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

Should you visit Nuremberg 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 Nuremberg 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.

Nuremberg

Nuremberg is a fascinating, charming, and beautiful city. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums.

Carcassonne

Carcassonne is a historical, fairytale, and medieval town. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the food and museums.

Nuremberg and Carcassonne: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Impressive beauty
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less popular old town


Is there more to do in Nuremberg or Carcassonne?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Nuremberg. Although Nuremberg and Carcassonne are popular destinations, Nuremberg has more sights and attractions for tourists. Nuremberg is very popular for its museums, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Carcassonne attracts visitors for its food and small town charm. Nuremberg is famous for its quaint old town, beautiful architecture, and festive Christmas markets. It is also well known for Nuremberg Castle. Carcassonne is famous for its medieval history, walled fortifications, and well-known castle.

How is Nuremberg different from Carcassonne?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Nuremberg
Carcassonne

Nuremberg 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 Nuremberg from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. It's well established on the tourist circuit and it's easy to see why. The history and charm, combined with interesting sights make it a top place to visit in Germany. Make sure you check out Kaiserburg, the Nuremberg Trials Memorial, and Germanisches National Museum.

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 Nuremberg or Carcassonne? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Nuremberg
Carcassonne

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

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.

Nuremberg is becoming an appealing option for foodies. The city is heavily influenced by Franconian cuisines and you'll find many sausages and lots of meat in the restaurants. In addition to Nuremberg sausage, you should definitely try the bretzel, leberkäsweggla (a meat and grain snack), and schäuferle (pig's shoulder meat).

Is Nuremberg or Carcassonne Better for Nightlife?

Nuremberg
Carcassonne

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

Nuremberg has a large number of nightlife venues. The nightlife scene is diverse with clubs, bars, live music venues, and a number of festivals held in town. It's possible to have a relaxing night with a beer in a beer garden or a more lively evening at one of the many clubs around town.

Carcassonne is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Nuremberg or Carcassonne Better for its Old Town?

Nuremberg
Carcassonne

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

Nuremberg has a world-famous historical area. The city's old town is filled with charm and it's easy to explore on foot. It's also large enough that you'll leave wishing you had more time to see it all.

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 Nuremberg or Carcassonne?

Nuremberg
Carcassonne

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

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Nuremberg. In addition to its iconic Christmas markets, you'll find year round shopping areas, pedestrian shopping streets, and large shopping malls. Some of the best places to shop include Lorenzer Altstadt, Hauptmarkt, and Königstorpassage.

Carcassonne is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Nuremberg or Carcassonne Better for Families?

Nuremberg
Carcassonne

Nuremberg 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.

Nuremberg is a very family-friendly destination. The town has a nice zoo and several museums that are great for kids like the DB Railway Museum, the Toy Museum, and the Nicolaus Copernicus Planetarium. Also make sure you visit the Imperial Castle which is a highlight of a trip to Nuremberg for kids and adults alike.

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 Nuremberg or Carcassonne Better for Couples?

Nuremberg
Carcassonne

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

Nuremberg makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. It has history, beauty, charm, and personality. You'll find many romantic spots to walk hand in hand or enjoy a delicious meal in a cozy setting.

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 Nuremberg or Carcassonne Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Nuremberg
Carcassonne

Nuremberg and Carcassonne are very good places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Nuremberg is a great city to visit for backpackers. It's a favorite city of many travelers to Germany and backpackers are no exception. There are enough hostels to keep prices in check and wandering the old town is a free and rewarding experience.

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

Is Nuremberg or Carcassonne Better for Students?

Nuremberg
Carcassonne

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

Many students visit Nuremberg. It's a reasonably priced city with a number of activities and great transportation. Students appreciate the energy and large number of things to do.

Carcassonne is not popular with students.

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

Nuremberg
Carcassonne

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

Public transit in Nuremberg is fairly effecient and thorough. The city offers buses, trams, and an underground train system.

