Cité de Carcassonne: A Medieval Marvel
Explore the magnificent Cité de Carcassonne, a UNESCO World Heritage site with stunning medieval architecture and a captivating history.
The Cité de Carcassonne is a stunning medieval fortress in the heart of Carcassonne, France. With origins dating back to the Gallo-Roman era, this UNESCO World Heritage site boasts impressive ramparts, towers, and a rich history that transports visitors back in time.
A brief summary to Cité de Carcassonne
- 1 Rue Viollet le Duc, Carcassonne, 11000, FR
- +33468117070
- Visit website
Local tips
- Wear comfortable shoes for walking on the Cité's cobblestone streets.
- Visit during the off-season (October to March) for fewer crowds and cooler temperatures.
- Check the official website for events and exhibitions at the Château Comtal.
- Take a guided tour to learn about the Cité's history and architecture.
- Enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding landscape from the ramparts.
Getting There
-
Walking
From the center of Carcassonne, such as the Bastide Saint-Louis (lower town), walk north towards the Cité. Follow the signs for Cité Médiévale, which will lead you across the Pont Vieux (Old Bridge) offering scenic views. Continue uphill along Rue du Pont Vieux and Rue de la Cité until you reach the Porte Narbonnaise, the main entrance to the Cité. Allow approximately 15-30 minutes for the walk.
-
Public Transport
From the Carcassonne train station (Gare de Carcassonne), take the bus towards Cité Médiévale. The bus will drop you off near the Cité, a short walk from the main entrance, Porte Narbonnaise. A single bus ticket costs €1.
-
Taxi
Taxis are readily available in Carcassonne. A taxi ride from the train station to the Cité de Carcassonne typically costs between €7-€11 and takes approximately 5-10 minutes. Confirm the fare with the driver before starting your journey.
-
Parking
If driving, several parking lots are available near the Cité. Parking P0 (Porte Narbonnaise) is the closest, but fills up quickly. Alternative parking is available at P1 (Porte Narbonnaise) and P2 (Porte d'Aude). Parking fees range from €1 for 15 minutes for the first 2 hours, then €0.50 for 45 minutes for up to 12 hours. Evening rates (8 PM to 8 AM) may apply.
Discover more about Cité de Carcassonne
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Relax Bike Tours
12.2 km
Discover the charm of the countryside with Relax Bike Tours, where cycling meets scenic beauty and local culture.
Chapelle Notre-Dame de Centeilles
27.0 km
Discover the serene beauty and medieval artistry of Chapelle Notre-Dame de Centeilles near Siran, a hidden gem in the French countryside.
Château de Termes
27.5 km
Discover Château de Termes, a medieval Cathar castle with a dramatic history and stunning views in the heart of the Aude region.
Castle Coustaussa
30.4 km
Discover medieval history and stunning views at Château de Coustaussa, a Cathar castle in the Aude valley.
Château de Villerouge-Termenès
30.7 km
Explore the enchanting Château de Villerouge-Termenès, where medieval history and stunning architecture come to life in a picturesque French setting.
Midi-Pyrenees Country Gite
37.4 km
Experience a tranquil getaway at Midi-Pyrenees Country Gite, a charming self-catering accommodation surrounded by stunning natural landscapes and rich cultural heritage.
Château de Puilaurens
45.0 km
Explore Château de Puilaurens, a medieval Cathar castle in France with stunning views and a rich history.
Château d'Aguilar
46.9 km
Explore the enchanting Château d'Aguilar, a historical castle in Tuchan offering stunning views and a glimpse into France's rich medieval heritage.
Birding Languedoc
53.9 km
Explore Birding Languedoc: A Sanctuary for Birdwatchers in the Heart of France's Natural Beauty.
Château Les Carrasses
55.5 km
Experience the charm of a 19th-century French wine estate with luxurious accommodations, fine dining, and stunning vineyard views in Languedoc.
Salses Fortress
60.7 km
Explore a masterpiece of military architecture at the Forteresse de Salses, a historic fortress on the former border of France and Spain.
Château L'hospitalet Wine Resort Beach & Spa
60.9 km
Experience the Mediterranean art of living at Château L'Hospitalet: wine, art, gourmet dining, and stunning natural beauty in Narbonne.
Les Orgues d'Ille sur Tet
61.5 km
Explore the breathtaking Les Orgues d'Ille sur Tet, where stunning rock formations meet serene landscapes in a unique natural setting.
Oppidum d'Enserune
61.7 km
Explore the fascinating Oppidum d'Ensérune, an ancient village with Celtic & Roman history, offering panoramic views & archaeological treasures.
Les Forges de Pyrène
66.6 km
Explore Les Forges de Pyrène, a captivating museum in Montgailhard celebrating traditional craftsmanship and the industrial heritage of the Pyrenees.
Unmissable attractions to see
Château et remparts de la cité de Carcassonne
0.1 km
Discover the magic of the Château et Remparts de la Cité de Carcassonne, a stunning medieval fortress steeped in history and surrounded by breathtaking views.
