Carcassonne Touristic - guide
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2018 - 2019
Carcassonne
World Heritage
Touristic
guide
Municipal Tourist Office Summary
Classified Category I
28, rue de Verdun
3 Useful information
CS 60032 11890 Carcassonne Cedex - France
Tél (+33) 04 68 10 24 30 4 Arriving at Carcassonne
accueil@carcassonne-tourisme.com
www.tourisme-carcassonne.fr 5 Parking
6 Getting around
8 History of the city
Opening hours 9 Bastide Saint Louis
Bastide Saint-Louis (28 Rue de Verdun) 15 Canal du Midi
• July and August :
17 The Medieval City
from 9h to 19h daily
• April, May, June, September, October : 24 Cavayère Lake
from 9h to 18h from Monday to Saturday, Sunday and
Public Holidays from 10h to 13h
26 For children
• From November to March : 30 For when it rains
from 9h30 to 12h30 and from 13h30 to 17h30 from Mon-
day to Saturday. 32 Where to swim
33 The markets
Medieval City (Impasse Agnès de Montpellier)
• July and August : 34 Wine shops and local produce
from 9h to 19h daily
35 Wine estates
• April, May, June, September, October :
from 9h to 18h daily 37 Highlights
• From November to March :
40 Discover the surrounding area: Day trips
Daily from 9h30 to 13h and from 13h30 to 17h30
Touristic Guide - Carcassonne - EDITION 2018 2019 Print : Maraval
Photo credits : Paul Palau - Julien Roche, Mairie de Carcassonne - Graphic Design : Barthe Communication
LC Vision Writing : Carcassonne Tourist Office
Useful information
Useful numbers
• Police emergency������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 17
• Ambulance Service����������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������15
• Fire Service�������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������18
• General Hospital���������������������������������������������������������������������������������+33 (0)4 68 24 24 24
• Montréal Clinic�����������������������������������������������������������������������������������+33 (0)4 68 11 53 53
• All night pharmacy������������������������������������������������������������������������������+33 (0)4 68 11 26 00
• Lost property�������������������������������������������������������������������������������������+33 (0)4 68 77 70 18
• Police Station������������������������������������������������������������������������������������+33 (0)4 68 11 26 00
• Gendarmerie�������������������������������������������������������������������������������������+33 (0)4 68 77 22 22
• Weather�������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������+33 (0)8 92 68 02 11
Useful links
Institutionals
• Carcassonne Agglo��������������������������������������������+33 (0)4 68 10 56 00 - www.carcassonne-agglo.fr
• Ville de Carcassonne - City Hall��������������������������������� +33 (0)4 68 77 71 11 - www.carcassonne.org
• Chambre de Commerce et d’Industrie de Carcassonne���+33 (0)4 68 10 36 00 - www.carcassonne.cci.fr
• Préfecture����������������������������������������������������������������������������������������+33 (0)4 68 10 27 00
Tourism
• Agence de développement touristique de l’Aude��������� +33 (0)4 68 11 66 00 - www.audetourisme.com
• Comité Régional du Tourisme Languedoc Roussillon+33 (0)4 67 22 98 09 - www.destinationsuddefrance.com
• Atout France������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� www.atout-france.fr
• Carcassonne Sud de France airport�������������������+33 (0)4 68 71 96 46 - www.aeroport-carcassonne.com
• Carcassonne marina���������������������������������������� +33 (0)4 68 25 10 48 - www.port-carcassonne.com
Other
• Gites de France���������������������������������������� +33 (0)4 68 11 40 70 - www.gites-de-france-aude.com
• Accueil des Villes Françaises Carcassonne��������������+33 (0)4 68 72 68 24 - avf.carcassonne@wanadoo.fr
Left luggage and Bicycle lock-ups
The «Accueil Vélo» label provides the guarantee of a special welcome and services specifically
adapted to tourists travelling by bike.
Hôtel de la Bastide Hôtel Central
All year round, from 8am to 8.30pm, except • Luggage : €1 per hour
Sundays when the hotel closes between 1pm and 27 bd Jean Jaurès - Tel: +33 (0)4.68.25.03.84
4pm
• Luggage : €3 half day / • €6 full day Hôtel Astoria
81 Rue de la Liberté - Tel: +33 (0)4.68.71.96.89 • 2€ per suitcase /3 € bikes, for the day.
From 7am to 7pm
Au Royal-Hôtel 18 Rue Tourtel - Tel: +33 (0)4 68 25 31 38
From June to September and from 9am to 9 pm
• Luggage: €1 per hour and per person (re- Youth Hostel
gardless of the number of luggage items) • Luggage : free for members,
• Bicycles: €1 per hour per bicycle. After 7pm, a • €2 for non members
fine of €10 per hour will be applicable! Rue Trencavel – La Cité - Tel: + 33 (0)4 68 25 23 16
22 Bd Jean Jaurès - Tel: +33 (0)4.68.25.19.12
C A R C A S S O N N E - Touristic guide 2018 3
Getting to Carcassonne
BY ROAD BY AIR
• Autoroute A61: Exit Carcassonne Ouest (n°23) – Exit • Airport Carcassonne Sud de France
Carcassonne Est (n°24) Information (+33) 04 68 71 96 46
• RD6113 ( Toulouse – Narbonne) www.aeroport-carcassonne.com
• D118 ( Limoux – Mazamet)
• D119 ( Pamiers) For fights operated by Ryanair: www.ryanair.com
• Toulouse: 90 km Flights from
• Montpellier: 150 km • England: London Stansted – East-Midlands ( Nottingham)
– Manchester
• Bordeaux: 340 km
• Marseille: 320 km • Scotland: Glasgow - Edimbourg
• Lyon: 450 km • Ireland: Dublin - Cork
• Paris: 730 km • Portugal: Porto
• Barcelona: 300 km • Belgium: Bruxelles Charleroi
A shuttle service between the airport and the city center
BY TRAIN is available. It costs 6€ and comes with one hour’s use of
• SNCF - Enquiries – 3635 the entire city urban transport network.
From abroad : +33 (0)892 35 35 35 Information +33 (0)4 68 47 82 22
www.voyages-sncf.com www.carcassonne-agglo.fr
BY BOAT • Toulouse airport :
• Port du Canal du Midi www.toulouse.aeroport.fr
Harbourmaster’s office: (+33) 04 68 25 10 48
www.port-carcassonne.com
OCCITANIE
Albi
(1h30/170km)
Toulouse Montpellier
Paris (1h/90km) ( 1h30/150km)
FRANCE Carcassonne
Mer
Méditérrannée
Carcassonne
Barcelone (3h/300 km)
C A R C A S S O N N E - Touristic guide 2018 4
Parking
FREE PARKING CAR PARK FOR BUSES AND MOTORHOMES
• Quai Bellevue • Parking P1 Chemin de Montlegun
• In the Bastide Saint Louis : Tel. +33 (0)4 68 77 73 11
- 80 places in front the Collège le Bastion ( Bd de Varsovie) Open every day of the year
- 120 places at the corner Bd Barbès/Bd Marcou Charges apply from 8am to 8pm – Free from 8pm to 8am
- Lost ticket: 100€
PAID PARKING Bus charges:
• In the Bastide Saint Louis • Up to 30 mins: 8€
Underground car park : open from 7.30am to 8pm • From 30 mins to 24 hours = 20€ (flat rate)
Monday to Saturday. Closed Sundays and public holidays. Motorhome charges:
• Gambetta: 403 places. Tel : +33 (0)4 68 71 34 11 • Flat rate 24 hours = 20€
• André Chénier: 340 places. Tel: +33 (0)4 68 72 30 10 Parking is allowed at night but this car park is not an
• Jacobins: 211 places.Tel: +33 (0)4 68 47 64 83 accommodation area.
