10 Best FREE Things To Do in Carcassonne France (with map)

The gorgeous medieval town of Carcassonne is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Southern France. The impeccably restored castle town is a major draw card, but it also has charming town squares, scenic waterways and is home to 2 UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Not only that, but some of the top attractions in the city are absolutely free. In this Carcassonne travel guide, we’ll show you the 10 best free things to do in Carcassonne France.

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Top free things to do in Carcassonne France

We love a good bargain, and there’s no better bargain than getting something for free! For ease of reference, here is our list of the top free things to do in Carcassonne France.

1. Cité de Carcassonne (The Historic Fortified City of Carcassonne)
2. Le Pont Vieux (The Old Bridge)
3. Canal du Midi
4. Place Gambetta (Square Gambetta)
5. Musée des Beaux-Arts de Carcassonne
6. Place Carnot
7. Cathédrale Saint-Michel de Carcassonne (Carcassonne Cathedral)
8. Portail des Jacobins
9. Aude River
10. Lac de la Cavayère

Keep reading to find out more about each destination.

Best free attraction in Carcassonne France: The Historic Fortified City of Carcassonne

About the Historic Fortified City of Carcassonne France

The UNESCO listed Historic Fortified City of Carcassonne (Cité de Carcassonne) is the largest walled city in Europe. Moreover it is the perfect example of a medieval fortified city. The city is located on a rocky outcrop overlooking the Aude River. In popular culture, Carcassonne was the filming location for the movie Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves. It is also the inspiration for the board game Carcassonne.

Originally occupied in the 6^th century BCE, it was a Roman city before becoming a medieval city. The inner castle dates back to the 12^th century and the fortress has been here since the 13^th century.

The Cathars built this fortress. They were an early Christian group that existed in this area between the 12^th and 14^th centuries. The Catholics persecuted the Cathars during the Crusades. Now, all that remains of the Cathars are their castles, such as the one at Carcassonne.

In 2018 an artwork called Eccentric Concentric Circles was installed on Carcassonne. This artwork was part of the celebrations for the 20^th anniversary of the UNESCO heritage listing of the Historic Fortified City of Carcassonne. Swiss artist Felice Varini installed giant, bright yellow concentric circles upon the walls of a historic French fortified city of Carcassonne. This was an anamorphic illusion, meaning that the shape of the circles is only apparent when viewing the artwork from in front of the Porte de l’Aude. The intention was for a temporary artwork that would not leave a permanent mark on the building. Yellow aluminium foil wrapped around the building to create the circles. However despite removing the foil, you can still see the form of the circles to this day.

Why visit The Historic Fortified City of Carcassonne

It would be a crime to visit Carcassonne without visiting the Historic Fortified City of Carcassonne. This fortress is an iconic French landmark which has been immortalised in movies as well as a popular board game. Moreover, its position up on the hill means that you can see the city from many places throughout the nearby area. It even lights up at night. The city is filled with charming shops and restaurants to explore and it really is like stepping back in time walking through the streets of the city. It is undoubtedly the best free thing to do in Carcassonne France.

Port de l’Aude is one of the main entrances to the Historic Fortified City of Carcassonne. If you decide to walk to the historic city from the modern city of Carcassonne you will pass through this gate. Moreover, the concentric circle pattern on the walls of the city can only be fully appreciated from in front of Port de l’Aude. It is a great location for taking photos as mementos of your trip. Other must see free attractions within the historic city include the Porte Narbonnaise (Narbonne Gate) as well as the impressive church Basilique Saint-Nazaire (Basilica of Saints Nazarius and Celsus).

How long to spend at the Historic Fortified City of Carcassonne

It is possible to walk through all of the streets of the fort in around half an hour. However we recommend allowing a few hours to take plenty of photos, explore the shops and have something to eat at one of the cafes or restaurants.

Opening hours for the Historic Fortified City of Carcassonne

The city itself does not close and there are also hotels within the city walls. However shops, restaurants and attractions within the fort have their own opening hours. Also, if you are returning home from the city late at night it may be dark and hard to navigate the uneven paths. As such, we recommend visiting the city during the day.