UNESCO World Heritage Site Canal du Midi at Villesèquelande boat moorings
11.2 km
Explore the serenity of Canal du Midi in Villesèquelande, a UNESCO World Heritage Site perfect for scenic walks, cycling, and picturesque boat rides.
Les Quatre Châteaux de Lastours
14.6 km
Explore the dramatic ruins of the Four Castles of Lastours, a captivating journey through Cathar history with breathtaking panoramic views of the Montagne Noire.
Grotte de Limousis
15.6 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Grotte de Limousis, a mesmerizing underground cave in France, rich in geological history and stunning formations.
Gouffre Géant de Cabrespine
18.6 km
Explore the breathtaking Gouffre Géant de Cabrespine, a natural wonder filled with stunning rock formations and rich geological history in France.
Abbaye de Caunes-Minervois
18.8 km
Discover over twelve centuries of history at the Abbaye de Caunes-Minervois, a Benedictine abbey famed for its Romanesque architecture and connection to the prestigious red marble.
Cubserviès
21.3 km
Discover the majestic Cascade de Cubserviès in the Montagne Noire: A stunning 90-meter waterfall, hiking trails, and panoramic views await near the charming village of Roquefère.
Cascade de Crussinac
29.6 km
Discover the serene beauty of Cascade de Crussinac near Saint-Amans-Soult, a tranquil waterfall nestled in the Haut-Languedoc Regional Nature Park, perfect for a refreshing escape.
Saint-Papoul Cathedral
30.1 km
Explore the rich history and stunning architecture of Saint-Papoul Cathedral, a cultural landmark and heritage site in the heart of France.
La Passerelle de Mazamet
30.2 km
Experience the thrill of walking high above the Arnette Gorges on the Passerelle de Mazamet, connecting history and nature in the heart of the Montagne Noire, Occitanie.
Randonnée de la Cité de Minerve
34.8 km
Embark on a breathtaking hiking adventure in Cité de Minerve, where stunning landscapes and rich history await every traveler.
Grand Pont Naturel
34.9 km
Explore the Grand Pont Naturel in Minerve, a stunning natural arch showcasing the beauty of France's landscapes, perfect for nature lovers and photographers.
Gorges du Brian
35.0 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Gorges du Brian, a natural wonder near Minerve, perfect for hiking, photography, and serene outdoor experiences.
Musée d'Archéologie et de Paléontologie de Minerve
35.0 km
Explore the extraordinary past at the Musée d'Archéologie et de Paléontologie de Minerve, where ancient artifacts and fossils unveil the mysteries of prehistoric life.
Cité Médiévale de Minerve
35.0 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty and rich history of Cité Médiévale de Minerve, a medieval village in the heart of Languedoc, France.
Essential places to dine
Restaurant La Marquière
0.2 km
Experience exquisite French cuisine at Restaurant La Marquière in Carcassonne - where tradition meets innovation in every dish.
Le Parc Franck Putelat
0.6 km
Discover culinary excellence at Le Parc Franck Putelat in Carcassonne – where haute French cuisine meets unforgettable experiences.
l'ambrosia
10.8 km
Discover exquisite French-Mediterranean cuisine at L'Ambrosia in Pezens, where every meal is a celebration of flavor and elegance.
Auberge du Vieux Puits - Gilles Goujon
38.7 km
Experience exquisite French cuisine at Auberge du Vieux Puits - where culinary artistry meets charming hospitality in Fontjoncouse.
Restaurant Le Dinanga
44.1 km
Discover exquisite local flavors at Restaurant Le Dinanga in Léran - where every meal is a delightful journey through regional cuisine.
Auberge de la Croisade
49.5 km
Experience authentic French dining at Auberge de la Croisade in Cruzy, offering exquisite cuisine and a charming atmosphere.
La Table Saint Crescent
51.0 km
Discover the elegance of fine dining at La Table Saint Crescent in Narbonne, where exquisite French cuisine meets exceptional service.
Restaurant Fleurs d' Olargues
58.9 km
Experience exquisite fine dining with Danish, French, and Mediterranean flavors at Restaurant Fleurs d'Olargues in scenic Olargues.
Mauroul
59.2 km
Discover exquisite French dining at Mauroul in Saint-Julien – where culinary artistry meets local flavors.
The Blue Lizard
61.7 km
Discover authentic French cuisine at The Blue Lizard in Vieussan - where every dish tells a story.
Entre mer et Garrigue
65.2 km
Experience exquisite Mediterranean dining at Entre Mer et Garrigue, where organic ingredients meet fine French cuisine in Narbonne.
Ô Bistrot Pyrène
66.6 km
Discover authentic French cuisine at Ô Bistrot Pyrène in Montgailhard - where every meal is a delightful journey through local flavors.
Auberge de Madale
67.8 km
Experience exquisite French cuisine at Auberge de Madale, where culinary artistry meets charming ambiance in Colombières-sur-Orb.
L'Epicure
68.9 km
Discover the flavors of France at L'Epicure in Loubens - where culinary excellence meets cozy charm.
Restaurant Les Antiquaires
71.2 km
Experience exquisite French and Mediterranean cuisine at Restaurant Les Antiquaires in Perpignan - a true culinary gem for every traveler.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Nell Boutique
1.1 km
Explore Nell Boutique in Carcassonne for exquisite gifts and fashion accessories that embody local charm and style.
