One Amazing Day in Carcassonne

Last Updated on: 6th March 2025, 02:01 am

Carcassonne, located in the Aude department of the Occitanie region in southern France, is a must-visit for history buffs and anyone fascinated by medieval architecture. With its cobblestone streets, towering walls, and historic buildings, the city offers an incredible glimpse into the past.

A Brief History Of Carcassonne

Carcassonne has a long history that goes back to Roman times. Its strategic location made it an important defensive stronghold over the centuries.

The most notable part of the city is the Cité de Carcassonne, a medieval fortress with double walls and 52 towers.

During the medieval period, it became a centre of power and trade. Although it eventually fell into disrepair, it was restored in the 19th century by architect Eugène Viollet-le-Duc. In 1997, it was recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Bird's eye view of Carcassonne — Drone Shot of Carcassonne taken by Jonathan on our first visit

How To Get To Carcassonne

This was my third visit to Carcassonne. The first time, I arrived by car; the second, by canal boat during a two-week journey along the Canal du Midi. This time, I took the train for a day trip from nearby Béziers.

All these modes of transport are great ways to get to Carcassonne, but know that parking can and will be a nightmare during high season.

Arrival in Carcassonne

From Carcassonne train station and the Canal du Midi, it’s a pleasant 30-minute walk or a short taxi ride to the Cité de Carcassonne.

What to See in One Day In Carcassonne

Cité de Carcassonne

Start your day by exploring the iconic Cité de Carcassonne. Enter through the Narbonne Gate.

Just inside the gate, you’ll find the tourist office. Keep in mind that they close for lunch, but they have maps (I do love a paper map!), offer guided tours, and have all sorts of good advice.

Then, wander the narrow, cobbled streets of the old town; you’ll come across a variety of shops, including some quaint stores and, admittedly, a few shops selling tacky souvenirs.

When you’re ready for a break, there are plenty of cafes and restaurants where you can enjoy a coffee or a traditional Cassoulet – a delicious stew made with sausages and white beans.

Before settling on a restaurant, it’s advisable to check reviews on platforms like TripAdvisor, especially in this touristy area where the quality can vary. A helpful tip: if you hear the customers speaking French, it’s usually a sign of good food.

a traditional Cassoulet - a delicious stew made with sausages and white beans in a brown bowl

Visit the Château Comtal

The most popular activity in the Cité de Carcassonne is touring the castle and ramparts in the old medieval city.

It costs 13 euros to enter. You can buy your tickets for the Château Comtal in advance here.

To learn more about the Château Comtal, you can join a tour that takes around 40 minutes. Tours are available in English, French and Spanish.

You can also pick up an audio guide or simply read the plaques around the castle.

inside the grounds of the Château Comtal

When entering the chateau, there are quite a few stairs before reaching the first room, which has a multi-media display.

Because I visited on a weekday in January, I had most of the castle to myself. I so love travelling out of season. It was a beautifully sunny day, and I enjoyed walking along the ramparts and around the castle grounds.

Most of the castle rooms are empty, but a few have ancient artefacts, such as statues and paintings. Signage everywhere explains what the rooms were used for.

But mostly, it’s just fun to walk around!

Basilica of Saints Nazarius and Celsus

Don’t miss the Gothic-Romanesque Basilica of Saints Nazarius and Celsus, a true gem known for its beautiful stained glass windows. You will have seen a glimpse of this church already from the ramparts.

Pont Vieux

After you’ve had your fill of the Cité de Carcassonne, make your way down to the Lower Town (Bastide Saint-Louis).

Cross the historic Pont Vieux for a scenic view of the Cité and the Aude River. It’s an excellent spot for photos, but on a sunny winter’s day, the sun was too bright for a good photograph. That’s my excuse, anyway.

There are also some lovely walks alongside the Aude River.

Explore the Lower Town (Bastide Saint-Louis)

Walk down to the Bastide Saint-Louis area to explore the more modern but still quite historic part of Carcassonne.

This area of Carcassonne is also known as the “Bastide de Saint-Louis” and “Ville Basse”. This is the more modern and residential part of the city.

While it’s not part of the UNESCO World Heritage site, it’s still well worth a visit to discover the architecture and beautiful private mansions. Actually, this is my favourite part of Carcassone.

You can enjoy a drink or a meal at one of the cafes and restaurants surrounding the fountain on Place Carnot.

Side walk cafes and colourful buildings in Place Carnot, Carcassonne

Check out the Church of Saint-Vincent and stroll around and lose yourself in the charming streets.

And then if you’ve arrived by train (my preferred choice of travel), you’re just a short walk from the station.

Conclusion

Carcassonne is a fascinating destination that offers a delightful blend of history and stunning architecture. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or simply looking for a beautiful town to explore, Carcassonne has something to offer for everyone.

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Sarah Wilson

Solo traveller, exploring the world one adventure at a time. Enthusiastic about trying new cuisines and uncovering hidden gems. Animal lover, often found house-sitting and making furry friends. Based in Malta, but always daydreaming about moving somewhere else.