If you have money to spend in the Historic Fortified City of Carcassonne

Only the Château Comtal section of the fort charges an entry fee. Tickets are 11 euro (prices as at 2024). Children under 18 years as well as EU citizens aged 18 to 25 get free entry.

If you have money to spend, there are a number of museums, restaurants and shops in the castle area. We recommend the Michelin Plate restaurant Comte Roger.

Historic Fortified City of Carcassonne France address

1 Rue Viollet le Duc, 11000 Carcassonne, France

Best Historic Bridge in Carcassonne France: Le Pont Vieux (The Old Bridge)

About Pont Vieux of Carcassonne

Pont Vieux translates to Old Bridge. This is a medieval stone bridge that dates back to the 14^th Century. The bridge is a pedestrian bridge, crossing the Aude River. For centuries it was the only bridge connecting Bastide Saint Louis, the lower town of Carcassonne, with the Medieval City of Carcassonne. It has been classified as a historical monument in France.

Why visit Pont Vieux of Carcassonne

This stone bridge is a beautiful focal point over the Aude River. This free attraction in Carcassonne France is a very attractive bridge. It also provides some of the best photo opportunities in Carcassonne. Make sure you get a photo of the bridge with the Historic Fortified City of Carcassonne in the background.

How long to spend at Pont Vieux of Carcassonne

Walking across the bridge takes about 5 minutes. Allow about half an hour to view the bridge at different angles and to take plenty of photographs.

Opening hours for Pont Vieux of Carcassonne

The bridge is open at all hours. However to make the most of the views we recommend visiting during the day.

If you have money to spend near Pont Vieux of Carcassonne

There are some great cafes a short walk from Pont Vieux of Carcassonne. Just across the river, in the shadow of the Historic City of Carcassonne there’s a cafe called La Petite Cuillère. We particularly enjoyed their hot chocolates.

Pont Vieux of Carcassonne address

Rue du Pont Vieux, 11000 Carcassonne, France

UNESCO listed engineering marvel in Carcassonne France: Canal du Midi Carcassonne France

About Canal du Midi Carcassonne France

Canal du Midi is the other UNESCO World Heritage Site in Carcassonne. The canal is 360km long and spans between the Mediterranean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean. Along the canal there are 328 structures, including locks, aqueducts, bridges as well as tunnels. Specifically, in the Greater Carcassonne area alone there are 17 locks to pass through. This makes for a leisurely boat trip if you decide to sail down the canal.

French engineer Pierre-Paul Riquet designed the canal. It was built between 1667 and 1694. Canal du Mini is one of the great civil engineering works of the modern era.

There is a path alongside the canal, which is perfect for a relaxing stroll as well as for cycling. There are restaurants on the banks of the canal as well as a port just outside the Carcassonne train station.

Why visit Canal du Midi Carcassonne France

One of the best free things to do in Carcassonne France is to walk along the Canal du Midi. Canal du Midi is one of the 2 UNESCO world heritage sites in Carcassonne and is well worth the visit. The canal is very scenic and there is a lovely walkway that runs alongside the canal with restaurants and cafes scattered along the waterfront. If you’re lucky a boat will pass through the canal while you’re there and you can see the locks in action.

How long to spend at Canal du Midi Carcassonne France

Allow a couple of hours for a leisurely walk along the canal.

Opening hours for Canal du Midi Carcassonne France

The canal is open at all hours. However to make the most of the views we recommend visiting during the day.

If you have money to spend in Canal du Midi Carcassonne France

If money is no object, hire a boat and sail down the Canal du Midi to experience this engineering marvel from the water. For those more budget conscious, you can hire a bike and cycle along the path next to the canal. Self service bikes are available outside Carcassonne train station as well as at other locations throughout the city. There are also bike hire shops such as Evadeo Cycles. Another option is to stop at a cafe or restaurant along the waterfront and admire the canal from land.

Canal du Midi Carcassonne France address

Plus Code: 6982+X4 Carcassonne, France

Best green space in Carcassonne France: Place Gambetta

About Place Gambetta Carcassonne France

Place Gambetta (Square Gambetta) is a large open space with two rows of trees, garden beds, plenty of seating, food kiosks, toilet facilities as well as an underground parking underneath. It is just across the Musée des Beaux-Arts de Carcassonne.

