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

Should you visit Tallinn or Carcassonne?

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

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

Tallinn

Tallinn is a charming, quaint, and whimsical city. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It also has that perfectly quaint feel that is like no other place. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums.

Carcassonne

Carcassonne is a historical, fairytale, and medieval town. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the food and museums.

Tallinn 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
  • Quaint atmosphere
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 Tallinn or Carcassonne?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Tallinn. Although Tallinn and Carcassonne are popular destinations, Tallinn has more sights and attractions for tourists. Tallinn is very popular for its nightlife, historical sights, shopping, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Carcassonne attracts visitors for its food and small town charm. Tallinn is more touristy than Carcassonne and is known for its well preserved old town and its active nightlife scene. It is also well known for The Old Town. Carcassonne is famous for its medieval history, walled fortifications, and well-known castle.

The Old Town
The Old Town

How is Tallinn different from Carcassonne?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Tallinn
Carcassonne

Visiting museums and landmarks is a fun activity in both Tallinn and Carcassonne.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Tallinn can be an interesting and educational experience. There are beautiful historic churches, particularly in the city's old town. A highlight is the stunning Alexander Nevski Cathedral. You'll also find some unique museums around town as well as Toompea Castle.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into 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 Tallinn or Carcassonne? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Tallinn
Carcassonne

Carcassonne is a very popular place for its restaurants. Also, Tallinn is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Carcassonne has a huge number of terrific restaurants. 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.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Tallinn area. Food is affordable and hearty. Many dishes incorporate rye bread, pork, smoked fish, potatoes, or dairy products. You'll also find a lot of variation in dishes between seasons.

Is Tallinn or Carcassonne Better for Nightlife?

Tallinn
Carcassonne

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

Tallinn has a large number of nightlife venues. As it's grown in popularity with tourists, the city has put itself on the map as a top party destination in Eastern Europe. There's an active bar and club scene, but there are also art venues and other creative activities for everyone.

Carcassonne is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Tallinn or Carcassonne Better for its Old Town?

Tallinn
Carcassonne

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

Tallinn has a world-famous historical area. The city's medieval old town is at the heart of it's tourist attractions. The Gothic architecture, local restaurants, and cobblestone streets give the city a fairytale charm.

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 Tallinn or Carcassonne?

Tallinn
Carcassonne

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

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Tallinn. There's a mix of quirky shops and recognizable brands around town. Old town is a popular shopping area, as is nearby Kalamaja. Visitors enjoy picking up marzipan, local crafts, and unique art.

Carcassonne is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Tallinn or Carcassonne Better for Families?

Tallinn
Carcassonne

Tallinn and Carcassonne are both nice destinations for the whole family.

Tallinn is a family-friendly city. Your kids will feel like they stepped into a fairytale in this beautiful city. It has countless museums including an open air museum and a zoo. There's also nearby Pirita Beach, where you and your kids can enjoy ice cream in a seaside setting.

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 Tallinn or Carcassonne Better for Couples?

Tallinn
Carcassonne

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

Tallinn makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Filled with gardens, romantic walks, and impressive views, this city makes for a great couple's getaway. Base yourself in the city's beautiful old town and dine in one of the many local restaurants. There are also nice hotels around town that are great for couples.

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 Tallinn or Carcassonne Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Tallinn
Carcassonne

Tallinn is very popular for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Carcassonne is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Many backpackers frequent Tallinn. The city is both affordable and unique, which is perfect for travelers on a budget. There are plenty of hostels around town as well as casual places to grab a cheap bite to eat.

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

Is Tallinn or Carcassonne Better for Students?

Tallinn
Carcassonne

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

Plenty of students visit Tallinn. International students appreciate the vibrant atmosphere and the affordable options around town.

Carcassonne is not popular with students.

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

Tallinn
Carcassonne

Tallinn 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 Tallinn is fairly effecient and thorough. There are buses trolleys and trams around town.

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 Tallinn or Carcassonne a more walkable city?

Tallinn
Carcassonne

Tallinn and Carcassonne are world-class when it comes to walkability.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Tallinn. The city is compact and easily explored on foot, particularly in the most touristy areas.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Carcassonne or Tallinn?

How long in Tallinn or Carcassonne?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Tallinn or Carcassonne to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Tallinn than Carcassonne because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Tallinn, and 1-2 days is enough time in Carcassonne.

