The 14 top things to do and see in Carcassonne
Carcassonne is a city in the Department of Aude, in the south of France, known worldwide for its medieval city. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1997, it is one of the most touristy places in Occitanie, and renting a self-drive canal boat on the Canal du Midi to travel there is an unmissable experience!
Why explore Carcassonne by boat?
Carcassonne sits right on the Canal du Midi, making it an easy and rewarding stop on a boating holiday. Travelling by boat lets you explore at your own pace, with the freedom to moor up and head into the city or surrounding countryside whenever you like.
From here, you can:
– Visit museums and discover Carcassonne’s medieval history
– Explore nearby vineyards and taste local Languedoc wines
– Walk around the famous Château Comtal and fortified city
– Enjoy regional cuisine in restaurants and local markets
Cruising the Canal du Midi gives you a flexible way to combine sightseeing, food, and culture in one trip.
Map of the best things to do in and around Carcassonne
Things to do and see within the old city walls of Carcassonne (la Cité)
1. La Cité de Carcassonne
In Medieval City of Carcassonne are the oldest human remains in the region, dating from the 6th century BC. To visit Carcassonne and its fortified medieval city is to visit a UNESCO World Heritage site and the largest of its kind in Europe.
But Carcassonne is not just filled with ancient history; it has a lot more to offer those who have the opportunity to visit.
Although it’s a walled city, you are free to visit its cobbled streets. Pick up a tourist map of the fortress from one of the 3 tourist information offices, to find your way around these streets easily.
Visit the Comtal Castle, originally the home of powerful feudal lords. The castle and its enclosure have 9 towers including the Pinte tower, the highest in the city.
2. Château Comtal and Ramparts
Comtal Castle and Ramparts, also known as Château Comtal, is a medieval fortress located within the walls of the city. It was an important defence structure used in Medieval times. Nowadays, it’s a popular tourist destination that expands over 3 kilometers and features 52 towers. Apart from historical architecture, you are sure to love the immense beauty of the nearby landscapes.
3. Basilica of Saint-Nazaire
The Saint-Nazaire Basilica is located near the Porte d’Aude. It was built between the 9th and the 14th centuries. In 1840, the building was classified as a historical monument. Until 1801, it was the cathedral of Carcassonne, but it was replaced by the cathedral of Saint-Michel. Children will have fun finding the many gargoyles that surround the basilica. The stained-glass windows, depicting scenes from the life of Jesus Christ and the apostles, are considered the most beautiful in the south of France…
4. School Museum
The school museum is among the most famous points of interest in Carcassonne. It comprises five rooms exploring what school life was like in France between the 1880s and 1960s. These five rooms showcase historical items like desks, slates, blackboards, and lecterns used in the old French schooling system. The tickets for the museum cost 4 Euros for adults and 3 Euros for children and students.
5. Museum of the Inquisition
This museum is home to a variety of torture tools tools and devices used in the Middle Ages and up to the French Revolution. It is not for the faint-hearted!
6. Sample local cuisine
Visiting Carcassonne is a great excuse to experienceregional delicacies. Duck and goose confit is one of the most famous dishes to try, as well as other meat dishes including Cassoulet and Languedoc-style snails.
For vegetable lovers, you must make a point to try Ratatouille, a mix of sautéed vegetables, including tomatoes, aubergine, bell peppers, and onions. In some restaurants, you’ll be able to discover dishes from further afield in the south of France, like Socca, Pissaladière, and Fougasse.
Discover Carcassonne’s Ville Basse (Lower City)
7. The Old Bridge (le Pont Vieux)
Carcassonne is divided into two parts: to the right of the Aude is the Cité, and to the left is the lower town. These two parts are connected by the Pont-Vieux, an impressive stone bridge built in the 14th century, 200 meters long and made up of 12 arches. The bridge is part of the Path of Santiago de Compostela. At this point begins the Path of the Pyrenean Piedmont. When you are on the bridge, remember your camera because from here, the view of the city is spectacular! It is also the perfect place to admire the splendid fireworks that take place on July 14 every year.
8. Carcassonne Lower City
This area of Carcassonne is also known as the “Bastide de Saint-Louis” and “Ville Basse”, which is the more modern and residential part of the city. While it’s not part of the UNESCO World Heritage site, it’s still worth a visit to discover the architecture and beautiful private mansions. Enjoy a drink or a meal at one of the cafes and restaurants surrounding the fountain on the Place Carnot.
9. Carcassonne Cathedral
Carcassonne Cathedral is officially known as the Cathédrale Saint Michel de Carcassonne. This church was built in the early 13th century and had to be restored in 1849 after a fire. It’s an impressive example of Languedoc’s Gothic architecture.
10. Musée des Beaux-Arts
Want to know more about the journey of French art from the 1600s to the 1900s? This fine art museum, which opened in the 18th century, is a great destination for art enthusiasts. You can explore different paintings, sculptures, drawings, and decorative arts that showcase the city Carcassonne.
A few things to do around the city of Carcassonne
11. Visit the vineyards
There are many vineyards to visit around Carcassonne, and some are only a few kilometers from the town!
Read our article about the wines and vineyards around Carcassonne and the Canal du Midi.
12. The Australian Park
Welcome to Australia! If you are looking for a unique activity to spend a fun day with the family, this zoological and recreational park is the place for you. Children will be able to take part in workshops where they will learn how to throw a boomerang, communicate with the Rhombe, and play the didgeridoo, among others. Koalas and kangaroos also form part of this fun immersion into Australian culture.
13. Lac de la Cavayère
Formed in 1980, the Lac de la Cavayère is a man-made lake located about 4km from the town of Carcassonne. Locally known as “Carcassonne plage”, the 40-hectare area is a must-do, offering great walks, zip lines, water slides, and beaches. A great destination if you fancy a swim!
14. Châteaux de Lastours
The Castles of Lastours, also known as the Lastours Cathar Castles, are a group of four medieval castles near the village of Lastours.
While these castles are slightly further out of Carcassonne, requiring a 23-minute drive from the port of Carcassonne or an hour by bike, they are well worth the trip to see more of the region’s Cathar heritage.
Built on mountains, the castles are: la Tour Régine, la Tour Surdespine, la Tour Quertinheux, and la Tour Régis and can be found in an area called the Black Mountains, from which you’ll have exceptional views of the surrounding region.
After a cultural and historical visit to the Cité de Carcassonne, it’s time to relax and unwind on board your canal boat.
If you’re in search of some tranquility after a fun day of sightseeing and discoveries, boating on the Canal du Midi is the perfect option.
FAQ
Top things to do in Carcassonne include exploring the UNESCO-listed Cité de Carcassonne, visiting Château Comtal, walking the city walls, and discovering nearby vineyards along the Canal du Midi.
Most visitors spend one to two days in Carcassonne, which is enough to explore the historic centre, visit key attractions, and enjoy the local food and wine.
Yes, Carcassonne is located on the Canal du Midi, making it an easy stop on a boating holiday. You can moor nearby and explore the city on foot.
Read more articles about the Canal du Midi
Exploring the Canal du Midi: a travel and boating holiday guide
Guide of the wines to discover along the Canal du Midi