Constructed in 1861, this square replaced the Place du Charbon (place of coal) as well as various surrounding buildings. It was then renamed Place Sainte-Cécile, after a saint that was popular in the area. Following the death of famous French lawyer and republican politician Léon Gambetta, it was renamed to Place Gambetta in 1883. Significantly, Léon Gambetta is considered the founder of the Third Republic in France.

During WWII Germany occupied Carcassonne and in 1944 they demolished much of the square. Unfortunately, after the demolition only 2 rows of trees remained. These trees are still present in the square today. Following the Liberation of the City in 1944, the garden was restored in French style. The restored garden was unveiled in 1948.

The latest redesign of the garden occurred in 2015.

Why visit Place Gambetta Carcassonne France

Place Gambetta is a charming square that is a great place to relax and enjoy the scenery. There’s plenty of places to sit and there are sometimes events in the square such as local markets. This beautifully designed public space provides plenty of photo opportunities. It is also conveniently positioned close to the Musée des Beaux-Arts de Carcassonne as well as Le Pont Vieux.

How long to spend at Place Gambetta Carcassonne France

Ten minutes is enough time for a quick walk through the park. If you want more time to enjoy the open air, half an hour to an hour should be sufficient, perhaps more time if there’s an event in the square.

Opening hours for Place Gambetta Carcassonne France

The square is open at all hours. However it is best seen during the day.

If you have money to spend in Place Gambetta Carcassonne France

Feeling hungry? Buy an ice cream, a snack or a drink at one of the kiosks in the square. Not far from the square there is also a great patisserie and chocolate shop called Pâtisserie Bimas.

Place Gambetta Carcassonne France address

Square Gambetta, 11000 Carcassonne, France

Best museum in Carcassonne France: Musée des Beaux-Arts de Carcassonne

About Musée des Beaux-Arts de Carcassonne

This free fine arts museum in Carcassonne France includes a collection of European paintings and ceramics dating from the 17^th century to the present day. The collection spans over 11 rooms which are organised by period. The museum also hosts temporary exhibitions during the year. Musée des Beaux-Arts de Carcassonne dates back to 1836.

Why visit Musée des Beaux-Arts de Carcassonne

Musée des Beaux-Arts de Carcassonne is the best free indoor activity in Carcassonne France. Art lovers will enjoy this collection which is housed in a beautifully restored historic building. The collection includes some historical paintings of Carcassonne, which is quite interesting. It is also conveniently located, just across the road from Place Gambetta. There is parking underneath Place Gambetta.

How long to spend at Musée des Beaux-Arts de Carcassonne

1-2 hours is a good amount of time to enjoy the collection.

Opening hours for Musée des Beaux-Arts de Carcassonne

Monday: Closed

Tuesday-Sunday: 9:45am-12:30pm, 1:30pm-6:15pm

If you have money to spend in Musée des Beaux-Arts de Carcassonne

Audio guides are available for hire, but only in French.

Musée des Beaux-Arts de Carcassonne Address

15 Bd Camille Pelletan, 11000 Carcassonne, France

Plus Code: 6964+X3 Carcassonne, France

Main town square in Carcassonne France: Place Carnot

About Place Carnot Carcassonne France

Place Carnot is the central square of the lower town of Carcassonne. Cafes and restaurants line the square. It is a great place to have a leisurely lunch and people watch. The square is host to a fresh produce market on Tuesdays, Thursdays as well as Saturdays. Additionally, during the Christmas season you can find a charming European Christmas market here. In the middle of the square there is the fountain La Fontaine de Neptune.

The square in its current dimensions has been at this location since 1355. Over that time it has been the place of many historic events. During the French Revolution it was used as a site of public executions. One such execution was of Joan the Black, who was guillotined here in 1792.

The square was renovated in 2021.

Why visit Place Carnot Carcassonne France

Right in the heart of the city, Place Carnot is a major focal point of Carcassonne. This free thing to do is also a convenient stop if you are walking to the Historic Fortified City of Carcassonne France from Carcassonne train station. The abundance of excellent cafes and restaurants around the square are a big draw card.

