A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Lisbon vs. Carcassonne for Attractions, Food, Old Town, and Backpackers

Should you visit Lisbon or Carcassonne?

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

Should I visit Lisbon or Carcassonne? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Lisbon

Lisbon is a vibrant, stunning, and picturesque city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Other reasons to visit include beaches, shopping, and museums.

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.

Lisbon and Carcassonne: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Lisbon or Carcassonne?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Lisbon than Carcassonne, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Lisbon is better known for its museums, food, nightlife, music, beaches, historical sights, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Carcassonne is more popular for its small town charm. Lisbon is well known for its hilltop vistos, beautiful old town, and lively Fado music. Also, Lisbon is famous for Castelo de São Jorge. Carcassonne is well known for its medieval history, walled fortifications, and well-known castle.

How is Lisbon different from Carcassonne?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Lisbon 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 Lisbon from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. World renowned landmarks include St. George's Castle, Jerónimos monastery, the Belém Tower, Santa Justa Lift, and countless world class museums.

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 Lisbon or Carcassonne? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Lisbon is very popular for its restaurants. Also, Carcassonne is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Eat your way through Lisbon, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. There are many local restaurants as well as food tours and cooking classes that you can enjoy. Make sure you try the local favorites like bacalhau à brás, frango no churrasco, and pastel de nata. Given the beautiful climate, outdoor seating is also popular. Head into the less touristy neighborhoods to try some local dishes or hit up a seafood market. There are also many cafes that offer great breakfasts with fresh ingredients.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Carcassonne. There are a number of local restaurants that serve regional specialties such as cassoulet. You can spend a few hours exploring the castle and then grab a delicious bite to eat.

Is Lisbon or Carcassonne Better for Nightlife?

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

Lisbon is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. It is a bustling city with a lot of energy late into the night. There are countless bars, clubs, and music venues that cater to every personality type and style. Whether you want a more relaxed vibe or a raging party, there is likely an place for you.

Carcassonne is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Lisbon or Carcassonne Better for Music?

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

Lisbon is known as a music capital around the world. The local folk music, fado, is popular here, but there are also venues that host almost any other style of music as well. You'll also find several fado museums around town.

Carcassonne is not a live music destination.

Is Lisbon or Carcassonne Better for Beaches?

Lisbon is a good destination for its beaches. However, Carcassonne is not a beach destination.

Lisbon offers a nice beach destination. The beaches are often overlooked by visitors, but the coastline near the city is lined with beautiful sandy beaches that are arguably among the best in the area. If you want to get away from city life, head for the water.

Carcassonne is not a beach destination.

Is Lisbon or Carcassonne Better for its Old Town?

Lisbon is very popular for its historic old town. Also, Carcassonne is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its old town.

Lisbon has a world-famous historical area. The city is famous for the Alfama area, which is where you find the traditional buildings, cobblestoned streets, wandering alleyways, and steep hills. Make sure you take in the stunning view from various parts of town.

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

Is the Shopping Better in Lisbon or Carcassonne?

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

People travel from around the world to go shopping in Lisbon. For high end shopping, head to The Avenida da Liberdade. It's lined with designer brands and luxury boutiques.

Carcassonne is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Lisbon or Carcassonne Better for Families?

Lisbon 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.

Lisbon is a very family-friendly destination. Popular family-friendly activities include exploring Castelo Sao Jorge, visiting the aquarium, hanging out on the beach, and of course, taking the funiculars. Kids of all ages will appreciate the intricate maze of streets and lively atmosphere that this city offers. There's also the famous Livraria Lello & Irmão, which is a beautiful bookshop that is said to be an inspiration for Harry Potter. Don't expect to simply walk in, as there is often a long line to enter.

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 Lisbon or Carcassonne Better for Couples?

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

Lisbon makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. With it's colorful buildings and dramatic hills, this city offers a truly romantic setting for couples. There are many romantic viewpoints as well as world class restaurants that couples will enjoy.

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 Lisbon or Carcassonne Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Many backpackers frequent Lisbon. Hostels are abundant, and you'll have no trouble finding other backpackers to hang out with. Many hostels even organize activities and group meals for travelers. Prices are also reasonable for a large and vibrant city.

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

Is Lisbon or Carcassonne Better for Students?

