Carcassonne 5 Day Itinerary

5-Day Carcassonne Itinerary

This itinerary offers a mix of exploring the historical city and venturing into its beautiful surroundings. You can customize it based on your interests!

Day 1: Medieval Magic in the Cité

  • Morning: Arrive in Carcassonne and check into your charming hotel within the city walls (see “Where to Stay” for options).
  • Afternoon: Wander through the cobblestone streets of the Cité, marveling at its towering fortifications and medieval architecture. Explore the iconic Château Comtal, the Basilica of Saints Nazarius and Celsus, and walk along the ramparts for stunning views.
  • Where to Eat: For a traditional French dinner, enjoy the delicious cuisine at La Barbacane (within the Cité) or Au Pont de Montségur (just outside the walls). Both offer local specialties in a cozy atmosphere.

Day 2: Exploring the City Walls and Beyond

  • Morning: Walk the ramparts of the Cité, taking in its history and enjoying panoramic views from the Ramparts’ Towers.

  • Afternoon: Wander through the medieval streets, exploring the shops and museums within the walls (e.g., Musée de la Cité, Château de Lastours). Learn about the region’s history and culture.

  • Things to Do:

    • Walk the Ramparts: Stroll along the fortified walls for stunning views and a glimpse into the past.
    • Visit the Basilica of Saints Nazarius and Celsus: Marvel at the beautiful architecture and stained glass windows.
    • Explore the Bastide Saint-Louis: Wander through this charming medieval town outside the Cité’s walls.

  • Transportation:

    • Walking: The best way to experience the beauty of the Cité is on foot.
    • Bus: There are bus stops within and near the city. Use them for easy transportation to nearby towns or attractions.

  • Tips:

    • Book your accommodation in advance, especially if you’re traveling during peak season.
    • Purchase a “Carcassonne Pass” for discounted entry into various attractions.
    • Wear comfortable shoes, as you’ll be doing a lot of walking.
    • Consider taking a guided tour of the Château and the city walls to learn more about their history.

Day 3: Wine Tasting in the Vineyards

  • Morning: Explore the picturesque vineyards surrounding Carcassonne, with its stunning medieval architecture and rolling hills.

  • Afternoon: Visit Carcassonne’s Wine Museum (Musée du Vin) to delve into the region’s rich winemaking history.

  • Things to Do:

    • Explore a local winery: The Carcassonne region is famous for its vineyards.
    • Learn about the different grape varieties: Discover the unique characteristics of grapes grown in the area, such as the Grenache and Syrah at the heart of many Languedoc wines.
    • Enjoy the winemaking process:

  • Day 4: Discover the History and Charm of Carcassonne

    • Morning: Visit the Château de Lastours, a fortified village with breathtaking views and a fascinating past.

  • Afternoon: Explore the Bastide Saint-Louis, the “new town” of Carcassonne, with its charming cobbled streets, historic squares (Place Carnot, Place du Théâtre) and bustling shops.

    • Evening: Enjoy a traditional French dinner in the heart of the Bastide.

Day 4: Explore the “New Town” (Bastide Saint-Louis)

  • Morning:

Visit the Musée de la Cité de Carcassonne, which offers insights into the city’s history and cultural significance.

  • Afternoon: Explore the Château de Lastours:

    • Wine Tasting: The “City of Wine” museum showcases the region’s winemaking heritage, and you can enjoy a tasting session to sample some of the local wines, including those made from the unique grape varieties used in this region.

  • Day 5: Embrace the “Bastide Saint-Cyr” vibes:**

    • Explore the Cité’s Old Town:

Walk through the charming streets and explore the shops and restaurants within the Lower Town (Ville Basse)

Things to do:

  • Stroll along the Canal du Midi: Enjoy a scenic walk or bike ride along this UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its tranquil waters and beautiful scenery.

Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a charming café in Carcassonne, savoring the flavors of the local cuisine while experiencing the vibrant atmosphere of the city.

Places to Stay:

  • Hôtel de la Cité: This luxurious hotel offers stunning views of the Canal du Midi and is located right inside the walls.
  • Le Regent des Deux Rives: A more budget-friendly option with comfortable rooms and a convenient location near the river.
  • Citadines Apart’Hotel Carcassonne:

This aparthotel provides spacious accommodations and kitchenettes for self-catering, ideal for longer stays.

Things to See & Do:

  • Visit the Cité’s ramparts: Explore the 55 towers and explore the history of the medieval fortress.
  • Explore the medieval streets: Discover the charm of the charming local shops, restaurants, and cafés.

Things to Do (in the “Old City”):

  • Walk the Ramparts: The historic walls are a must-see for visitors.

Where to Stay:

  • Inside the Cité: Consider staying in one of the hotels within the city walls for an immersive experience.
  • Outside the Cité: For a quieter stay, explore charming villages like Trébes, Fontcouverte, and Villemur-sur-Tarn.

Things to Know:

  • Location: The “Old City” is located outside the walls of the medieval city.
  • History: Built in the 12th century, the Cité offers a fascinating glimpse into the past.
  • Accommodation: There are many hotels and guesthouses within and around the city, but booking ahead is highly recommended for both accommodation and tickets to avoid disappointment.

Things to Explore:

  • Château Comtal (The Count’s Castle): This impressive medieval castle is a major landmark.
  • The Medieval City Walls: Explore the historical walls of the Cité and its surroundings.
  • The Ramparts of Carcassonne: A UNESCO World Heritage site, these fortifications are a testament to the city’s rich history.

Food & Drink:

  • La Cité Restaurant: Enjoy traditional French cuisine with a modern twist.
  • Au Pont Restaurant: Experience their delicious tapas and Basque cider.
  • Local Markets: Sample fresh local produce and delicacies.
  • Restaurants within the Cité:

Try one of the restaurants in the old town for a unique dining experience.

  • Wine tasting experiences:

Indulge in the flavors of the region’s vineyards, with options for both wine and regional cuisine.

Tips for a Memorable Stay:

  • Explore the city on foot: Experience the charm and beauty of Carcassonne’s historical sites up close.
  • Wander through the charming streets:

Discover hidden gems and local favorites in the historic heart of the city.

Cité de Carcassonne: A Must-See for Tourists:

  • Stay inside the “Old Town” (Ville Basse), to truly immerse yourself in the ambiance of this medieval marvel.

Be sure to visit the Basilica of Saint-Nazaire and St. Celsus, a stunning example of medieval architecture.

Explore the Cité’s history:

  • Visit the Musée de la Cité: Learn about the rich history of Carcassonne, from its Roman origins to its role in the Hundred Years War.
  • Explore the medieval city walls.

Enjoy the views:

Climb the towers of the Cité, climb the stairs to the top of the “Château de Lastours” or explore the ramparts, walking along the ramparts and exploring the surrounding vineyards.