Charges:
• Up to 1hr15 of parking : 1 € MOTORHOME AREA
• 1hr15 to 2hr30 : 2 € * Camping de la Cité Chemin Bernard Délicieux
• 2hr30 to 3hr45 : 3 € Open every day of the year
• 3hr45 to 5hr : 4 € Location is without electricity – Drain and refill included
• 5hr to 6hr15 : 5 € in the price.
• 6hr15 to 24hr : 6 € • Parking limited to 72 hours
Part of an hour is chargeable at full rate • Up to 5 hours: 5€
• From 5 hours to 12 hours: 9€
• By the Medieval City
• From 12 hours to 24 hours: 15€
* Car Park P0 Narbonnaise gate Car Park P1 chemin de
• From 24 hours to 48 hours: 30€
Montlegun - Car Park P2 Camin del Orts
• From 48 hours to 72 hours: 45€
Tel: +33 (0)4 68 77 73 11
Open every day of the year
Charges apply from 8am to 8pm – Free from 8pm to 8am
The first half-hour is free
Up to 2 hours: 15 mins = 1€
Up to 12 hours: 45 mins = 0.50 €
Lost ticket: 30€
Free shuttle from 1st July to 30th September (car park P1only)
C A R C A S S O N N E - Touristic guide 2018 5
Getting around
TOUCS • Eco Navette aéroport
Getting around without Toulouse-Blagnac airport shuttle. Professional, private or
family transport on reservation, 7 days a week. From 1 to
harming the environ-
8 people
ment! Tel: +33 (0)5 67 33 93 23 Scl-tarn@eco-navette.fr
For short journeys in Car-
cassonne city centre, Toucs
run from May to September CAR HIRE
and December : a silent, • Airport :
non-polluting and original Alamo Rent a Car ����������������� +33 (0)4 68 71 69 97
www.alamo.fr
mode of transport. Free of
Avis����������������������������������� +33 (0)4 98 25 05 84
charge. www.avis.fr
Europcar������������������������������� 33(0)4 68 72 23 69
www.europcar.fr
BUS and TRAIN SHUTTLE : Firefly (low cost de hertz)�������� +33 (0)4 68 71 00 55
Bastide Saint Louis / Medieval City: www.hertz.fr
• By bus : Line 4 from Monday to Saturday €1 Hertz Thrifty������������������������ +33 (0)4 68 71 00 55
www.hertz.fr
• By train shuttle: 2€ single journey – 3€ day return
National Citer���������������������� +33 (0)4 68 71 69 97
http://rtca.carcassonne-agglo.fr/ www.citer.fr
• Airport: • City Centre or beyond the city centre :
A shuttle service to the city centre is at your disposal, L.O.V (Location Occitane de Véhicules). +33 (0)4 68 11 74 10
departing 25 minutes after the arrival of each flight and www.lovlocation.com
tickets for this service (priced at €6) allow passengers to AMDS Renault Rent����������� Tel: +33 (0)4 68 77 77 68
use the entire urban transport network for 1 hour. Renault Relais, Route de Narbonne.
ADA Location������������������ Tel: +33 (0)4 68 11 71 92
Rue J.F Duplex.
TAXI www.ada.fr
Taxis de Carcassonne provides transport over any distance 24/7 UCAR���������������������������� Tel: +33 (0)4 68 72 71 64
• Fleet of 14 air-conditioned vehicles capable of carrying 4 ZA Salvaza - 260, Rue Gustave Eiffel.
to 6 passengers and their luggage. Available for transfers to www.ucar.fr
or from the airport, station to city centre, hotels, holiday
accommodation and bed & breakfasts in Carcassonne and CYCLE HIRE
the surrounding area. Personalised journeys undertaken… A guide to bike rides is available at the tourist office
• Taxis Carcassonne : Tel +33 (0)4 68 71 50 50 • EVADEO Cycles / Génération VTT
www.taxi-carcassonne.fr All year round on reservation, we can bring the the bikes
• Jim le Taxi to the port or you can pick them up at our shop Fun Sport
24h/24 et 7j/7 - All transports services. 14 Rue Jean Monnet.
Tel : +33 (0)6 60 39 50 67 Tel: +33 (0)4 34 42 88 32
jimrigaut@gmail.com ou +33 (0)6 19 61 33 26
• SARL Taxis Paredes contact@EvadeoCycles.com
Provision of comfortable and air-conditioned vehicles Tel: +33 (0)6 09 59 30 85
Passenger vehicles with driver (rates on request). www.generation-vtt.com
Can arrange touristic routes, sea and mountain, discover
the vineyards…
Tel: +33 (0)4 68 78 51 51 / +33 (0)6 50 39 39 17
DEPARTEMENTAL BUSES
http://rtca.carcassonne-agglo.fr/infos/6
www.taxi-paredes.fr/
Coachfirms
• Taxis Occitans 11 • Cars Teissier
All transport services. Assistance + touristic circuits. Le Pont Rouge - route Minervoise
Tel : +33 (0)4 68 74 47 72 / + 33 (0)6 77 25 45 05 Tél : +33 (0)4.68.25.85.45
taxisoccitans11@gmail.com www.teissier.fr
• Taxis Ulysse • Kéolis Aude
Specialised in the transport of people with reduced mo- 2 bd Paul Sabatier
bility. Tél : +33 (0)4.68.25.13.74
Tél : +33 (0)6 74 49 86 89 ulysse66@ulysse-transport.fr www.keolisaude.com
• Transport Cardon – Taxi Cardon
Cardon is an accredited transport service for children,
adults, social security card holders, leisure tours, hotels,
airports, Andorra, Perthus...
Tel: +33 (0)6.78.24.46.60 - http://taxi-cardon.fr
C A R C A S S O N N E - Touristic guide 2018 6
Getting around
PRIVATE TRANSPORT
• VTC CITE
TOURISTIC TRANSPORT
Transport for any distance, leisure and professional.
Hybrid vehicle.
• Convivial Services
Tél: +33 (0)6 84 66 06 73
Touristic routes for a full day of half day, with different
vtc.cite@orange.fr
themes.
Transport to the airports, touristic sites, etc.
• Mediteralys
Tel: 04.68.27.43.34 or: +33 (0)6.85.62.10.6
Leslie Hodin a specialist tour guide
www.convivial-services.fr
Tourist excursions in 9-seater air-conditioned minibus with
driver / tour guide to discover the history and heritage of
• Chauffeur Confort
the lands of the “Oc” & Cathar Country. Half day, full day
Chauffeur-driven vehicles.
and 2-day package. Transfer service available.