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

Many students visit Lisbon. It's a lively city with a lot to see and do for international students.

Carcassonne is not popular with students.

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

Lisbon is very popular for times when you don't have a car. Also, Carcassonne is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

Lisbon has an effecient and thorough public transportation system which can take you anywhere in the city. The metro has four lines that go around the city. There are also trams, buses, and the funiculars.

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 Lisbon or Carcassonne a more walkable city?

Lisbon and Carcassonne are amazing when it comes to walkability.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Lisbon. There are many walkable areas that aren't too hilly like Baixa, a stretch along the Tagus River, and Belém.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Carcassonne or Lisbon?

How long in Lisbon or Carcassonne?

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

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

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

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

One day in Lisbon or Carcassonne?

Lisbon is a vibrant city where you can fill many days. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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 museums and food when visiting the destination of Carcassonne. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Lisbon or Carcassonne?

Lisbon is a stunning big city where you can fill many days. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. This city offers something for everyone. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Carcassonne is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Lisbon or Carcassonne?

Lisbon is a colorful city where you can fill many days. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Carcassonne. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Lisbon or Carcassonne?

Lisbon is a big city destination where you can fill many days. Anyone can find something fun to do here. This is a popular place to visit for one week. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. In one week, you should have a good grasp of this city.

Travelers enjoy the food and museums when visiting the fairytale destination of Carcassonne. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Portugal, The Best 2-Week Tours in Portugal, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in France, and The Best Historical Tours in France.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Lisbon and Carcassonne, we can see that Lisbon 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 Lisbon would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Lisbon 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 Lisbon Expensive? and Is Carcassonne Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Lisbon or Carcassonne?

Lisbon has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Carcassonne. When comparing the sizes of Lisbon 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 Lisbon 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 Lisbon or Carcassonne in the Summer?

Both Carcassonne and Lisbon are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Lisbon for the beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Carcassonne because of the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Lisbon is around the same temperature as Carcassonne. Typically, the summer temperatures in Lisbon in July average around 23°C (73°F), and Carcassonne averages at about 24°C (75°F).

It's quite sunny in Carcassonne. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Lisbon. Lisbon usually receives more sunshine than Carcassonne during summer. Lisbon gets 352 hours of sunny skies, while Carcassonne receives 275 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Lisbon usually receives less rain than Carcassonne. Lisbon gets 5 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Carcassonne receives 17 mm (0.7 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Lisbon or Carcassonne in the Autumn?

Both Carcassonne and Lisbon during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Lisbon because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the small town atmosphere and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Carcassonne this time of year.

In October, Lisbon is generally a little warmer than Carcassonne. Daily temperatures in Lisbon average around 19°C (66°F), and Carcassonne fluctuates around 17°C (62°F).

It's quite sunny in Lisbon. In the autumn, Lisbon often gets more sunshine than Carcassonne. Lisbon gets 213 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Carcassonne receives 161 hours of full sun.

Lisbon usually gets less rain in October than Carcassonne. Lisbon gets 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Carcassonne receives 90 mm (3.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Lisbon or Carcassonne in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Lisbon and Carcassonne. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Lisbon this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Carcassonne for the museums and the cuisine.

Lisbon is a little warmer than Carcassonne in the winter. The daily temperature in Lisbon averages around 12°C (53°F) in January, and Carcassonne fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

Lisbon usually receives more sunshine than Carcassonne during winter. Lisbon gets 144 hours of sunny skies, while Carcassonne receives 88 hours of full sun in the winter.

Lisbon gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In January, Lisbon usually receives more rain than Carcassonne. Lisbon gets 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while Carcassonne receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Lisbon or Carcassonne in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Lisbon as well as Carcassonne. Many travelers come to Lisbon for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Carcassonne in the spring for the small town charm and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Lisbon is a little warmer than Carcassonne. Typically, the spring temperatures in Lisbon in April average around 16°C (60°F), and Carcassonne averages at about 14°C (56°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Lisbon this time of the year. In the spring, Lisbon often gets more sunshine than Carcassonne. Lisbon gets 235 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Carcassonne receives 178 hours of full sun.

Lisbon usually gets more rain in April than Carcassonne. Lisbon gets 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Carcassonne receives 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Carcassonne and Lisbon