The 14 things to do in Carcassonne

Put your feet in an iconic region of Occitania with our selection of the 13 essential things to visit in Carcassonne!

The city of Carcassonne and its urban area have been occupied since ancient times and occupy an important part in the founding of our country. Indeed, its fortified city defended the border between France and Aragon to the Treaty of the Pyrenees in 1659.

Nowadays, Carcassonne and its medieval city attract the eyes of the world. A symbol of Occitania and the department of Aude, its magnificent and diversified region, its almost Mediterranean climate and, of course, its historical heritage are to fall steep. To better introduce you to the region, Wanderlix has prepared a selection of unmissable to visit in Carcassonne!

1. The city of Carcassonne

The history of the site is extremely enlivened. In the 12th century, it was the subject of several struggles of power between the cathares and the French royal forces. Indeed, the city was also instrumental in the construction of the Franco-Spanish borders during the Treaty of the Pyrenees in 1659.

After admiring the city from its Old Bridge, enter the fortress and let yourself be overwhelmed by the incomparable atmosphere of the largest medieval city in Europe. This site is classified as UNESCO World Heritage will make you travel in time. Walk in the footsteps of the knights and explore its ramparts and many points of interest.

2. The Castle Comtal

In the interiors of the city, this magnificent castle, installed in the protective walls, originates from the Gallo-Roman era. Indeed, it has long been the home of the royal family of Trencavel.

This monument is a must-see in Carcassonne, especially since the circuit of the city will make you pass. With its architecture and enchanting decor, the Comtal Castle will plunge you into medieval times. You will also enjoy a panoramic view of the Pyrenees, the Black Mountain and the Bastide Saint-Louis.

3. Saint-Nazaire Basilica

This Catholic building, whose origin dates back to 1100, is another point of interest of the fortified city. Before getting the rank of minor basilica in 1898, she was a cathedral.

Nicknamed the « Joyau de la Cité », Saint-Nazaire harmoniously blends Romanesque and Gothic styles. It is particularly renowned for its sublime stained glass, considered the most beautiful in the Midi.

4. Le Pont Vieux and the Bastide Saint-Louis

At the level of the low city of Carcassonne, find the bridge of the fortress. Once used as the only defence, it now gives access to tourists and offers a magnificent view of the city.

Then, by continuing your path, you will fall on the Bastide Saint-Louis. This building dating from 1260 is located on the left bank of Aude. Having preserved its architectural richness, you can visit its many private hotels and its home of memories.

5. Montolieu

Considered as the village of books and arts, Montolieu is a charming commune to visit in Carcassonne and its surroundings.

Only 20 minutes away from the city, this village on the Black Mountain is a cultural haven. Wherever you go, booksellers, artists and art artisans will welcome you warmly. Thousands of visitors come to the aisles of this library village in a great time of escape.

6. The Cérès Franco Museum

Within Montolieu, the museum Cérès Franco highlights the work of this extravagant Brazilian artist.

This art gallery exhibits a series of works by the artist but also rare works of the twentieth century through various genres: raw art, Brazilian and European naive, South American popular art, the CoBrA movement and the new figuration.

7. Cabrespine's throat

25 km from Carcassonne, the full of strong sensations awaits you in this immense underground cavity of 250 m deep.

In the program, speleology, light games and glass bridges enrich the exploration of this natural ditch nestled in the heart of the Clamoux Gorges. As one of the most beautiful caves in Europe, Cabrespine’s dildo is also a must-see in Carcassonne for the richness of its crystals.

8. The cave of Limousis

By taking a beautiful road sprinkled with vineyards and garrigues, you will arrive in the sublime cave of Limousis.

Its seven rooms and two lakes bring together many shows. One could talk about his bridge hanging over a water mirror and the “lustre” of Aragonite, a real treasure of the site. On leaving, why not taste the wine of the Amethyst cuvée, raised in oak barrels in the cave.

9. Lake Cavayère

At 1:45 a.m. by car from the Mediterranean coast, sea addicts could be disappointed. Fortunately for them, Carcassonne has the ideal solution for these burning desires.

