2024 Carcassonne Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in September)

[Europe][France] Carcassonne: a Cité Médiévale

I am truly amazed by the restoration work of the Cité Médiévale. The fortress is spectacular in both size and look. I booked the ticket to the castle and the ramparts and with the self audio guide I am able to learn its history. There are a lot of shops and restaurants inside the fortress, as well as some hotels. Walking around Cité de Carcassonne does somehow make me feel like I'm in one of the Disneyland movies! Cité de Carcassonne is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

A whole little castle right at your fingertips! Being here really felt like a travel through time, the scenery was sooo realistic, they even had horse fights (for children). It’s definitely a must-see if you’re in France.

Day Trip to Carcassonne

🚊 Toulouse - Carcassonne ～1h Carcassonne, a hilltop town in southern France’s Languedoc area, is famous for its medieval citadel, La Cité, with numerous watchtowers and double-walled fortifications. The first walls were built in Gallo-Roman times, with major additions made in the 13th and 14th centuries. Château Comtal, a 12th-century castle within the Cité, offers archaeological exhibits and a tour of the inner ramparts.

#summerdestinations Summer holidays in South of France, Occitania is a really good destination. If you want to experience activities related to the past history of Europe, this is the place to be. Carcassonne is the highlight of the region regarding medieval times but you can also visit a lot a smaller places with very old castles to discover. Don't hesitate to join chivalry tournament or to experience a medieval style meal! I recommend!

Of History and architecture

We were part of a day tour from Toulouse to Carcassonne. And the castle was one of the stops we made during the tour of this lovely medieval city. The location is especially nice. The view from ramparts is worth the time and you see a panorama of the country side. In terms of the castle experience, what makes a large difference is the guide. Because it provides some fascinating insights into the history and legends associated with the castle. We were also told of a light show that takes place in the evenings. And from what i have heard, it is an even better way to experience this castle. Overall, a place worthy of visit. #myhiddengems #france #summerdestinations #castle #100waysoftravel #cherryblossom2024 #europe #carcassonne

The medieval city

The city of carcassonne has an upper city and a lower one. The upper one is the old or the medieval city. It is an enormous walled city that is set on a hill and by the river. Makes for a lovely walk around. You could easily take 3-4 hours to explore the place on foot. But should you be here in summer, like in my case. I highly recommend getting an early start. If you are staying overnight in Carcassonne. Then perhaps, this can be an activity for the next morning. I came here on a day trip from Toulouse. And by the time we got here, it was around half past 11 am. There were plenty of tourists. It's got a very nice atmosphere. You could start walking from the outside and get an idea or appreciation of how big the structure is. Bring good walking shoes, the path is pebbled and uneven. There are plenty of shops, cafes and restaurants whenever you need to rest or grab a bite. The Basilica of Saint Nazaire is an excellent follow up. #myhiddengems #france #summerdestinations #europe #100waysoftravel #medievaltown #carcassone

Jewel of the city

The basilique of Saint Nazaire is undoubtedly an architectural marvel. Its interiors are fascinating. From the contents, to carvings on the wall and the mosaic. Especially when light passes through it is a special sight to experience. Having seen a number of basilica's in this and previous trips. I can say that the Basilica of Saint Nazaire is amongst the most impressive ones with its romanesque and gorhis styles at play. The stained glass windows can captivate you. If you are religious and here on a Sunday. You might even get to be there for the mass. It makes for a memorable experience. Besides, on a hot day of sightseeing when you come in here, it's such a relief with the indoors being cooler than outside. Puts you at ease and then the sight of the stained glass completely takes you to a different place. #myhiddengems #carcassonne #summerdestinations #europe #basilica #100waysoftravel #france

Carcassonne City Day Tour

#citydaytours Carcassone is a wonderful medieval city that makes for a nice trip from Toulouse. There are people that also stay here overnight to be able to experience the Carcassonne castle's light show. However, Toulouse is far more comfortable for staying with wider options. So, I did a day tour of Carcassonne. I had the option of taking a bus tour, the benefit being that then all my transport would be sorted. But i preferred taking my time and so visited the city on my own. In terms of travelling by train. It is recommended that you get an intercity or a tgv. It will cost you just under 10 euros and it'd be a 45 minute ride. If you have a similar day trip plan. Perhaps taking cues from my day trip would help. Here is what it looked like :- 1) Castle and Ramparts : The most obvious thing to do in Carcassonne was to tour the castle and the ramparts in the medieval city. This is the upper part of the city. I recommend getting an audio guide. It will improve the castle experience and understanding to a great extent. 2) Canal Du Midi : Next we follow this up with a walk along the canal du midi. The same canal that passes by Toulouse, passes by Carcassonne as well. It is one of my favourite activities in Toulouse. Also here, you have the opportunity to take a boat tour. Which will orient you with the different sceneries as the canal is pretty long and covers a good deal of the city. 3) Local Lunch : While it is the lunch hour, grabbing a bit would help recharge. I tried a lunch set at a local restaurant. Like with most of France, the food experience in Carcassonne too was delightful. 4) Old City : After lunch it is time to explore the old city. You’ll want to visit Saint Nazaire Basilica, a pretty church from both the in and outside, as well as the Dame Carcas bust on the outside of the city walls. And inside there is also a museum and shops to explore. 5) New city : As the evening approaches, now we will explore the new part of the city. This is more local and you will find less tourists. Here you can see the Andre chenier square, Saint Michel cathedral, St Vincent church and the Calvary Garden. By this time you will have seen plenty of satisfying sights and you should head back to the station for the train to Toulouse. #myhiddengems #carcassonne #summerdestinations #france #100waysoftravel #europe #daytours #citytour