Tel: +33 (0)6 62 16 52 03 / + 33 (0)9 73 55 39 16
Tél : +33(0)6 66 38 51 92
davidmenke@sfr.fr
www.mediteralys.com
• Executive Roadlines
Chauffeur-driven transport to ensure transfer to or from
Toulouse-Blagnac Airport... All year-round, 7 days a week,
24 hours a day.
Tel : +33 (0)6 95 71 08 84 /+33 (0)9 50 86 63 74
www.executive-roadlines.com
Toulouse-Blagnac Airport, Hall B, arrivals level
• Bod. Aude 11
Passenger transport services for the touristic
sites and circuits from €25 (based on 8 passen-
gers)
Accompanied tours, guide service, entrance tickets for
the sites are subject to a supplement.
Tél : +33 (0)6.03.18.39.95 - www.catharexcursions.com
• V & M Carcassonne Winetours
A la carte excursions, Wine Routes, vehicle hire
with driver (minibus), transfers.
Tél : +33 (0)6.12.27.47.01
www.carcassonnetourism.com
• Sun Tour
Excursions for full day or half day depending on
the dates, vehicle hire with driver (minibus).
Tel: +33 (0)6.84.76.39.01- www.sun-tour.fr
• Vineyard tours in the Languedoc
Tel: +33 (0)6 42 33 34 09 - Wendy@vinenvacances.com
• The Essential Tours
Excursions to the castles of Peyrepertuse and Quéribus,
with the option of wine tasting. Minibus transfers and
transport tailored to customers’ requirements.
Tel: +33(0)6 12 27 47 01
www.carcassonnetourism.com
• Tresor Languedoc Tours
Full-day or half-day excursions, depending on the day, hire
of chauffeur-driven minibus, transfers, themed stays and
experiences tailored to customers’ requirements.
Tel: +33 (0)6 51 84 02 79
contact@tresor-languedoc.com
C A R C A S S O N N E - Touristic guide 2018 7
Carcassonne History
It was in Carsac, to the south of the city, where the history In 1355, the Bastide was torched by the Prince of Wales,
of Carcassonne truly began, 1000 years before the birth known as the Black Prince. Rebuilt, but with a smaller
of Christ. In the VI B.C, this settlement was abandoned surface area, it was encircled by ramparts. In 1590, du-
in favour of a hill camp located on the site of the current ring the Wars of Religion, the City, unlike the Bastide,
City. In the I B.C it was integrated into the Roman Empire refused to recognise Henri IV as King of France because
as part of the Narbonensis Province, and would later beco- he was a Huguenot. A violent conflict divided the City
me Castellum during the IV Century. The City suffered long for several months. After the Treaty of the Pyrenees
periods of occupation at the hands of the Visigoths and the (1659), the City lost its position as a border crossing and
Saracens. Integrated into the kingdom of the Francs in the also its pre-eminence. The production of woollen cloth,
VIII Century, it subsequently became the seat of a power- in evidence since the XIV Century, became the main in-
ful Count. In the XIII Century, in response to the Cathar dustry. Around 1780, a decline in the market led to the
heresies, Pope Innocent III declared a Crusade against the disappearance of this industry in the area. It was only
Albigensians. Count Simon de Montfort was at the head under the 3rd Republic that it was to rediscover its eco-
of this crusader army that came to fight heresy. He laid nomic vibrancy thanks to viticulture and the trades asso-
siege to the City, which fell to him in 1209, and he impri- ciated to this industry. In the XIX Century, the City, then
soned Raymond Roger Trencavel, Viscount of Carcassonne. used as a stone quarry, was saved by an erudite local
Handed over to the King of France in 1226, the City be- named Jean-Pierre Cros-Mayrevieille and was restored
came a Seneschal’s seat. Saint Louis transformed it into a by the architect Eugène Viollet-le-Duc. The cultural life
Royal fortress, at the forefront of a defensive line to guard of Carcassonne was to become increasingly rich over the
the Franco-Spanish border. In 1240, Raymond II Trencavel, next century: of particular note are the composers Paul
attempted to retake it, without success. The settlements Lacombe and Déodat de Severac, as well as the writers
that then surrounded the City, made up of the parishes of Joë Bousquet and René Nelli. Carcassonne, whose City
Saint Vincent and Saint Michel, were destroyed. In 1247, and Canal du Midi are listed as UNESCO World Heritage
following the surrender of the Trencavels, Saint Louis or- Sites, nowadays enjoys an international reputation and
dered that the inhabitants of these settlements should be welcomes several million visitors every year.
rehoused on the left bank of the river within a Bastide that
was to be designed according to a grid system.
photo © Archives Départementales de l’Aude 5Fi842
Today Yesterday
C A R C A S S O N N E - Touristic guide 2018 8
The Bastide Saint-Louis : A remarkable patrimonial Site
Situated on the left bank of the Aude, the Bastide was bastion in the north-east, the Montmorency in the sou-
built during the reign of Saint Louis in 1260 on a rectan- th-east and the Tour Grosse or Moulins bastion in the sou-
gular plan laid out around the central square, now the th-west (now known as the Calvary bastion).
Place Carnot. Nowadays the Bastide, delimited by the
boulevards laid out in the XVIIIth and XIXth centuries on On the eve of the 1789 Revolution, the lower city still had
the site of the old moats, has retained its chequerboard only four gates:
arrangement of streets and boasts a remarkable architec- - the west gate, the Porte de Toulouse or the Porte des
tural heritage, both in its former private mansions and its Augustins (rue de Verdun) adorned with two fine towers
religious edifices. which made it a kind of small castle and which were
restored in 1749, but following a decree signed by the
A little of history… Council and dated 31st May 1778 transferring to the lower
Jewel of the present-day city, the Bastide is delimited city community authorities in perpetuity the walls, moat,
by the boulevards laid out in the XVIIIth and XIXth centu- towers, ramparts and rampart walk, the city consuls al-
ries on the line of the old moat surrounding the formerly lowed the gate to fall into ruin and it was completely de-
walled city. The military fortifications and its gates de- molished in 1806.
fended the lower city. The enclosing wall of the latter was - the north gate or the Porte des Carmes (end of the pre-
built between 1355 and 1359 on the orders of the Count of sent-day rue Georges Clemenceau).
Armagnac; its perimeter was 2,800 metres in length; the - the east gate or the Porte des Cordeliers, at the eastern
bastions were constructed at a later period, after 1359; at end of the present-day rue Aimé Ramond (formerly the
the time, military architects limited themselves to erec- rue de la Mairie).
ting round towers on the corners of the walls, with dimen- - the south gate or the Porte des Jacobins, now preserved
sions greater than those of the other sections of the wall. and listed along with its surrounding area as a Historic
Monument. The Porte des Cordeliers was in the early days
Towards the end of the XVIth century, during the Wars of the city’s construction on the site of the gate of the
of Religion which decimated the south of France, four former law courts at the eastern end of the rue Mage (now
bastions were erected on the corners of the walls: the the rue de Verdun) and was moved in 1571 to the end of
Saint-Martial bastion in the north-west, the La Figuières the rue de la Pellisserie (present-day rue Aimé Ramond).
THE FABULOUS DESTINY
OF THE BASTIDE SAINT-LOUIS
THEATRICAL VISITS 1H45
A fun way to discover the history and the principal monuments of
the city centre, accompanied by actors and a tour guide.
Duration : 1h45.