How long to spend at Place Carnot Carcassonne France

5 minutes is sufficient for a quick walk through Place Carnot with some time to take a few photos. However if there’s a market or an event on you could spend an hour or two here. There are also plenty of restaurants and cafes lining the square, so it is a good place to stop for lunch or a drink.

Opening hours for Place Carnot Carcassonne France

The square is open at all hours. However it is best seen during the day.

If you have money to spend in Place Carnot Carcassonne France

Restaurants and cafes surround the edges of Place Carnot and there is both indoor and outdoor dining available. On a nice sunny day it’s the perfect place to stop for a drink and do some people watching in the square.

Place Carnot Carcassonne France address

Place Carnot, 11000 Carcassonne, France

Best religious building in Carcassonne France: Cathédrale Saint-Michel de Carcassonne (Carcassonne Cathedral)

About Carcassonne Cathedral

Carcassonne Cathedral is also known as Cathédrale Saint-Michel de Carcassonne, Cathedral of Saint Michael of Carcassonne as well as the Basilica of St. Nazaire and St. Celse, Carcassonne. It is a Gothic style cathedral that was built in the 13^th Century. The church was rebuilt as a fortified church in the 14^th century after it was damaged as the result of war. Carcassonne Cathedral is listed as a national monument of France. It was given cathedral status in 1803.

Why visit Carcassonne Cathedral

Carcassonne Cathedral is one of the major landmarks in the lower town of Carcassonne. It is a grand building and a wonderful example of Gothic architecture.

How long to spend at Carcassonne Cathedral

Ten minutes is plenty of time to admire the cathedral.

Opening hours for Carcassonne Cathedral

Monday: Closed

Tuesday-Saturday: 10am-12pm, 3pm-6pm

Sunday: 10am-12:30pm

If you have money to spend in Carcassonne Cathedral

You can buy a candle as an offering in the cathedral. The cathedral also accepts donations.

Carcassonne Cathedral address

52 Rue Voltaire, 11000 Carcassonne, France

Plus Code: 6962+CC Carcassonne, France

Entrance to lower town of Carcassonne: Portail des Jacobins Carcassonne France

About Portail des Jacobins Carcassonne France

Portail des Jacobins is the gateway to the lower town of Carcassonne, known as Bastide Saint Louis. It was built in 1779 and was supposed to be one of the 4 gateways to the city at the cardinal points. However the other gates were not built. This monumental gate is a stone gate inthe neo-classical style.

Outside the gate there is a nice park area as well as the Michelin Bib Gourmand restaurant Brasserie a 4 Temps.

Why visit Portail des Jacobins Carcassonne France

As one of the main entrances to the lower town of Carcassonne, you will probably pass through this gate on the way to the Historic Fortified City of Carcassonne from the lower town. This is a scenic gate with a lot of history.

How long to spend at Portail des Jacobins Carcassonne France

Portail des Jacobins is a very quick free thing to do in Carcassonne France. Five minutes is ample time to see the gate and take a few photos.

Opening hours for Portail des Jacobins Carcassonne France

The gate is open at all hours. However it is best seen during the day.

If you have money to spend near Portail des Jacobins Carcassonne France

One of the best restaurants in Carcassonne (Brasserie a 4 Temps) is right next door to Portail des Jacobins. It is a great place to go for a drink or a leisurely meal.

Portail des Jacobins Carcassonne France address

Rue Courtejaire, 11000 Carcassonne, France

Plus Code: 6963+82 Carcassonne, France

Scenic riverside walk in Carcassonne France: Aude River Carcassonne France

About Aude River Carcassonne France

The Aude River spans from the Pyrenees mountains all the way to the Mediterranean Sea. The river is 224km (139miles) long.

Why visit Aude River Carcassonne France

The Aude River is one of the most scenic attractions in Carcassonne France. From the riverside you can also take in views of the Historic Fortified City of Carcassonne as well as Pont Vieux of Carcassonne. There are walking paths on both sides of the river with plenty of seats if you want to stop and enjoy the views.

How long to spend at Aude River Carcassonne France

Allow half an hour to an hour for a leisurely walk along the river. There are plenty of seats along the waterfront if you prefer to sit and enjoy the view.

