A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Lake District National Park vs. Carcassonne for Backpackers, Food, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Lake District National Park 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 Lake District National Park 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.

Lake District National Park

Lake District National Park is a spectacular, relaxing, and enjoyable national park. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Other reasons to visit include food and hiking.

Carcassonne

Carcassonne is a fairytale, medieval, and historical town. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the food and museums.

Lake District National Park and Carcassonne: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
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 Lake District National Park or Carcassonne?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Carcassonne than Lake District National Park, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Carcassonne is better known for its museums, historical sights, and small town charm, while Lake District National Park is more popular for its hiking and impressive beauty. Lake District National Park is well known for its mountains, lakes, stunning natural beauty, and amazing hikes. Carcassonne is well known for its medieval history, walled fortifications, and well-known castle. Also, Carcassonne is famous for La Cité de Carcassonne.

La Cité de Carcassonne
La Cité de Carcassonne

How is Lake District National Park different from Carcassonne?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Lake District National Park or Carcassonne?

Lake District National Park
Carcassonne

Carcassonne is an excellent place to visit for its museums and history. However, Lake District National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Lake District National Park does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Lake District National Park or Carcassonne? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Lake District National Park
Carcassonne

Foodies will find both Lake District National Park and Carcassonne both to be excellent destinations.

Lake District National Park has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. There's a long history of culinary arts in the region and you'll enjoy locally sourced ingredients at many restaurants. There are also a number of Michelin starred restaurants to choose from.

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.

Is Lake District National Park or Carcassonne Better for its Old Town?

Lake District National Park
Carcassonne

Carcassonne is a good destination for its historic old town charm. However, Lake District National Park does not have a historic old town.

Carcassonne has an old town worth visiting. The medieval walled city is seeped in history and filled with atmosphere. Cars are not allowed in town.

Lake District National Park does not have a historic old town.

Is Lake District National Park or Carcassonne Better for Hiking?

Lake District National Park
Carcassonne

Lake District National Park is very popular for its hiking trails. However, Carcassonne is not a hiking destination.

Lake District National Park is well-known for its hiking and trekking. There's a huge selection of hikes to choose from in the area, ranging from easy strolls to more strenuous climbs. The park offers some of the best hiking in the country and you can spend days exploring. Some of the favorite hikes in the area include Scafell Pike, Helvellyn, and Catbells.

Carcassonne is not a hiking destination.


Is Lake District National Park or Carcassonne Better for Families?

Lake District National Park
Carcassonne

Lake District National Park 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.

Lake District National Park is a very family-friendly destination. Kids will enjoy getting out in nature as much as the adults do. They can stretch their legs and run around, or you can check out some of the family-friendly activities in the area. Popular options include the Lakeside and Haverthwaite Railway, the World of Beatrix Potter, Wray Castle, and the adventure park Brockhole on Windermere. There's also Lakes Aquarium, Lake District Wildlife Park, and Lake District Coast Aquarium 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 Lake District National Park or Carcassonne Better for Couples?

Lake District National Park
Carcassonne

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

Lake District National Park makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. One of the most impressive national parks in the country, couples will enjoy hiking, camping, and exploring this stunning setting. Whether you're watching the sunset from a mountaintop or enjoy a relaxing boat ride on the water, this park is a perfect place to relax.

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 Lake District National Park or Carcassonne Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Lake District National Park
Carcassonne

Lake District National Park is very popular for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Carcassonne is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Many backpackers frequent Lake District National Park. There are plenty of camping options throughout the park with a range of hookup facilities to meet everyone's needs. Waterfront campsites are also available.

Carcassonne is a great national park to visit for backpackers. There are interesting hostels in the area including a converted 17th century convent.


Is Lake District National Park or Carcassonne Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Lake District National Park
Carcassonne

Carcassonne is a good destination for times when you don't have a car. However, Lake District National Park is lacking in 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 Lake District National Park. There are shuttlebuses in parts of the park.

