Carcassonne Things To Do

Cruising on the Canal Du Midi
Hire a boat for the day and leisurely cruise along the tranquil waters of the Canal du Midi - France's most picturesque inland waterway. This is the true way to experience rural Languedoc life as you pass charming medieval hamlets and quaint market towns. Admire a glorious rural idyll of rolling hills, vineyards and citrus groves for a day enjoying the simple pleasures of nature.

Explore the Medieval Old Town
Although it has origins dating back over 5000 years, Carcassonne is essentially a medieval city and arguably the best example of such in the whole of Europe. Stroll along the commanding perimeter fortifications which give excellent views of the surrounding countryside and explore down winding cobblestone alleyways full of ornate medieval chapels and merchant houses. The sheer scale and size of the fortified city will leave most visitors awe struck and a whole day is required to fully appreciate its beauty and intricate architecture. Thankfully there are many pavement cafes and restaurants set in shaded squares that offer delicious local food and refreshments for hungry sightseers.  

Museums
As a celebrated historic tourist destination it is no surprise to learn that Carcassonne is home to a dizzying range of museums and cultural centres covering every aspect of its long and colourful past. Enjoy fine art galleries, military history, relics of the Middle Ages, Roman antiquities and religious artefacts. Many of the buildings that house these treasures themselves are wonderful works of art that deserves time spent simply admiring the wonderfully inspiring architecture.

Tours of the Vineyards
Carcassonne is a great base for exploring the famous wine country estates of Languedoc and many world famous vineyards are within easy reach on a day trip that are sure to excite wine connoisseurs. A full day of wine appreciation will visit the celebrated Corbieres estate, Fitou and Minervois - all highly respected wine producers and offers a day of refined dining, appellation and sightseeing in some of South West France's most glorious countryside.

Kids Fun in Carcassonne
A city break in Carcassonne is not just about history and sightseeing - the city provides a range of traditional family entertainment that is perfect for kids and parents together and is the ideal way to keep the little ones amused. Dinosauria is a museum dedicated to palaeontology and features a range of dinosaur exhibits and hands on experiments with special workshops for 6-12 year olds. Fun can also be had on the river Aude in town with children’s kayaking lessons or tour the historic fortifications of Carcassonne onboard a special mini train service.

The Castle and Cathedral
Every short break in Carcassonne should visit the commanding Château Contal, the focal point of the city which dates back to the 12th century. It highlights unique Gothic Norman architecture and houses a fabulous display of artefacts and paintings dating back several centuries. The Basilique Saint-Nazaire is a similarly commanding structure that features ornate stained glass windows and wonderfully eclectic architecture of Romanesque and Gothic styles. Both are relatively well preserved and guided tours are available.