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

Should you visit Stockholm 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 Stockholm 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.

Stockholm

Stockholm is a coastal, safe, and expensive 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. Other reasons to visit include live music, food, and shopping.

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.

Stockholm and Carcassonne: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Big city activities
  • Impressive beauty
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less popular old town
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with couples
  • Public transit not as usable


Is there more to do in Stockholm or Carcassonne?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Stockholm. Although Stockholm and Carcassonne are popular destinations, Stockholm has more sights and attractions for tourists. Stockholm is very popular for its nightlife, music, historical sights, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Carcassonne attracts visitors for its food and small town charm. Stockholm is famous for its many bridges and water culture, its open air museum, and its colorful old town. It is also well known for Gamla Stan (the old town). Carcassonne is famous for its medieval history, walled fortifications, and well-known castle.

Gamla Stan (the old town)
Gamla Stan (the old town)

How is Stockholm different from Carcassonne?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Stockholm
Carcassonne

Plenty of people visit the very good sights and museums in both Stockholm and Carcassonne.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Stockholm. Famous sights and museums include the Vasa Museum, the Skansen Open-Air Museum, and the Royal Palace.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Carcassonne. 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 Stockholm or Carcassonne? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Stockholm
Carcassonne

Carcassonne is well known for its restaurant scene. Also, Stockholm 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.

Stockholm is becoming an appealing option for foodies. Most famous for its Swedish meatballs, there is so much more to the food scene in this city. Although they're expensive, the restaurants often have a relaxed atmosphere with dishes that take advantage of local, fresh ingredients. Seafood is obviously popular as well.

Is Stockholm or Carcassonne Better for Nightlife?

Stockholm
Carcassonne

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

Stockholm has a large number of nightlife venues. The city is a particularly fun place to visit during the summer months when clubs open outdoor areas and parties happen day and night.

Carcassonne is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Stockholm or Carcassonne Better for Music?

Stockholm
Carcassonne

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

Stockholm is known as a music capital around the world. The city has an amazing music scene that includes international groups and DJs, local venues, and popular festivals.

Carcassonne is not a live music destination.


Is Stockholm or Carcassonne Better for its Old Town?

Stockholm
Carcassonne

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

Stockholm has a world-famous historical area. Right in the middle of the city is Gamla Stan. It's spread out over a hill and filled with character, cobblestone streets, cafes, and historical sights.

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 Stockholm or Carcassonne?

Stockholm
Carcassonne

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

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Stockholm. Right by Gamla Stan, you'll find the city's main shopping street of Drottninggatan. The city has great jewelry and artisan crafts.

Carcassonne is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Stockholm or Carcassonne Better for Families?

Stockholm
Carcassonne

Stockholm is very popular for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Carcassonne is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

With a huge array of activities for kids, Stockholm is very family-friendly. As cities go, this is among the most child-friendly in Europe. There are many unique activities like Junibacken, which is a Pippi Longstocking themed kid's museum. There's also Tom Tits Experiment, which is a hands on science and technology museum, the swimming pools at Eriksdalsbadet, and the amusement park Gröna Lund.

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 Stockholm or Carcassonne Better for Couples?

Stockholm
Carcassonne

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

Stockholm is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. The city is filled with romance, from wandering around Gamla Stan to taking a dinner cruise or exploring a rose garden. During the winter months, the Christmas markets and festive atmosphere bring the city to life.

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 Stockholm or Carcassonne Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Stockholm
Carcassonne

Carcassonne is well known for backpackers. Also, Stockholm is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

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

Plenty of backpackers visit Stockholm. While the city has a lot to offer, many backpackers avoid the area because it is so expensive. There are some hostels, but in general food and entertainment are all going to cost a lot.

Is Stockholm or Carcassonne Better for Students?

Stockholm
Carcassonne

Stockholm is a good destination for its student-friendly activities. However, Carcassonne is not popular with students.

Plenty of students visit Stockholm. The cost of the city scares off many international students, but those that come here will find a clean, safe, and fun city with excellent academics.

Carcassonne is not popular with students.


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

Stockholm
Carcassonne

Stockholm 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.

Stockholm has an effecient and thorough public transportation system which can take you anywhere in the city. The system is efficient with bus lines, metro, commuter rails, trams and ferries.

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 Stockholm or Carcassonne a more walkable city?