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

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


  • How many days in Tallinn or Carcassonne? Ideal Length of Stay
    Tallinn 2-4 
    Carcassonne 1-2

One day in Tallinn or Carcassonne?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the historical city of Tallinn. 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.

In Carcassonne, you'll find food and museums. This town offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A weekend in Tallinn or Carcassonne?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the historical destination of Tallinn. 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.

In Carcassonne, you'll find museums and food. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Carcassonne has to offer.


Five days in Tallinn or Carcassonne?

The charming city of Tallinn 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 is a great place to explore. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Tallinn or Carcassonne?

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

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Carcassonne. Many people enjoy the museums and food when visiting Carcassonne. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from Tallinn, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Estonia, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in France, and The Best Historical Tours in France.


Which place is cheaper, Carcassonne or Tallinn?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Tallinn is €95, 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 Tallinn and Carcassonne in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Tallinn 47
    Carcassonne 61
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Tallinn 94
    Carcassonne 122
Compare Hotels in Tallinn and Carcassonne

Looking for a hotel in Tallinn 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 Tallinn


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: Tallinn Hotel Prices and Carcassonne Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Tallinn 12
    Carcassonne 7.14
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Tallinn

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for transportation costs in Tallinn:


  • Tram Around Town for Two
    1.66

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Tallinn

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

  • Private Airport Transfer: $43
  • Highlights Shore Excursion with Return Transfer: $48
  • Beginner Archery Class with Transfer: $80
  • Airport Transfer Service: $48
  • Tallinn hotels to Tallinn Cruise Port - Departure Private Transfer: $16
  • Tallinn Limo Airport Transfer: $75
  • Tallinn Lennart Meri Airport (TLL): Transfer to Tallinn Port: $102
  • Tallinn Highlights Shore Excursion With Port Return Transfer: $51
  • Tallinn Cruise Port: Private Transfer to Tallinn hotels: $102
  • Tallinn Cruise Port to Tallinn hotels - Arrival Private Transfer : $16
  • Tallinn Arrival Private Airport Transfer in Minivan: $118
  • Tallinn Airport Transfer - Return: $87

Is it cheaper to fly into Tallinn or Carcassonne?

Prices for flights to both Carcassonne and Tallinn 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
    Tallinn 36
    Carcassonne 39
Typical Food Prices in Tallinn

For Tallinn, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Lunch for Two
    7.68
  • Dessert
    1.15

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Tallinn

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

  • Tallinn TV Tower evening dinner (2-course meal): $56
  • Tallinn TV Tower evening dinner (3-course meal): $63
  • Tallinn Russian Dinner: $84
  • Tallinn Beer House Dinner: $96
  • Tallinn Food Tour: $116
  • Tallinn 3-Hour Estonian Food Tour: $127
  • Tallinn Food Tour with Round-trip Transfer Port-City: $136
  • Vegan Food Tours Tallinn: $213

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Tallinn 5.63
    Carcassonne 14

Tours and Activities in Tallinn

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

  • "Legends and Landmarks: A Tallinn Walking Adventure": $21
  • 120 Degrees daily guided walking tour: $27
  • 2 Hour Tales of Tallinn Private Car Tour: $65
  • 2 Hour Tallinn Old Town Walking Tour: $196
  • 2-Day Guided Tour of Medieval Tallinn : $240
  • 2-Hour Guided Walking Tour of Tallinn: $49
  • 2-hour private tour of Tallinn with transport: $272
  • 3-Hour Private Tour of Tallinn: $188
  • 3-Hour Private Tour of Tallinn: $293
  • 5 Hour Deluxe Shore Excursion in Tallinn from Cruise Port: $48
  • 5 Hour Majestic Tallinn Tour from Cruise Port: $45
  • Accessible tour in Tallinn: $738

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.: $207
  • Carcassonne 's Medieval Walls: A Self-Guided Tour: $20
  • Carcassonne Private Guided Walking Tour: $294
  • 2-Hour Private Walking Tour : $201
  • Castle and Ramparts Entry Ticket: $12
  • City Exploration Game and Tour: $6.42
  • Fortress Walking Tour: $171
  • Highlights Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt & Tour: $6.42
  • Medieval Walls Self-Guided Smartphone App Tour: $20
  • Photoshoot Experience: $160
  • Private Walking Tour with Cité de Carcassonne: $187

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Tallinn 15
    Carcassonne 13

Sample the Local Flavors in Tallinn

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

  • Mad Monk’s Pub Crawl Tallinn: $21
  • Tallinn Pub Crawl (Ex The Epic Bar Crawl): $27
  • Tallinn Exclusive Pub & Bar Crawl - Free Drinks, Local Guide: $42
  • Tallinn Brewery Fiesta: $72
  • Tallinn Guided Bar Crawl: $123

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 Tallinn 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 Tallinn Expensive? and Is Carcassonne Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Tallinn or Carcassonne?

