Best Travel Guide Carcassonne | ArrivalGuides.com

CarcassonneGuide was updated: 2024-09-14

Hilltop town in the south of France, Carcassonne lies at the crossing of two major routes: from the Atlantic to the Mediterranean coast and from the heart of France to Spain, both used since antiquity. The medieval fortified Cité is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. No wonder Carcassone is home to a unique historical and cultural past. If you add the local traditional dishes, the hospitality of its inhabitants, and some of the best vineyards in the south of France, your stay holds promise of being a most memorable one.

Do & See

The mix of modernity and historical wealth offer a very rich cultural life. Within a unique scenery and authenticity, the city has managed to provide all amenities for both tourists and business travellers. If you have time, the whole region has much more to show, like going on a “péniche” (or barge) on Canal du Midi or explore the huge vineyards. A closer look at the medieval fortress is of course something that should not be missed as well as the gothic-styled Saint-Michel Cathedral or why not see a concert outdoor at the Théâtre Jean Deschamps? You will for sure find plenty of exciting sites to explore when travelling to this historical and cultural city.

Cité de Carcassonne

This impressive UNESCO world heritage medieval fortress is unique in Europe for its beauty and size and walking along its 3 kilometres of ramparts is a must. There is no entrance fee, unless you would like to take a tour on the small train which means a small fee. The site was added to the UNESCO list of World Heritage Sites in 1997.

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Basilica Saint Nazaire

The “Jewel of the Cité” (11th-14th centuries) is a prime example of Norman and Gothic architecture existing comfortably side by side. It is home to the tomb of Bishop Pierre de Rochefort (14th century) and one of the oldest and most important organs of South of France. This national monument offers masses every Sunday at 11 am.

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Château Comtal

Originally the dwelling of powerful feudal lords, the The Château Comtal (Count’s Castle) has undergone many changes over the centuries. This very well looked after and repaired 12th century Medieval castle is part of Cité de Carcassonne (the medieval city). Learn more about its history by taking an informative audio tour. The castle also houses a small museum with historical painting, statues and relics.

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Bastide Saint Louis

The Bastide Saint Louis is the heart of Carcasonne, built in 1260, to a checkerboard layout around the Place Carnot and its colourful market. Wandering in rich southern French charm, you will see beautiful religious buildings like Church Saint Vincent, private mansions as well as restful parks and gardens. Among top attractions is the Gothic-styled Saint-Michel Cathedral, which features a wealth of objects of worship and art work.

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Canal du Midi

Nearby Bastide Saint Louis, you can continue your visit along the famous Canal du Midi that is suitable for its fine trekking, but there are also several boat trips to choose from. The canal was built in the 17th century and together with some other waters it connects the Atlantic to the Mediterranean. Canal du Midi is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Carcassonne Croisière offers plenty of fun and relaxing boat trips:

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Vineyards

If you have time, Carcassonne and the surrounding region are home to some of the best French vineyards. This is a real pride of the city and well worth a visit. O'Vineyards is located just 10 minutes’ taxi ride from the train station and is a good example of a winery-vineyard where you can learn how they make their wine and where the wine samples are generous. You can also add dining and even an overnight stay on this wine tour.

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Population:	49,600
Currency:	Euro (EUR) €1 = 100 cents
Emergency Numbers:	Emergency: 112 Police: 17 Ambulance: 15 Fire Brigade: 18
Newspapers:	La Dépêche du Midi (www.ladepeche.fr) Le Midi Libre (www.midilibre.fr)
Opening Hours:	Most shops are open Monday to Saturday from 9 am-7 pm, but smaller shops may be closed at lunchtime from 12 pm-2 pm. Stores are closed on Sundays and public holidays, except for annual sales events.
Tourist Information:	Tourism Office 28 rue de Verdun, Carcassonne +33 468 10 24 30 Opening hours: July and August: Mon-Sun 9 am - 7 pm April, May, June, September and October: Mon-Sat 9 am - 6 pm, Sun 10 am - 1 pm. October: Mon - Sat 9 am - 6 pm November - March: Mon - Sat: 9.30 am - 5.30 pm