Departure at 10 : 30am from the chapel of Notre Dame de la Santé 12
10th, 17th, 23rd and 31st July.
7th, 10th, 14th, 17th and 21st August.
Prices :
Adults : 8€ , 7-18 year-olds 5€ , 0-6 year-olds free
Prices (+ 10 pers):
Adults : 5€ , 7-18 year-olds 3€ , 0-6 year-olds free
Information and booking at the tourist office or online at
www.tourisme-carcassonne.fr - Tel (+33) 04 68 10 24 30
C A R C A S S O N N E - Touristic guide 2018 9
To the Medieval City 15 min walking
9,50€*
*Price from
Guided tour included
6,00€*
Guided tour not included
THE BEST WAY to enjoy
the city and its surrounds at the keenest prices
2018 / 2019
Carca’Pass entitles its holders to promotional deals and benefits at many tourist establishments in
Carcassonne and the surrounding area: visits to tourist attractions, leisure activities, tastings, restaurants,
shows, transport, local produce..
SNAP IT UP !
Online at www.tourisme-carcassonne.fr
In person at the Carcassonne tourist office
Or from one of our partners (hotels, camp sites, b&bs...
only with guided tour included)
2018 / 2019
GUIDED TOUR OF THE LA BASTIDE SAINT-LOUIS
«GOURMET FLAVOURS AND HERITAGE» 1H45
with a specialist tour guide, Historical tour of the Bastide Saint-Louis, punctuated by tastings in boutiques to sample our
local produce. A tour for foodies in search of the finest establishment.
Information and booking at the Municipal Tourist Office or online :
www.tourisme-carcassonne.fr - Tel (+33) 04 68 10 24 30Monuments and museums
1 1 The Saint Martial bastion, the bastion of the Garden of Calvary,
Montmorency
Towards the end of the XVI Century, during the Wars of Religion, bastions replaced the
medieval fortifications of the Bastide, which were made up of a XIV Century rampart
surrounded by a trench, later to be transformed into a boulevard.
Bastions with well-preserved orillons.
2 2 The Carmelite Chapel (end XIII, XVII and XVIII Centuries)
Ancient chapel of the Carmelite convent built in the gothic style of the Languedoc re-
gion. It is quite modestly decorated: historiated capitals and capitals decorated with leaf
designs. The chapel is made up of a single nave measuring 12.8m long and 17m wide,
flanked by 10 side-chapels. Open all year round : from Tuesday to Saturday from 9am to
12pm and from 2pm to 6pm, on Sunday from 4pm to 6:15pm.
Closed on Monday.
3 The church of Saint Vincent and its bell tower (XIV – XV Century)
3 Illustrating the gothic art of the Languedoc region with its nave, the largest in southern
France. Possibility of visiting the bell tower: Panoramic views of the Medieval City and
the Bastide Saint-Louis
From 1st January to 28th February : Tuesday and Thursday from 2pm to 5pm, Wednesday, Fri-
day and Saturday from 10:15am to 12pm and from 2pm to 5pm. Closed on Monday and Sunday.
From 1st March to 14th June, from 16th September to 31st October and from 1st to 31st De-
cember: from Tuesday to Saturday from 10:15am to 12pm and from 2pm to 5:15pm.
From 15th June to 15th September: Monday from 2:45pm to 6:15pm, from Tuesday to Saturday
from 10am to 12pm and from 2:45pm to 6:15pm.
From 1st to 30th November : Tuesday and Thursday from 2pm to 5pm . Wednesday and Friday
from 10:15am to 12pm and from 2pm to 5pm and Saturday from 10:15am to 12pm and from
4 2pm to 4:45pm
4 The Fountain of Neptune
At the centre of the Place Carnot, the fountain of Neptune was created by the Italian
sculptors Barata, father and son, in 1771. The basin is made of Caunes marble and the
rest is sculpted from Italian white marble.
5 The Hotel Roux d’Alzonne (XVI and XVIII Century)
5 The bulk of the construction seems to date back to the very end of the Middle Ages or to
the start of the XVI Century. Nevertheless, it was renovated during the XVIII Century by
Roc David La Fajeolle, a merchant and manufacturer of some importance from Carcas-
sonne. Louis XIV stayed here on the two occasions that he travelled the Saint-Jean de
Luz Way, where he married the Infanta Maria Theresa. At the end of the XIX Century, the
hotel became a boarding school for young girls, and in 1921, it subsequently became the
first public school for girls in Carcassonne, named André Chénier.
6 6 Les Halles (XVII –XIX Century)
Constructed in 1768 and recently renovated, it brings together the corn exchange,
the butchers and the fishmongers. Come and meet all the traders in the covered mar-
ket (Halles Prosper Montagné) from Tuesday to Saturday mornings from 7am to 1am.
Located at the heart of the Bastide St Louis, the ancient corn exchange today houses
the Grain d’Aile media library. Beautiful framework, the site of the ancient pillory at
the centre of the square.
7 7 Memorial House and the room of Joë Bousquet (XV – XVIII Century)
The Memorial House (Maison des Mémoires) is a fine example of a mansion house; it houses
the room of the poet Joë Bousquet, preserved in its original state. The poet was injured
in 1918 and left paralysed, dedicating himself thereafter to the « life of the spirit » and to
receiving very talented writers, right up until his death in 1950. Temporary exhibitions are
held here. Open all year round from Tuesday to Saturday from 10am to 1pm and from 2pm to
6pm; except public holidays. Entry is free.
Tel: +33(0)4 68 72 45 55
C A R C A S S O N N E - Touristic guide 2018 12Monuments and museums
8 8 Museum of Fine Art (XVII – XIX Century)
Ornate Neo-Classical facade. The museum boasts a rich collection of paintings and
ceramics from the XVII to XXI Centuries and also hosts excellent temporary exhibitions.
Open all year round except public holidays:
From 2nd January to 15th June and from 15th September to 31st December : from 10am to
12pm and from 2pm to 6pm ( from Tuesday to Saturday)
From 15th June to 15th September: every day from 10am to 6pm
The first Sunday of each month : from 2:30pm to 5:30pm
Entry is free to all.
Tel: +33(0)4 68 77 73 70
9
9 The Hotel de Rolland (XVIII Century) – City Hall
Constructed between 1746 and 1761 by Jean François Cavailhès, an ancient woollen
cloth merchant, and acquired in 1815 by the Rolland family, who kept the property until
1924. Today, it is the Town Hall and the building that best represents the architecture of
the XVIII Century.
Monumental facade with sculpted decor, the facade onto the courtyard and the mas-
ter staircase.
The interior is accessible from Monday to Thursday from 8:30 am to 12:30 pm and from
10 1:30 pm to 5:30pm, and on Friday from 8:30 am to 12:30 pm and from 1:30pm to 4pm
10 Saint Michel Cathedral (XVIII –XVI Century)
This church was built in the gothic style of the Languedoc region and became a cathedral
in 1803 after the Basilica of Saint Nazaire fell out of use. It was restored by Viollet le Duc
following a fire in 1849.
Central stained-glass window and ruins of external ramparts.
From 2nd January to 31st May and from 1st October to 31st December : from Monday to Friday :
from 9am to 12pm and from 3pm to 7pm. On Saturday, from 9am to 12pm and from 3pm to 5pm.
