A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Thiva (Thebes) vs. Carcassonne for Attractions, Food, Backpackers, and Families

Should you visit Thiva (Thebes) 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 Thiva (Thebes) 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.

Thiva (Thebes)

Thiva (Thebes) is a historic, authentic, and vibrant city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums.

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.

Thiva (Thebes) and Carcassonne: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Very walkable


Is there more to do in Thiva (Thebes) or Carcassonne?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Thiva (Thebes). Although Thiva (Thebes) and Carcassonne are popular destinations, Thiva (Thebes) has more sights and attractions for tourists. Thiva (Thebes) is very popular for its nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Carcassonne attracts visitors for its food, historical sights, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Carcassonne is more touristy than Thiva (Thebes) and is popular for its medieval history, walled fortifications, and well-known castle. Thiva (Thebes) is famous for its standing as one of the oldest cities in the world. It is also well known for The Archeological Museum.

How is Thiva (Thebes) different from Carcassonne?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Thiva (Thebes) or Carcassonne?

Thiva (Thebes)
Carcassonne

Plenty of people visit the very good sights and museums in both Thiva (Thebes) and Carcassonne.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Thiva (Thebes). The city is filled with archeological museums and sights that reflect its long-running history as one of the oldest, continuously inhabited cities in the world.

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 Thiva (Thebes) or Carcassonne? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Thiva (Thebes)
Carcassonne

Carcassonne is a great destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Thiva (Thebes) 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.

Thiva (Thebes) is becoming an appealing option for foodies. It's a large city with restaurants that cater to locals and visitors alike. You can expect high quality ingredients at a fraction of the price that you'll find in more touristy areas.

Is Thiva (Thebes) or Carcassonne Better for Nightlife?

Thiva (Thebes)
Carcassonne

Thiva (Thebes) 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 Thiva (Thebes). The city is filled with lively cafes, bars, and pubs that spill out onto the city's vibrant squares.

Carcassonne is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Thiva (Thebes) or Carcassonne Better for its Old Town?

Thiva (Thebes)
Carcassonne

Carcassonne is a town with good options for its old town. However, Thiva (Thebes) 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.

Thiva (Thebes) does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Thiva (Thebes) or Carcassonne?

Thiva (Thebes)
Carcassonne

Thiva (Thebes) is a good destination for shopping. However, Carcassonne is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Thiva (Thebes). You'll find all of the normal retail options around town. Many are in shopping centers and malls.

Carcassonne is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Thiva (Thebes) or Carcassonne Better for Families?

Thiva (Thebes)
Carcassonne

Both Thiva (Thebes) and Carcassonne are nice to visit with kids.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Thiva (Thebes). Kids who are interested in history will appreciate the many archeological ruins and museums in the city.

Carcassonne offers lots of family activities. Kids who love castles will enjoy wandering the maze of rooms and getting lost in the medieval atmosphere.

Is Thiva (Thebes) or Carcassonne Better for Couples?

Thiva (Thebes)
Carcassonne

Carcassonne is a town with good options for its romantic activities. However, Thiva (Thebes) is a city with minimal options 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.

Thiva (Thebes) is not always the best place to visit for a couple. It's often overlooked as a honeymoon destination in Greece but the history of this long-running city is unique. Today it's a large city but you can still catch glimpses of its past.


Is Thiva (Thebes) or Carcassonne Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Thiva (Thebes)
Carcassonne

Carcassonne is a great destination for backpackers. However, Thiva (Thebes) is a city with minimal options 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.

Thiva (Thebes) is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not really on the backpacker circuit so their aren't a lot of hostels in town.

Is Thiva (Thebes) or Carcassonne Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Thiva (Thebes)
Carcassonne

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Thiva (Thebes) and Carcassonne.

You'll find some public transit in Thiva (Thebes), but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are local buses in the area.

While Carcassonne offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. 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 Thiva (Thebes) or Carcassonne a more walkable city?

Thiva (Thebes)
Carcassonne

Carcassonne is very popular for its high level of walkability. Also, Thiva (Thebes) is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

Thiva (Thebes) is a somewhat walkable city. Some areas are more walkable than others.


For even more information, also check out Is Thiva (Thebes) Worth Visiting? and Is Carcassonne Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Carcassonne or Thiva (Thebes)?

How long in Thiva (Thebes) or Carcassonne?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Thiva (Thebes) or Carcassonne to fill your time. In our opinion, Carcassonne has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Carcassonne than Thiva (Thebes). However, 1-2 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Carcassonne than Thiva (Thebes) 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 Carcassonne.


  • How many days in Thiva (Thebes) or Carcassonne? Ideal Length of Stay
    Thiva (Thebes) 1-2 
    Carcassonne 1-2

One day in Thiva (Thebes) or Carcassonne?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the vibrant city of Thiva (Thebes). One day should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

In Carcassonne, you'll find museums and food. So, one day is just the right amount of time to spend here.

A weekend in Thiva (Thebes) or Carcassonne?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the historic destination of Thiva (Thebes). 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.

Carcassonne is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Because of this, a weekend is usually enough time for a trip here.

Five days in Thiva (Thebes) or Carcassonne?

The vibrant city of Thiva (Thebes) offers shopping and museums. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Carcassonne. It offers something for everyone. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.


A week in Thiva (Thebes) or Carcassonne?

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Thiva (Thebes). Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Travelers enjoy the food and museums when visiting the town of Carcassonne. Your budget might influence how long you stay. 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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Greece, The Best Coach Bus Tours in Greece, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in France, and The Best Historical Tours in France.