La Galerie - Géant Salvaza
4.4 km
Discover La Galerie - Géant Salvaza, Carcassonne's premier shopping mall offering diverse stores, dining, and entertainment in a vibrant atmosphere.
L'Artisan Horloger (Maitre Artisan)
45.8 km
Explore the exquisite craftsmanship and timeless elegance at L'Artisan Horloger, Castres' premier watch store.
Atelier Missègle
46.5 km
Discover the charm of handcrafted knitwear and sewing supplies at Atelier Missègle in Burlats, a true haven for craft enthusiasts.
Cycl'Olmes Pyrénées
48.2 km
Discover Cycl'Olmes Pyrénées, where cycling dreams meet stunning landscapes in the beautiful Pyrénées region.
La Galerie
50.3 km
Discover La Galerie in Narbonne - a vibrant shopping mall offering diverse stores, fast food, and a lively atmosphere for an unforgettable retail experience.
Nailloux Outlet Village
64.3 km
Experience the charm of Nailloux Outlet Village, where fashion meets affordability in an inviting outdoor shopping paradise.
ACTION
66.3 km
Explore ACTION in Colombiers for a unique shopping experience with gifts, DIY supplies, and home goods that capture the spirit of France.
Grotte de Fontrabiouse
67.2 km
Experience the stunning beauty of Grotte de Fontrabiouse, an enchanting cave system in the French Pyrenees, perfect for family adventures and geological exploration.
La Maison du Coin
67.3 km
Discover delightful souvenirs, gourmet treats, and unique home goods at La Maison du Coin in the heart of charming Foix.
Telemark Pyrenees
68.8 km
Discover Telemark Pyrenees: Your ultimate adventure hub for skiing and rock climbing in the breathtaking French Pyrenees.
La Boutique de la Ferme
68.9 km
Explore local flavors at La Boutique de la Ferme, Ax-les-Thermes' premier destination for artisanal cheeses, cold cuts, and fine wines.
De la Cave au Grenier Lavaur
70.3 km
Explore De la Cave au Grenier in Lavaur for a unique shopping experience filled with vintage treasures and local charm.
Nectarine Lavaur
70.3 km
Explore Nectarine Lavaur for a unique fashion experience in beautiful Lavaur, where style meets exceptional service.
Les Bêtises De Malie Family Concept Store Béziers
70.5 km
Experience the whimsical charm of Les Bêtises De Malie, a family concept store in Béziers offering an exquisite selection of toys and baby clothing.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Le Coin de France
49.3 km
Discover the charm of Le Coin de France, a vibrant bar in L'Aiguillon offering a delightful selection of drinks and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
La Rap
51.1 km
Experience the local charm at La Rap, a cozy bar in Saint-Jean-d'Aigues-Vives, perfect for refreshing drinks and socializing.
Les Bieres De La Tour
58.8 km
Experience the best of local brewing at Les Bieres De La Tour, a cozy beer hall in La Tour-du-Crieu, perfect for beer lovers and casual visitors alike.
L’Expérience
70.3 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere and exquisite cocktails at L’Expérience, a must-visit bar in the heart of Béziers.
Ô Kraken
71.1 km
Explore Ô Kraken in Béziers, where exquisite tapas meet a lively bar atmosphere, creating the perfect dining experience.
Casse pas la tête
72.1 km
Experience the lively atmosphere of Casse pas la tête, a renowned bar and restaurant in Saint-Génies-de-Fontedit, known for its live music and delicious local cuisine.
La Vieille Ville
73.4 km
Discover La Vieille Ville, a charming bar in Tarascon-sur-Ariège, offering local drinks and a vibrant atmosphere steeped in history.
Bar Artistic
75.4 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Bar Artistic in Valras-Plage, where great drinks and local culture blend for an unforgettable evening.
LA MER A BOIRE
78.7 km
Discover La Mer à Boire, a vibrant bar and restaurant in Canet-en-Roussillon, serving exquisite tapas, cocktails, and local wines in a stunning coastal setting.
Le Quinze Vins
78.8 km
Discover exquisite wines and a cozy atmosphere at Le Quinze Vins, a must-visit bar in the heart of Canet-en-Roussillon.
TIKI Restaurant Bar
79.0 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of TIKI Restaurant Bar in Sérignan, where gourmet gastropub cuisine meets delicious pizza in a lively atmosphere.
Le Loup Bar
79.9 km
Discover the vibrant energy and refreshing drinks at Le Loup Bar in Canet-en-Roussillon, where coastal charm meets lively nightlife.
bambù bar
79.9 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at Bambù Bar in Canet-en-Roussillon, offering an array of drinks and a lively atmosphere for a memorable evening.
BRAM CAFE
80.7 km
Experience the flavors of Spain at Bram Cafe, a cozy tapas bar in the heart of Bolquere Pyrénées 2000, where relaxation meets culinary delight.
L'Imprévu
80.9 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of Portiragnes at L'Imprévu, a restaurant that combines local cuisine with a lively lounge atmosphere.
