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Carcassonne: Step Back in Time with Medieval Fortress Walls

Chensiyuan, 1 carcassonne aerial 2016, CC BY-SA 4.0
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Hello and welcome to my website. My name is Thorsten. I'm a software engineer living in Germany and I love to travel. So I created a site for anyone starting to plan a trip.
What this site is about

✔ Are you planning a self-organized trip to Carcassonne? Then you've come to the right place. Here you will find information to help you plan your perfect stay in Carcassonne.

✔ The most important start information for a trip to South France, can be found on the overview page.

✔ And when it comes to the actual planning, you will find the perfect planner for your trip to South France here.
Attraction
Park / Garden

Culture and history, explore and discover

Carcassonne offers a rich tapestry of history and culture, deeply rooted in its medieval past. Visitors can expect to be transported back in time as they explore its cobbled streets, ancient walls, and timeless architecture. The city is a living museum where the past and present coexist, providing a unique glimpse into the region's storied heritage. Cultural experiences abound, from traditional festivals to local gastronomy, all set against the backdrop of a picturesque landscape.

All sights sorted by distance from center
1. Carcassonne, UNESCO World Heritage: ⭐ ⭐ A medieval fortress restored by Viollet-le-Duc in the 19th century, it is a picture-perfect example of a medieval castle. Distance in km: 0
2. Carcassonne Cathedral: ⭐ ⭐ This impressive cathedral, dedicated to Saint Michael, showcases a blend of architectural styles and houses a beautiful rose window, making it a must-see for history and architecture enthusiasts. Distance in km: 0.64
3. Château Comtal: ⭐ ⭐ The medieval castle within the Carcassonne fortress offers a captivating insight into the region's feudal past, with well-preserved ramparts and stunning views of the surrounding countryside. Distance in km: 1.28
4. Parc de la Cité: ⭐ This charming park near the medieval city provides a peaceful retreat with lush greenery, scenic views, and a relaxing atmosphere, perfect for a leisurely stroll or a picnic. Distance in km: 1.42
5. Basilica of Saints Nazarius and Celsus: ⭐ ⭐ This Romanesque and Gothic-style basilica dates back to the 11th century and features impressive architecture and beautiful stained glass windows, providing a glimpse into the city's religious heritage. Distance in km: 1.44
6. Lac de la Cavayère: ⭐ Located just outside Carcassonne, this picturesque lake offers a range of outdoor activities, including swimming, water sports, and hiking trails, surrounded by beautiful natural landscapes. Distance in km: 6.34
7. Canal du Midi: ⭐ ⭐ A leisurely stroll or boat ride along the picturesque Canal du Midi, a UNESCO World Heritage site, offers a serene escape and a chance to admire the scenic beauty of the region's waterways and lush surroundings. Distance in km: 23.28

Parks, Gardens & Green Areas in the city, relax and enjoy

Carcassonne offers a serene escape with its blend of historical charm and natural beauty. Visitors can enjoy leisurely strolls through lush landscapes, unwind in tranquil gardens, or find solace in the peaceful ambiance of the surrounding countryside. The city provides a perfect balance of cultural exploration and relaxation, making it an ideal destination for those looking to recharge.

1. Jardin du Calvaire: A serene garden offering panoramic views of Carcassonne.

Jardin du Calvaire is a peaceful garden located on a hill, providing visitors with stunning views of the medieval city of Carcassonne. The garden is adorned with beautiful flowers, trees, and shrubs, and features a series of Stations of the Cross. It is a perfect spot for a quiet stroll or a moment of reflection, away from the bustling tourist areas.

Type: garden | Fee: free
2. Parc de la Cité: A spacious park near the medieval city walls.

Parc de la Cité is a large park situated just outside the walls of the Cité de Carcassonne. It offers expansive green lawns, walking paths, and shaded areas perfect for picnics. The park is ideal for families, with plenty of space for children to play, and it provides a relaxing environment to enjoy the view of the ancient fortress.

Type: park | Fee: free
3. Jardin André Chenier: A charming public garden in the heart of Carcassonne.

Jardin André Chenier is a small but delightful garden located near the Canal du Midi. It features well-maintained flower beds, a variety of trees, and a central fountain. The garden is a peaceful retreat for those looking to escape the city's hustle and bustle, offering benches and shaded areas for relaxation.

Type: garden | Fee: free
4. Lac de la Cavayère: A recreational lake surrounded by lush greenery.

Lac de la Cavayère, also known as 'Carcassonne Plage,' is a man-made lake located a short drive from the city. It is surrounded by a beautiful park with walking and cycling trails, picnic areas, and beaches for swimming. The lake offers various water activities such as kayaking and paddle boating, making it a popular destination for both relaxation and recreation.

Type: green_area | Fee: free

Tourist Information Offices

Here you can find the main tourist information offices where you can get maps, brochures, and assistance with planning your visit.

1. Tourist Office De Carcassonne

Tourist information center

Address: 28 Rue de Verdun, 11000 Carcassonne, France
2. Office de Tourisme de Carcassonne La Cité

Tourist information center

Address: 21 Rue Cros Mayrevieille, 11000 Carcassonne, France
3. Siège de l' OFFICE DE TOURISME COMMUNAUTAIRE CARCASSONNE AGGLO - 11000

Tourist information center

Address: 2 Sq. Gambetta, 11000 Carcassonne, France
4. Kiosque du Canal du Midi

Tourist information center

Address: 11000 Carcassonne, France
5. Agence de Développement Touristique de l'Aude

Tourist information center

Address: Conseil Départemental de l'Aude, 11855 Carcassonne, France

What's the best way to get around as a tourist in Carcassonne?

Carcassonne offers a charming blend of medieval allure and modern convenience, making it a delightful place to explore on foot. The city's compact size allows for easy navigation, with many attractions within walking distance. Public transportation, including buses, provides a convenient way to explore areas beyond the central hub. Cycling is also a viable option, with scenic routes available for those who prefer to pedal.

In Carcassonne, the main walking area is the Cité de Carcassonne, a UNESCO World Heritage site, where cars are restricted, allowing pedestrians to explore its cobbled streets freely. The city’s bus network, operated by RTCA, connects various neighborhoods and nearby towns, with several lines running through the main areas. While there is no metro, ride-sharing services like Uber are available for more personalized travel. For cyclists, bike rentals are offered by local shops, and the Canal du Midi provides a picturesque cycling route. It's advisable to check the bus schedules in advance, as frequency can vary, especially during weekends. When walking, comfortable shoes are recommended due to the uneven terrain in the historic district.