A Travel Price Comparison for France Lyon vs. Carcassonne for Attractions, Food, Old Town, and Families

Should you visit Lyon or Carcassonne?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Lyon or Carcassonne, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Lyon

Lyon is a beautiful, cultural, and quaint city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It also has that perfectly quaint feel that is like no other place. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums.

Carcassonne

Carcassonne is a historical, fairytale, and medieval town. It's a very nice small town not to be missed. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the food and museums.

Lyon and Carcassonne: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Lyon or Carcassonne?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Lyon. Although Lyon and Carcassonne are popular destinations, Lyon has more sights and attractions for tourists. Lyon is very popular for its museums & sights, food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, big city activities, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Carcassonne attracts visitors for its small town charm. Lyon is famous for its world-renowned cuisine, charming old town, and vibrant new town. It is also well known for The Basilique Notre-Dame de Fourvière. Carcassonne is famous for its medieval history, walled fortifications, and well-known castle.

How is Lyon different from Carcassonne?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Lyon 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 Lyon from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. There are many world class museums and historic landmarks in the city including Musée des Beaux Arts, Musée de la Civilisation Gallo-Romaine, and Basilique Notre-Dame de Fourvière.

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 Lyon or Carcassonne? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Lyon 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 Lyon, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. Known as "the Gastronomic Capital of the World" this city stands above the rest when it comes to Michelin star restaurants (there are 17!), fresh ingredients, and unique local flavors. Favorite local dishes include pâté en croûte, rosette de Lyon, and saucisson brioché.

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 Lyon or Carcassonne Better for Nightlife?

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

Lyon has a large number of nightlife venues. The city has enough diverse neighborhoods that you'll find a scene that is great for everyone. There are dance clubs, cocktail bars, and wine bars that meet every personality and style.

Carcassonne is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Lyon or Carcassonne Better for its Old Town?

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

Lyon has a world-famous historical area. This impressive old town climbs from the river into Fourvière Hill. It's a Renaissance era district with beautiful buildings and plenty of character. You can spend days wandering the quaint streets and popping in the world class restaurants.

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 Lyon or Carcassonne?

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

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Lyon. The city has many trendy markets, pedestrian shopping areas, and character-filled boutiques. From the charming shops in old town to the chic shopping streets, there are plenty of places to splurge around town.

Carcassonne is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Lyon or Carcassonne Better for Families?

Lyon 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.

Lyon is a very family-friendly destination. The city has many kid-friendly museums including Musée des Confluences and the Cinema and Miniature Museum. There are also playgrounds, patisseries, and river cruises that you can enjoy as a family. Puppet shows are also fun, but do note that they're usually in French. While the restaurants are amazing for adults, it can be tricky to find a kid-friendly option with early opening hours that are convenient for little ones.

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 Lyon or Carcassonne Better for Couples?

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

Lyon makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples can enjoy wandering the beautiful Old Town, taking a river cruise, and dining on some of the best food in France.

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 Lyon or Carcassonne Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Lyon and Carcassonne are great destinations for backpackers.

Lyon is a great city to visit for backpackers. The city has several hostels and a number of activities that are fun for budget travelers and backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Carcassonne. There are interesting hostels in the area including a converted 17th century convent.

Is Lyon or Carcassonne Better for Students?

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

Lyon is a very popular place to visit for students. It is a very livable city with many fun cultural activities for students. There are many different entertainment options during the day, and during the evening there are plenty of places to hang out.

Carcassonne is not popular with students.

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

Lyon 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.

Lyon has an effecient and thorough public transportation system which can take you anywhere in the city. The city has a metro, trams, and buses, that make it easy to get around.

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 Lyon or Carcassonne a more walkable city?

Carcassonne is an amazing town to visit for its high level of walkability. Also, Lyon is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its ease of walking around.

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

Lyon is a very walkable destination. The old town is particularly walkable, but the hills can make things a bit challenging. There are also a number of pedestrian streets around town.

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

Should I spend more time in Carcassonne or Lyon?

How long in Lyon or Carcassonne?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Lyon or Carcassonne to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Lyon than Carcassonne because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Lyon, and 1-2 days is enough time in Carcassonne.

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

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

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

One day in Lyon or Carcassonne?

Lyon is a cultural 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.

Visitors enjoy the museums and food when visiting the destination of Carcassonne. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

A weekend in Lyon or Carcassonne?

Lyon is a quaint big city where you can fill many days. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. This 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.

Carcassonne is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Five days in Lyon or Carcassonne?

Lyon is a quaint 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.

You'll find museums and food around the medieval destination of Carcassonne. This town offers something for everyone. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Lyon or Carcassonne?

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Lyon. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

The fairytale town of Carcassonne offers food and museums. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. 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 10-Day Tours from Paris, The Best 2-Week Tours from Paris, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to France, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in France.

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

Which is Bigger, Lyon or Carcassonne?

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

Both Carcassonne and Lyon during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Lyon for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Carcassonne in the summer for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Lyon is generally around the same temperature as Carcassonne. Daily temperatures in Lyon average around 22°C (71°F), and Carcassonne fluctuates around 24°C (75°F).

In Carcassonne, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Lyon. In the summer, Lyon often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Carcassonne. Lyon gets 285 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Carcassonne receives 275 hours of full sun.

Lyon usually gets more rain in July than Carcassonne. Lyon gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Carcassonne receives 17 mm (0.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Lyon or Carcassonne in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Lyon and Carcassonne. Many visitors come to Lyon in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Carcassonne for the small town atmosphere and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Lyon is cooler than Carcassonne in the autumn. The daily temperature in Lyon averages around 14°C (56°F) in October, and Carcassonne fluctuates around 17°C (62°F).

Lyon usually receives less sunshine than Carcassonne during autumn. Lyon gets 127 hours of sunny skies, while Carcassonne receives 161 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Lyon usually receives less rain than Carcassonne. Lyon gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Carcassonne receives 90 mm (3.5 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Lyon or Carcassonne in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Lyon as well as Carcassonne. Most visitors come to Lyon for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Carcassonne because of the museums and the cuisine.

Lyon can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Lyon is much colder than Carcassonne. Typically, the winter temperatures in Lyon in January average around 4°C (39°F), and Carcassonne averages at about 8°C (47°F).

In the winter, Lyon often gets less sunshine than Carcassonne. Lyon gets 62 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Carcassonne receives 88 hours of full sun.

Lyon usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Carcassonne. Lyon gets 55 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Carcassonne receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Lyon or Carcassonne in the Spring?

Both Carcassonne and Lyon are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to Lyon because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Also, the small town charm and the natural beauty are the main draw to Carcassonne this time of year.

In April, Lyon is generally cooler than Carcassonne. Daily temperatures in Lyon average around 11°C (53°F), and Carcassonne fluctuates around 14°C (56°F).

Lyon usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Carcassonne during spring. Lyon gets 174 hours of sunny skies, while Carcassonne receives 178 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Lyon usually receives more rain than Carcassonne. Lyon gets 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Carcassonne receives 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Carcassonne and Lyon