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

Should you visit Rhodes 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 Rhodes 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.

Rhodes

Rhodes is a beautiful, diverse, and active island. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Other reasons to visit include nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

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.

Rhodes and Carcassonne: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Rhodes or Carcassonne?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Rhodes. Although Rhodes and Carcassonne are popular destinations, Rhodes has more sights and attractions for tourists. Rhodes is very popular for its museums, food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Carcassonne attracts visitors for its historical sights and small town charm. Rhodes is famous for its beautiful beaches, rich cultural setting, and long running history. It is also well known for Rhodes Old Town. Carcassonne is famous for its medieval history, walled fortifications, and well-known castle.

How is Rhodes different from Carcassonne?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Rhodes 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 Rhodes from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. Many of the villages feel like outdoor museums, with churches and archaeological sites throughout. Some of the most well known sites include the Palace of the Grand Masters, the Hospital of the Knights, Süleyman Mosque, and Roloi Clock Tower.

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 Rhodes or Carcassonne? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Rhodes 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 Rhodes, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. The island offers Greek classics with a local flair. Common ingredients include wheat, olives, legumes, wine, and cheese. Many dishes are flavored with cumin, which is more heavily used here than elsewhere in Greece. Popular local dishes include matsi (a pasta cooked in meat broth and prepared with cheese, butter, and legumes), tsouka (a veal and pasta casserole), and lakani (veal, goat, or lamb meat that is slow-cooked in tomato 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 Rhodes or Carcassonne Better for Nightlife?

Rhodes 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 Rhodes. It's not the most party-oriented island, but you'll find plenty to do at night. Most of the clubs are found in Rhodes Town near Hippocrates Square, along Menekleous Street, or near Orfanidou Street. Faliraki has long been a popular nightlife area that brings in the British crowd, but it's not as lively as it once was. Some resorts offer more of a nightlife scene than others so if that's a priority, do your research before you book.

Carcassonne is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Rhodes or Carcassonne Better for Resorts?

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

Vacationers flock to Rhodes for its luxury resorts. It is a large and diverse island with a variety of resorts and towns to choose from. There are quiet areas like those around Kallithea Beach, Kolymbia, and Kalathos, as well as more lively areas like Faliraki. There are a number of all-inclusive resorts around the island but there are also boutique hotels and apartments if that's more your style.

Carcassonne is not a resort destination.

Is Rhodes or Carcassonne Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Rhodes is a very popular place for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Carcassonne is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

There are many scuba diving and snorkeling spots near Rhodes. The island has many snorkeling and dive spots where you can enjoy the underwater world. There are plenty of snorkeling or scuba diving trips that you can organize in advance as well. Because of the island's large size, there's a diversity of vendors and areas to pick between.

Carcassonne is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Rhodes or Carcassonne Better for Beaches?

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

Rhodes offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. The island has spectacular beaches with crystal blue waters. Many of the beaches are sandy with swimming or snorkeling opportunities. The island is also known for its watersports and several beaches are great windsurfing or kite surfing locations. There are countless beaches to choose from but some of the favorites are Tsambika, Saint Paul's Bay, Ladiko, and Kallithea.

Carcassonne is not a beach destination.

Is Rhodes or Carcassonne Better for its Old Town?

Carcassonne is a good destination for its old town. However, Rhodes does not have a historic old 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.

Rhodes does not have a historic old town.

Is Rhodes or Carcassonne Better for Hiking?

Rhodes is very popular for its hiking trails. However, Carcassonne is not a hiking destination.

Rhodes is well-known for its hiking and trekking. The breathtaking landscapes, sweeping views, and beautiful waters make this an amazing hiking island. There are a wide range of trails to choose from with easy, moderate, and challenging options available. The many quaint villages and unique archaeological sites all make this a fantastic place to hike.

Carcassonne is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Rhodes or Carcassonne?

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

People travel from around the world to go shopping in Rhodes. For a unique shopping experience head to Nea Agora (The New Market), which has a mix of shops and restaurants. You can also pick up fresh produce or pastries there. Sprinkled around the island you'll find many local artisan shops where you can buy ceramics, jewelry, soaps, leather goods, and more.

Carcassonne is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Rhodes or Carcassonne Better for Families?

Rhodes 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.

Rhodes is a very family-friendly destination. It's large size, varied activities, and wonderful outdoor setting makes this one of the most kid-friendly islands in Greece. There are many local villages that everyone will enjoy as well as beautiful walks and stunning beaches. Kids will appreciate the diversity of water activities that are available and the family-friendly restaurants ensure everyone can eat out comfortably.

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 Rhodes or Carcassonne Better for Couples?

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

Rhodes is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. The larger size and diversity of activities make this island a great option for a honeymoon. The beaches are breathtaking, but there are also a number of water sports that couples will enjoy. The hiking, archaeological sites, and amazing restaurants will make for an unforgettable honeymoon.

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 Rhodes or Carcassonne Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Rhodes and Carcassonne are excellent places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Rhodes is a great island to visit for backpackers. The island has something for everyone, and because it's one of the larger islands, there are more hostels and budget restaurants to choose from. You'll find all kinds of travelers on the island and there really is something that everyone can enjoy.

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

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

Rhodes 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 Rhodes is fairly effecient and thorough. There is a comprehensive bus system that covers most of the island.

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 Rhodes or Carcassonne a more walkable city?

Carcassonne is very popular for its high level of walkability. However, Rhodes is not particularly known 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.

Rhodes is generally not a very walkable island. The island is large so unless you're interested in hiking, most places are best reached with a vehicle.

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

Should I spend more time in Carcassonne or Rhodes?

How long in Rhodes or Carcassonne?

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

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

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

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

One day in Rhodes or Carcassonne?

Visitors enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the world famous island of Rhodes. 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 Rhodes or Carcassonne?

Visitors enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the diverse destination of Rhodes. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This island 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 Rhodes or Carcassonne?

Visitors enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the ancient island of Rhodes. 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 Rhodes or Carcassonne?

Many people enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting Rhodes. 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 2-Week Tours in Greece, The Best Bicycle Tours in Greece, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in France, and The Best Historical Tours in France.

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

Which is Bigger, Rhodes or Carcassonne?

Rhodes has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Carcassonne. When comparing the sizes of Rhodes 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.