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 Nuremberg or Carcassonne a more walkable city?

Nuremberg
Carcassonne

Carcassonne is a world-class destination for its high level of walkability. Also, Nuremberg is still popular, but not quite as popular for its ease of walking around.

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

Nuremberg is a very walkable destination. The old town in particular is very walkable and best explored on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Carcassonne or Nuremberg?

How long in Nuremberg or Carcassonne?

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

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

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

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


  • How many days in Nuremberg or Carcassonne? Ideal Length of Stay
    Nuremberg 1-3 
    Carcassonne 1-2

One day in Nuremberg or Carcassonne?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the beautiful city of Nuremberg. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Most people visit for the museums. One day should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. 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 Nuremberg or Carcassonne?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the historic destination of Nuremberg. 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.

You'll find museums and food around the medieval 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 Nuremberg or Carcassonne?

The beautiful city of Nuremberg offers shopping and museums. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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 fairytale 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 Nuremberg or Carcassonne?

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Nuremberg. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people visit for the museums. 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 Family-Friendly Tours to Germany, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Germany, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in France, and The Best Historical Tours in France.


Which place is cheaper, Carcassonne or Nuremberg?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Nuremberg is €103, 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 Nuremberg and Carcassonne in more detail.



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

Looking for a hotel in Nuremberg 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 Nuremberg


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: Nuremberg Hotel Prices and Carcassonne Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Nuremberg 12
    Carcassonne 7.14

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Nuremberg

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Nuremberg:

  • Private transfer from Nuremberg to Prague: $620
  • Private Transfer: River Cruise Dock Nuremberg to Prague: Port / Harbor transport: $268
  • Private Transfer-River Cruise Dock Nuremberg to Munich: Port / Harbor transport : $204
  • Private Transfer from Nuremberg to Salzburg with 2h of Sightseeing: $290
  • Private Transfer from Nuremberg to Prague with 3h stop in Karlovy Vary: $243
  • Private Transfer from Nuremberg to Prague with 2h of Sightseeing: $257
  • Private Transfer from Nuremberg to Munich with 2 hours for sightseeing: $268
  • Private Transfer from Nuremberg Dock to Munich, Hotel-to-hotel: $215
  • Private Transfer - Nuremberg to Munich or Munich to Nuremberg: $191
  • Private Transfer - Nuremberg from Harbor, Airport or Old Town: $76
  • Private Scenic Transfer from Nuremberg to Munich with 4h of Sightseeing: $268
  • Nuremberg to Prague - Private Transfer with 2 hours of Sightseeing: $251

Is it cheaper to fly into Nuremberg or Carcassonne?

Prices for flights to both Carcassonne and Nuremberg 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
    Nuremberg 34
    Carcassonne 39

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Nuremberg

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

  • 3-Hour St. Johannis Food Tour in German: $95
  • Classic North Side Food Tour in German: $95
  • Nürnberg City Tour with Traditional Dinner & Beer: $267

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Nuremberg 10
    Carcassonne 14

Tours and Activities in Nuremberg

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

  • Camp Zeppelin Tour in Spanish: $19
  • City tour of Nuremberg: $19
  • City tour through Nuremberg with the Bimmelbahn: $12
  • City tour through Nuremberg with the little train - Christmas tour: $11
  • Dachau Concentration Camp Private Tour: $218
  • Ferrari Supersport experience drive - drive yourself: $191
  • Former Nazi Rally Ground And Courtroom 600 Tour: $83
  • Free Walking Tour Nuremberg: $3.28
  • Kulinarische Fahrradtour - Knoblauchsland: $91
  • Medieval Tour in Nuremberg in Spanish: $19
  • Nürnberg oldtown: Smartphone Scavenger Hunt Sightseeing Tour: $12
  • Nürnberg: Crime Escape Game - self-guided crime tour: $42

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
    Nuremberg 16
    Carcassonne 13

Sample the Local Flavors in Nuremberg

Also in Nuremberg, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Pub Crawl for Bachelor and Bachelorette Parties: $24
  • Nürnberg: Private Pub Crawl Tour: $401
  • Private Premium Pub Crawl Tour: $513

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 Nuremberg 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 Nuremberg Expensive? and Is Carcassonne Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Nuremberg or Carcassonne?