Is Lake District National Park or Carcassonne a more walkable city?

Lake District National Park
Carcassonne

Carcassonne is a world-class destination for its ease of walking around. However, Lake District National Park is not a walkable destination.

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.

Lake District National Park is not a walkable destination.

For even more information, also check out Is Lake District National Park Worth Visiting? and Is Carcassonne Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Carcassonne or Lake District National Park?

How long in Lake District National Park or Carcassonne?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Lake District National Park or Carcassonne to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Lake District National Park than Carcassonne because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Lake District National Park, and 1-2 days is enough time in Carcassonne.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Lake District National Park 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 Lake District National Park.


  • How many days in Lake District National Park or Carcassonne? Ideal Length of Stay
    Lake District National Park 3-7 
    Carcassonne 1-2

One day in Lake District National Park or Carcassonne?

Visitors enjoy the food when visiting the beautiful national park of Lake District National Park. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Most people visit for the hiking. 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.

Many travelers enjoy the food and museums when visiting the medieval destination of Carcassonne. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.


A weekend in Lake District National Park or Carcassonne?

Visitors enjoy the food when visiting the unique destination of Lake District National Park. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This national park offers something for everyone. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Many people visit Carcassonne for a weekend. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Five days in Lake District National Park or Carcassonne?

Visitors enjoy the food when visiting the beautiful national park of Lake District National Park. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Many people spend five days here.If you enjoy all that's offered here, then five days is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

The fairytale destination of Carcassonne offers food and museums. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

A week in Lake District National Park or Carcassonne?

Visitors enjoy the food when visiting the destination of Lake District National Park. Anyone can find something fun to do here. This is a popular place to visit for one week. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people visit for the hiking. In one week, you should have a good grasp of this national park.

Carcassonne, a popular town, is full of activities for travelers. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Bicycle Tours in United Kingdom, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in United Kingdom, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in France, and The Best Historical Tours in France.


Which place is cheaper, Carcassonne or Lake District National Park?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Lake District National Park is £81, while the average daily cost in Carcassonne is £91. 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 Lake District National Park and Carcassonne in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Lake District National Park £39
    Carcassonne £52
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Lake District National Park £78
    Carcassonne £104
Compare Hotels in Lake District National Park and Carcassonne

Looking for a hotel in Lake District National Park 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 Lake District National Park


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.
    Lake District National Park £33
    Carcassonne £6.11

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Lake District National Park

Also for Lake District National Park, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Lake District Ski Club to Newcastle Airport - Departure Transfer: $33
  • Lake District Ski Club to Manchester Airport - Departure Transfer: $44

Is it cheaper to fly into Lake District National Park or Carcassonne?

Prices for flights to both Carcassonne and Lake District National Park 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
    Lake District National Park £21
    Carcassonne £33

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Lake District National Park £20
    Carcassonne £12

Tours and Activities in Lake District National Park

For Lake District National Park, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • 3-Hours Via Ferrata Experience in Keswick: $140
  • Ghyll Scrambling Water Adventure in the Lake District: $89
  • Guided Canoeing Experience on Coniston Water - Half Day: $89

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
    Lake District National Park £4.64
    Carcassonne £11

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 Lake District National Park and Carcassonne, we can see that Carcassonne 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 Lake District National Park Expensive? and Is Carcassonne Expensive?.



When is the best time to visit Lake District National Park 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 Lake District National Park or Carcassonne in the Summer?

Both Carcassonne and Lake District National Park are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Lake District National Park because of the hiking and 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 the summer, Lake District National Park is much colder than Carcassonne. Typically, the summer temperatures in Lake District National Park in July average around 15°C (59°F), and Carcassonne averages at about 24°C (75°F).

