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Key Info for Visitors
- Currency: EUR
- Languages: French, English
- Climate: Mediterranean
- Timezone: Europe/Paris
- Population: Approximately 47,000
- Best Time to Visit: best time to visit is from May to September for pleasant weather and open attractions.
- Visa Requirements Visitors from the European Union, United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and many other countries can enter France visa-free for short stays up to 90 days. For longer stays or other nationalities, a Schengen visa or appropriate visa is required. Visa on arrival is not available. Electronic visas (e-visas) can be applied for certain categories. US, EU, and UK citizens typically need only a valid passport for tourist visits under 90 days.
About Carcassonne
Carcassonne is a captivating medieval fortified city located in southern France, renowned for its double-walled ramparts and well-preserved castle. Its unique charm lies in the dramatic medieval architecture that transports visitors back in time, making it one of Europe’s most iconic fortified towns. The city’s historic citadel, La Cité, is a UNESCO World Heritage site and offers a glimpse into medieval life with its narrow cobbled streets, towers, and drawbridges. Beyond its historical significance, Carcassonne is vibrant with cultural events, festivals, and local markets that celebrate Occitan heritage. The surrounding region offers beautiful landscapes, including vineyards and the Canal du Midi, perfect for leisurely exploration. Visitors are drawn to Carcassonne for its blend of history, culture, and scenic beauty, making it a must-visit destination for history buffs, families, and travelers seeking an authentic French medieval experience.
Carcassonne Tours & Experiences
- Top Attractions: Highlights of Languedoc-Roussillon
- Duration Range: Custom Durations
- Group Size: Private or shared tours
- Difficulty Level: Easy to Moderate
- Recommended For: The best time to visit is from May to September for pleasant weather and open attractions. Pack comfortable walking shoes for cobbled streets and layers for cooler evenings. Respect local customs by greeting with a polite “bonjour” and dining etiquette. Carcassonne is generally safe, but keep an eye on personal belongings in crowded areas. Credit cards are widely accepted, but carrying some cash is advisable for small purchases and markets.
Average Tour Price: $95
Lowest Price Tour: $50
Highest Price Tour: $200
43 Available Tour Excursions in Carcassonne
We provide unique and very personal half day tours of some of the best wine producers in the Languedoc. Tours are for 2 to 6 people maximum and are tailor-made to your requirements. Tours are lead by our own professional and experienced wine expert who will educate and inform you about wine like few other tour guides can do. Unlike other tours we take you into the heart of the vineyards where you can see and touch the actual vines which make the wines you are tasting at that moment. Our special connections get you access to people and vineyards that few outsiders ever see or meet. We also take you to see some of the best kept sites and secrets of the Languedoc. You will come away with your senses brimming with new experiences, smells and flavours.
Price: $233.92
Duration: 6 hours
During our guided tour, we will discover the mythical narrow cobble streets of this old fortress. The monumentality of the citadel will impress you and I will tell you all the details of its fascinating history. Mysterious Cathars and military architecture will also be mentioned. I will not fail to present you some little anecdotes about the medieval period and we will end with the discovery of the magnificent Basilica of St. Nazaire and St. Celse. I am waiting for you for a entertaining but informative guided tour in Carcassonne!
Price: $191.93
Duration: 1 hours
Get introduced to Carcassonne in the most authentic way: through its highlights, history, local flavors, and with a trusted local guide by your side. It’s the perfect experience for those who want to connect with the city, not just visit it. Along the way, you’ll explore iconic landmarks such as Carcassonne Castle and Basilica of Saint Nazarius, as well as local favorites and hidden corners loved by locals. Engaging anecdotes and personal insights from your local guide will connect Carcassonne’s history, culture, and tradition, bringing the city to life in an authentic and memorable way. By the end of the tour, you’ll have a great introduction to Carcassonne, its local culture, and how to explore it on your own. You’ll walk away with personal recommendations and local tips on where to eat and what to see next, helping you make the most of your time in the city.
Price: $178.74
Duration: 2 hours
It is the Perfect tour for nature and heritage lovers… there is some breathtaking landscape and I will tell you more about the Cathars… This tour will also enable you to discover 2 beautiful and picturesque medieval villages. This tour require a good physical condition, and good walking shoes to be able to hike to Montségur castle. Accessible to any person with a good physical condition able to hike. I can lend 4 walking sticks.
