A Travel Price Comparison for France Toulouse vs. Carcassonne for Food, Attractions, Old Town, and Families

Should you visit Toulouse 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 Toulouse 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.

Toulouse

Toulouse is a vibrant, friendly, and relaxed city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums.

Carcassonne

Carcassonne is a fairytale, medieval, and historical town. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the food and museums.

Toulouse and Carcassonne: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Toulouse or Carcassonne?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Toulouse than Carcassonne, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Toulouse is better known for its food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Carcassonne is more popular for its small town charm. Carcassonne is more touristy than Toulouse and is known for its medieval history, walled fortifications, and well-known castle. Toulouse is well known for its impressive old town, many museums, and delicious local cuisine. Also, Toulouse is famous for Basilique Saint-Sernin.

How is Toulouse different from Carcassonne?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

You'll find a number of very good museums and attractions in both Carcassonne and Toulouse.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Toulouse. There is a long running history with countless landmarks and museums. Highlights include Basilique Saint-Sernin, Place du Capitole, Muséum de Toulouse, and Fondation Bemberg.

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 Toulouse or Carcassonne? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

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

Eat your way through Toulouse, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. There are many unique regional recipes that make use of poultry, cold meats, and foie gras. Toulouse sausage, cassoulet, Poulet à la Toulousaine, and Foie gras d’oie are all popular local dishes.

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 Toulouse or Carcassonne Better for Nightlife?

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

Toulouse has a large number of nightlife venues. You'll find a large number of students in town so the nightlife scene is active and fun. For the most lively atmosphere head to Carmes, Saint-Cyprien, or Place Saint-Pierre.

Carcassonne is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Toulouse or Carcassonne Better for its Old Town?

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

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Toulouse. The old town is filled with terra-cota buildings and pedestrian walkways. The area flows out around the Capitole and is crossed by the Garonne.

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 Toulouse or Carcassonne?

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

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Toulouse. There are many great shopping districts around town including Place du Capitole, The Saint Georges district, and Rue Alsace Lorraine.

Carcassonne is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Toulouse or Carcassonne Better for Families?

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

Toulouse is a very family-friendly destination. The city's known for its space industry so the La Cite de l’Espace (Space Museum) is a favorite attraction for kids and adults alike. You can also visit Aeroscopia, the airplane museum. La Halle de la machine is a truly unique and impressive playground. The city also has many other museums and outdoor spaces to explore.

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 Toulouse or Carcassonne Better for Couples?

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

Toulouse makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There are many beautiful parks, gardens, and walking paths. Make sure you take a stroll along the Canal du Midi and visit Jardin Japonais Pierre Baudis. This is also a great city for visiting a spa.

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 Toulouse or Carcassonne Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Carcassonne is great for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Toulouse is not a good destination for backpackers.

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

Toulouse is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not a major stop off for many backpackers in Europe so you won't find as many hostels as you do in other cities.

Is Toulouse or Carcassonne Better for Students?

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

Plenty of students visit Toulouse. You'll find a diverse student population with many international students.

Carcassonne is not popular with students.

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

Toulouse and Carcassonne both offer notable public transit to get you around.

While Toulouse offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are a large number of bus routes that travel both locally and regionally.

Carcassonne has a few public transit options. 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 Toulouse or Carcassonne a more walkable city?

Carcassonne is a must-visit destination for its ease of walking around. Also, Toulouse is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its 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.

Toulouse is very walkable. Within the city center it is very walkable and easy to explore on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Carcassonne or Toulouse?

How long in Toulouse or Carcassonne?

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

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

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

One day in Toulouse or Carcassonne?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the historic city of Toulouse. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Most people visit for the food. 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.

The town of Carcassonne offers museums and food. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Toulouse or Carcassonne?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the dynamic destination of Toulouse. 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.

Carcassonne is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this town makes for a great vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Carcassonne, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Toulouse or Carcassonne?

The vibrant city of Toulouse 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 popular choice for travelers. Five days 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Toulouse or Carcassonne?

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Toulouse. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people visit for the food. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Carcassonne is a great place to explore. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This town offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Historical Tours in France, The Best 10-Day Tours in France, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in France, and The Best 2-Week Tours in France.

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

Which is Bigger, Toulouse or Carcassonne?

Toulouse has a larger population, and is about 9 times larger than the population of Carcassonne. When comparing the sizes of Toulouse 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 Toulouse 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 Toulouse or Carcassonne in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Toulouse and Carcassonne. The city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Toulouse this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Carcassonne for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Toulouse is around the same temperature as Carcassonne. Typically, the summer temperatures in Toulouse in July average around 22°C (72°F), and Carcassonne averages at about 24°C (75°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Carcassonne this time of the year. In Toulouse, it's very sunny this time of the year. Toulouse usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Carcassonne during summer. Toulouse gets 275 hours of sunny skies, while Carcassonne receives 275 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Toulouse usually receives more rain than Carcassonne. Toulouse gets 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Carcassonne receives 17 mm (0.7 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Toulouse or Carcassonne in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Toulouse as well as Carcassonne. Many travelers come to Toulouse for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, many visitors come to Carcassonne in the autumn for the small town atmosphere and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Toulouse is generally around the same temperature as Carcassonne. Daily temperatures in Toulouse average around 15°C (60°F), and Carcassonne fluctuates around 17°C (62°F).

In the autumn, Toulouse often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Carcassonne. Toulouse gets 161 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Carcassonne receives 161 hours of full sun.

Toulouse usually gets less rain in October than Carcassonne. Toulouse gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Carcassonne receives 90 mm (3.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Toulouse or Carcassonne in the Winter?

Both Carcassonne and Toulouse are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Toulouse 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.

Toulouse is cooler than Carcassonne in the winter. The daily temperature in Toulouse averages around 6°C (44°F) in January, and Carcassonne fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

Toulouse usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Carcassonne during winter. Toulouse gets 88 hours of sunny skies, while Carcassonne receives 88 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Toulouse usually receives more rain than Carcassonne. Toulouse gets 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Carcassonne receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Toulouse or Carcassonne in the Spring?

Both Carcassonne and Toulouse during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Toulouse 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 the spring, Toulouse is cooler than Carcassonne. Typically, the spring temperatures in Toulouse in April average around 12°C (54°F), and Carcassonne averages at about 14°C (56°F).

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

Toulouse usually gets more rain in April than Carcassonne. Toulouse gets 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Carcassonne receives 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Carcassonne and Toulouse