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

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

In July, Nuremberg is generally cooler than Carcassonne. Daily temperatures in Nuremberg average around 20°C (68°F), and Carcassonne fluctuates around 24°C (75°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Carcassonne. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Nuremberg this time of the year. In the summer, Nuremberg often gets less sunshine than Carcassonne. Nuremberg gets 236 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Carcassonne receives 275 hours of full sun.

Nuremberg usually gets more rain in July than Carcassonne. Nuremberg gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Carcassonne receives 17 mm (0.7 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Nuremberg 20°C (68°F) 
    Carcassonne 24°C (75°F)

Should I visit Nuremberg or Carcassonne in the Autumn?

Both Carcassonne and Nuremberg are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Nuremberg for the shopping scene 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.

Nuremberg is cooler than Carcassonne in the autumn. The daily temperature in Nuremberg averages around 12°C (53°F) in October, and Carcassonne fluctuates around 17°C (62°F).

Nuremberg usually receives less sunshine than Carcassonne during autumn. Nuremberg gets 122 hours of sunny skies, while Carcassonne receives 161 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Nuremberg usually receives less rain than Carcassonne. Nuremberg gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Carcassonne receives 90 mm (3.5 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


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

Should I visit Nuremberg or Carcassonne in the Winter?

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

Nuremberg can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Nuremberg is much colder than Carcassonne. Typically, the winter temperatures in Nuremberg in January average around 1°C (34°F), and Carcassonne averages at about 8°C (47°F).

In the winter, Nuremberg often gets less sunshine than Carcassonne. Nuremberg gets 47 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Carcassonne receives 88 hours of full sun.

Nuremberg usually gets less rain in January than Carcassonne. Nuremberg gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Carcassonne receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Nuremberg 1°C (34°F) 
    Carcassonne 8°C (47°F)

Should I visit Nuremberg or Carcassonne in the Spring?

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

In April, Nuremberg is generally cooler than Carcassonne. Daily temperatures in Nuremberg average around 10°C (50°F), and Carcassonne fluctuates around 14°C (56°F).

Nuremberg usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Carcassonne during spring. Nuremberg gets 166 hours of sunny skies, while Carcassonne receives 178 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Nuremberg usually receives less rain than Carcassonne. Nuremberg gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Carcassonne receives 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Nuremberg 10°C (50°F) 
    Carcassonne 14°C (56°F)

Typical Weather for Carcassonne and Nuremberg

Nuremberg Carcassonne
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 1°C (34°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 8°C (47°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Feb 3°C (37°F) 39 mm (1.5 in) 9°C (49°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)
Mar 6°C (43°F) 46 mm (1.8 in) 11°C (52°F) 44 mm (1.7 in)
Apr 10°C (50°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 14°C (56°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
May 15°C (59°F) 64 mm (2.5 in) 17°C (63°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Jun 18°C (65°F) 75 mm (2.9 in) 21°C (70°F) 28 mm (1.1 in)
Jul 20°C (68°F) 69 mm (2.7 in) 24°C (75°F) 17 mm (0.7 in)
Aug 20°C (68°F) 67 mm (2.6 in) 24°C (74°F) 32 mm (1.3 in)
Sep 16°C (62°F) 51 mm (2 in) 21°C (69°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Oct 12°C (53°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 17°C (62°F) 90 mm (3.5 in)
Nov 6°C (43°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 12°C (53°F) 59 mm (2.3 in)
Dec 3°C (37°F) 52 mm (2.1 in) 9°C (49°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)