You'll only need five minutes to get to Cavayère Lake! This water base with green frame is perfect for a family outing. For sportsmen and hikers, a 5 km circuit surrounds the lake with a view of the entire site. But for more emotions, the site also offers waterskiing.

10. The Canal du Midi

Another monument classified as the UNESCO heritage, the Canal du Midi is the touch of tranquility necessary for a successful stay.

On board a rental boat, stroll through the sun under the frosting of the plane trees. The multiple trails also allow bicycle rides from Tenerife or Carcassonne.

11. The House of Truffle

Have you ever heard of Carcassonne's black diamond? Unwind, it is not a jewel but a local product of renown: the truffle!

And to honor this famous mushroom, a museum was built in the heart of the triangle of Cabrespine, Trassanel and Villeneuve-Minervois. The fun and interactive approach of the exhibition will make you discover the secrets of this condiment.

12. The specialties of Carcassonne

If you want to keep the line during your stay, local gastronomy is to be banned. But for the most greedy and curious of you, here is a list of carcase specialties:

• Carcassonne's cassoulet: This hearty dish competes with other casoulets in the world. Its unique character lies in its choice of meat, with red loserix and sheep;
• The whisper in the friezes: Composed of bread and bacon, this delicious food is very well consumed in the entrance;
• The city's epics: These little chocolates are marked by an artistic representation of the medieval city.

13. The festival of the city

Since its creation in 2009, the city festival is a must-see in Carcassonne. Indeed, he has risen among the top 10 festivals in France.

Every summer, the city hosts more than 200,000 visitors from all over the world in an extraordinary setting. During the whole month of July, 120 shows including 80 entirely free shows await you with national and international artists.

14. Around Carcassonne

Sites Country Cathare

In exceptional natural setting, 22 historical sites attest to the trace of cathares in the region. Here are some flagship sites:

• Saissac Castle: Perched at 450 m altitude, this is the oldest site of the Black Mountain. The remains of the castle dominate the Pyrenees over the plains carved;
• Lastour castles: Four royal fortresses form this unique site at the top of the village of Lastours;
• The castle of Puilauren : At 697 m above sea level on Mount Ardu, this strategic site is a remarkable example of the military architecture of the time;
• The Fortress of Peyrepertuse: Known as the “scan of vertigo”, the fortress of Peyrepertuse extends about 300 m above the village of Duilhac.

The villages

The Carcassonne region is also a multitude of picturesque villages close to the Canal. Discover and visit these few examples:

• Caunes-Minervois: At the allure of the Italian village, this charming commune is renowned for its red marble used especially in the Palace of Versailles;
• Trèbes: At the edge of the Canal du Midi, its pretty marina, its small streets and its Saint-Etienne church make the charm of this small village;
• Homps: This small town, located between Corbières and Minervois, is worth visiting for its taste of life, leisure and wine.

The Black Mountain

In the Cathar Country, the Black Mountain is a preserved natural space. Ideal for forest walks, go to the conquest of a wild and abundant nature and a remarkable heritage.

How to get to Carcassonne?

To reach Carcassonne, several means of transport are available:

• By car: The A10, A20 and A61 motorways will lead you directly to Carcassonne. The journey will last 8h de Paris, 1h11 de Toulouse and 10 a.m. de Lille ;
• By train: The medieval city is located in 30 min de marche de la Gare SNCF de Carcassonne ;
• By plane: To fly to Carcassonne, Carcassonne-Salvaza Airport is best served. To find the most suitable flight offer for your expectations, use a flight comparison like Skyscanner.

Where to stay in Carcassonne?

With its historical heritage, find a logis for your stay while remaining in the timeless atmosphere of the site. Whether you book your home in the medieval city or downtown, a wide range of hotels and hotels Airbnb offer to you. To help you, don’t hesitate to use a Compare hotels .

But despite its cultural attractions, the agglomeration of Carcassonne , and in particular the Aude, are a beautiful region that keeps you insolent logis. Take a tour in the town of Montredon or one of the many villages around.