What to do in Carcassonne 15 must-sees in 2025

Published on 04/11/2025 • by Alexandra DAVID

What to do in Carcassonne 15 must-sees and must-visits© steftach - Adobe Stock

Situated between the sea and the mountains, the Aude department is at the heart of the Occitanie region. Its must-see nugget is undoubtedly the medieval city of Carcassonne. The city itself, the treasures it contains within its fortifications, and the lower town make for fascinating cultural visits. Don't delay in taking the Petit Futé to discover the 15 must-see things to do in Carcassonne!

1. The Cité de Carcassonne, a historic treasure of the Aude region

Cité de Carcassonne© KarSol - Adobe Stock

The Cité de Carcassonne is a jewel nestling in the heart of the Aude department, and is now world-famous. It is easily one of the 10 most beautiful medieval cities in Europe, and a must-see at least once in your life. The town has had a turbulent past, particularly during the battles between the French royal forces and the Cathars. The magnificently well-preserved Cité de Carcassonne is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Once you've passed through the city gates, you'll be plunged into the heart of the city's medieval past. Your journey back in time will take you from the ramparts to the castle, passing by various points of interest that we will detail here.

Come and meet Guilhem, the master builder of the 13th century, embodied by a professional and passionate guide who will show you around the city of Carcassonne in an informative and entertaining way by booking right here.

2. A guided tour of the city and its ramparts

Ramparts of Carcassonne© Freesurf - Adobe Stock

To discover this medieval wonder, there's nothing like a guided tour of the city. You can take an audio-guided tour of the ramparts, or a tour led by a real guide through the entire old town. The Cité de Carcassonne can also be explored by night, using lanterns. This picturesque tour offers an unprecedented view of the city, which then shines like a twinkling star in the half-light of the Aude region. The town has also thought of its youngest visitors, offeringa fun, child-friendly tour for families. It's a great way for them to discover our past, while having fun at the same time! Click here to book your self-guided ticket.

3. Visit the Château Comtal, in the heart of the Cité

The Château Comtal, in the heart of the Cité© Pablo Debat - Adobe Stock

Standing proudly in the heart of the Cité, the château comtal dates back to Gallo-Roman times and is not to be missed. Long the home of the Trencavel family, it is now the key monument to visit between the city walls. From feudal to royal power, relive the medieval past of this historic jewel. The castle and ramparts are open from 9.30am to 5pm all year round, and from 10am to 6.30pm between April and September. Remember to book your guided tour in advance, so you don't get caught out at the height of the tourist season.

The icing on the cake: from the top of the fortress, you have a magnificent view of the surrounding area. From the Montagne Noire to the Pyrenees, via the Bastide Saint-Louis, enjoy an enchanting panorama that will provide you with superb photos of your stay.

4. Have fun at the Carcassonne Festival

Fireworks© R. Gino Santa Maria - Adobe Stock

In just a few years, the Carcassonne festival has become a must-see event in the Languedoc-Roussillon region and throughout France. No fewer than 120 shows are staged throughout July, 80 of them free of charge. The programme includes concerts by international artists, theatre, dance, classical music and opera. Immerse yourself in the festival's vibrant atmosphere, and discover world-famous and local artists alike. Its ambitious, constantly evolving programme has won over an ever-growing audience year after year.

Petit Futé tip: plan your trip around 14 July. Admittedly, the crowds can be heavy, but you'll have the pleasure of witnessing Carcassonne's famous fireworks display, which overlooks the medieval city every year. It's a true splendour, and the wonder of it all will stay with you for a long time.

5. The Basilica of Saint-Nazaire, an architectural treasure

The Basilica of Saint-Nazaire, an architectural treasure© dudlajzov - Adobe Stock

Originally a cathedral, this building dating from 1100 became a basilica in 1898. It's no coincidence that theBasilica of Saint-Nazaire is nicknamed "the jewel of the city". A blend of Gothic and Romanesque styles, its superb architecture is complemented by magnificent stained glass windows. Blessed in its day by Pope Urban II, it is now one of the city's most emblematic sights. Abandon yourself to the wonder of this building, its dome and its sumptuously decorated nave, with every step you take. A real treasure from the past, a must-see!