Tallinn has a larger population, and is about 8 times larger than the population of Carcassonne. When comparing the sizes of Tallinn 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 Tallinn 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 Tallinn or Carcassonne in the Summer?

Both Carcassonne and Tallinn are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Tallinn for the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Carcassonne in the summer for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Tallinn is generally cooler than Carcassonne. Daily temperatures in Tallinn average around 17°C (62°F), and Carcassonne fluctuates around 24°C (75°F).

It's quite sunny in Carcassonne. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Tallinn. Tallinn usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Carcassonne during summer. Tallinn gets 279 hours of sunny skies, while Carcassonne receives 275 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Tallinn usually receives more rain than Carcassonne. Tallinn gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Carcassonne receives 17 mm (0.7 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Tallinn 17°C (62°F) 
    Carcassonne 24°C (75°F)

Should I visit Tallinn or Carcassonne in the Autumn?

Both Carcassonne and Tallinn during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Tallinn 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.

Tallinn is much colder than Carcassonne in the autumn. The daily temperature in Tallinn averages around 7°C (44°F) in October, and Carcassonne fluctuates around 17°C (62°F).

In the autumn, Tallinn often gets less sunshine than Carcassonne. Tallinn gets 92 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Carcassonne receives 161 hours of full sun.

Tallinn usually gets less rain in October than Carcassonne. Tallinn gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Carcassonne receives 90 mm (3.5 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Tallinn 7°C (44°F) 
    Carcassonne 17°C (62°F)

Should I visit Tallinn or Carcassonne in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Tallinn and Carcassonne. Most visitors come to Tallinn for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Carcassonne because of the museums and the cuisine.

Tallinn can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Tallinn is much colder than Carcassonne. Typically, the winter temperatures in Tallinn in January average around -5°C (22°F), and Carcassonne averages at about 8°C (47°F).

Tallinn usually receives less sunshine than Carcassonne during winter. Tallinn gets 25 hours of sunny skies, while Carcassonne receives 88 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Tallinn usually receives less rain than Carcassonne. Tallinn gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Carcassonne receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Tallinn -5°C (22°F) 
    Carcassonne 8°C (47°F)

Should I visit Tallinn or Carcassonne in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Tallinn as well as Carcassonne. The spring months attract visitors to Tallinn because of the natural beauty. Also, the small town charm and the natural beauty are the main draw to Carcassonne this time of year.

The weather in Tallinn can be very cold. In April, Tallinn is generally much colder than Carcassonne. Daily temperatures in Tallinn average around 4°C (39°F), and Carcassonne fluctuates around 14°C (56°F).

In the spring, Tallinn often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Carcassonne. Tallinn gets 186 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Carcassonne receives 178 hours of full sun.

Tallinn usually gets less rain in April than Carcassonne. Tallinn gets 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain, while Carcassonne receives 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Tallinn 4°C (39°F) 
    Carcassonne 14°C (56°F)

Typical Weather for Carcassonne and Tallinn

Tallinn Carcassonne
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan -5°C (22°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 8°C (47°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Feb -6°C (22°F) 29 mm (1.1 in) 9°C (49°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)
Mar -2°C (29°F) 29 mm (1.1 in) 11°C (52°F) 44 mm (1.7 in)
Apr 4°C (39°F) 36 mm (1.4 in) 14°C (56°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
May 10°C (50°F) 37 mm (1.5 in) 17°C (63°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Jun 15°C (58°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 21°C (70°F) 28 mm (1.1 in)
Jul 17°C (62°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 24°C (75°F) 17 mm (0.7 in)
Aug 16°C (60°F) 84 mm (3.3 in) 24°C (74°F) 32 mm (1.3 in)
Sep 11°C (52°F) 82 mm (3.2 in) 21°C (69°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Oct 7°C (44°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 17°C (62°F) 90 mm (3.5 in)
Nov 1°C (34°F) 68 mm (2.7 in) 12°C (53°F) 59 mm (2.3 in)
Dec -3°C (27°F) 55 mm (2.2 in) 9°C (49°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)