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

Should you visit Paphos or Carcassonne?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Paphos 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.

Paphos

Paphos is a cultural, coastal, and overlooked town. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include beaches, shopping, 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.

Paphos and Carcassonne: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Paphos or Carcassonne?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Paphos. Although Paphos and Carcassonne are both popular with visitors, Paphos has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Paphos is more popular for its museums, food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Carcassonne is known for its small town charm. Paphos is popular for its historical sights, rich culture, and beautiful churches. It is also home to Paphos Archaeological Park. Carcassonne is popular for its medieval history, walled fortifications, and well-known castle.

How is Paphos different from Carcassonne?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Paphos 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 Paphos from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. The area is well known for its impressive archeological ruins, many of which are found at Paphos Archaeological Site. Other impressive sights include the Tombs of the Kings, the Chrysopolitissa Basilica & St. Paul's Pillar, Agia Paraskevi, and Paphos Fort.

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 Paphos or Carcassonne? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Paphos 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 Paphos, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. Food is a huge part of the culture and family life in the area. The cuisine is influenced by the surrounding areas and you'll see similarities to Greek, Turkish, and Middle Eastern cuisines. Popular dishes include koupepia (vine leaves stuffed with a filling called gemista), souvlaki (a meat and salad filled pita), and makaronia tou fournou (a pasta dish made with halloumi and béchamel sauce).

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 Paphos or Carcassonne Better for Nightlife?

Paphos is a good destination for nightlife. However, Carcassonne is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Paphos. Most people think of history, culture, beaches, and wine, but the city also has its share of clubs and bars. It's not the party-hard beach destination that you'll find at some Mediterranean tourist areas, but there are still plenty of bars and clubs with atmosphere and style. Head to Agiou Antoniou Street for the most action.

Carcassonne is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Paphos or Carcassonne Better for Resorts?

Paphos is very popular for its luxury resorts. However, Carcassonne is not a resort destination.

Vacationers flock to Paphos for its luxury resorts. The area is filled with all types of resorts. There are many all-inclusive resorts that cater to families, honeymooners, or luxury vacationers. If you want to experience more of the local culture, there are also smaller boutique hotels or local apartments available.

Carcassonne is not a resort destination.

Is Paphos or Carcassonne Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Paphos is a good destination for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Carcassonne is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Grab a mask and fins and explore the underwater scenery in Paphos. There are many snorkeling and dive spots that aren't far away. You'll also find a number of scuba or snorkeling excursions that you can join. The water conditions for snorkeling and diving are best during the summer months.

Carcassonne is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Paphos or Carcassonne Better for Beaches?

Paphos is very popular for its beaches. However, Carcassonne is not a beach destination.

Paphos offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. Many people head to the area specifically for the beaches. This region has the longest coastline of any region in Cyprus, but keep in mind that some of the best beaches are found outside of the main tourist areas. However, they most are usually accessible by city bus with many remote stretches found along the Akamas Peninsula. Within town the beaches are often rocky and pebbly.

Carcassonne is not a beach destination.

Is Paphos or Carcassonne Better for its Old Town?

Paphos and Carcassonne both have good historical old towns that attract visitors.

Many visitors go to Paphos to see the historical old town. The old town is a pleasant area to walk around with a number of interesting buildings.

Plenty of visitors enjoy exploring the old town in Carcassonne. The medieval walled city is seeped in history and filled with atmosphere. Cars are not allowed in town.

Is the Shopping Better in Paphos or Carcassonne?

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

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Paphos. There are outdoor markets, major shopping streets, and international fashion brands. You can pick up local souvenirs or beach gear that you may have forgotten.

Carcassonne is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Paphos or Carcassonne Better for Families?

Paphos 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.

Paphos is a very family-friendly destination. There are plenty of outdoor activities that kids will enjoy. Head to the beach or take a walk along the coastline. Animal lovers will appreciate a visit to the zoo, bird park, or aquarium and young thrill seekers will enjoy a day at the Aqua-park of Aphrodite. And, of course, there's also the ruins that kids can have fun exploring.

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 Paphos or Carcassonne Better for Couples?

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

Paphos is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. Honeymooners who enjoy history, nature, beaches, and culture will find it all in the area. There are stunning beaches where you can relax in the sun, world renowned archeological ruins where you can immerse yourself in a historical world, and beautiful views around every corner. There are also excellent restaurants and wine tasting opportunities that will make for a memorable trip.

