A Self-Guided Tour of Carcassonne’s Ancient Basilica
Active
2h - 2h
All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
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.
Available options
A Self-Guided Tour of Carcassonne’s Ancient Basilica
What's included
Lifetime access to this tour in English
Offline access to audio, maps, and geodata
App for Android and iOS
Detailed itinerary
1
Begin your self-guided tour outside the splendid Basilique Saint Nazaire, a must-see basilica situated in the ancient Cité de Carcassonne. Marvel at the architectural grandeur that sets the stage for your exploration of the intriguing history concealed within its walls.
What's not included
Smartphone and headphones
Transportation to and from the starting point
Food and drink
Available languages
Audio guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
5.0
1 reviews
5★
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4★
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Tripadvisor
5.0
1 reviews
5★
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4★
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Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
The Basilica is open to the public during the day on most days - but avoid the services held at 11am on Sundays.
Meeting point
The tour begins just outside the main doors of the Basilica, within the Cité of Carcassonne, at Latitude 43.205459, Longitude 2.3627250, in a small square, just outside the Hôtel de la Cité.
Important notes
VOICEMAP CODE
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Please check your email at the address you provided when you made this booking. You've been sent an eight character code you'll need to redeem your tour.
This code can be used by every member of your party. If you've booked for three people, for example, three people can download this tour using the same code.
DOWNLOAD INSTRUCTIONS
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1. Once you've received your code, please follow these steps:
2. Install the VoiceMap Audio Tours mobile app
3. Create an account
4. Select Tour Codes from the menu, then select Enter Codes
5. Enter your code then select Download Now
PLEASE NOTE
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You can download the tour at any time, before or after your booking date. It’s best to download the tour before you set off for the starting point.
This tour follows a set route and includes turn-by-turn directions. It works best if you start it in the right place and follow the directions from one location to the next.
When the download completes, you’ll see a screen with a photo of the starting point and directions to it. The red start button will become active when you are at the starting point.
Remember to bring your own headphones, unless you have booked a driving tour.
SUPPORT
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For technical support and other queries, please email support@voicemap.me
About Carcassonne
Carcassonne is a historic fortified city in southern France, famous for its medieval architecture and UNESCO World Heritage-listed Cité de Carcassonne. It offers a unique blend of history, culture, and scenic beauty, making it a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts and travelers seeking a fairy-tale experience.
Top Attractions
Cité de Carcassonne
The Cité de Carcassonne is a medieval fortress and UNESCO World Heritage site. It is one of the most visited historic sites in France, featuring a double-walled fortress, 52 towers, and a drawbridge.
Historical/Architecture
2-3 hours
€9.50
Château Comtal
The Château Comtal is a medieval castle within the Cité de Carcassonne. It offers guided tours that take visitors through its rich history and stunning architecture.
Historical/Architecture
1-2 hours
Included in the Cité de Carcassonne ticket
Basilica of Saints Nazarius and Celsus
This beautiful Romanesque basilica is located within the Cité de Carcassonne. It is known for its stunning architecture and historical significance.
Religious/Architecture
30 minutes to 1 hour
Free
Musée de l'Ecole Française
This museum is dedicated to the history of education in France. It features a collection of school-related artifacts and provides a unique insight into the educational system of the past.
Museum
1-2 hours
€5
Lake Cavayère
Lake Cavayère is a popular spot for outdoor activities, including swimming, boating, and picnicking. It is a great place to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of the region.
Nature
Half day
Free (activities may have separate costs)
Must-Try Local Dishes
Cassoulet
A traditional dish made with white beans, meat (usually duck, goose, or sausage), and slow-cooked in a clay pot.
Main course
Contains meat and beans, not suitable for vegetarians or vegans.
Confit de Canard
Duck confit is a dish where duck legs are slow-cooked in their own fat, resulting in tender, flavorful meat.
Main course
Contains duck, not suitable for vegetarians or vegans.
Foie Gras
A delicacy made from the liver of a duck or goose, often served as a pâté or mousse.
Appetizer or Dessert
Contains animal products, not suitable for vegetarians or vegans.
Croustade de Carcassonne
A traditional pastry filled with apples, cinnamon, and sometimes almond cream.
Dessert
Contains dairy and sometimes nuts, suitable for vegetarians.
Popular Activities
Hiking in the nearby mountains
Boating at Lake Cavayère
Picnicking by the lake
Enjoying a leisurely meal at a local restaurant
Exploring the Cité de Carcassonne
Visiting local museums and galleries
Swimming at Lake Cavayère
Visiting local Christmas markets
Best Time to Visit
June to August
This is the peak tourist season with warm weather, festivals, and outdoor activities. The city is bustling with visitors, and the weather is ideal for exploring the medieval streets and enjoying outdoor dining.
20°C to 30°C
68°F to 86°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: French
- Widely spoken: English, Spanish, Occitan
- English: Moderately spoken
Currency
Euro (EUR)
Time Zone
GMT+1 (CET), GMT+2 (CEST during daylight saving time)
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Carcassonne is generally safe for tourists, with low crime rates. However, as with any tourist destination, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take basic precautions.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight.
- • Be cautious of pickpockets in crowded areas.
- • Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing services.
Getting there
By air
- Carcassonne Airport • 3 km from city center
By train
Carcassonne Station
By bus
Carcassonne Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
The bus network is efficient and affordable, with routes covering most parts of the city and surrounding areas. Buses are a convenient way to get around, especially for those staying outside the Cité.
Taxis
Available • Apps:
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
La Cité
Bastide Saint-Louis
Montlegun
Day trips
Toulouse
90 km • Full day
Toulouse, known as 'La Ville Rose' (The Pink City), is a vibrant city with a rich history, beautiful architecture, and a lively cultural scene.
Narbonne
50 km • Half day
Narbonne is a charming town with a rich history, beautiful architecture, and a relaxed atmosphere. It is known for its Roman ruins and canals.
Minerve
60 km • Full day
Minerve is a picturesque medieval village nestled in the heart of the Haut-Languedoc Regional Natural Park. It is known for its stunning views and historic sites.
Festivals
Carcassonne Festival • July and August
Fête de la Saint-Jean • June 24
Pro tips
- Visit the Cité early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the midday heat and crowds.
- Wear comfortable shoes for walking on cobblestone streets.
- Try the local specialties, such as cassoulet and foie gras.
- Book accommodations and tickets for major attractions in advance, especially during peak season.
- Explore the Bastide Saint-Louis for a more modern and vibrant atmosphere.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