Price: $600.09
Duration: 9-10 hours
Discover the beauty DE the landscapes of the South of France in a vintage Solex, a true icon of French heritage. This original escapa DE invites you to slow down the pace and savour the moment, between nature, heritage and French lifestyle. Depending on the option chosen, you can enjoy an EN plein air brunch, visit a winery with tasting, or admire the sunset DE la Cité from a privileged point of view. Each itinerary has been pse en sé to reveal the authentic and soothing character of the surroundings, with ease. Guided by a local enthusiast, you will crisscross the small roads and bucolic paths with the handlebars of a carefully restored Solex, for an experience that is both gentle, friendly and unusual. Everything is included for you to get the most out of it: Solex ready to use, DE safety equipment, coaching, and additional services according to the formula.
Price: $106.76
Duration: 2-3 hours
It is the passion DE the history DE knights and Cathar castles that will take you totally into this very strong history of the Albigen crusade. The National Speaker Guide, DE 20 years and native of the territory, will transport you very quickly in the events and will allow you DE know the strong and exceptional personality DE seigneurs who fought with few resources and many values. You will learn in no uncertain terms who the cathars were. You will want DE visit the other sites DE l'Aude. Possibility of à la carte options 1.You are travelling and want to discover the Château DE Queribus located in the Corbières EN with your local National Guide. Contact us on 06 81 42 79 63 before DE booking 2. You want to book your Guide for the whole day and make several à la carte visits. Call us on 06 81 42 79 63 before DE booking
Price: $197.93
Duration: 2 hours
This tour is the Perfect combination between city break and nature! Enjoy the fervent covered market in Narbonne and the peace and quiet of Gruissan and Lagrasse. Easy walks.
Price: $531.42
Duration: 8-9 hours
This is the perfect tour to go for a city break, Toulouse is a wonderfull and vibrant city, and Castelnaudary as a small town is very charming with the Canal du Midi crossing it. Easy walks.
Price: $531.42
Duration: 9 hours
Private tour in a comfortable vehicle with an official guide. A true professional with more than 10 years of experience and passionate escort you. You will live the story instead of just being around it. It is an opportunity to discover exceptional landscapes and an incredible history.
Price: $539.81
Duration: 6-7 hours
Enjoy this self-guided tour of the Basilica of Saints Nazairius and Celsus in Cité de Carcassonne, exploring the untold tales of Western Christianity. Led by James McDonald, this indoor walking tour unveils mysteries within the Basilique Saint Nazaire et Saint Celse, unravelling history from Joan of Arc to the Crusade against the Cathars. Beyond traditional narratives, discover the nuances of Romanesque and Gothic architecture, the influence of Occitan culture, and the profound impact on medieval Catholicism. This tour is an engaging blend of entertainment and academic rigour, enriching your understanding of Christian doctrine within the Basilica's historical embrace.
Price: $19.99
Duration: 2-2 hours
Step back in time with our enchanting tour of Carcassonne. Explore the historic Cité, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its breathtaking architecture and rich heritage. Our expert guides will lead you through the labyrinthine streets of the Cité, where every corner holds a tale from centuries past. Marvel at the towering ramparts, fortified walls, and iconic turrets that have stood the test of time, offering unparalleled views of the scenic Aude River valley. Immerse yourself in the ambiance of medieval life as we stroll through the cobblestone streets, passing by charming boutiques, artisan shops, and quaint cafes. Learn about the fascinating history of Carcassonne, from its Roman origins to its medieval glory days as a strategic stronghold. Experience the magic of Carcassonne with us as we uncover its secrets and discover why it remains one of France's most captivating destinations. Join our tour and create memories that will last a lifetime.
Price: $333.49
Duration: 3 hours
This tour showcases the best of the medieval city with a certified guide. History is revealed along the way and gives you the main historical landmarks to understand this emblematic monument. The walls will reveal secrets of medieval military art. From the exterior we will discover the castle and its court life. Then we will go and observe the incredible stained glass windows of the Saint Nazaire basilica.
Price: $83.97
Duration: 1 hours
It is the Perfect tour for nature, heritage and wine lovers… there is some breathtaking landscape and I will tell you more about the Cathars… This tour has some easy walk except at Minerve where for those who wants to visit everything, you need good walking shoes and the path is steep, accessible to people who are used to walk. We can lend 4 walking sticks.
Price: $531.42
Duration: 8-9 hours
Expanded tasting, a sensory journey into the heart of the terroir. Come live an immersive oenological experience at the foot of the majestic City of Carcassonne with our Extended Tasting Formula. Immerse yourself in the world of wine and be guided by our team during a guided tasting of six wines, carefully selected to make you discover the richness and diversity of grape varieties in our region. Whether you are a novice or passionate, this experience is an invitation to share and discover in a friendly and warm atmosphere. Sit back comfortably and enjoy a timeless time with friends or family. Book now and discover the wine treasures of Languedoc. Tasting open to people aged 18 and over.