11
On Sunday, from 9:30am to 12:30pm.
From 1st June to 30th September: from Monday to Friday : from 9am to 12pm and from 3pm
to 7pm. On Saturday, from 9am to 12pm and from 3pm to 6pm. On Sunday, from 9am to 12pm.
Entry is free to all.
11 The Portal of the Jacobins (XVIII Century)
Designed by the architect Dolbeau in 1778 to occupy the site of the ancient gate that
allowed those entering the fortified Bastide to be monitored.
12 On the right hand side of the door it is possible to see the remains of a rampart and of
the Fountain of the Jacobins, dating from the XVIII Century.
12 The Chapel of Notre Dame de la Santé (XVI –XVII Century)
Constructed in 1527, this chapel stood beside Saint-Jacques hospital. It is still very
popular today, both with the faithful of Carcassonne and with tourists. It marks the start
of the Pyrenean foothills path leading towards Saint-Jean Pied de Port, on the way to
Santiago de Compostella.
13 The interior has fine ceilings with lierne and tierceron ribbed vaulting.
13 The Old Bridge (XIV Century)
Until the XIX Century , this typical medieval bridge was the only link between the Bastide
and the Medieval City. Crossing the River Aude, it is nowadays reserved for pedestrians
and provides quick access to the ramparts.
Beautiful views of the Medieval City.
14
14 The Manufacture Royale (XIV Century)
At the foot of Pont-Vieux, the façade of the former Manufacture Royale remarkably
restored in 2013, testifies to the textile business that occupied the city for centuries.
Front entrance, arched openings, ornamental faces and wrought iron balconies.
C A R C A S S O N N E - Touristic guide 2018 13Walks, discovery and leisure
33 33 Mobilboard
Visit the exceptional city of Carcassonne, stroll along the Canal du Midi, the banks of
the Aude and enjoy unique activities. Initiation, hire and discovery tour on a Segway.
Prices: Initiation Bastide (the first tour of the Bastide on wheels): from 17 €
The banks of the Aude (enjoy an unforgettable moment of relaxation on the water):
from 30 €.
The Ramparts of the City (admire the cultural richness of our city): from 40€
At the heart of Capital (Indulge yourself by visiting the Bastide, the banks of the Aude
and the Medieval City): from 50 €
Tel : +33 (0)4 68 79 33 49 or +33 (0)6 10 92 64 12 - carcassonne@mobilboard.com
34
34 The Cavalry Garden
The Calvary Garden was created in 1825, under the reign of Charles X. Canon Cazaindre,
supported by the Friends of Calvary, took over the disused bastion and turned it into a
place of worship.
In the form of a snail and bordered by low walls, beds of box, cypresses, olive trees
and laurels.
Open daily from mid-April to mid-October from 9am to 12pm and from 2pm to 7pm and
from mid-October to mid-April from 9am to 12pm and from 2pm to 6pm.Entry is free
35 to all.
35 The Place Carnot and its market
A favourite meeting place for residents of Carcassonne, this very lively square is home
to the Fountain of Neptune and the shade of its plane trees also provides shelter for a
market that sells flowers, fruit and vegetables on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays
mornings.
The canal du Midi (XVIII-XIXth centuries) : A technical prowess
The work of Pierre-Paul Riquet and excavated in the XVIIth century to link the Atlantic and
the Mediterranean, the Canal du Midi, formerly used for transporting goods and people, is
today frequented by numerous boaters and tourists and flows through the centre of the city
of Carcassonne since 1810.
In 1996, the Canal du Midi was classified as a UNESCO World Heritage site.
The locks, bridges, aqueducts and canal bridges along the 240 km of the waterway are witness to the technical
prowess of its constructors and also a work of art.
Spend a few hours or a week discovering the exceptional work of Pierre-Paul Riquet and the canal’s locks, bridges
and aqueducts and enjoy the peaceful and fresh cool air in a hire boat or with a boat tour.
The canal banks, once towpaths, are fringed with different varieties of trees and are a ideal walking and cycling
trail for visitors.
C A R C A S S O N N E - Touristic guide 2018 14The canal du Midi (XVIII-XIXth centuries) : A technical prowess
29 29 Marina
A wide range of services are available: water, electricity, sanitation, showers, hair dryers,
internet access, laundry (paying) and tumble dryers (paying). The marina is supervised
during the day by the harbour master and by a seccurity team overnight.
Just 100 metres from the port, the Bastide Saint-Louis (city centre) provides a wide range
of shops and services (bars, restaurants, shopping, supermarkets, local artisan products,
taxis, service stations, local market on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays... and enter-
tainments.
From 17th March to 1st May and from 1st October to 1st November : every day from 8:45am to
12:30pm and from 1:30pm to 6:30pm
From 2nd May to 30th September : every day from 8:45am to 12:30pm and from 1:30pm to 7:30pm
From 2nd November to 16th March : from Monday to Thursday from 9am to 12pm and from
1:30pm to 4:30pm,on Friday from 9am to 12pm.
Tel: +33 (0)4 68 25 10 48 - www.port-carcassonne.com
For more information :
Association du Canal du Midi en Languedoc - www.canaldumidi.com
Association Canal à la Une - www.canal-du-midi.org
Voies Navigables de France - www.vnf.fr
Walks, discovery and leisure
Discover the Canal du Midi with a boat tour
30 30 Floating restaurant Le Défi
This boat offers cruises on the Canal du Midi with lunch or dinner included. Visitors step
aboard at the Port of Carcassonne and discover the preserved landscapes of the Canal du
Midi, whilst sharing a very pleasant moment.
From April to October: departure at 12:30am (duration 2h30) Adults : €38.50 Children : €24
From 15th June to 15th September : departure at 7:15pm Adults : €36.50 Children : €24
Tel: +33 0(6) 95 79 21 20 – www.carcassonne-navigation.com
31 Bateaux Hélios & Lou Gabaret
31 Cruises with commentary in English, lasting 1h30, 1h45 or 2h30. Sail through locks,
through the Epanchoir de Foucault botanical gardens, across the Meridian, under the
Canal Bridge and enjoy views of the Medieval City.
April, May, June, September, October : departures at 10:30am,2:30pm and 4pm
July and August : departure at 10am,10:30am, 12pm and every hour from 2pm to 6pm
Only in July and August: picnic cruises with a stop-off in the Foucaud Gardens for lunch, visit
the lock house.
Adults : from 8,50€ to 11,50€ ; Children : from 6,50€ to 7,50€
Tel: +33 (0)4 68 71 61 26 ou +33 (0)6 80 47 54 33 www.carcassonne-croisiere.com
32
32 Le Cocagne
River cruises with commentary on the Canal du Midi, lasting 1h15 (City Cruise – departures
at 2 pm and 6pm ) and 2h (Discovery Cruise – departures at 10am and 3:30pm). It is pos-
sible to hire the boat for events.
July and August: daily departures at 10am, 2pm, 3:30pm, 6pm.
April, May, June, September,October : departures at 10am, 2pm, 3:30pm, 6pm. ( except Tuesday)
2H : Adults : €10, under13 years : €8
1H15 : Adults : €8, under13 years : €6
Tel: +33 0(6) 50 40 78 50 – www.bateau-cocagne-canal-carcassonne.fr
C A R C A S S O N N E - Touristic guide 2018 15Walks, discovery and leisure
Discover the Canal du Midi in a hire boat
Boating on the Canal du Midi is from mid-March to the start of No-
vember and no licence is required to hire a boat.
