Top 7 Best Activities at the Cité de Carcassonne

One of the many towers of the castle and ramparts in the Medieval City of Carcassonne.

1. Visit the Castle and Ramparts

The Château Comtal and its majestic ramparts are the historical core of the city. Step into a real medieval fortress and walk along the same stone paths once used by knights and nobles. Enjoy panoramic views of the Black Mountain, the Pyrenees, and the surrounding Aude valley. Don’t miss this extraordinary monument — a true icon of French heritage.

2. Explore the Cité Through an Adventure Game

Carcassonne’s walled city spans just 400m by 200m — making it the perfect playground for an interactive exploration game. Follow riddles, clues, and secret paths as you dive into Carcassonne’s medieval past. It’s an immersive experience ideal for families, couples, and solo travelers who want to have fun while learning.

We even have a version specially designed for kids!

3. Visit the Saint-Nazaire Basilica

The Basilica of Saint-Nazaire is the crown jewel of Carcassonne’s religious heritage. With its breathtaking stained glass windows and stunning blend of Romanesque and Gothic styles, this spiritual site is a must-see. Explore its history with a multilingual audio guide on your smartphone — perfect for independent travelers.

4. Enjoy a Traditional Cassoulet

No trip to Carcassonne would be complete without trying its world-famous cassoulet. This rich and hearty dish, made with beans, duck confit, and sausage, is the pride of the region. Many restaurants inside the Medieval City serve authentic cassoulet, passed down through generations.

5. Walk Along the Outer Walls (Les Lices)

Stroll the wide defensive passageways between the two rampart walls, known as les lices. These elevated paths offer sweeping views of the surrounding countryside, including the Montagne Noire, the Aude River, and even the distant Pyrenees. It’s a quiet and scenic way to take in the monumental scale of this fortress.

6. Wander Through the Streets

Lose yourself in the narrow, winding streets of the Cité. Between souvenir shops, artisan workshops, and medieval decorations, every corner has a story. Costumed actors and musicians bring the past to life, making it feel like you’ve stepped into a living history book.

7. Relax on a Terrace

Whether it's a coffee in the morning or a glass of local wine at sunset, the Cité’s terraces are ideal for unwinding. Choose a lively plaza or a tucked-away alley and watch jugglers, minstrels, and children playing in knight costumes as the magic of Carcassonne surrounds you.