Price: $23.99
Duration: 0 hours
We will visit buildings, memorials, statues, and places that have a link back to World War 2 and I will share my love of the subject, bringing the history to life by telling you the personal stories about the people involved using many photographs from the archives. The tour is fun, engaging, well-researched, and insightful, but never dry. I look forward to journeying back in time with you! We do not visit La Cité (The medieval castle) We meet at the restaurant the Brasserie de 4 Temps.
Price: $23.99
Duration: 2 hours
This guided tour is private you will not be mixed with other travelers. The tour adapts to your pace. You will experience an immersion in the history of a unique place occupied by man for 2500 years. It is an opportunity to discover the mysterious Cathars and religious convictions that led them to the stake. Relive epic battles of tragedies and moments of glory. Hear a few verses from the medieval troubadours who walked the streets of the city. Understand cathedrals and their architecture. Marvel at the beauty of stained glass. Following an official guide means being guaranteed that he can take you anywhere safely. He will share with you his passion and the secrets of the Medieval City.
Price: $191.93
Duration: 1-1 hours
Enjoy a unique private tour. Accompany a 13th century knight and immerse yourself in the history of the Middle Ages, full of anecdotes and epic stories await you.
Price: $203.93
Duration: 0-1 hours
This is a private walking tour. We will arrange a private pick up for you. The meeting point will be a centrally located meeting point that can be reached by foot. During this walking tour, you will have a chance to get to know the most important and historical sites of Carcassonne. Here are a few examples of what you will be enjoying during your tour: La Cité de Carcassonne Château Comtal and Ramparts Basilique of Saints Nazarius and Celsus much more! Your private official tour guide will be at your disposition during the duration of tour. You will have a chance to get to know the most unique locations and sites of Carcassonne and its old town.
Price: $347.88
Duration: 2 hours
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Important Tour Information
- Bring comfortable walking shoes and appropriate clothing
- Check tour cancellation and refund policies
- Arrive at the meeting point at least 15 minutes early
- Carry valid identification and tour booking confirmation
Top Attractions
1. La Cité de Carcassonne – The medieval fortress with double walls, towers, and a castle, offering panoramic views and historical exhibits. 2. Château Comtal – The Count’s Castle inside the citadel, featuring a museum and guided tours explaining the fortress’s history. 3. Basilica of Saints Nazarius and Celsus – A stunning Gothic and Romanesque church with beautiful stained glass windows. 4. Canal du Midi – A UNESCO-listed canal perfect for boat rides, cycling, and scenic walks near Carcassonne. 5. Porte Narbonnaise – The main fortified gate of the city, an impressive medieval entrance to La Cité.
Popular Activities
Visitors can enjoy guided tours of the medieval fortress, participate in medieval reenactments and festivals, take boat cruises on the Canal du Midi, cycle or hike in the surrounding countryside, and explore local markets and artisan shops. Cultural experiences include tasting regional wines and attending music or theatrical events held within the fortress walls.
Frequently Asked Questions
Local Food & Cuisine
Carcassonne’s cuisine reflects the rich flavors of the Languedoc region. Signature dishes include cassoulet, a hearty slow-cooked casserole of beans, pork, and sausage, and duck confit. Local specialties also feature fresh seafood, cheeses, and wines from nearby vineyards. Dining customs emphasize leisurely meals with fresh, seasonal ingredients. Noteworthy restaurants include La Barbacane, known for its refined regional dishes, and Le Comte Roger, offering traditional French cuisine in a historic setting.
Getting Around
Carcassonne is accessible by train from major cities like Toulouse and Narbonne, and by car via the A61 motorway. The city has a small airport with limited flights. Local transportation includes buses and taxis, but the historic center is best explored on foot. Bicycle rentals are available for exploring the Canal du Midi and surrounding areas. Transportation costs are generally moderate, with affordable regional train fares and reasonable taxi rates.
Travel Tips
The best time to visit is from May to September for pleasant weather and open attractions. Pack comfortable walking shoes for cobbled streets and layers for cooler evenings. Respect local customs by greeting with a polite “bonjour” and dining etiquette. Carcassonne is generally safe, but keep an eye on personal belongings in crowded areas. Credit cards are widely accepted, but carrying some cash is advisable for small purchases and markets.
Culture & Customs
Carcassonne’s culture is deeply rooted in its medieval heritage and Occitan traditions. Social customs include polite greetings and a relaxed pace of life. The city hosts annual festivals such as the Festival de Carcassonne, featuring music, theater, and medieval reenactments. Visitors should respect quiet hours in residential areas and dress modestly when visiting religious sites. Tipping is appreciated but not obligatory.