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6. The Australian Park in Carcassonne, an ideal visit with children

Kangaroos© JumsiCat - Adobe Stock

Historical tours can quickly bore children. So it's important to include a few age-appropriate activities in your holiday plans. Head to the Australian Park in Carcassonne for an enchanted break. You can meetAustralian animals on your own or on a guided tour. The guided tour is free and gives the whole family the chance to find out more about kangaroos, ostriches, dromedaries and wallabis. Accompanied by your guide, you can also feed these unusual animals in their enclosure. This little trip to the other side of the world will enchant young and old alike for a few magical hours!

7. Head for the fortress bridge

The Pont-Vieux in Carcassonne© Olga - Adobe Stock

From the Pont Vieux, in the lower town, you can admire the Cité de Carcassonne before entering the gates. It was once the town's main means of defence. Today, it spans the river to take you to the foot of the famous medieval city. Heading in the opposite direction, you come across the Bastide Saint-Louis, Carcassonne's city centre. The town centre is dotted with mansions and other colourful buildings, which are a delight to admire on a short shopping trip. This is where you'll find shops and restaurants, in a lively district built on a quadrangular plan.

8. Taste Carcassonne's culinary specialities

Truffles, one of Carcassonne's culinary specialities© mahony - Adobe Stock

The south-west of France is famous for its gastronomic specialities, and Carcassonne is no exception! The great local speciality is truffles, cooked in all sorts of ways. Don't hesitate to visit the local markets and restaurants to sample this exceptional delicacy, which is perfectly mastered in the Aude region. The town has also created its own version of cassoulet. Here, red partridge or mutton is added: a succulent dish that's a must-try. The town's small bakeries and market stalls invite you to savour another speciality: fougasse aux fritons, made with bacon and bread dough. A real treat! Finally, because we're gourmets, let's finish the meal with a coffee accompanied byÉcus de la Cité. Made from dark or milk chocolate, they are embossed with a representation of the medieval city. These little treats are a great souvenir to bring back from your holiday. There are some great restaurants in Carcassonne where you can try all these dishes, and many more besides:

- 37,

- le Flagrant des Lices

- the Bistro Régent in the Pont Rouge district,

- Mr H and Casa Sanchez,

- the Chez Ju brasserie.

The list is not exhaustive, of course, as there are plenty of good places to eat in both the lower town and the old town.

Discover the vineyards and enjoya wine tasting around the Cité de Carcassonne on a solex accompanied by a guide by booking your excursion here.

9. Lac de la Cavayère, Carcassonne Agglo's natural jewel

Lac de la Cavayère© arenysam - Adobe Stock

Carcassonne is one of the sunniest cities in France, so it can be nice to take a refreshing dip from time to time. So head for Lac de la Cavayère, a natural gem that's sure to please the kids! There are so many activities on offer that you could easily spend a day (or even several days) there. Of course, you can also swim on the lovely beaches. There's something for everyone, too: the Aquaviva park, with its super inflatables, wakebording, wakeskating, kneeboarding and water-skiing.

You can also explore the lake on foot, on horseback or by bike. Last but not least, there's atreetop adventure course offering a fun and sporting way to immerse yourself in the surrounding countryside.

10. Visit the Mémoire combattante cultural centre

Child in a museum© Arkady Chubykin - Adobe Stock

Immerse yourself in the military history of France at the Centre culturel de la Mémoire combattante, where admission is free. The First and Second World Wars are represented, as well as other conflicts (Indochina, Algeria, etc.). Period magazines and various books are available for visitors wishing to learn more about their country's history. The cultural centre, which relies on donations and membership fees, highlights the dark days of our history through a lecture room and an exhibition room, where most of the objects are donated.

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11. The Musée de l'École, an immersion in the past

Chalk© pgm - Adobe Stock

The Musée de l'École de Carcassonne takes you back in time to the schools of the 1880s and 1960s. Located in the heart of the medieval city, in the former boys' school, this museum is dedicated to the education of yesteryear and plunges you into a very different world from the one we know today. Its 5 exhibition rooms remind us of the way schoolchildren worked in days gone by. Blotters, ink, pens, blackboards, textbooks and other period objects transport you back in time.