Cris’Boat
15 Quai Riquet - 11000 CARCASSONNE
Tel: +33 (0)2 30 96 05 57 www.crisboat.com
Discover the Canal du Midi on foot or by bike
In the shade of the canal du Midi, between the riverbanks and locks,
discover this veritable haven of peace where you can see the locks
and their keepers, trip and fishing boats…
CARCASS
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A guide
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Walks
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Photograph
www.tou
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ssonne.fr
C A R C A S S O N N E - Touristic guide 2018 16The Medieval City : 2 500 years of history
Situated on the right bank of the Aude, the City, a medieval village that is still inhabited,
has 52 towers and two concentric walls totalling 3 km in length. Open at night as well as
during daytime, via the Porte Narbonnaise and the Porte d’Aude, a large part of the Me-
dieval City can be seen on unguided tours by visitors. Accessible on foot from the Bastide
Saint Louis via the Old Bridge and the Trivalle district. (1.6 km, 25 minutes)
The district of Trivalle : a small, picturesque and peaceful district. The main
streets are Rue de la Barbacane and Rue Trivalle. A 5-minute walk from the Medieval City,
the district of Trivalle is much like a village, with its church (St Gimer), shops, artisans,
and restaurants. It provides a link between the Medieval City and the Bastide.
A town, a “Cité”... an history Destroyed and rebuilt
Once within the royal domain, the destiny of the “Cité”
was to be changed forever. Under the successive reigns of
From its dawning to its glory Louis IX, Philippe le Hardi and Philippe le Bel, it took on
The earliest traces go back to the 6th century B.C. and its present day appearance. A new lower town came into
are to be found on the heights upon which the “Cité” is existence in 1260 on the flatlands of the north bank : the
built. Round about the 3rd century B.C. the Volques Tec- Bastide Saint-Louis. In 1355, Edward Prince of Wales (the
tosages from central Europe subdued the Iberians in the Black Prince) burnt this lower town to the ground. It was
Languedoc. In 122 B.C. the Romans conquered Provence immediately rebuilt. Whilst the new town overflowed with
and Languedoc. They fortified the Roman village that took life, the “Cité”reaffirmed its place as a royal fortress.
the name of Carcaso and continued to rule the region up
until the middle of the 5th century. The end of the royal fortress
However, the use of new technologies in warfare (gunpow-
The Albigensian Crusade der, cannons) and, in particular, the changes to the Fran-
Catharsism, a religion based on dualism, developed ra- co-Spanish border in 1659 following the Peace of the Pyre-
pidly during this prosperous period. The young viscount nees lead to it being adandonned.
of Carcassonne, Roger Raymond Trencavel (1194-1209), In the 18th century the “Cité” was just a miserable outlying
tolerated and protected such heresy in his fief. He was quarter of the lower town which had prospered through
to feel the first shock of the Crusade against the Cathars the sale of wine and the manufacture of sheets. It is only
pursued by Pope Innocent III. The end came on the 15th thanks to the combined actions of Jean-Pierre Cros-Mayre-
August 1209 after 15 days of siege. The “Cité” and the fief vieille, a learned inhabitant of Carcassonne, Mérimée and
of the Trencavels was given to the military leader of the the famous architect Viollet-le-Duc, that they were saved
Crusades, Simon de Montfort and in 1224 gave up all his and that thousands of visitors can still admire one of the
interests in Languedoc to King Louis VIII. most accomplished fortified towns in Europe.
C A R C A S S O N N E - Touristic guide 2018 17C A R C A S S O N N E - Touristic guide 2018 18
THE BEST WAY TO ENJOY
THE CITY AND ITS SURROUNDS AT THE KEENEST PRICES !
GUIDED TOUR OF THE MEDIEVAL CITY
Informations ans booking to the Municipal Tourist Office or online :
www.tourisme-carcassonne.fr
Choose your visit and book !
« CLASSIC » 1H15 - Adults 9,50€ / 10/17 years Students Disabled 7€ / 4/9 years Free
From the ramparts to the basilica via the château (exterior only), our tour guide will lead you to the heart of the
Occitan City.
« CATHARISM » 1H30 - Adults 12€ / 10/17 years Students Disabled 9,50€ / 4/9 years Free
Learn about the events that have shaken the history of the South of France : Who were the people we now call “the
Cathars»? Why did the Pope and the King of France unleash the terrible Albigensian Crusade?
« MILITARY ARCHITECTURE » 1H30 - Adults 12€ / 10/17 years Students Disabled 9,50€ / 4/9 years Free
Discover the mysteries of the Medieval City’s construction; the genius of military techniques finds ample expression
in its dual ramparts and in the intriguing remnants of the various phases in its fortification.
« FULL TOUR » 2H - Adults 12€ / 10/17 years Students Disabled 9,50€ / 4/9 years Free
The grand tour of the City : From the Roman gates to the once feudal, then royal, château, take a guided journey
through 2600 years of turbulent history.
« FAMILY VISIT WITH GUIDE IN PERIOD DRESS » 1H - Adults 9,50€ / 10/17 years Students Disabled 7€ / 4/9 years 2€
Legends will be told and mysteries revealed by a character from the distant past! The walls and alleys of the City will
share with you their many secrets.
« NIGHT-TIME TOUR » 1H - Adults 12€ / 10/17 years Students Disabled 9,50€ / 4/9 years Free
Enjoy the cool of a summer night, to (re)discover Carcassonne’s Medieval City, between illuminated ramparts and
romantic alleys, in search of a lost age.
C A R C A S S O N N E - Touristic guide 2018 19Monuments and museums
15 15 The Chateau (XII and XIII Century) and inner ramparts
A last line of defence, the Château was built in the XII-XIII Century by the Trencavel
family, Viscounts of Carcassonne, and was constantly altered throughout the following
centuries. In the XIII Century the construction of the inner section was carried out in
order to fortify the building. This ring of fortifications includes a curtain wall, circular
towers, a small castle at the entrance, a barbican and a trench. The interior wall includes
parts of the Gallo-Roman ramparts (III-IV Century) characterised by their small openings
surmounted by brickwork stringcourses. Much of the inner rampart was rebuilt in the
last quarter of the 13th Century and the beginning of the 14th Century. It is accessible
15
from the Château Comtal.
Prices: Castle and ramparts self-guided tour 9€, Europeans aged under 26: free, 18-25 year-
olds from outside the EU: 7€
Guided tour 12.50€, 18-25 year-olds 9€, under-18s free.
From 1st April to 30th September: from 10am to 6:30pm
From 1st October to 31st March: from 9:30am to 5pm
Closed on 01/01, 01/05,01 and 11/11,25/12.
Château and ramparts free access €9, Europeans under 26: free, non Europeans 18/25 years €7
Lecture tour: €12,50, 18/25years: €9, under 18 years : free.
