There’s a lot to see and do in Carcassonne, France, and this blog will list 11 of the best activities. The fortified city walls make for a great walk and the views from the Cité de Carcassonne castle are amazing.
You can also explore the medieval streets and buildings, go for a hike in the surrounding countryside, or sample some local wines at a vineyard near Carcassonne. No matter what you choose to do, you’re sure to have a great time!
1. Take a walk around the fortified city walls
The fortified city walls of Carcassonne, France are a sight to behold. Spanning over three kilometers in length, the walls date back to the 13th century and are lined with 52 towers. Today, the walls are open to the public and offer stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
Visitors can walk along the ramparts, admiring the intricate stonework and learning about the city’s history. The walls are also an important defensive structure, and visitors can see how they would have been used to repel invaders in centuries past. With its rich history and beautiful architecture, a walk around the fortified city walls of Carcassonne is an unforgettable experience.
2. Visit the Basilica of Saint Nazaire
The Basilica of Saint Nazaire is one of the most important historical sites in Carcassonne, France. Built-in the 4th century, the basilica was the site of a major council of bishops in 511 AD. The basilica was also the home of the famous archbishop, Saint Nazaire.
Today, the basilica is a popular tourist destination, and visitors can explore the ancient ruins or attend mass in the basilica’s Gothic church. The basilica is just one of many historical sites to see in Carcassonne, and it is an essential stop for anyone interested in French history.
3. Explore the medieval streets and buildings
Carcassonne is a medieval walled city in southern France. Its location between the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea made it an important trading post for centuries. The city’s history is reflected in its architecture, with a mix of Romanesque and Gothic styles.
Visitors can explore the winding streets and ancient buildings, including the 12th-century Château Comtal. The castle overlooks the city from its perch on a hill, and its museum tells the story of Carcassonne’s past. The nearby Basilica of Saint-Nazaire is another must-see, with its beautiful stained glass windows and Romanesque cloister. For a taste of the local culture, be sure to try the region’s signature dish, cassoulet.
This hearty stew is made with beans, meat, and vegetables, and is sure to warm you up on a cold day. Whether you’re interested in history or simply looking for a unique travel destination, Carcassonne is worth a visit.
4. Admire the views from the Cité de Carcassonne castle
The Cité de Carcassonne is a medieval fortress located in southern France. The castle dates back to the 12th century and was built to protect the city from invaders. Today, the Cité de Carcassonne is a popular tourist destination, and visitors can admire the views from the castle walls.
The citadel is situated atop a hill, offering panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. Visitors can also see the Pont du Gard, an ancient Roman aqueduct, from the top of the castle. In addition to its impressive views, the Cité de Carcassonne also features a museum, a restaurant, and a gift shop.
5. Have a picnic in one of the parks or gardens
Carcassonne is a medieval walled city in southern France. It is located about 100km from Toulouse and 80km from the Mediterranean Sea. The city is famous for its fairytale-like appearance, with its turrets and ramparts, as well as its picturesque parks and gardens.
One of the best ways to experience Carcassonne is to have a picnic in one of its green spaces. The Jardin de la Croix-Jacques, located just outside the city walls, is a good option. With its bubbling fountain and fragrant flowers, it is the perfect place to relax and enjoy a leisurely meal.
If you are looking for something more active, the Parc du Château de Versailles is perfect for a game of boules or Frisbee. So pack up a picnic basket and enjoy some time in the great outdoors in Carcassonne.
6. Visit the Musee d’Histoire Locale et des costumes du Languedoc exhibition hall
The Musee d’Histoire Locale et des costumes du Languedoc is an exhibition hall located in Carcassonne, France. The museum houses a collection of local historical artifacts and costumes from the Languedoc region. The museum’s collection includes items from the Roman period, as well as from the Middle Ages and the Renaissance.
The museum’s exhibits are arranged chronologically, and visitors can learn about the history of the Languedoc region through its artifacts and costumes. The Musee d’Histoire Locale et des costumes du Languedoc is a great place to learn about the history of the Languedoc region, and its exhibits are sure to interest visitors of all ages.