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 Paphos or Carcassonne Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Paphos and Carcassonne are great places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Paphos. The area is generally accessible with a few good hostels and budget accommodation options sprinkled about. There are great beaches and restaurants as well as plenty of beautiful places to enjoy a walk.

Many backpackers visit Carcassonne. There are interesting hostels in the area including a converted 17th century convent.

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

Paphos 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 Paphos is fairly effecient and thorough. It's possible to get around by city bus to most places. Buses connect many touristy areas such as Kato Paphos, Tombs of the Kings, Chloraka, Kissonerga, Coral Bay and Paphos Center.

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 Paphos or Carcassonne a more walkable city?

Carcassonne is renowned for its walkability. Also, Paphos is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

Paphos is a somewhat walkable place. The main tourist area is Kato Paphos which is small, compact and easy to walk around, but if you want to head to areas further away then you likely won't be able to travel on foot. It's important to understand where your hotel is located if you're planning to explore on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Carcassonne or Paphos?

How long in Paphos or Carcassonne?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Paphos or Carcassonne to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Paphos than Carcassonne because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Paphos, and 1-2 days is enough time in Carcassonne.

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

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

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

One day in Paphos or Carcassonne?

Visitors enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the ancient town of Paphos. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. 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 Paphos or Carcassonne?

Visitors enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the coastal destination of Paphos. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. This town 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 Paphos or Carcassonne?

Visitors enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the beautiful town of Paphos. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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 Paphos or Carcassonne?

Many people enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting Paphos. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Travelers enjoy the food and museums when visiting the historical 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 Romantic Tours for Couples in Cyprus, The Best Tours for Seniors to Cyprus, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in France, and The Best Historical Tours in France.

When comparing the travel costs between Paphos 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 Paphos Expensive? and Is Carcassonne Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Paphos or Carcassonne?

Carcassonne has a larger population, and is about 38% larger than the population of Paphos. When comparing the sizes of Paphos 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 Paphos 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 Paphos or Carcassonne in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Paphos as well as Carcassonne. Many travelers come to Paphos for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Carcassonne in the summer for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences.

Paphos is a little warmer than Carcassonne in the summer. The daily temperature in Paphos averages around 27°C (80°F) in July, 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 Paphos this time of the year. In the summer, Paphos often gets more sunshine than Carcassonne. Paphos gets 388 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Carcassonne receives 275 hours of full sun.

Paphos usually gets less rain in July than Carcassonne. Paphos gets 0 mm (0 in) of rain, while Carcassonne receives 17 mm (0.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Paphos or Carcassonne in the Autumn?

Both Carcassonne and Paphos are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Paphos in the autumn for 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.

In the autumn, Paphos is a little warmer than Carcassonne. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Paphos in October average around 21°C (70°F), and Carcassonne averages at about 17°C (62°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Paphos. Paphos usually receives more sunshine than Carcassonne during autumn. Paphos gets 270 hours of sunny skies, while Carcassonne receives 161 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Paphos usually receives less rain than Carcassonne. Paphos gets 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Carcassonne receives 90 mm (3.5 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Paphos or Carcassonne in the Winter?

Both Carcassonne and Paphos during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Paphos for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Carcassonne because of the museums and the cuisine.

In January, Paphos is generally a little warmer than Carcassonne. Daily temperatures in Paphos average around 12°C (53°F), and Carcassonne fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

In the winter, Paphos often gets more sunshine than Carcassonne. Paphos gets 180 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Carcassonne receives 88 hours of full sun.

Paphos usually gets more rain in January than Carcassonne. Paphos gets 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Carcassonne receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Paphos or Carcassonne in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Paphos and Carcassonne. The spring months attract visitors to Paphos because of the beaches and the natural beauty. Furthermore, the small town charm and the natural beauty are the main draw to Carcassonne this time of year.

Paphos is a little warmer than Carcassonne in the spring. The daily temperature in Paphos averages around 17°C (62°F) in April, and Carcassonne fluctuates around 14°C (56°F).

In Paphos, it's very sunny this time of the year. Paphos usually receives more sunshine than Carcassonne during spring. Paphos gets 270 hours of sunny skies, while Carcassonne receives 178 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Paphos usually receives less rain than Carcassonne. Paphos gets 11 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Carcassonne receives 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Carcassonne and Paphos