Carcassonne-7-day-itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Carcassonne

  • Arrive at Carcassonne Airport or train station
  • Accommodation: Check-in at Hotel de la Cité (4-star) or Le Sang d’Oo (3-star)
  • Lunch: Head to La Marseillaise, a cozy restaurant serving local cuisine
  • Afternoon: Visit the medieval city’s famous ramparts and walls, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
  • Evening: Explore the narrow streets of the Cité Médiévale, visit the Basilique Saint-Nazaire (free entry), and enjoy dinner at Le Relais, a Michelin-starred restaurant

Day 2: History and Culture

  • Breakfast: Enjoy a traditional breakfast at Boulangerie L’Olivier (bakery)
  • 9:00 AM: Visit the Musée de l’Inquisition (Inquisition Museum) to learn about the history of Carcassonne during the Middle Ages
  • 12:00 PM: Have lunch at La Table d’Edgar, a charming restaurant serving modern French cuisine
  • 2:00 PM: Explore the nearby village of Minerve, with its stunning natural scenery and historic sites (free entry)
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at Le Clos d’Oc, a cozy restaurant serving local specialties

Day 3: Wine Country

  • 9:00 AM: Visit the Château de Pennautier, a beautiful castle with wine tastings and tours
  • 12:00 PM: Enjoy lunch at Le Relais, a Michelin-starred restaurant serving local cuisine
  • 2:00 PM: Visit the vineyards of Les Hauts de Gironde, with wine tastings and tours (pre-booking recommended)
  • Evening: Relax at La Terrasse, a cozy café with stunning views

Day 4: Nature and Adventure

  • 9:00 AM: Visit the nearby Les Monts de Gourgue Natural Park, with its hiking trails and stunning scenery (free entry)
  • 12:00 PM: Enjoy lunch at Le Grenier à Sel, a charming restaurant serving local cuisine
  • 2:00 PM: Rent a bike or take a guided tour to explore the surrounding countryside and villages (pre-booking recommended)
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at Le Clos d’Oc

Day 5: Market Day

  • 9:00 AM: Visit the bustling markets in Carcassonne, with local produce, crafts, and souvenirs (Monday and Thursday)
  • 12:00 PM: Have lunch at La Table d’Edgar, a charming restaurant serving modern French cuisine
  • 2:00 PM: Explore the nearby village of La Cité de Carcassonne, with its historic sites and narrow streets (free entry)
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at Le Relais

Day 6: Relaxation

  • Breakfast: Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at Boulangerie L’Olivier (bakery)
  • 10:00 AM: Treat yourself to a spa treatment or massage at Le Spa du Relais
  • 1:00 PM: Enjoy lunch at La Terrasse, a cozy café with stunning views
  • Evening: Relax and unwind in the evening, perhaps with a stroll around the Cité Médiévale

Day 7: Departure

  • Breakfast: Enjoy a final breakfast at Boulangerie L’Olivier (bakery)
  • Check-out: Check out of your accommodation and depart from Carcassonne Airport or train station

Transportation:

  • The most convenient way to get around is on foot, but there are also buses and taxis available
  • Rent a car if you want to explore the surrounding countryside and villages (pre-booking recommended)
  • Use public transportation or take a taxi to visit nearby attractions

Tips and Other Things to Know:

  • Weather: Carcassonne has a Mediterranean climate, with hot summers and mild winters. Be prepared for crowds in July and August
  • Language: French is the official language, but many locals speak some English. Bring a phrasebook or use a translation app if needed
  • Currency: Euro is the local currency
  • Safety: Carcassonne is generally a safe city, but take normal precautions to protect yourself and your belongings

Additional Recommendations:

  • Visit the nearby village of Saint-Pierre-des-Corrèges, with its stunning views and historic sites (free entry)
  • Explore the surrounding countryside and villages on foot or by bike
  • Try local specialties like cassoulet, saucisson, and wine tastings at various restaurants and wineries

Note: This itinerary is just a suggestion, and you can adjust it to fit your interests and preferences.