A Travel Price Comparison for France Strasbourg vs. Carcassonne for Old Town, Attractions, Food, and Couples

Should you visit Strasbourg or Carcassonne?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Strasbourg and Carcassonne can help you decide which place is right for you.

Strasbourg

Strasbourg is a charming, picturesque, and impressive 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 medieval, historical, and fairytale town. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. It's a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include food and museums.

Strasbourg 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 Strasbourg or Carcassonne?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Strasbourg. Although Strasbourg and Carcassonne are both popular with visitors, Strasbourg has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Strasbourg is more popular for its nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Carcassonne is known for its small town charm. Strasbourg is popular for its charming beauty, its impressive cathedral, and its quaint houses. It is also home to The Strasbourg Cathedral. Carcassonne is popular for its medieval history, walled fortifications, and well-known castle.

How is Strasbourg different from Carcassonne?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Strasbourg
Carcassonne

Spend time exploring the high quality sights and museums in either Strasbourg or Carcassonne.

Many visitors head to Strasbourg specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. It is filled with grand monuments and historic landmarks. Many are concentrated in La Petite France and highlights include Strasbourg Cathedral, Barrage Vauban, Ponts Couverts, and Église Saint-Thomas.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Carcassonne can be an interesting and educational experience. 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 Strasbourg or Carcassonne? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Strasbourg
Carcassonne

Foodies will find both Strasbourg and Carcassonne both to be high quality destinations.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Strasbourg. The cuisine combines French and German flavors for rich and hearty flavors. Popular dishes include Tarte Flambée, Alsatian Sausages, and Baeckeoffe (meat and vegetable stew). Also make sure you sample the Sauerkraut, munster cheese, and Reisling wine.

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 Strasbourg or Carcassonne Better for Nightlife?

Strasbourg
Carcassonne

Strasbourg 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 Strasbourg. It's most famous for its monuments and charm, but the city also has plenty to do at night. The liveliest areas are The Krutenau (for students and tourists alike), The Grande-île, and La Petite France.

Carcassonne is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Strasbourg or Carcassonne Better for its Old Town?

Strasbourg
Carcassonne

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

Strasbourg has a world-famous historical area. Known as La Petite France, the old town is filled with charming squares, historic monuments, and beautiful architecture.

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 Strasbourg or Carcassonne?

Strasbourg
Carcassonne

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

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Strasbourg. The city center is filled with pedestrian shopping streets and boutique stores. For some of the best shopping make sure you check out the main thoroughfare of Grand'Rue. If you want to pick up some trinkets or souvenirs, head to Place de la Cathédrale, and for department store shopping head to Galeries Lafayette Strasbourg.

Carcassonne is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Strasbourg or Carcassonne Better for Families?

Strasbourg
Carcassonne

You'll find good kid-friendly activities in either Strasbourg or Carcassonne.

Strasbourg offers lots of family activities. Kids who love animals will enjoy a visit to Zoo de l’Orangerie or La Montagne des Singes. If the kids need to stretch their legs you can head to Deux-Rives Garden or on a rainy day check out Planetarium De Strasbourg or the Historical Museum of the City of Strasbourg.

Carcassonne is a family-friendly place to visit. Kids who love castles will enjoy wandering the maze of rooms and getting lost in the medieval atmosphere.

Is Strasbourg or Carcassonne Better for Couples?

Strasbourg
Carcassonne

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

Strasbourg makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. It's arguably one of the most beautiful cities in the region and it is filled with romance. There is beautiful architecture, romantic restaurants, wine tours, and flower filled parks. The scenic squares and grand cathedrals offer a truly perfect couples getaway.

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 Strasbourg or Carcassonne Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Strasbourg
Carcassonne

Carcassonne is a great town for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Strasbourg is not as popular, but is still a nice city for backpackers.

Carcassonne is very popular with the backpacker crowd. There are interesting hostels in the area including a converted 17th century convent.

It's common for backpackers to visit Strasbourg. The city has a handful of hostels that offer affordable accommodation for those on a shoestring budget.

Is Strasbourg or Carcassonne Better for Students?

Strasbourg
Carcassonne

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

Plenty of students visit Strasbourg. Students appreciate the mix of traditional culture and international opportunities.

Carcassonne is not popular with students.

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

Strasbourg
Carcassonne

Strasbourg 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 Strasbourg is fairly effecient and thorough. The city has six tramlines and a number of bus routes.

