Carcassonne

Getting Around

Getting around Carcassonne is straightforward. The main attraction, the Cité, is best explored on foot due to its pedestrianized nature and uneven cobblestone streets. Comfortable shoes are a must! The lower town (Bastide Saint-Louis) is easily accessible by foot or a short taxi ride from the Cité. Public buses connect different parts of Carcassonne, and local taxis are readily available. Renting a car is ideal if you plan to explore the wider Aude region and the Canal du Midi surroundings, offering flexibility for visiting vineyards and smaller villages. Parking is available outside the Cité walls.

Must-See Attractions

• •Walk the complete circuit of the Cité's outer and inner ramparts in Carcassonne for breathtaking panoramic views and a true sense of medieval defense.
• •Visit the Château Comtal, the inner castle within the Cité, to explore its courtyards, towers, and learn about its strategic importance.
• •Enjoy a leisurely canal cruise on the Canal du Midi, a UNESCO site, offering a different perspective and peaceful journey near Carcassonne.
• •Explore the Basilica of Saints Nazarius and Celsus, a stunning example of Gothic and Romanesque architecture within the medieval city walls.
• •Discover the Carcassonne countryside and vineyards by bike or on foot, enjoying the picturesque landscapes and local wine estates.
• •Seek out the Pont Vieux for iconic postcard views of the fortified city, especially magical at sunset or sunrise.