🏰✨ Carcassonne Charm: Discover Luxe Lodging! 🛎️🍇

--- Nestled in the heart of historical splendor, Domaine d'Auriac - Relais & Châteaux awaits at 2535 Rte de Saint-Hilaire, Carcassonne, France. 🌳🏰 This isn't just a stay; it's a leap into luxury wrapped in the rustic embrace of French elegance. First off, the location is pure magic! Imagine waking up to the sight of medieval fortifications and lush greenery. 🌄 It's a stone's throw from the city's ancient ramparts, where history whispers in every alley. The rooms? They're a dreamy fusion of comfort and classic charm. Think plush bedding, refined decor, and all the modern amenities to pamper yourself like royalty. 🛏️👑 Plus, the meticulous attention to cleanliness will have you floating in a bubble of bliss. And let's chat about the services. With top-tier dining experiences, a serene golf course, and a pool that invites you to dip into serenity, you'll be living the life of leisure. 🍽️⛳️🏊‍♂️ Ready for your Carcassonne chapter? Domaine d'Auriac is where your story begins. # Carcassonne # CarcassonneHotel # CarcassonneTravel

Carcassonne Medieval Castle

Carcassonne, I had hardly heard of it before. When planning the trip and researching, I discovered that Carcassonne has a medieval castle, and I didn't have high expectations for it. Having visited quite a few castles in Europe, I imagined they would all be more or less the same. However, when the Carcassonne Castle came into view, it was somewhat shocking. Atop a rugged rocky mountain, built following the terrain, stood the uneven and towering battlements, thick walls, and sturdy towers. From a distance, Carcassonne Castle looks like something out of a fairy tale, a true medieval castle scene, which can be described as 'stunning' and is sure to leave a lasting impression. It is said to be the most popular tourist attraction in Languedoc. The castle has defensive fortifications, with the town enclosed in the center, surrounded by numerous battlements and 52 stone towers. The towers' unique 'witch hat' shapes are said to have been added by the architect Viollet-le-Duc during the 19th-century restoration. The main gate, the Narbonne Gate, leads to the castle's interior maze-like cobblestone alleys and courtyards, which today are filled with businesses and restaurants serving tourists. For many centuries, the hilltop where the old town is located was occupied by Gauls, Romans, Visigoths, Moors, Franks, and Cathars, among others, as a fortress to strengthen the defense. In 1659, when Roussillon was annexed by France, it no longer played an important role as a frontier fortress and gradually fell into decline. The castle features a concentric design, with double walls and defensive towers to withstand the attack of siege engines. At the main gate, the Narbonne Gate, one can still see the drawbridge that would be raised during times of turmoil. The castle's second gate, the Aude Gate, was partially damaged in 1816 and no longer has a drawbridge. Visiting the castle is free, but within the ancient castle is the Count's Castle, which requires a separate ticket for admission. Due to limited time, if one were to visit every attraction, the cost of tickets would be considerable. For trips like mine, driving by car, except for staying more than two days in big cities, it's basically one city per day. Even if there were mines, there wouldn't be enough time, and most cities are just for sightseeing and checking in. Inside the old castle, there is also a church, the Church of Saint-Nazaire, with its stained glass windows and delicate, elegant round patterns, offering a beautiful experience. Outside the old castle, the Old Bridge spans the River Aude, originally built in the 15th century and restored in the 19th century. At the end of the bridge, there is a unique small chapel, which feels a bit special and is worth exploring the story behind it. The Old Bridge leads to the city of Carcassonne, where buildings, small squares, and church relics can also make one linger. Tired, I'll just post pictures, which better illustrate the beauty of Carcassonne.