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 Strasbourg or Carcassonne a more walkable city?

Strasbourg
Carcassonne

Carcassonne is a world-class destination for its walkability. Also, Strasbourg is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its high level of walkability.

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

Strasbourg is a very walkable city. One of the best ways to explore the city is on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Carcassonne or Strasbourg?

How long in Strasbourg or Carcassonne?

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

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


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

One day in Strasbourg or Carcassonne?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the quaint city of Strasbourg. 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.

With museums and food around the medieval town of Carcassonne, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Carcassonne, one day is sufficent for most.

A weekend in Strasbourg or Carcassonne?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the quaint destination of Strasbourg. 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.

With food and museums around the destination of Carcassonne, there's plenty to do. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this town.


Five days in Strasbourg or Carcassonne?

The impressive city of Strasbourg 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.

Carcassonne, a popular town, is full of activities for travelers. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Strasbourg or Carcassonne?

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Strasbourg. 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.

Carcassonne is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.


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.


Which place is cheaper, Carcassonne or Strasbourg?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Strasbourg is €138, 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 Strasbourg and Carcassonne in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Strasbourg 67
    Carcassonne 61
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Strasbourg 134
    Carcassonne 122
Compare Hotels in Strasbourg and Carcassonne

Looking for a hotel in Strasbourg 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 Strasbourg


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: Strasbourg Hotel Prices and Carcassonne Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Strasbourg 44
    Carcassonne 7.14

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Strasbourg

Also for Strasbourg, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Private Arrival or Departure Transfer: $59
  • Strasbourg Private Transfer from Strasbourg city centre to Strasbourg Airport: $82
  • Strasbourg Entzheim Airport - Private Transfer from/to Hotels: $79
  • Private transfer Strasbourg Airport: $59
  • Private Transfer from or to Colmar: $264

Is it cheaper to fly into Strasbourg or Carcassonne?

Prices for flights to both Carcassonne and Strasbourg 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
    Strasbourg 44
    Carcassonne 39

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Strasbourg

For Strasbourg, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Strasbourg Traditional Food Tour - Do Eat Better Experience: $109

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Strasbourg 24
    Carcassonne 14

Tours and Activities in Strasbourg

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Strasbourg.

  • 2-Hour Strasbourg Euro Tour by Segway: $65
  • Alsace Christmas Markets Day Tour from Strasbourg: $149
  • Alsace Wine Odyssey: Full-Day Private Tour from Strasbourg: $2,062
  • Alsace Wine Route Small Group Half-Day Tour with Tasting from Strasbourg: $108
  • Alsace Wine Route Wineries & Tasting Small Group Guided Tour from Strasbourg: $176
  • Alsatian brunch with immersive cellar tour: $39
  • Alsatian tour, tasting and meal - 100% immersive experience: $61
  • Christmas Joy in Strasbourg Walking Tour: $650
  • Gems of Alsace: Private Full-Day Tour from Strasbourg: $2,062
  • Gourmet Bike Tour with a Locals in Strasbourg: $72
  • Guided Walking Tour in Strasbourg between History and Curiosities: $35
  • Immersive cellar tour, tasting and board meal: $50

Tours and Activities in Carcassonne

For Carcassonne, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • A Self-Guided Tour of Carcassonne’s Ancient Basilica: $20
  • Best of Cathar Country: Full-Day Private Tour.: $209
  • Carcassonne 's Medieval Walls: A Self-Guided Tour: $20
  • Carcassonne Private Guided Walking Tour: $299
  • 2-Hour Private Walking Tour : $203
  • Castle and Ramparts Entry Ticket: $12
  • City Exploration Game and Tour: $6.52
  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.26
  • Fortress Walking Tour: $174
  • Highlights Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt & Tour: $6.52
  • Medieval Walls Self-Guided Smartphone App Tour: $20
  • Photoshoot Experience: $163

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Strasbourg 19
    Carcassonne 13

Sample the Local Flavors in Strasbourg

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Strasbourg:

  • Wine tasting and immersive cellar tour: $20
  • Wine tour, tasting and picnic basket: $39
  • From Medieval Villages & Wine Tasting Day Trip: $119
  • Medieval Villages and Wine Tasting from Strasbourg: $121
  • Wine Tasting Private Tour: $554

Sample the Local Flavors in Carcassonne

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Carcassonne:

  • Wine tour Cathar country: $478


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


Which is Bigger, Strasbourg or Carcassonne?

