Best Intro to Carcassonne in 2 hours with a Local

Carcassonne , France

Best Intro to Carcassonne in 2 hours with a Local

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For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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About this experience

Start your visit to Carcassonne with this 2-hour walk led by a Local. You’ll discover its highlights, hidden gems, taste a typical local product, and get practical tips. This is the best introduction to Carcassonne.

Get to see places like Château Comtal and Pont Vieux, along with hidden corners of Carcassonne only known to locals that reveal the city’s everyday charm.

Enjoy a tasting of a local product, like Petit Carcassonnais, for a flavour of Carcassonne and its traditions. You'll also receive local insights on where to eat, drink, and how to get around, helping you explore with confidence and make the most of your time.

• Get the best intro to Carcassonne through its highlights and hidden gems
• Taste a typical local product and connect with Carcassonne's traditions
• Get local tips on where to eat, drink, and how to move around the city
• Make the most of your time with this 2-hour walking experience
• Enjoy the intimacy of a small group, up to 8 travellers

Available options

120 min - French Tour

Duration: 2 hours<br/>Small group experience

120 min - Private Tour

Duration: 2 hours<br/>Exclusively for you: Multiple language options available

120 min - English Tour

Duration: 2 hours<br/>Small group experience

What's included

Knowledgeable local host

Small group experience

Personalised recommendations

Local product tasting

Detailed itinerary

A majestic medieval fortress at the heart of Carcassonne’s UNESCO-listed citadel.

A historic city gate leading to the ramparts, offering picturesque views of the fortress.

A charming 14th-century stone bridge connecting the old and new town with scenic river views.

A stunning Gothic and Romanesque basilica with impressive stained glass windows.

A lively square with fountains, markets, and a vibrant café culture in the heart of the Bastide Saint-Louis.

What's not included

Personal expenses

Available languages

Guide guide

EN FR

Reviews breakdown

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Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

This tour is hosted by an independent Local.

You will be part of a small group of up to 8 travellers.

The itinerary adapts to travellers' interests and walking pace.

The local product tasting may vary depending on the season, availability, and travellers' preferences.

Stops may vary depending on weather conditions.

Entry tickets for public transportation, museums and monuments are not included.

Not recommended for guests with impaired mobility

Meeting point

We will meet in front of the Porte Narbonnaise to start our fun express walk together!

Important notes

Your Local Host will contact you as from 24 hours before the experience to confirm the meeting location and share any final details.

The itinerary and stops may vary depending on traveller preferences, walking pace, and weather conditions.

This is a walking tour of city highlights and does not include entry tickets for public transport, monuments, or attractions.

Please bring your booking confirmation to show your Local Host at the beginning of the experience.

Arrive 15 minutes early. The experience begins on time and, for organisational reasons, cannot be delayed.

All experiences are hosted by independent Locals who offer in-depth knowledge and authentic insights into their city. LocalBini connects travellers with Locals for unique, personalised city tours.

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.