Opening hours for Aude River Carcassonne France

This free thing to do in Carcassonne France is open at all hours. However to make the most of the views we recommend visiting during the day.

If you have money to spend near Aude River Carcassonne France

Why not hire a bike and cycle along the path next to the Aude River? Self service bikes are available outside Carcassonne train station as well as at other locations throughout the city. There are also bike hire shops such as Evadeo Cycles.

Aude River Carcassonne France address

Aude River, Carcassonne, Occitanie, France

Plus Code: 6954+6HR Carcassonne, France

Best nature spot close to Carcassonne France: Lac de la Cavayère

About Lac de la Cavayère

Lac de la Cavayère is an artificial lake a short drive from the city of Carcassonne. It is a popular recreation area that includes beaches, picnic areas and walking trails. Boats can also be hired in the area. The area attracts plenty of wildlife, and birds in particular.

Why visit Lac de la Cavayère

This top free thing to do is a short drive from the main area of Carcassonne France. Lac de la Cavayère is an ideal swimming spot. It is a great place to relax and enjoy the scenery. The area also has picnic areas and walking trails. Additionally, there is free parking on site. Alternatively you can catch the number 2 bus (also the number 4 bus in July and August) there for around 1 euro. The bus ride there takes 20 minutes.

How long to spend at Lac de la Cavayère

Allow between half a day and a full day to enjoy the area. The most popular time to arrive at the lake is from 10am-11am so that you can enjoy a picnic lunch and an afternoon in the area.

Opening hours for Lac de la Cavayère

The lake is closed in the off season, so check with the tourist office for opening times. During the summer months the water park is open from 11am-7pm and boats can be hired from 10am-8pm.

If you have money to spend in Lac de la Cavayère

Snacks are available for purchase in the area or you can bring your own picnic. During the summer months there is a water park on site (Parc Aquaviva) which has a fee to enter. Tickets cost 12 euro for 1 hour, 16 euro for 2 hours or 22 euro for a day pass (prices as at 2024). Boats as well as paddle boats are also available for rent at 35 euro for half an hour (price as at 2019).

Lac de la Cavayère address

Lac de la Cavayère, Occitanie, France

Train to Carcassonne France

Trains are a cheap and efficient way to get to Carcassonne France. Carcassonne Train Station is called Gare de Carcassonne in French.

We recommend using the app and website TrainLine to book intercity train tickets in France. This is the app we used. We found it very easy to use with great functionality. Another great feature is that you can see days ahead to see what times of the day were the cheapest rates. The TrainLine app was much easier to use than the SNCF website and app, which we found really cumbersome and difficult to use.

Where to stay in Carcassonne France

We recommend the following accommodation in Carcassonne France:

• Best hostel in Carcassonne city – for a great value hostel in the heart of Carcassonne city we recommend Le Couvent Hostel. This hostel is very clean and fairly new. The staff are nice and helpful. There is also a great bar and restaurant on the premises. However there is no communal kitchen and not many common areas.
• Best mid-range hotel in Carcassonne France – for a great value stay in Carcassonne France we recommend Hôtel du Pont Vieux. Located just outside the city, this Carcassonne hotel has comfortable rooms and exceptional service.
• Best bed & breakfast in Carcassonne city – for a charming B&B in Carcassonne Citadel, we recommend Les chambres d’Aimé. This historic property has spacious, beautifully decorated rooms as well as a private pool. It is a peaceful retreat in the heart of the city. Furthermore, their breakfasts are delicious.
• Best luxury 5 star hotel in Carcassonne Citadel – for a luxury experience within the city walls of Carcassonne we recommend Hotel de la Cité & Spa Mgallery. The hotel has a prime position within the citadel and the views from the terrace are amazing.
• Best value self-contained apartment in Carcassonne city – for a beautifully appointed one bedroom apartment in Carcassonne city we recommend Méline – BASTIDE – Appartement. This Carcassonne holiday apartment rental is also conveniently close to the historic city of Carcassonne.
• Best luxury self-contained apartment in Carcassonne city – Apartement d`Églantine is a spacious apartment in Carcassonne with a wonderful host and a great location.

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