Visit Carcassonne Castle in winter

Carcassonne stands tall on a rugged rocky hilltop, with uneven and towering battlements, solid walls, and sturdy bastions. Carcassonne Castle, the largest medieval fortress in Europe, has endured over two thousand years of history. It fits most people's perfect imagination of a medieval castle and is an impressive sight. The fortified town is surrounded by two sets of battlements and several stone towers, topped with unique 'witch hat' roofs. The main gate leads to a labyrinth of cobblestone alleys and courtyards inside the castle, which are now mainly lined with shops and restaurants. To walk along the walls, you must purchase a ticket (9.5 euros) to enter the Count's Castle. The Carcassonne Tourist Office operates regular 1.25-hour old town walking tours (adult/child 6/5 euros), but unfortunately, it was the off-season in winter, and I couldn't enter the main castle. An additional surprise was the fantastic Michelin meal I had in the old town, without having to wait or queue.

Fairytale Castle in Carcassonne, France

I’ve been coming to this magical fortified city ever since I was a young girl until now in my mid twenties. Traveling around the world, you see many great unforgettable sites, however there is something truly one of a kind about this medieval rustic city. Carcassonne is severely underrated for tourism in my opinion! Yet, this is part of what keeps it a bit of a hidden gem for American/overseas tourists hoping to explore more of France besides Paris. Tips 1. Get there early or late to avoid crowds! The medieval city is in side the modern city of Carcassonne and separated by a moat. Make sure to arrive with enough time to see all you want to see with little foot traffic. 2. Splurge and explore the castle within the city on the self guided tour. The views are incredible and the history facts are truly captivating. One of the best castle tours I’ve been on in Europe! 3. EAT CASSOULET! A unique southern French dish of confit duck, sausage and beans in a hearty stew is a must have especially in Carcassonne. 4. Make sure to see the city engulfed in lights from outside the medieval hub at night! #carcassonne #southernfrance #france

Carcassonne: Medieval Allure, Culinary Bliss

#falltrip Carcassonne, a picturesque medieval fortress town in the south of France, is a captivating destination that seamlessly blends history and charm. Nestled atop a hill overlooking the Aude River, Carcassonne is renowned for its well-preserved medieval citadel, complete with turreted walls and narrow cobblestone streets. The heart of Carcassonne is La Cité, the medieval citadel, a UNESCO World Heritage site. As you enter through the towering walls, you're transported back in time. The Basilica of Saint-Nazaire, with its stunning stained glass windows, and the Château Comtal, a medieval castle within the fortress, are must-visit landmarks. Take a leisurely stroll along the ramparts for panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. Wander through the labyrinthine streets of La Cité, lined with charming shops selling local crafts, wines, and traditional French delicacies. The Place Marcou, a central square, is ideal for sipping coffee at a sidewalk café and soaking in the ambiance. Don't miss trying the local specialty, cassoulet, a hearty stew of beans, sausage, and meat, at one of the many restaurants within the citadel. Venture beyond La Cité to the Ville Basse, the lower town, where you'll discover a different but equally enchanting atmosphere. Here, the vibrant market square, Place Carnot, comes alive with colorful stalls offering fresh produce, cheeses, and other regional delights. It's an excellent place to experience the local lifestyle and perhaps pick up some souvenirs. A short walk from the lower town leads you to the Pont Vieux, an ancient bridge offering captivating views of La Cité against the backdrop of the river. Take a leisurely stroll along the banks of the Aude, enjoying the tranquility and beauty of the surrounding landscape. For a deeper cultural experience, consider visiting the Musée des Beaux-Arts, housed in the former Présidial building. The museum showcases an impressive collection of paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts, providing insight into the region's artistic heritage. Carcassonne is not just a destination for history enthusiasts; it's also a hub for wine enthusiasts. The Languedoc region is renowned for its vineyards, and Carcassonne offers ample opportunities for wine tasting. Explore local wineries and indulge in the rich flavors of the region's wines, from robust reds to crisp whites. In conclusion, Carcassonne is a captivating blend of medieval history, charming streets, and delectable cuisine. Whether you're exploring the ancient citadel, savoring local dishes, or immersing yourself in the region's wine culture, Carcassonne promises a memorable and enchanting journey into the heart of southern France.

The Medival City Of Carcassonne

#medieval #france #europe #french #carcassonne #ancient #ancientcity #history #view #scenic #unesco The medieval city of Carcassonne is a UNESCO heritage located down south of Paris and is worth every penny to visit. The entire town is covered in cobblestone, stone arches, castles and stone houses which carries more than 2000 over years of history. The town is still occupied till today and if you head up to the fortified city you will be able to catch a glimpse of the entire town below. This is one breathtaking scene not to be miss.

