Carcassonne

Activities for couples

Carcassonne was settled as early as the 6th century BC and later became an important Roman town. It was fortified in the 4th century and was a strategic site in the Middle Ages. It took on its definitive shape in the 13th century with the king’s decision to construct the distinctive double-walled ramparts and extend the castle. The city was restored by Viollet-le-Duc in the 19th century and is a testimony to 1,000 years of military architecture and 2,500 years of history. Left in ruins after the the Cathar Crusade (1209-1229), the Inquisition and exile of the Trencavel family, Eugène Viollet-le-Duc was commissioned by the French state in 1844 to restore the city of Cathar. Completed in 1911 under the direction of his pupil Paul Boeswillwald, the royal city was returned to its original splendor, finally being inscribed on UNESCO’s World Heritage list in 1997. In a new, self-guided addition to this tour, guests are invited to see the magnificent views from the medieval western ramparts. 

If you're staying in Toulouse and want to discover the Cité de Carcassonne, the Comtal Castle, the Saint Nazaire Basilica and more historical highlights, this is the perfect day tour for you. Located 1 hour from Toulouse, Carcassonne is one of the 25 great sites of Midi-Pyrénées. In Cathar country and at the heart of the fortified city, you can discover the Château of the Counts of Carcassonne and the Remparts, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Enjoy the audio guide in 3 languages (French, English and Spanish), to discover the hidden treasures of Carcassonne. Audio guide to download on the day. You will departure from Toulouse at 9:30AM (check-in is at 9:15AM), with a planned arrival in Carcassonne at 10:30AM.  Following your day of discovery, you will depart from Carcassonne at 4:30PM, with a planned return to Toulouse at 5:30PM.

Dive into centuries of winemaking tradition with a tour of the Domaine de Baronaques. Acquired by Baroness Philippine de Rothschild and her 2 sons in 1998, the vineyard has been in existence since the 17th century, when it was under the possession of the Abbey de Saint-Polycarpe. After arrival at the vineyard, you'll tour the vat-house and barrel-room where wines are fermented and aged, and see the 19th-century French Château, nestled into a tree-covered hill. After the tour, you will have the opportunity to taste the 3 wines produced at the Domaine de Baronaques: Grand Vin Rouge, La Capitalle de Baronarques, and Grand Vin Blanc.

Immerse yourself in the 13th century and explore the city of Carcassonne, a medieval gem. Meet Guilhem, a 13th-century master builder, alive and captivating, embodied by a professional and passionate professional guide. Son of Pierre the builder, one of King Louis IX's engineers, and an Occitan mother, Guilhem will introduce you to the city of Carcassonne in an informative and entertaining way. The tour will lead you through the medieval city of Carcassonne, marked by the extensive construction work of the 13th century. You will discover the daily life and tools of a builder of the era, and delve into the history of Catharism through Guilhem's perspective. Points of interest such as the Narbonne Gate, the lices (outer walls), the moat of the Comtal Castle, and the exterior of the Basilica are sure to pique your curiosity. This tour is more than just a simple historical stroll, it's a plunge into the past where anecdotes rub shoulders with History, in a fun and interactive setting. Perfect for adults and children of all ages, let yourself be carried away by Guilhem's energy for a tour enriched with historical objects, full of discoveries and surprises.

Throughout this guided tour you will discover the mythical narrow cobble streets of this old fortress. The monumentality of this citadel will impress you, as your guide tells you all the details of its fascinating history. You will be provided details about the rempart's construction, as you observe the castle from outside. Your guide will explain everything about the mysterious Cathars and military architecture, delving into all of the construction's secrets. Be prepared to also hear small anecdotes about the medieval period as you end with the discovery of the magnificent Basilica of St. Nazaire and St. Celse.

The walled city of Carcassonne in Languedoc is world renowned as a spectacular fortified medieval city. But this rocky spur has been occupied since the 6th-Century BC, first as a Gallic settlement and later as a fortified Roman city. The Visigoths seized the city in the 5th-Century, and were followed by the Saracens, who remained in control for a mere 30 years before the Francs expelled them. Restored by Viollet-le-Duc in the 19th-Century, the city fortress was consecrated in 1997 as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, while the former military enclosure of the lower town’s "La Bastide Saint-Louis" is listed as a conservation area. Take a 2-hour private walking tour, personalized to your own schedule and rhythm, visiting the sights you would like to visit. Explore medieval architecture and discover the rich culture that has inspired poets and writers, including William Faulkner. The city is divided into 2 parts; the town and the famous Cité de Carcassonne. Typically we pay more attention to the Cité, but if you would like to visit the town the tour can be customized to suit. Discover the castle and ramparts at the heart of the medieval city; explore the Cathedral and the Basilica of Saint Nazaire; and visit la porte Narbonnaise, which was the principal entrance to the Cité. A dream like destination with a romantic ambience, the tour is tailor-made to enchant you.