Stockholm
Carcassonne

Stockholm and Carcassonne both are fantastic when exploring on foot.

Getting around Stockholm on foot is easy. The city has actively worked to create a walkable environment that is safe and pleasant. There are restrictions on vehicles as well as pedestrian-only areas.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Carcassonne or Stockholm?

How long in Stockholm or Carcassonne?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Stockholm or Carcassonne to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Stockholm than Carcassonne because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-7 days is a good amount of time for Stockholm, and 1-2 days is enough time in Carcassonne.

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

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

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


  • How many days in Stockholm or Carcassonne? Ideal Length of Stay
    Stockholm 2-7 
    Carcassonne 1-2

One day in Stockholm or Carcassonne?

Stockholm is a beautiful city where you can fill many days. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Most people visit for the live music. 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.

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 Stockholm or Carcassonne?

Stockholm is a expensive 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.

You'll find museums and food around the fairytale 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 Stockholm or Carcassonne?

Stockholm is a coastal 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.

Travelers enjoy the food and museums when visiting the historical 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 Stockholm or Carcassonne?

Stockholm 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. Most people visit for the live music. In one week, you should have a good grasp of this city.

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 Budget Tours to Sweden, The Best Tours for Seniors to Sweden, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in France, and The Best Historical Tours in France.


Which place is cheaper, Carcassonne or Stockholm?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Stockholm is $167, while the average daily cost in Carcassonne is $114. 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 Stockholm and Carcassonne in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Stockholm $96
    Carcassonne $65
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Stockholm $192
    Carcassonne $130
Compare Hotels in Stockholm and Carcassonne

Looking for a hotel in Stockholm 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 Stockholm


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: Stockholm Hotel Prices and Carcassonne Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Stockholm $20
    Carcassonne $7.65

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Stockholm

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Stockholm:

  • Train Transfer between City and Arlanda Airport: $21
  • Stockholm hotel to Stockholm Port Departure Private Transfer: $41
  • Stockholm Skavsta Airport (NYO) to Stockholm City - Arrival Private Transfer: $80
  • Stockholm Private Transfer from Stockholm city centre to Bromma Airport: $73
  • Stockholm Private Transfer from Stockholm Cruise Terminal to city centre: $102
  • Stockholm Private Transfer from Stockholm Cruise Terminal to Skavsta airport: $291
  • Stockholm Private Transfer from Stockholm Cruise Terminal to Arlanda airport: $158
  • Stockholm Port to Stockholm hotel Arrival Private Transfer: $41
  • Stockholm Port to Stockholm Bromma Airport (BMA) - Departure Private Transfer: $37
  • Stockholm Hotels to Nynashamn Cruise Port Private Transfer: $38
  • Stockholm Departure Private Transfer to Arlanda ARN Airport by Business Car: $132
  • Stockholm City to Stockholm Bromma Airport (BMA) - Departure Private Transfer: $37

Is it cheaper to fly into Stockholm or Carcassonne?

Prices for flights to both Carcassonne and Stockholm 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
    Stockholm $36
    Carcassonne $41
Typical Food Prices in Stockholm

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Stockholm:


  • Breakfast
    $9.12

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Stockholm

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

  • Self Guided Taysta Food Tour in Stockholm: $33
  • Food Tour: $101
  • Stockholm Food Tour: $104
  • Stockholm Walking Food Tour With Small Group: $119
  • From Wildlife Safari with Campfire Dinner: $128

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Stockholm $25
    Carcassonne $15

Tours and Activities in Stockholm

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

  • Stockholm Fire and Ice Tour! Dive into Swedish lifestyle! Bike and Sauna: $235
  • 1-Day Small-Group Stockholm Archipelago Kayak Tour: $184
  • 1-day 7h Royal Palace and Castle Tour from Stockholm: $349
  • 2-Hour Free Walking Tour in Stockholm: $0.92
  • 2-day kayaking adventure around Vaxholm in Stockholm Archipelago - self guided: $255
  • 3-Hour Private Stockholm Photography Tour of Famous Landmarks : $172
  • 3h walking tour, small group max 10 people Stockholm: $63
  • ABBA Museum Fast-Track Tickets, Stockholm Pop Culture Tour: $280
  • Best Stockholm Small Group Bike Tour. English,French or Spanish! : $83
  • Best of Stockholm Walking Tour-3 Hours, Small Group max 10: $68
  • Bloody Stockholm 2h - ghosts, horror and Dark Folklore Tour: $81
  • Bohemian Södermalm Island Walking Tour: $533

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
    Stockholm $26
    Carcassonne $14

Sample the Local Flavors in Stockholm

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

  • Original Stockholm Pub Crawl: $32
  • Swedish Wine Tasting Tour in Stockholm Gamla Stan: $280
  • Swedish Wine Tasting Tour in Stockholm Gamla Stan: $288

Sample the Local Flavors in Carcassonne

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Carcassonne:

  • Wine tour Cathar country: $471


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


Which is Bigger, Stockholm or Carcassonne?