UNESCO Fortified City

I’ve been to Carcassonne twice already. It’s a really wonderful fortified city that takes you back to centuries ago. While walking around, you can’t help but wonder about what life was like back then. There’s a lot of cute stores and restaurant in the city. You can also visit the old castle and church. I have to say that the food options are mostly pricey though.

The Cité de Carcassonne is a medieval citadel located in the French city of Carcassonne, in the department of Aude, Occitanie region. It is located on a hill on the right bank of the River Aude, in the south-east part of the city proper. The walls of the city are 13 km long. For travelers visiting Carcassonne Center, Cote Cite is an excellent choice for rest and rejuvenation.

It is only 5 km from the castle of Peruturde to the ancient city of Carcassonne, which is so famous because it is the representative of the city of Carcassonne. The ancient castle in Carcassonne is known as the largest and most preserved castle in Europe. It has a double wall of inner city and outer city. The inner wall is a Roman-style city block and the outer wall is a Gothic wall. The medieval castle is a solid soup. The shape of the castle often appears in cartoons. Through the suspension bridge, enter the Nabones Bridge Gate, through the ancient street, you can reach the town center, stroll on the stone road in the Middle Ages, or walk around the ancient wall, the deep medieval style can not help but think of the Middle Ages Knight hero. Listen to the locals telling the story of the Romans occupying the castle or other castles, and the beauty and heavenly tranquility of the creation.

Today, it has been converted into a luxury hotel, mainly for the reception of winery customers. Staying at the palace where the king used to be is definitely an extraordinary experience. Only the hotel does not have formal online sales, relying only on word of mouth between guests. Unlike other general hotels, rooms must be ordered more than four times a night. Once your order is confirmed, the hotel will no longer accept other reservations. The entire castle will be your own private place. Walking into the castle is like walking into a living museum and art palace, full of 17th century royal aristocratic style. Entering the door is a French grand ballroom. A feeling of deja vu appears. Did I come in my dreams? In fact, whether it is the famous Palace of Versailles or the Chambord built by King Franois I, the decoration of the interior of the French King is self-contained and has the same elements. I was deeply impressed by the visit to Chambord twice.

The castle was built in 1620. The owner of the castle, Bernard Perutitier, was appointed by the then young French King Louis XIII as the Minister of State Finance, and was highly appreciated by the King, thus opening the glory of the castle. 1910, the last Pei girl in the Peruturian family, Pauler Perutiye, inherited the castle. She then married the Christian Count of Brittany, Christian Rogeri. The manor and the winery have since been marked by Rogery. In 1987, Nikola, the contemporary master of the castle, took over the castle and winery from his parents, continuing the castle that has been inherited for 10 generations and has a history of nearly 400 years. This castle is also open to the world along with its winery.

The Perudiya estate is divided into three sections, one is more than 300 hectares of vineyards, one is the area where wine is brewed and sold, and the other is a hotel. There are three flags in the door of the wine cellar, the French flag in the middle, the EU on the one hand, and China on the other. was very confusing at the beginning, and later asked the service staff to know that the three flags indicate the main sales area of their wine. So when we learned that we were a special enthusiasm from China, we took us to visit their wine cellar and took our wine tasting. The wine produced in the winery is best known for this white wine. The price is still very cheap, only twenty euros, drinking in France is too cheap. Perudiya Manor, an important wine producing area in Carcassonne. It has six estates, and each wine brand is named after its own castle.

In the evening we live in the city of Carcassonne, about two hours from Collioure a medieval fortress city, the capital of the province of Aude. We stayed at the Carcassonne Relais & Chteaux, a castle hotel with a golf course that has a history of more than 300 years. There are two restaurants in the hotel, one of which is a Michelin star, but it is not coincidental that we were out of business on the same day. We can only go to another one. If you can get the Relais & Chteaux certification, the food will not be bad. So we are also eating and enjoying. Actually, the reception place is not big, but it is not the same when shooting with wide angle. Therefore, taking out the camera with the lens is also very important, but also to balance, so there is a lightweight body is best for girls. Each room is a suite, each room is different in decoration and design, but it is a French court style. Whether you are a small public or not, it will be attracted by its temperament.

Carcassonne Carcassonne Castle is situated on a hill with towering walls, walls and turrets. From a distance, it is like a castle in a fairy tale, a typical medieval castle. Carcassonne Castle is not like other castles, it is like a royal family. It is more like a fortification. There are churches and houses in the walls of the castle. So this makes the Carcassonne castle so special that it can't be photographed at close range. Can only make drones! From the 1st century AD, it became the fortress city of ancient Rome. The Romans occupied it until 460 AD, and then the Visigoths seized it and ruled for two and a half centuries; around 725 AD, the Arabs captured and ruled the place until the ancient castle of Carcassonne in 759 AD. Return to the embrace of the Frankish kingdom.