Immerse yourself in the 13th century and explore the city of Carcassonne, a medieval gem. Meet Guilhem, a 13th-century master builder, alive and captivating, embodied by a professional and passionate professional guide. Son of Pierre the builder, one of King Louis IX's engineers, and an Occitan mother, Guilhem will introduce you to the city of Carcassonne in an informative and entertaining way. The tour will lead you through the medieval city of Carcassonne, marked by the extensive construction work of the 13th century. You will discover the daily life and tools of a builder of the era, and delve into the history of Catharism through Guilhem's perspective. Points of interest such as the Narbonne Gate, the lices (outer walls), the moat of the Comtal Castle, and the exterior of the Basilica are sure to pique your curiosity. This tour is more than just a simple historical stroll, it's a plunge into the past where anecdotes rub shoulders with History, in a fun and interactive setting. Perfect for adults and children of all ages, let yourself be carried away by Guilhem's energy for a tour enriched with historical objects, full of discoveries and surprises.

Our tour allows you the freedom to explore this magnificent medieval city at your own pace, while enjoying detailed and captivating explanations. What We Offer : High-Quality Audio Guides: Enjoy clear and engaging descriptions of each iconic site, enriched with historical anecdotes, cultural information, and fascinating stories about the city of Carcassonne. Total Flexibility: Explore Carcassonne at your convenience, without the constraints of schedules or groups. Whether early in the morning or late at night, our guide is always available for you. Easy Accessibility: Compatible with all smartphones and tablets, our audio tour is simple to use. Just download the files and follow the instructions to start your journey. Economical and Eco-Friendly: No need for paper guides or brochures, our service is entirely digital. Enjoy an affordable rate while contributing to environmental preservation. Highlights of the Tour The Medieval City: Discover the secrets of the ramparts, fortified gates, and towers of the famous City of Carcassonne. Basilica of Saint-Nazaire: Admire the Gothic and Romanesque architecture of this basilica and listen to stories about its historical significance. The Count’s Castle: Dive into the history of the counts of Carcassonne and explore the various rooms and courtyards of the castle. Hidden Treasures: Learn anecdotes about lesser-known but equally fascinating places in the city. Get Equipped: Use your earphones or headphones for an immersive experience. Follow the Guide: Launch the audio guide and let it lead you through the streets and monuments of Carcassonne. Why Choose Our Audio Tour? Freedom and Autonomy: Explore Carcassonne at your own pace, without stress or rush. Enriched Content: Our guides are written by local experts, offering authentic and in-depth perspectives. Comfort and Simplicity: All you need is your smartphone and earphones for a smooth and enjoyable visit. Book your self-guided audio tour today and discover Carcassonne like never before!

From the Porte Narbonnaise, we can appreciate the medieval architecture of the ramparts of the Cité de Carcassonne. Some phases of the ancient construction are still visible, blending into the architectural ensemble designed to defend the city from invasion. Hence the legend of Dame Carcas! Once we've toured the outside of the ramparts, let's take a stroll down one of the typical medieval lanes that lead to the heart of the Cité. We'll visit the half-Romanesque, half-Gothic Cité church, whose stained-glass windows reveal a divine story. Then, strolling through the narrow streets, we'll come to the entrance of the château comtal, where the Trencavel dynasty was established. You're free to enter...

You will pick one route Carcassonne or Narbonne Carcassonne : Discover the authentic flavors of Carcassonne in a full-day gourmet walking tour, immersing yourself in the rich culinary traditions of this historic city. You’ll explore Carcassonne’s vibrant markets, indulge in traditional dishes, and savor the finest local wines. This tour is perfect for food lovers and culinary explorers eager to experience the best of southern France’s gastronomy. Tour Highlights: Artisanal Breakfast: Start your day at an artisanal Boulangerie with freshly baked croissants and a warm cup of coffee, enjoying a true taste of French morning culture. Market Visit: Wander through a farmers market where local farmers and artisans showcase their finest produce. Sample a variety of cheeses, charcuterie, and seasonal fruits while learning about the region’s agricultural heritage. Visit a renowned local patisserie where you'll get to taste an iced cassoulet, yes absolutely an iced cassoulet! , Have a traditional Lunch at a celebrated restaurant within the medieval city walls. Here, you’ll savor the iconic Cassoulet de Carcassonne, a hearty dish that perfectly embodies the flavors of the Languedoc region. Continue your journey at a local boutique of local products to discover the rich flavors of the region’s wines. Conclude your day at a Michelin-starred restaurant Discover the flavors of Narbonne: A culinary journey through the heart of the region Embark on a full-day gastronomic adventure with our Narbonne gourmet food walking tour. This exclusive experience is designed for food lovers and culinary enthusiasts eager to explore the authentic flavors of Narbonne. From bustling markets to renowned restaurants, indulge in the finest local products while meeting the passionate artisans behind them. Gourmet Lunch: Continue your culinary journey with lunch, indulge in a gourmet meal at a renowned restaurant, where the menu showcases the best of Aude region ingredients. Afternoon of artisanal products: Visit a wine and spirits shop, offering the perfect opportunity to purchase a bottle or two to remember your Narbonne culinary experience. Conclude your day with a relaxing dinner in a Michelin-starred restaurant. Why Choose This Tour? Authentic Local Experience: This tour is curated to give you a genuine taste of Narbonne’s rich culinary heritage, highlighting the region's unique products and flavors. Private setting: Enjoy a more personalized experience in a private group, allowing for deeper connections with the local culture and your fellow food enthusiasts. Why choose this tour? This is more than just a food tour; it's a deep dive into the culinary soul of Carcassonne. With each bite, you’ll experience the passion and tradition that defines this region’s gastronomy. Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or just someone who loves good food, this tour promises to be a highlight of your trip to France