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Custom tour packagesCarcassonne
From afar, Carcassonne emerges like a mirage above the Aude Plain. The 52 towers, three-kilometer long double city walls, and the 12th-century castle create an astonishing vision of ramparts and towers rising above a sea of vineyards. Cité de Carcassonne is a medieval fortress that dates back to the Gallo-Roman period. In the 19th century, it underwent restorations that lasted for over 50 years. The citadel was added to the UNESCO list of World Heritage Sites in 1997 for its exceptional preservation and restoration.
"Yet could I there two days have spent While still the autumn sweetly shone, Ah me! I might have died content When I had looked on Carcassonne!"
- Gustave Nadaud
A labyrinth of cobbled streets, churches, towers, and ancient buildings, Cité de Carcassonne is a window into medieval history. The stunning view from the ramparts overlooks the Ville Basse, or Lower City, on the other side of the Aude River. This more recent part of the city is the center of modern Carcassonne and the real heart of town. A stroll along the Aude River is a unique opportunity to admire the countless cultural sites or to discover the famous southwestern cuisine and its renowned local wines, such as Cabardès and Corbières.
Things to do in Carcassonne
Carcassonne is one of France's best-kept secrets. Known for its remarkably well-preserved walled citadel, medieval Carcassone boasts an inescapable allure and has many pleasant surprises in store for wine lovers. Apart from the fortified city's charms, a trip to Carcassonne is the perfect introduction to the mesmerizingly pretty French countryside, too. You can venture into the Pyrenees that divide France and Spain, and even visit the tiny country of Andorra for a day.
If you're on a multi-day trip to France, Carcassonne is also the ideal place to spend the night on your way from Bordeaux to Provence. When we send you your customized itinerary, you will be able to choose additional excursions to include in your vacation package or consider adding later.
Where to stay in Carcassonne
In Carcassonne, we offer a wide selection of boutique hotels outside the walled citadel, some of which feature Michelin-starred restaurants. However, for an experience that will make you feel as though you've taken a journey into the past, we'd suggest staying in one of the hotels that are located within the old medieval walls. Once we start preparing your customized itinerary, we will present our recommended options for you to select from.
3-star boutique hotel
Comfortable accommodation in an 18th-century building.
4-star boutique hotel
Combination of classic and contemporary decor at a great location.
5-star boutique hotel
Stylish, comfortable accommodation at a great location.
Where can you go from Carcassonne?
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