Which place is cheaper, Carcassonne or Thiva (Thebes)?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Thiva (Thebes) is €127, 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 Thiva (Thebes) and Carcassonne in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Thiva (Thebes) 61
    Carcassonne 61
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Thiva (Thebes) 122
    Carcassonne 122
Compare Hotels in Thiva (Thebes) and Carcassonne

Looking for a hotel in Thiva (Thebes) 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 Thiva (Thebes)


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: Carcassonne Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Thiva (Thebes) 37
    Carcassonne 7.14

Is it cheaper to fly into Thiva (Thebes) or Carcassonne?

Prices for flights to both Carcassonne and Thiva (Thebes) 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
    Thiva (Thebes) 41
    Carcassonne 39

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Thiva (Thebes) 26
    Carcassonne 14

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
    Thiva (Thebes) 18
    Carcassonne 13

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 Thiva (Thebes) and Carcassonne, we can see that Thiva (Thebes) 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 Thiva (Thebes) would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Thiva (Thebes) 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 Thiva (Thebes) Expensive? and Is Carcassonne Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Thiva (Thebes) or Carcassonne?

Carcassonne has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Thiva (Thebes). When comparing the sizes of Thiva (Thebes) 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 Thiva (Thebes) 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 Thiva (Thebes) or Carcassonne in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Thiva (Thebes) as well as Carcassonne. The city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Thiva (Thebes) this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Carcassonne for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Thiva (Thebes) is generally a little warmer than Carcassonne. Daily temperatures in Thiva (Thebes) average around 27°C (81°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 Thiva (Thebes) this time of the year. In the summer, Thiva (Thebes) often gets more sunshine than Carcassonne. Thiva (Thebes) gets 357 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Carcassonne receives 275 hours of full sun.

Thiva (Thebes) usually gets less rain in July than Carcassonne. Thiva (Thebes) gets 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Carcassonne receives 17 mm (0.7 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Thiva (Thebes) 27°C (81°F) 
    Carcassonne 24°C (75°F)

Should I visit Thiva (Thebes) or Carcassonne in the Autumn?

Both Carcassonne and Thiva (Thebes) are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Thiva (Thebes) for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Also, many visitors come to Carcassonne in the autumn for the small town atmosphere and the natural beauty of the area.

Thiva (Thebes) is a little warmer than Carcassonne in the autumn. The daily temperature in Thiva (Thebes) averages around 19°C (67°F) in October, and Carcassonne fluctuates around 17°C (62°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Thiva (Thebes). Thiva (Thebes) usually receives more sunshine than Carcassonne during autumn. Thiva (Thebes) gets 206 hours of sunny skies, while Carcassonne receives 161 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Thiva (Thebes) usually receives less rain than Carcassonne. Thiva (Thebes) gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Carcassonne receives 90 mm (3.5 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Thiva (Thebes) 19°C (67°F) 
    Carcassonne 17°C (62°F)

Should I visit Thiva (Thebes) or Carcassonne in the Winter?

Both Carcassonne and Thiva (Thebes) during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Thiva (Thebes) in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, most visitors come to Carcassonne for the museums and the cuisine during these months.

In the winter, Thiva (Thebes) is a little warmer than Carcassonne. Typically, the winter temperatures in Thiva (Thebes) in January average around 10°C (51°F), and Carcassonne averages at about 8°C (47°F).

In the winter, Thiva (Thebes) often gets more sunshine than Carcassonne. Thiva (Thebes) gets 143 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Carcassonne receives 88 hours of full sun.

Thiva (Thebes) usually gets less rain in January than Carcassonne. Thiva (Thebes) gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Carcassonne receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Thiva (Thebes) 10°C (51°F) 
    Carcassonne 8°C (47°F)

Should I visit Thiva (Thebes) or Carcassonne in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Thiva (Thebes) and Carcassonne. Most visitors come to Thiva (Thebes) for the activities around the city during these months. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Carcassonne because of the small town charm and the natural beauty.

In April, Thiva (Thebes) is generally a little warmer than Carcassonne. Daily temperatures in Thiva (Thebes) average around 16°C (60°F), and Carcassonne fluctuates around 14°C (56°F).

In Thiva (Thebes), it's very sunny this time of the year. Thiva (Thebes) usually receives more sunshine than Carcassonne during spring. Thiva (Thebes) gets 226 hours of sunny skies, while Carcassonne receives 178 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Thiva (Thebes) usually receives less rain than Carcassonne. Thiva (Thebes) gets 25 mm (1 in) of rain, while Carcassonne receives 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Thiva (Thebes) 16°C (60°F) 
    Carcassonne 14°C (56°F)

Typical Weather for Carcassonne and Thiva (Thebes)

Thiva (Thebes) Carcassonne
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 10°C (51°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 8°C (47°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Feb 11°C (51°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 9°C (49°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)
Mar 12°C (54°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 11°C (52°F) 44 mm (1.7 in)
Apr 16°C (60°F) 25 mm (1 in) 14°C (56°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
May 20°C (68°F) 14 mm (0.6 in) 17°C (63°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Jun 24°C (76°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 21°C (70°F) 28 mm (1.1 in)
Jul 27°C (81°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 24°C (75°F) 17 mm (0.7 in)
Aug 27°C (81°F) 8 mm (0.3 in) 24°C (74°F) 32 mm (1.3 in)
Sep 24°C (76°F) 10 mm (0.4 in) 21°C (69°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Oct 19°C (67°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 17°C (62°F) 90 mm (3.5 in)
Nov 16°C (60°F) 51 mm (2 in) 12°C (53°F) 59 mm (2.3 in)
Dec 12°C (54°F) 66 mm (2.6 in) 9°C (49°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)