteora) 44
    Carcassonne 14

Tours and Activities in Kalampaka (Meteora)

For Kalampaka (Meteora), here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Meteora All Monasteries Tour with Photo Stops: $41
  • Meteora Sunset E-Bike Tour: $44
  • 3-Hour Hiking and Scramble Guided Tour of Great Saint in Meteora: $82
  • 4-Hour Tour Morning Highlights of Meteora on E-Bike: $43
  • 4-hours Monasteries Tour: $44
  • Amazing Morning Meteora Monasteries Tour: $44
  • Breath-taking Meteora Sunset Tour: $44
  • Discover Meteora's Monastic Heritage: Personalized Private Tour: $240
  • Golden Sunrise Meteora Private Photo Tour: $147
  • Half-Day Meteora Cultural Tour from Kalambaka train station: $47
  • Hiking Tour to Meteora from Kalambaka - Local Agency: $49
  • Kalambaka's Train Station: Meteora Monasteries Tour with Lunch: $52

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

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Kalampaka (Meteora) 11
    Carcassonne 13

Sample the Local Flavors in Kalampaka (Meteora)

Also in Kalampaka (Meteora), these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Meteora Private Guided Wine Tasting Experience from Kalampaka : $76

Sample the Local Flavors in Carcassonne

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Carcassonne:

  • Wine tour Cathar country: $471


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Kalampaka (Meteora) and Carcassonne, we can see that Kalampaka (Meteora) is more expensive. And not only is Carcassonne much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Carcassonne would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Carcassonne and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Kalampaka (Meteora) would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Kalampaka (Meteora) than you might in Carcassonne.

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


Which is Bigger, Kalampaka (Meteora) or Carcassonne?

Carcassonne has a larger population, and is about 6 times larger than the population of Kalampaka (Meteora). When comparing the sizes of Kalampaka (Meteora) 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 Kalampaka (Meteora) or Carcassonne?

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 Kalampaka (Meteora) or Carcassonne in the Summer?

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

In July, Kalampaka (Meteora) is generally around the same temperature as Carcassonne. Daily temperatures in Kalampaka (Meteora) average around 26°C (78°F), and Carcassonne fluctuates around 24°C (75°F).

It's quite sunny in Carcassonne. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Kalampaka (Meteora). Kalampaka (Meteora) usually receives more sunshine than Carcassonne during summer. Kalampaka (Meteora) gets 330 hours of sunny skies, while Carcassonne receives 275 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Kalampaka (Meteora) usually receives more rain than Carcassonne. Kalampaka (Meteora) gets 20 mm (0.8 in) of rain, while Carcassonne receives 17 mm (0.7 in) of rain each month for the summer.


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

Should I visit Kalampaka (Meteora) or Carcassonne in the Autumn?

Both Carcassonne and Kalampaka (Meteora) during the autumn are popular places to visit. The natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Kalampaka (Meteora) this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Carcassonne for the small town atmosphere and the natural beauty of the area.

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

In the autumn, Kalampaka (Meteora) often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Carcassonne. Kalampaka (Meteora) gets 165 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Carcassonne receives 161 hours of full sun.

Kalampaka (Meteora) usually gets less rain in October than Carcassonne. Kalampaka (Meteora) gets 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Carcassonne receives 90 mm (3.5 in) of rain this time of the year.


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

Should I visit Kalampaka (Meteora) or Carcassonne in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Kalampaka (Meteora) and Carcassonne. Many travelers come to Kalampaka (Meteora) for the museums and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Carcassonne in the winter for the museums and the cuisine.

In the winter, Kalampaka (Meteora) is much colder than Carcassonne. Typically, the winter temperatures in Kalampaka (Meteora) in January average around 6°C (42°F), and Carcassonne averages at about 8°C (47°F).

Kalampaka (Meteora) usually receives more sunshine than Carcassonne during winter. Kalampaka (Meteora) gets 112 hours of sunny skies, while Carcassonne receives 88 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Kalampaka (Meteora) usually receives less rain than Carcassonne. Kalampaka (Meteora) gets 30 mm (1.2 in) of rain, while Carcassonne receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the winter.


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

Should I visit Kalampaka (Meteora) or Carcassonne in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Kalampaka (Meteora) as well as Carcassonne. Many visitors come to Kalampaka (Meteora) in the spring for the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Carcassonne for the small town charm and the natural beauty during these months.

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

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Kalampaka (Meteora) this time of the year. In the spring, Kalampaka (Meteora) often gets more sunshine than Carcassonne. Kalampaka (Meteora) gets 209 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Carcassonne receives 178 hours of full sun.

Kalampaka (Meteora) usually gets less rain in April than Carcassonne. Kalampaka (Meteora) gets 29 mm (1.1 in) of rain, while Carcassonne receives 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Kalampaka (Meteora) 14°C (56°F) 
    Carcassonne 14°C (56°F)

Typical Weather for Carcassonne and Kalampaka (Meteora)

Kalampaka (Meteora) Carcassonne
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 6°C (42°F) 30 mm (1.2 in) 8°C (47°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Feb 7°C (45°F) 35 mm (1.4 in) 9°C (49°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)
Mar 10°C (49°F) 36 mm (1.4 in) 11°C (52°F) 44 mm (1.7 in)
Apr 14°C (56°F) 29 mm (1.1 in) 14°C (56°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
May 19°C (66°F) 37 mm (1.5 in) 17°C (63°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Jun 23°C (74°F) 24 mm (0.9 in) 21°C (70°F) 28 mm (1.1 in)
Jul 26°C (78°F) 20 mm (0.8 in) 24°C (75°F) 17 mm (0.7 in)
Aug 25°C (77°F) 16 mm (0.6 in) 24°C (74°F) 32 mm (1.3 in)
Sep 22°C (71°F) 29 mm (1.1 in) 21°C (69°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Oct 17°C (62°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 17°C (62°F) 90 mm (3.5 in)
Nov 11°C (52°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 12°C (53°F) 59 mm (2.3 in)
Dec 7°C (44°F) 52 mm (2 in) 9°C (49°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)


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