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

Should you visit Killarney or Carcassonne?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Killarney and Carcassonne can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Killarney

Killarney is a peaceful, charming, and local town. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. It's a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include food, hiking, and museums.

Carcassonne

Carcassonne is a medieval, historical, and fairytale town. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for food and museums.

Killarney and Carcassonne: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • 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 Killarney or Carcassonne?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Killarney. Although Killarney and Carcassonne are both popular with visitors, Killarney has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Killarney is more popular for its nightlife and hiking, while Carcassonne is known for its museums, food, and historical sights. Killarney is popular for its access to Killarney National Park and its location along the Ring of Kerry scenic drive. It is also home to Killarney National Park. Carcassonne is popular for its medieval history, walled fortifications, and well-known castle.

How is Killarney different from Carcassonne?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Killarney
Carcassonne

Carcassonne is well known for its museums and landmarks. Also, Killarney is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Carcassonne. The town is filled with medieval sights including the Château Comtal, the Basilica of Saints Nazarius and Celsus, and the Carcassonne Cathedral.

Killarney offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. In addition to the area's natural beauty, you should also check out Muckross House Gardens, Muckross Abbey, and Ross Castle.


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

Killarney
Carcassonne

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

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Carcassonne makes for a great culinary experience. 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.

Killarney has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. You'll find great local fish and chips shops as well as locally caught seafood and regional produce. There are cafes and other independent restaurants that provide a local taste of the area.

Is Killarney or Carcassonne Better for Nightlife?

Killarney
Carcassonne

Killarney is a decent place to visit for nightlife. However, Carcassonne is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Killarney. You can hang out with the locals at one of the bars or Irish pubs in town.

Carcassonne is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Killarney or Carcassonne Better for its Old Town?

Killarney
Carcassonne

Carcassonne is a town with good options for its historic old town. However, Killarney does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to Carcassonne to see the historical old town. The medieval walled city is seeped in history and filled with atmosphere. Cars are not allowed in town.

Killarney does not have a historic old town.


Is Killarney or Carcassonne Better for Hiking?

Killarney
Carcassonne

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

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Killarney. You'll find many great hiking trails both in and around Killarney National Park. The town is also the starting and ending point for the 200 km Kerry Way walking trail. Other hikes worth checking out in the area include the Knockreer Circular Walk, Muckross Lake Loop Walk, and Old Kenmare Road Walk.

Carcassonne is not a hiking destination.

Is Killarney or Carcassonne Better for Families?

Killarney
Carcassonne

Killarney 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.

Killarney is a very family-friendly destination. The area has many outdoor activities. You can explore Killarney National Park by horseback or head out on bikes. You can also take a boat ride or there's Kennedys Pet Farm for animal lovers.

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 Killarney or Carcassonne Better for Couples?

Killarney
Carcassonne

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

Killarney makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Nature enthusiasts will enjoy exploring Killarney National Park. You can also go kayaking, biking, horseback riding or relax at The Angsana Spa.

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 Killarney or Carcassonne Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Killarney
Carcassonne

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

Backpackers come from all over to visit Carcassonne. There are interesting hostels in the area including a converted 17th century convent.

Plenty of backpackers visit Killarney. You'll find a surprising number of interesting hostels in the area so you shouldn't have trouble finding a place to stay or meeting fellow backpackers.

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

Killarney
Carcassonne

Carcassonne is a town with good options for its public transit. However, Killarney is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

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.

Public transit is mostly limited in Killarney. There's a shuttle bus that travels between some of the tourist attractions.

Is Killarney or Carcassonne a more walkable city?

Killarney
Carcassonne

Carcassonne is terrific for its walkability. However, Killarney is not particularly known for its high level of walkability.

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

Killarney is not a very walkable town. While there are many great hikes in the area, you'll need a car to access most of them.


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

Should I spend more time in Carcassonne or Killarney?

How long in Killarney or Carcassonne?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Killarney or Carcassonne to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Killarney 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 Killarney, and 1-2 days is enough time in Carcassonne.

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

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

One day in Killarney or Carcassonne?

Visitors enjoy the food and museums when visiting the natural town of Killarney. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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.

You'll find food and museums around the town of Carcassonne. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Carcassonne has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Killarney or Carcassonne?

Visitors enjoy the museums and food when visiting the charming destination of Killarney. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This town 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.

You'll find museums and food around the historical destination of Carcassonne. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Killarney or Carcassonne?

The charming town of Killarney offers food and museums. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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.

Travelers enjoy the food and museums when visiting the historical town of Carcassonne. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.


A week in Killarney or Carcassonne?

Many people enjoy the museums and food when visiting Killarney. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Carcassonne is a popular choice for travelers. 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Budget Tours to Ireland, The Best Tours for Seniors to Ireland, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in France, and The Best Historical Tours in France.


Which place is cheaper, Carcassonne or Killarney?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Killarney is €167, 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 Killarney and Carcassonne in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Killarney 102
    Carcassonne 61
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Killarney 204
    Carcassonne 122
Compare Hotels in Killarney and Carcassonne

Looking for a hotel in Killarney 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 Killarney


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: Killarney Hotel Prices and Carcassonne Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Killarney 20
    Carcassonne 7.14

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Killarney

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Killarney:

  • Killarney - Shannon Airport | Private Transfer & Car Service: $348
  • Kerry Airport Transfers: Killarney to Kerry Airport: $53
  • Cork Airport Private Transfer: Killarney to Cork Airport: $282

Is it cheaper to fly into Killarney or Carcassonne?