12. The Inquisition Museum in Carcassonne

View of the Cathar castle of Montségur© Yannick - Adobe Stock

The sign at the entrance to the museum says it all:"Musée de l'Inquisition, instruments of torture, dungeons and punishments". Sensitive souls are advised to abstain! The history of the Cathar castles and the historical events that took place at that time are explained in this museum like no other. Among other things, you'll discover the instruments of torture used at the time of the Inquisition. This unusual visit, which skilfully combines historical facts and macabre elements, is sure to pique the interest of teenagers and parents alike!

13. Saint-Michel Cathedral, a vestige of the past

Fans of religious buildings love churches and cathedrals with a rich past. That's what you'll find at Saint-Michel Cathedral, dating back to the ^13th century. It was first invaded by Edward of Woodstock, known as the "Black Prince". Five hundred years later, a violent fire partially destroyed it. Thanks to the efforts of a few good souls, including Viollet-le-Duc, the building and its stained glass windows have finally been restored to their former glory.

14. Stroll around Place Carnot, in the lower town of Carcassonne

The nerve centre of the lower town of Carcassonne, also known as the Bastide Saint-Louis, the Place Carnot is the gateway to the city's many interesting streets. The magnificent fountain at its centre makes it the most beautiful square in the town. Still lined with sublime houses with authentic charm, it is decked out in shimmering colours. Take your time admiring it all from the terrace of a café, before setting off to explore the city centre.

15. The Calvaire garden, an interesting stroll

Take a stroll through one of Carcassonne's rare gardens, located to the south-west of the town. Dedicated to Christian worship (as evidenced by its large cross), the Calvaire garden takes you on a unique journey through its religious history. Nature and ancient cult statues sit harmoniously side by side, making for a pleasant and interesting stroll. Over the centuries, the site changed name: Tour Grosse, Bastion des Moulins, before taking on its current name. The complex make-up of the site gives visitors an insight into how each period of history has changed the site.

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Where to stay in Carcassonne?

There are many different ways to stay in Carcassonne, depending on what you want. Would you like a view of the Cité? Would you prefer to put your bags down in the heart of the medieval town? Are you looking for more peace and quiet? There's a solution for every need.

The Hôtel du Château, in the best location

This luxury hotel, which you can book here , boasts one of the finest views of the Cité de Carcassonne. The top-quality services and little touches help to create a dream stay. After a busy day of sightseeing, treat yourself to a day at the Hôtel du Château spa. A pure delight!

Hotel Astoria, the least expensive

Ideally located near the station and the Canal du Midi, the Hôtel Astoria is the ideal compromise for a stay in Carcassonne. Low prices are combined with quality services at this small, family-run establishment, which you can book here. There's no fuss here, just an ideal place to pack your bags without breaking your holiday budget.

The perfect option for families: the Hôtel Du Pont Vieux

Bookable here, this hotel is the ideal place to spend a peaceful night at the foot of the medieval city in the historic Trivalle district. The generous and delicious breakfast is served in the small dining room or in the superb tree-lined garden. You'll love Catherine's jams, homemade cake, cheese and quality charcuterie. A favourite address in Carcassonne.

What to do around Carcassonne

Looking forthings to do around Carcassonne during your holiday? The Cabrespine chasm is a must! Located just half an hour from the medieval city, it offers a cool visit to the bowels of the earth as you've never seen it before. Truffle lovers won't want to miss a visit to the Maison de la Truffe in Villeneuve-Minervois.

A number of beautiful châteaux are also worth a visit, including Saissac and the Lastour châteaux. Among the villages not to be missed are Trèbes, Caunes-Minervois and Homps. Montolieu, a village devoted to books and art, is also worth a visit.

To sum up the Aude region in terms of its wonderful medieval town would not be to do it 100% justice. Although this historic jewel is a must-see, and rightly so, the département still has plenty of other surprises to offer. Between museums, culture, nature and gastronomy, you can easily spend a weekend or a whole week on holiday in Carcassonne without getting bored. Ideally located, the town also offers privileged access to the beaches of Narbonne and Port-Leucate. Nature lovers will love climbing the Montagne Noire, which stretches across the Tarn, Hérault, Aude and Haute-Garonne. A mosaic of enchanting landscapes awaits you!

Find out more about the most popular things to do in Carcassonne:

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