It's quite sunny in Carcassonne. Lake District National Park usually receives less sunshine than Carcassonne during summer. Lake District National Park gets 159 hours of sunny skies, while Carcassonne receives 275 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Lake District National Park usually receives more rain than Carcassonne. Lake District National Park gets 99 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Carcassonne receives 17 mm (0.7 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Lake District National Park 15°C (59°F) 
    Carcassonne 24°C (75°F)

Should I visit Lake District National Park or Carcassonne in the Autumn?

Both Carcassonne and Lake District National Park during the autumn are popular places to visit. The hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Lake District National Park this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Carcassonne for the small town atmosphere and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Lake District National Park is generally much colder than Carcassonne. Daily temperatures in Lake District National Park average around 10°C (49°F), and Carcassonne fluctuates around 17°C (62°F).

In the autumn, Lake District National Park often gets less sunshine than Carcassonne. Lake District National Park gets 69 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Carcassonne receives 161 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Lake District National Park. Lake District National Park usually gets more rain in October than Carcassonne. Lake District National Park gets 163 mm (6.4 in) of rain, while Carcassonne receives 90 mm (3.5 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Lake District National Park 10°C (49°F) 
    Carcassonne 17°C (62°F)

Should I visit Lake District National Park or Carcassonne in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Lake District National Park and Carcassonne. Many travelers come to Lake District National Park for the cuisine. Furthermore, many visitors come to Carcassonne in the winter for the museums and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Lake District National Park. Lake District National Park is much colder than Carcassonne in the winter. The daily temperature in Lake District National Park averages around 3°C (38°F) in January, and Carcassonne fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

Lake District National Park usually receives less sunshine than Carcassonne during winter. Lake District National Park gets 40 hours of sunny skies, while Carcassonne receives 88 hours of full sun in the winter.

Lake District National Park gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In January, Lake District National Park usually receives more rain than Carcassonne. Lake District National Park gets 165 mm (6.5 in) of rain, while Carcassonne receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Lake District National Park 3°C (38°F) 
    Carcassonne 8°C (47°F)

Should I visit Lake District National Park or Carcassonne in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Lake District National Park as well as Carcassonne. Many visitors come to Lake District National Park in the spring for the natural beauty. Additionally, most visitors come to Carcassonne for the small town charm and the natural beauty during these months.

In the spring, Lake District National Park is much colder than Carcassonne. Typically, the spring temperatures in Lake District National Park in April average around 7°C (45°F), and Carcassonne averages at about 14°C (56°F).

In the spring, Lake District National Park often gets less sunshine than Carcassonne. Lake District National Park gets 134 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Carcassonne receives 178 hours of full sun.

Lake District National Park usually gets more rain in April than Carcassonne. Lake District National Park gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Carcassonne receives 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Lake District National Park 7°C (45°F) 
    Carcassonne 14°C (56°F)

Typical Weather for Carcassonne and Lake District National Park

Lake District National Park Carcassonne
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 3°C (38°F) 165 mm (6.5 in) 8°C (47°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Feb 3°C (38°F) 111 mm (4.4 in) 9°C (49°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)
Mar 5°C (41°F) 136 mm (5.4 in) 11°C (52°F) 44 mm (1.7 in)
Apr 7°C (45°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 14°C (56°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
May 10°C (51°F) 95 mm (3.7 in) 17°C (63°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Jun 13°C (56°F) 93 mm (3.7 in) 21°C (70°F) 28 mm (1.1 in)
Jul 15°C (59°F) 99 mm (3.9 in) 24°C (75°F) 17 mm (0.7 in)
Aug 15°C (58°F) 132 mm (5.2 in) 24°C (74°F) 32 mm (1.3 in)
Sep 12°C (54°F) 150 mm (5.9 in) 21°C (69°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Oct 10°C (49°F) 163 mm (6.4 in) 17°C (62°F) 90 mm (3.5 in)
Nov 6°C (42°F) 151 mm (5.9 in) 12°C (53°F) 59 mm (2.3 in)
Dec 4°C (39°F) 164 mm (6.5 in) 9°C (49°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)