Stockholm has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Carcassonne. When comparing the sizes of Stockholm 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 Stockholm 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 Stockholm or Carcassonne in the Summer?

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

In July, Stockholm is generally cooler than Carcassonne. Daily temperatures in Stockholm average around 18°C (64°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 Stockholm this time of the year. In the summer, Stockholm often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Carcassonne. Stockholm gets 260 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Carcassonne receives 275 hours of full sun.

Stockholm usually gets more rain in July than Carcassonne. Stockholm gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Carcassonne receives 17 mm (0.7 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Stockholm 18°C (64°F) 
    Carcassonne 24°C (75°F)

Should I visit Stockholm or Carcassonne in the Autumn?

Both Carcassonne and Stockholm are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Stockholm for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music 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.

Stockholm is much colder than Carcassonne in the autumn. The daily temperature in Stockholm averages around 8°C (46°F) in October, and Carcassonne fluctuates around 17°C (62°F).

Stockholm usually receives less sunshine than Carcassonne during autumn. Stockholm gets 99 hours of sunny skies, while Carcassonne receives 161 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Stockholm usually receives less rain than Carcassonne. Stockholm gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Carcassonne receives 90 mm (3.5 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Stockholm 8°C (46°F) 
    Carcassonne 17°C (62°F)

Should I visit Stockholm or Carcassonne in the Winter?

Both Carcassonne and Stockholm during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Stockholm 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.

Stockholm can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Stockholm is much colder than Carcassonne. Typically, the winter temperatures in Stockholm in January average around -3°C (27°F), and Carcassonne averages at about 8°C (47°F).

In the winter, Stockholm often gets less sunshine than Carcassonne. Stockholm gets 40 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Carcassonne receives 88 hours of full sun.

Stockholm usually gets less rain in January than Carcassonne. Stockholm gets 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain, while Carcassonne receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Stockholm -3°C (27°F) 
    Carcassonne 8°C (47°F)

Should I visit Stockholm or Carcassonne in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Stockholm and Carcassonne. Most visitors come to Stockholm for the activities around the city and 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, Stockholm is generally much colder than Carcassonne. Daily temperatures in Stockholm average around 5°C (41°F), and Carcassonne fluctuates around 14°C (56°F).

Stockholm usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Carcassonne during spring. Stockholm gets 185 hours of sunny skies, while Carcassonne receives 178 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Stockholm usually receives less rain than Carcassonne. Stockholm gets 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain, while Carcassonne receives 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Stockholm 5°C (41°F) 
    Carcassonne 14°C (56°F)

Typical Weather for Carcassonne and Stockholm

Stockholm Carcassonne
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan -3°C (27°F) 36 mm (1.4 in) 8°C (47°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Feb -3°C (27°F) 26 mm (1 in) 9°C (49°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)
Mar 0°C (33°F) 26 mm (1 in) 11°C (52°F) 44 mm (1.7 in)
Apr 5°C (41°F) 31 mm (1.2 in) 14°C (56°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
May 11°C (52°F) 31 mm (1.2 in) 17°C (63°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Jun 16°C (61°F) 46 mm (1.8 in) 21°C (70°F) 28 mm (1.1 in)
Jul 18°C (64°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 24°C (75°F) 17 mm (0.7 in)
Aug 17°C (62°F) 65 mm (2.5 in) 24°C (74°F) 32 mm (1.3 in)
Sep 12°C (54°F) 52 mm (2.1 in) 21°C (69°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Oct 8°C (46°F) 50 mm (2 in) 17°C (62°F) 90 mm (3.5 in)
Nov 3°C (37°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 12°C (53°F) 59 mm (2.3 in)
Dec -1°C (31°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 9°C (49°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)