7. Watch a traditional puppet show at L’Agnès Sorel Theatre
L’Agnès Sorel Theatre in Carcassonne, France is well known for its traditional puppet shows. The theatre offers a variety of different shows, each featuring impressive puppets and sets. The shows are suitable for all ages, and they provide a great opportunity to learn about French culture.
Many of the shows are based on classic French tales, such as “The Three Little Pigs” and “Cinderella”. Others are original productions that feature characters from Carcassonne’s rich history. In addition to the regular puppet shows, the theatre also offers workshops where visitors can learn how to create their puppets.
These workshops are a great way to get involved in the traditional art of puppet-making. Whether you watch a show or take a workshop, a visit to L’Agnès Sorel Theatre is sure to be a memorable experience.
8. Sample some local wines at a vineyard near Carcassonne
The vineyards near Carcassonne produce some of the finest wines in France. The warm climate and rich soils of the region are ideal for growing grapes, and the local vintners have perfected the art of winemaking.
Visitors to the area can sample the wines at any of the many vineyards in the region. The vineyards offer a variety of tours and tastings, so there is sure to meet your needs. Whether you are a casual wine drinker or a connoisseur, you will find the perfect wine for you at one of the vineyards near Carcassonne.
9. Go for a hike in the surrounding countryside
Carcassonne is a beautiful, historic city in the south of France. Surrounded by the countryside, it’s the perfect place to go for a hike. There are numerous hiking trails of varying difficulty levels in the area, so there’s something for everyone.
The Canal du Midi Hiking Trail
The Canal du Midi Hiking Trail is a popular hiking trail that winds its way through the countryside near Carcassonne. The trail is well-marked and easy to follow, making it perfect for hikers of all levels of experience.
The trail passes by many historic villages and towns, as well as beautiful vineyards and olive groves. There are also several scenic viewpoints along the way, making the hike a real treat for the senses. So if you are looking for a great hike to do near Carcassonne, be sure to check out the Canal du Midi Hiking Trail.
Address: 5 rue de la Mairie, 31460 France
For pictures, booking, and more information, click here.
The Pyrenees Mountains Hiking Trail
The Pyrenees Mountains Hiking Trail is another great hiking trail in the area surrounding Carcassonne. This trail is a bit more challenging than the Canal du Midi Hiking Trail, but it offers hikers some truly amazing views.
The Pyrenees Mountains Hiking Trail passes through some of the most beautiful scenery in the Pyrenees Mountains, including forests, rivers, and mountain peaks. There are also several small villages along the way, which offer a glimpse into traditional Pyrenean life. If you are looking for a challenging hike with stunning views, be sure to check out the Pyrenees Mountains Hiking Trail.
Address: Address: Pôle d’activités – Ferme d’Icart, 09240 Montels, France
For pictures, booking, and more information, click here.
The Aude River Valley Hiking Trail
The Aude River Valley Hiking Trail is a great hiking trail for those looking for a more moderate challenge. The trail winds its way through the beautiful Aude River Valley, and it passes by some of the most picturesque scenery in the area.
The Aude River Valley Hiking Trail is also well-marked and easy to follow, making it perfect for hikers of all levels of experience. So if you are looking for a great hike to do near Carcassonne, be sure to check out the Aude River Valley Hiking Trail.
Address: Lac de la cavayère, 11000 Carcassonne, France
For pictures, booking, and more information, click here.
From scenic views of the city and countryside to hidden lakes and forests, there’s much to explore. Hiking is a great way to get some exercise and fresh air, and it’s also a great way to see some of the most beautiful parts of Carcassonne. So put on your hiking shoes and explore all that this picturesque city has to offer.
10. Indulge in some relaxation time at a spa resort near Carcassonne
Nestled in the heart of the stunning French countryside, Carcassonne is a picturesque town that is home to a number of spa resorts. If you are in need of some relaxation time, there is no better place to go than one of these resorts.