Tel: +33 (0)4 68 11 70 70
16
16 The Basilica of Saint-Nazaire (XI-XIV- XIX Centuries)
The “Jewel of the Medieval City”, an example of harmonious coexistence of Romanesque
and Gothic architecture with the finest stained glass in the south of France. The very
fisrt legal document that mentions this church dates back to 925. In 1096, Pope Urban II
visited Carcassonne and blessed the stones of Saint-Nazaire and Saint Celse cathedrals.
The building was constructed in the first half on the XII Century. Altered serveral times, it
lost its status as a cathedral in 1801 to the church of Saint-Michel, which is located in the
Bastide. In 1898, it was given the title of Basilica by Pope Leo XIII.
Roman portal, nave, vault and 8 Roman side-chapels, Gothic transept and choir,
17 stained-glass windows.
From 1st January to 28th February: daily from 8am to 5:30pm
March : daily from 8am to 6:30pm / From April to October : from Monday to Saturday from
8am to 8pm.Sunday from 8am to 10:45am and from 12:30pm to 8pm. Free entrance.
17 The tilt yard (XIII Century) and external ramparts
This space, in between the two ramparts, measuring just over 1km in circumference,
was levelled out in the XIII Century, at the time when the 2nd wall was raised. From the
XVII Century onwards, the poorest residents of Carcassonne built their homes here before
these settlements were destroyed during the restoration of the City by Viollet le Duc in
18 the XIX Century. During the XIII Century, the Kings of France ordered the construction of a
second defensive ring around the outside of the City, complete with dry moat.
Today, the tilt yard allows visitors to discover the different features of military archi-
tecture and offers opportunities to appreciate the various aspects of the City’s mili-
tary architecture and provides fine views over the Bastide Saint Louis, the Pyrenees
and the Montagne Noire.
18 Aude Gate (XIII Century)
To the west, the Aude Gate faces the river of the same name.This gate with its typically me-
dieval appearance was formerly extended by the Aude barbican or bastion which was partly
19 demolished in 1816 for the building of the church of Saint-Gimer. Only the ramp surrounded
by crenelated walls still remains.Located next to the castle, the gate has been used as the
backdrop for the shooting of numerous films such as Les Visiteurs, Robin Hood Prince of \Thie-
ves and Le Corniaud. Gateway to the City. Gateway to the City. Very Picturesque trails
and magnificent viewpoints on the ramparts.
19 Saint Gimer Church (XIX Century)
One of the 3 churches designed by the architect Viollet le Duc (XIXth) and built between
1854 and 1859.Its architecture is characterised by the Gothic vision of the famous architect.
C A R C A S S O N N E - Touristic guide 2018 20Monuments and museums
20 20 The Théâtre de la Cité (XX Century) and its Festival
This theatre, located inside the Medieval City, was founded in 1908 on the site of the
former Saint-Nazaire cloisters. It once welcomed nearly 6000 people at a time (only 3000
or so are allowed today) with the audience seated on benches or simple chairs.
In 1957, actor and director Jean Deschamps created the famous Festival de la Cité, which
has taken place every summer since then. In tribute to his actions, the Théâtre de la Cité
adopted the name « théâtre Jean Deschamps » on 15th July 2006.
Only visible from the ramparts during a guided visit from the Chateau.
21 21 Museum of The School
Reconstruction of a classroom from the time of Jules Ferry in the 1950’s.
Entertaining visit where visitors can write using a feather quill or Sergeant Major pen.
Open all year round.Closed on1st January, 1st May and 25th December.
January, February and November : from 10am to 5m
From March to October and December,: from 10am to 6pm
Adults: €3,50 ; Under 12 years: free.
Tel : +33 (0)4 68 25 95 14
22
22 Museum of the Inquisition
A presentation of the Inquisition, its history and the instruments of torture used right up
until the French Revolution.
Open every day
From 1st January to 8th July and from 27th August to 31st December: from 10am to 6pm
From 9th July to 26th August : from 10am to 9pm
Adults: €9,50; students: € 8,50.
Tel: +33 (0)6 03 84 13 86
23
23 The Large and the small Well
Of the 2 wells that supplied the City, this is reputed to be the oldest. Its edges date from
the XIV Century and its columns and locks date back to the Renaissance era. Legend tells
that there is a treasure hidden here, but the archaeological dig organised in 1910 failed
to find it.
24 24 The Narbonnaise Gate (XIII Century) – The Levis Bridge
Built around 1280 during the reign of Philippe III (the Bold) and consisting of two enor-
mous projecting towers.
It owes its name to its orientation towards Narbonne. The main entrance to the Me-
dieval City is via the Levis Bridge.
25 Museum of Treasures of Notre Dame de l’Abbaye
25
This museum holds the collections of the Bishopric and of the major and minor semina-
ries of Carcassonne, the donations from private individuals and religious congregations,
as well as acquisitions from the last 50 years. Notre-Dame de l’abbaye is Carcassonne’s
oldest place of worship, visited on 11th June 1096 by Pope Urban II (1042-1099) when he
came to bless the construction of the Cathedral of Saint Nazaire in the Medieval City.
July and August : every day from 10am to 12pm and from 3pm to 6pm.By reservation the rest
of the year.
Free entrance.
Tel: +33 (0)4 68 25 16 65
C A R C A S S O N N E - Touristic guide 2018 21Monuments and museums
26 26 Cultural Centre devoted to the memory of combattants past
Exhibition.Retrospective of military history, with objects, uniforms, accessories and do-
cuments.
From Monday to Friday from 9am to 12pm and from 2pm to 18pm.
Free entrance.
Tel: +33 (0)4 68 72 40 16
27 27 Museum of Chivalry
Come and discover the world of chivalry and its codes, as well as numerous objects from
everyday life in the Middle Ages.
From January to June and from September to mid-November : from 10am to 6pm
July and August : from 9:30am to 9pm
Adults: €6, Children : €4, Students : €5
Tél : +33(0) 6 89 20 28 96
chevaleriecarcassonne11@gmail.com
28
28 Tresau Tower and vestiges of the Gallo-Roman ramparts
Built into the inner ramparts of the Medieval City, the Tresau Tower (meaning “treasure”)
completes the defences of the Narbonne Gate. In the 14th century, it was an annex to the
treasury of Carcassonne’s royal seneschal.
High flat facade, stepped gable, two high chimneys, and large windows
Vestiges of the Gallo-Roman walls can be found at the foot of and all along the Medie-
val City’s high inner wall.
Walks, discovery and leisure
36 36 The Tourist train
Complete tour of the rampart walls ( in 13 languages and one for children) looking at the
architecture and defences.
Duration : 20 min – From July to 15TH October
July and August : from 10am to 6pm
From 2nd September to 15th October : from 10am to 12pm and from 2pm to 5pm
Closed on 14th July and 2nd September
Reception and starting point : Narbonnaise Gate, in front of the Levis Bridge
Adults ( + 26 years ): €7,50 ; Students (13/ 25 years): €6, Children 4/12 years : €4
Tel: +33 (0)4 68 24 45 70
www.petit-train-cite-carcassonne.com/
37 37 The calèches de la Cité
Carriage tour of the tilt yard between the 2 ramparts. Duration : 20 min
May and June : daily except on Saturdays from 10am to 6pm
July and August : daily from 10am to 6pm
September : daily except on Saturdays from 10:30am to 5pm
October : From 1st to 21st : daily except on Saturdays from 10:30am to 4pm
From 22nd to 31st daily : from 10:30am to 4pm
November : daily from 1st to 5th from 10:30am to 4pm
Closed from 11st to 1st April
The times shown above may vary slightly, for technical reasons or due to adverse weather
conditions (extreme heat or heavy rain).
