Carcassonne Castle | A Medieval Fortress in France
Best Time To Visit Carcassonne Castle
How To Reach Carcassonne Castle?
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You can opt for a train journey from Gare de Lyon or Gare de l'Est in Paris to reach Carcassone. The journey takes approximately 5 hours and 30 minutes and you can choose between two routes. One route passes through the eastern region and the other through Bordeaux.
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Taking a bus is one of the affordable options if you are looking for how to get to Carcassone Castle on a budget. The bus journey covers 760 km from the Quai de Bercy bus station in Paris to Carcassone station in 10-12 hours. You pass through picturesque landscapes of Central France in the journey.
You can drive yourself for a distance of 770 kilometers from Paris to reach Carcassone Castle in 7 to 8 hours. You can opt for routes via the A20, A71 and A75 as per your convenience.
Brace yourself to be enchanted by the impressive entrance of this grand fortress after crossing the beautiful streets of this citadel village.
Continue your walk in the main courtyard of the castle surrounded by high towers and imagine the grandeur of this historic palace in the medieval times.
See the statue of Dame Carcas and explore the rooms adorned by Romanesque frescoes.
Take in the panoramic views of the pink rooftops of the Citadel and the beautiful backdrop of the Montagne Noire and Pyrenean mountains.
Complete your explorations and stop by at the the boutique & bookshop to shop for souvenirs.
Know Before You Go To Carcassonne Castle
Narbonne Gate: The Narbonne Gate serves as the eastern entrance of Carcassonne Castle, where its towers unite to fortify the inner walls.
Rodez Gate: Situated to the north of Carcassonne Castle, the Rodez Gate boasts several reinforced Roman towers.
Saint-Nazaire Gate: Located to the south of Carcassonne Castle, the Saint-Nazaire Gate provides a splendid view of Carcassonne town.
Aude Gate: Formerly known as the Gate of Toulouse, the Aude Gate is the most aesthetic and impressive entrance, offering a more tranquil experience compared to other entrances
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Washrooms: Carcassonne Castle features multiple toilets, including facilities for disabled visitors.
Bookshop: Visitors can purchase books on Carcassonne’s history, the castle, and other significant landmarks.
Parking: Reserved parking is available for holders of European parking cards, GIG, and GIC badges.
Guides: Options include self-guided tours, discovery tours, and conference tours.
Audio Guide: Available in English, French, and Spanish.
Adapted Tours: Dedicated tours for visitors with disabilities can be arranged based on specific needs.
Parking Facilities: There are multiple parking facilities available near Carcassone Castle as follows:
- The Fontgrande Cité Hôtels Carcassonne Parking is located 230 meters away from Carcassone Castle and remains open throughout the day.
- Another parking facility is P0 Parking Delteil, located 400 metres away from the castle.
- If you are looking for an outdoor parking facility, then you can go to P2 - Parking Cité Porte d'Aude.
- One of the most affordable parking facilities is the CarPark, Carcassonne which is located within walking distance from the old town of Carcassone.
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The Carcassonne Castle has multiple ramparts at different entrances.
Self-guided tours are partially accessible by wheelchair.
The ramparts are not recommended for individuals with reduced mobility.
Booklets in Braille and large print are available for visually impaired visitors, detailing the history and architecture of Carcassonne Castle.
No stringent dress codes, but appropriate attire is advised for visitors.
Pets are not allowed, except assistance dogs for visitors with reduced mobility and impaired vision.
Touching artifacts and woodwork is prohibited.
Picnics are not allowed inside the castle.
Flash photography is prohibited inside the castle.
Bar Restaurant Le Sénéchal: Shaded by grapevines, renowned for its wines, artisanal ice creams, charcuterie, cheese, and warm staff.
Dame Jeanne: A cozy cafe near Carcassonne Castle, famous for delicious coffee and the infamous cassoulet.
L'Ostal: Among the best for traditional southern French cuisine, known for stews, cassoulet, and foodwire-cooked dishes.
Adélaïde: Ideal for diners seeking Instagram-worthy dishes and desserts.
When you visit Carcassonne Castle make sure to wear comfortable footwear and clothes. The terrain inside the castle is uneven with cobbled stone paths.
If you are travelling with children then opt for a baby sling instead of a pram as the Castle has cobbled stone paths mostly.
Dogs or any other pets are not allowed inside the Castle
There is a free shuttle from the Carcasssone to the city centre that runs every 10 minutes.
FAQs
What are the opening hours of Carcassonne Castle?
The opening hours of Carcassonne castle is from 10am to 6:30 pm between April to September and 9:30am to 5 pm from October to March. Last entry is 30 minutes before closing time.
Book Now: Carcassonne Castle Tickets
How much is the entrance fee for Carcassonne Castle?
The entrance fee for Carcassonne Castle and its Ramparts tickets starts from INR 990 per person. Free entry is there for children below the age of 18 and for EU nationals upto the age of 26.
Are guided tours available at Carcassonne Castle?
Yes, guided tours are available for Carcassonne Castle. These tours focus on the history and architecture of the castle. With these tours you can explore the military complex, the complex alleyways of the Castle, the towers and ramparts.
Is there parking available near Carcassonne Castle?
Yes, parking is available near Carcassonne Castle. Some of the closest ones are Parking Fontgrande Cité Hôtels Carcassonne, P0 Parking Delteil and CarPark, Carcassonne.
Are there any dining options within or near Carcassonne Castle?
Yes, there are quite a few dining options within and near the Carcassonne Castle. Le Trouvère is a restaurant located within the castle walls. Famous restaurants near the Castle include La Barbacane, Le Jardin de l'Evêque, Le Blé Noir and Restaurant Le Parc Franck Putelat. When you visit Carcassonne Castle try out the Cassoulet which is a famous delicacy here.
What are the main attractions at Carcassonne Castle?
The main attractions at Carcassone Castle include its impressive ramparts which offer a stunning view of the countryside. You can also explore the Chateau Comtal, its inner castle and the Basilica of Saint-Nazaire which is a Romanesque-Gothic cathedral. Another attraction to see here is the Musée de la Cité.
Which is the closest bus stop to Carcassonne Castle?
The closest bus stop to Carcassonne Castle is Carcassonne, Place Davilla. This bus stop is located around 2.6 km from Carcassonne Castle. After getting down at the bus stop, you can take a short walk to Carcassone Castle.
Is Carcassonne Castle accessible for people with disabilities?
Yes, Carcassonne Castle is accessible to people with disabilities. There is a paved area before the castle gate which makes it easier for people with wheelchairs as well to enter the castle and enjoy a fabulous visit.
Is parking available at Carcassonne Castle?
Yes, parking is available at Carcassone Castle. You can opt for multiple parking facilities which include the Fontgrande Cité Hôtels Carcassonne Parking, located 230 meters away. Another parking facility is P0 Parking Delteil and the P2 - Parking Cité Porte d'Aude.
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