Here are three spa resorts in Carcassonne that you can visit:
Les Bains de Carcassonne
Les Bains de Carcassonne is one of the most popular spa resorts in the area. The resort offers a variety of treatments, including massages, facials, and body wraps. In addition to its treatment rooms, the resort also has a heated pool, a sauna, and a steam room.
The therapists at Les Bains de Carcassonne are all highly trained and experienced. They will help you to relax and rejuvenate your body and mind. So if you are looking for some quality relaxation time, Les Bains de Carcassonne is the perfect place to go.
Address: Chemin de Sainte-Marie, 11160 Peyriac-Minervois, Carcassonne France
For pictures, booking, and more information, click here.
L’Occitane en Provence Spa
L’Occitane en Provence Spa is another great option for a spa resort near Carcassonne. The spa offers a variety of treatments, including massages, facials, and body wraps. It also has a heated pool, a sauna, and a steam room.
The therapists at L’Occitane en Provence are all highly trained and experienced. They will help you to relax and rejuvenate your body and mind. So if you are looking for some quality relaxation time, L’Occitane en Provence is the perfect place to go.
Address: 27 Rue Trivalle, 11000 Carcassonne, France
For pictures, booking, and more information, click here.
La Villa des Baux
La Villa des Baux is a luxurious spa resort that offers a variety of treatments, including massages, facials, and body wraps. It also has a heated pool, a sauna, and a steam room.
The therapists at La Villa des Baux are all highly trained and experienced. They will help you to relax and rejuvenate your body and mind. So if you are looking for some quality relaxation time, La Villa des Baux is the perfect place to go.
Address: 10 rue Michel Sabatier, 11000 Carcassonne Center, Carcassonne France
For pictures, booking, and more information, click here.
Whether you enjoy soaking in a hot tub or getting a massage, you will find everything you need to unwind and decompress. The staff at the spa resorts in Carcassonne are highly trained and will go out of their way to ensure that you have a relaxing and enjoyable experience.
With its idyllic setting and top-notch amenities, a spa resort in Carcassonne is the perfect place to rejuvenate your body and soul.
11. Enjoy some delicious food in one of the town’s restaurants
Carcassonne is a town in southern France that is known for its medieval walls and castle. The town is also home to a number of restaurants that serve delicious food. Whether you’re looking for a light meal or a feast, you’ll find something to suit your taste in Carcassonne.
Here are three must-try restaurants in Carcassonne, France:
Restaurant L’Epicurien
This restaurant serves traditional French cuisine with a modern twist. The menu features dishes such as foie gras, duck confit, and rack of lamb.
Address: 30 Rue Jean Baptiste Charcot, Carcassonne, Occitanie, France
For pictures, booking, and more information, click here.
Le Vieux Carre
This restaurant is located in the heart of the medieval city and offers an intimate dining experience. The menu features classic French dishes such as escargot and Coq au vin.
Address: Le vieux carré, Pl. Sainte-Quitterie, 09400 Tarascon-sur-Ariège, France
For pictures, booking, and more information, click here.
La Table de Jeanne
This restaurant is located in a converted convent and offers stunning views of the city. The menu changes seasonally, but you can expect to find dishes such as squid ink risotto and roasted quail.
There are plenty of options for vegetarians, as well as meat-eaters. The town’s restaurants use fresh, local ingredients to create mouth-watering dishes. So why not treat yourself to some delicious food on your next visit to Carcassonne? You won’t be disappointed!
Address: 55 Rue Aimé Ramond, 11000 Carcassonne, France
For pictures, booking, and more information, click here.
In conclusion
Carcassonne is a town in southern France that is known for its medieval walls and castle. The town is also home to a number of restaurants that serve delicious food. Whether you’re looking for a light meal or a feast, you’ll find something to suit your taste in Carcassonne.
So if you’re looking for a relaxing getaway, Carcassonne is the perfect destination. The town is home to a number of luxurious spa resorts, as well as a variety of restaurants that serve delicious food. So why not treat yourself to a relaxing vacation in Carcassonne? You won’t be disappointed!