Strasbourg has a larger population, and is about 6 times larger than the population of Carcassonne. When comparing the sizes of Strasbourg 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 Strasbourg or Carcassonne?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Strasbourg or Carcassonne in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Strasbourg and Carcassonne. Many visitors come to Strasbourg in the summer for the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Carcassonne for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Strasbourg is cooler than Carcassonne in the summer. The daily temperature in Strasbourg averages around 20°C (68°F) in July, and Carcassonne fluctuates around 24°C (75°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Carcassonne this time of the year. In Strasbourg, it's very sunny this time of the year. Strasbourg usually receives less sunshine than Carcassonne during summer. Strasbourg gets 240 hours of sunny skies, while Carcassonne receives 275 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Strasbourg usually receives more rain than Carcassonne. Strasbourg gets 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Carcassonne receives 17 mm (0.7 in) of rain each month for the summer.


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

Should I visit Strasbourg or Carcassonne in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Strasbourg as well as Carcassonne. Most visitors come to Strasbourg for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Carcassonne because of the small town atmosphere and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Strasbourg is cooler than Carcassonne. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Strasbourg in October average around 12°C (53°F), and Carcassonne averages at about 17°C (62°F).

In the autumn, Strasbourg often gets less sunshine than Carcassonne. Strasbourg gets 101 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Carcassonne receives 161 hours of full sun.

Strasbourg usually gets less rain in October than Carcassonne. Strasbourg gets 43 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Carcassonne receives 90 mm (3.5 in) of rain this time of the year.


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

Should I visit Strasbourg or Carcassonne in the Winter?

Both Carcassonne and Strasbourg are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Strasbourg because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums and the cuisine are the main draw to Carcassonne this time of year.

The weather in Strasbourg can be very cold. In January, Strasbourg is generally much colder than Carcassonne. Daily temperatures in Strasbourg average around 2°C (35°F), and Carcassonne fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

Strasbourg usually receives less sunshine than Carcassonne during winter. Strasbourg gets 42 hours of sunny skies, while Carcassonne receives 88 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Strasbourg usually receives less rain than Carcassonne. Strasbourg gets 33 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Carcassonne receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Strasbourg 2°C (35°F) 
    Carcassonne 8°C (47°F)

Should I visit Strasbourg or Carcassonne in the Spring?

Both Carcassonne and Strasbourg during the spring are popular places to visit. The natural beauty are the main draw to Strasbourg this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Carcassonne for the small town charm and the natural beauty.

Strasbourg is cooler than Carcassonne in the spring. The daily temperature in Strasbourg averages around 11°C (51°F) in April, and Carcassonne fluctuates around 14°C (56°F).

In the spring, Strasbourg often gets less sunshine than Carcassonne. Strasbourg gets 161 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Carcassonne receives 178 hours of full sun.

Strasbourg usually gets less rain in April than Carcassonne. Strasbourg gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Carcassonne receives 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Strasbourg 11°C (51°F) 
    Carcassonne 14°C (56°F)

Typical Weather for Carcassonne and Strasbourg

Strasbourg Carcassonne
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 2°C (35°F) 33 mm (1.3 in) 8°C (47°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Feb 3°C (38°F) 34 mm (1.3 in) 9°C (49°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)
Mar 7°C (45°F) 37 mm (1.5 in) 11°C (52°F) 44 mm (1.7 in)
Apr 11°C (51°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 14°C (56°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
May 15°C (59°F) 75 mm (3 in) 17°C (63°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Jun 18°C (64°F) 75 mm (3 in) 21°C (70°F) 28 mm (1.1 in)
Jul 20°C (68°F) 57 mm (2.2 in) 24°C (75°F) 17 mm (0.7 in)
Aug 20°C (67°F) 68 mm (2.7 in) 24°C (74°F) 32 mm (1.3 in)
Sep 17°C (62°F) 56 mm (2.2 in) 21°C (69°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Oct 12°C (53°F) 43 mm (1.7 in) 17°C (62°F) 90 mm (3.5 in)
Nov 6°C (43°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 12°C (53°F) 59 mm (2.3 in)
Dec 3°C (37°F) 40 mm (1.6 in) 9°C (49°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)