Prices for flights to both Carcassonne and Killarney 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
    Killarney 46
    Carcassonne 39

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Killarney

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

  • Killarney Jaunting Car Tour with Craft Brewery Beer & Pizza: $76
  • Killarney Food Tour: $109

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Killarney 19
    Carcassonne 14

Tours and Activities in Killarney

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

  • 1 Hour Guided Carriage Tour in Killarney National Park: $38
  • 1 hour Lake Cruise on Killarney's Largest Lake: $16
  • Boat Only Ticket (Walk the Gap of Dunloe): $35
  • Bus & Boat Tour: $63
  • Bus, Boat & Jaunting Cart Tour (Jaunting Cart Paid Separately) : $63
  • Cruise Tour on Kenmare Bay: $27
  • Dingle Peninsula and Slea Head Day Tour: $39
  • From Portmagee & Skellig Ring Full-Day Tour: $75
  • Full-Day Ring of Kerry Tour from Killarney: $35
  • Full-Day Tour of the Dingle Peninsula, Slea Head, and Inch Beach: $65
  • Gap of Dunloe & Lakes of Killlarney Boat Tour: $59
  • Gap of Dunloe Day Tour and Boat Ride from Killarney: $44

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
    Killarney 13
    Carcassonne 13

Sample the Local Flavors in Killarney

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Killarney:

  • Jaunting Car Tour with Craft Brewery Visit: $75

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 Killarney and Carcassonne, we can see that Killarney 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 Killarney would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Killarney 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 Killarney Expensive? and Is Carcassonne Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Killarney or Carcassonne?

Carcassonne has a larger population, and is about 7 times larger than the population of Killarney. When comparing the sizes of Killarney 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 Killarney 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 Killarney or Carcassonne in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Killarney as well as Carcassonne. The hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Killarney this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Carcassonne for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences.

Killarney is much colder than Carcassonne in the summer. The daily temperature in Killarney averages around 15°C (59°F) in July, and Carcassonne fluctuates around 24°C (75°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Carcassonne. In the summer, Killarney often gets less sunshine than Carcassonne. Killarney gets 140 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Carcassonne receives 275 hours of full sun.

Killarney usually gets more rain in July than Carcassonne. Killarney gets 74 mm (2.9 in) of rain, while Carcassonne receives 17 mm (0.7 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Killarney 15°C (59°F) 
    Carcassonne 24°C (75°F)

Should I visit Killarney or Carcassonne in the Autumn?

Both Carcassonne and Killarney are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Killarney for the hiking trails, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Carcassonne in the autumn for the small town atmosphere and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Killarney is cooler than Carcassonne. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Killarney in October average around 12°C (53°F), and Carcassonne averages at about 17°C (62°F).

Killarney usually receives less sunshine than Carcassonne during autumn. Killarney gets 79 hours of sunny skies, while Carcassonne receives 161 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It's quite rainy in Killarney. In October, Killarney usually receives more rain than Carcassonne. Killarney gets 156 mm (6.2 in) of rain, while Carcassonne receives 90 mm (3.5 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Killarney 12°C (53°F) 
    Carcassonne 17°C (62°F)

Should I visit Killarney or Carcassonne in the Winter?

Both Carcassonne and Killarney during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Killarney in the winter for the museums and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Carcassonne for the museums and the cuisine during these months.

In January, Killarney is generally cooler than Carcassonne. Daily temperatures in Killarney average around 7°C (44°F), and Carcassonne fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

In the winter, Killarney often gets less sunshine than Carcassonne. Killarney gets 44 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Carcassonne receives 88 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Killarney. Killarney usually gets more rain in January than Carcassonne. Killarney gets 167 mm (6.6 in) of rain, while Carcassonne receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Killarney 7°C (44°F) 
    Carcassonne 8°C (47°F)

Should I visit Killarney or Carcassonne in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Killarney and Carcassonne. Most visitors come to Killarney for the small town charm and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Carcassonne because of the small town charm and the natural beauty.

Killarney is much colder than Carcassonne in the spring. The daily temperature in Killarney averages around 9°C (48°F) in April, and Carcassonne fluctuates around 14°C (56°F).

Killarney usually receives less sunshine than Carcassonne during spring. Killarney gets 150 hours of sunny skies, while Carcassonne receives 178 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Killarney usually receives more rain than Carcassonne. Killarney gets 76 mm (3 in) of rain, while Carcassonne receives 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Killarney 9°C (48°F) 
    Carcassonne 14°C (56°F)

Typical Weather for Carcassonne and Killarney

Killarney Carcassonne
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 7°C (44°F) 167 mm (6.6 in) 8°C (47°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Feb 7°C (44°F) 123 mm (4.8 in) 9°C (49°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)
Mar 8°C (46°F) 123 mm (4.8 in) 11°C (52°F) 44 mm (1.7 in)
Apr 9°C (48°F) 76 mm (3 in) 14°C (56°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
May 11°C (52°F) 90 mm (3.5 in) 17°C (63°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Jun 13°C (56°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 21°C (70°F) 28 mm (1.1 in)
Jul 15°C (59°F) 74 mm (2.9 in) 24°C (75°F) 17 mm (0.7 in)
Aug 15°C (59°F) 111 mm (4.4 in) 24°C (74°F) 32 mm (1.3 in)
Sep 14°C (56°F) 124 mm (4.9 in) 21°C (69°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Oct 12°C (53°F) 156 mm (6.2 in) 17°C (62°F) 90 mm (3.5 in)
Nov 9°C (48°F) 148 mm (5.8 in) 12°C (53°F) 59 mm (2.3 in)
Dec 8°C (46°F) 159 mm (6.3 in) 9°C (49°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)