The schedules of visit are indicated at the entrance of the City.
Adults: €8; 2/10 years: €5
Tel: +33 (0)4 68 71 54 57 - www.carcassonne-caleches.com
C A R C A S S O N N E - Touristic guide 2018 22Walks, discovery and leisure
38 38 ILC Medieval ‘Living History’ Centre
Live through the Middle Ages with a knight.
Let yourself be transported into the medieval world with entertainment and visits that
are fun, informative and interactive.
All year long at the heart of the Medieval City:
Guided tour: «Over the ramparts» in French and English
Discovery of the history of the City, its defensive system and the link between individual
military equipment and the architecture of the place.
Duration : 45 minutes
€7.50/person; Under 5 years old : free
The chivalry experience: «Meet a 12th Century knight”
Discover the strict codes of chivalry, a knight’s equipment and how to wield a sword / shield.
Duration : 30 minutes
€5/person; Under 5 years old : free
Option to buy a group ticket - Visit + chivalry experience: 11.50€
Wheelchair access; dogs allowed.
Tél : +33 (0)6 37 80 69 33
www.ilc-lacite.com
39
39 The haunted house
A haunting experience in a mock-up of an old country manor house.
July and August : Every day from 10am to 10pm
Out of season : Every day from 10am to 6pm
Price: €7
Tel: +33 (0)6 03 84 15 12
www.maisonhantee-carcassonne.com
40
40 Medieval Jousting
At the foot of the walls and the towers, horsemen will ride their galloping horses into
combat where no quarter is given, all set to the sound of clashing swords.
July / August : 3pm and 4:45pm except on Saturdays
41 The book workshop
Colours and words ... At the foot of the Medieval City, in the halls of an ancient abbey,
41 discovery workshops and introductions to the artisanal techniques of book production.
Making sheets of marbled paper, experimentation with typography and engraving. Short
workshops (45 mins) or courses (full day or half day).
Discovery of book exhibitions, engravings and printing equipment.
Open Easter weekends, from 23rd to 27th April, from 7th to 11th May. July and August and
from 22th October to 2nd November : From Monday to Friday from 10:30am to 1pm and from
2pm to 6:30pm.
From €3
Tél : +33 (0)4 68 26 88 90 or +33 (0)6 38 68 49 42 or +33 (0)6 86 97 21 22
www.atelierdulivre.net
C A R C A S S O N N E - Touristic guide 2018 23La Cavayere Lake : the beach just a stone’s throw from the town!
Located a short distance from the Medieval City, the is a veritable haven of rest, fresh air and outdoor plea-
lake lies in a beautiful setting where peace and serenity sures, right on the doorstep of Carcassonne. Play areas
reigns in the midst of a preserved natural environment. for children, watersports, sandy and pebble beaches
Born out of the ashes of the fire of 1985 that ravaged with lifeguard in the summer (from 1pm to 7pm), ideal
the area, Cavayère Lake is a magnificent reservoir that fishing spots, perfect for walkers.
covers a surface area of 18ha.
An ideal spot for rambling and relaxing, Cavayère Lake
Access
• By car :
Take the RD6 113 departmental road in the direction of
Narbonne. On the outskirts of Carcassonne, turn right
in the direction of ‘Le Lac de la Cavayère’, Montlegun
• By Bus :
Line n°1 and Line n°2 from Monday to Saturday –
Agglo’bus : +33 (0)4 68 47 82 22
• By bike or on foot (10.5 km) : leave the Medieval
City Narbonnaise Gate, walk alongside the cemetary
and turn left in the direction of Sainte-Croix. Follow
the white and red signposted path (GR36): you will get
to a junction where it crosses the Pech Mary loop, there
you will cross a pine grove and take the path downhill
alongside to the left, the Relais de la Cavayère ( Bed
and Breakfast) then the stadium (to the right), and
finish up on the Montlegun road to Cavayère that can
be followed along the cycle path that runs along the
right hand side. After the motorway bridge, turn left
until you reach the lake. Walkers can take the lakeside
path that runs around the entire lake and return to the
Medieval City by the same route.
Mini golf
June : 2pm-6pm / July-August : 2pm-7pm
Adults : 5€ Children ( Under 9 ) : 3,50€
Tél. +33 (0)6 45 06 92 83
C A R C A S S O N N E - Touristic guide 2018 24La Cavayere Lake
42 42 The Australian Park
Wildlife and leisure park on the theme of Australia. A unique and interactive experience
in the land of Kangaroos, gold prospectors and aborigines.
From 7th April to 4th November, daily public holidays from 10:30am to 6pm
Guided visits and entertainment at 11am,2pm,3pm,4pm and 5pm in summer.
Adults and children +12 Years : €10,50, Children (4/11 years) : €7,50, Under 4 : free
Not during holidays: from Monday to Friday from 2pm to 6pm. No guided visits : €7.50
Tel: +33 (0)4 68 25 86 83 or +33 (0)4 68 25 05 07 - www.leparcaustralien.fr
43
43 Acrobatic forest park O2 Aventure
Acrobatic forest trail for children and adults by the Lac de la Cavayère.
April and May: every Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday, as well as public holidays and throughout
the school holidays: 1.30pm – 5pm. Other days by reservation, min. 8 people.
June, July and August: every day from 1pm to 6pm. Mornings by reservation only.
September and October : every Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday, as well as public holidays and
throughout the school holidays: 1.30pm – 4.30pm. Other days by reservation, min. 8 people.
From November to March: opening by reservation only.
Adults : €16, Children : €8
Tel: + 33 (0)4 68 25 33 83 ou + 33 (0)6 07 96 04 55 - www.o2aventure.com
44
44 Nautical ski lift
The centre offers many disciplines: wakeboarding, monoski, wake-skate, kneeboard and
water skiing drawn by cables + modules available to riders (kickers, roof, ollie box),
paddle boarding.
There’s also a dining area with a relaxed tapas bar atmosphere, with places to sit in the
sun and in the shade.
Paddle : from €7 to €10 / Ski Lift : €18 for 1 hour.
Open out of season on reservation.
Tel : +33 (0)6 38 56 72 62
45 45 Pedalos, paddle boarding
From mid-June to early September: daily from 11am to 7pm
Rates for pedalos: With 2 seats (10€ per ½ hour, 15€ per hour) – with 4 seats (20€ per ½ hour,
30€ per hour) – with 6 seats (25€ per ½ hour, 35€ per hour)
Rates for paddle boards: 7€ per ½ hour, 10€ per hour
Tél: +33 (0)6 20 06 27 28
46
46 Aquaviva Park
An inflatable water park at the Cavayère Lake: toboggan, catapult, climbing cage, tram-
polines, swing and giant turnstile.
From 1st June to 31st August from 11am to 7pm
Rates for aquatic park : 8€ per hour or 12€ for 2 hours ; option Waterjump : plus 5€
Day Pass : 18€
Tel: +33 (0)6 16 23 00 46 - www.parcaquaviva.com
C A R C A S S O N N E - Touristic guide 2018 25You can also read
