Carcassonne

Carcassonne is a famous fortified city in the south of France, which seems to transport travelers back to the era of medieval knights. Located in the picturesque Occitanie region, it attracts tourists with its unique architecture and rich history. You can get here in various ways: by using the local airport, rail services, bus routes, or by taking a trip by car.

The fastest way to reach the region is by air. The city is served by Carcassonne Airport (CCF), which receives flights from a number of European countries and is located just a few kilometers from the fortress walls. This option is particularly popular due to the convenient location of the terminal.

If direct flights are unavailable, you can consider arriving in neighboring cities that also have airports. Convenient alternatives would be Castres (44 km), Narbonne (53 km), or Béziers (71 km). These transport hubs are well connected to Carcassonne and allow you to easily continue your journey.

Traveling by train is a comfortable and scenic way to reach your destination. The railway station in Carcassonne is located in the Lower City (Bastide) and regularly receives trains from major cities in France. This allows tourists to arrive practically in the very center of the city, from where it is easy to reach the historic Citadel.

Routes with transfers via neighboring transport hubs are also popular. The nearest major stations are Narbonne (53 km) and Béziers (71 km), as well as Castres (44 km). Rail connections in the region are excellently developed, making the trip convenient even in the absence of a direct flight.

Bus services offer a budget-friendly option for traveling around the region with the opportunity to enjoy the views from the window. One of the fastest is the route from the city of Narbonne: the bus covers the distance of about 60 km in just 0.8 hours. The trip from Béziers (about 86 km) also won't take much time — approximately 1.1 hours.

There are also longer routes connecting Carcassonne with other settlements. For example, the journey from the city of Castres will require about 2.9 hours to cover a distance of 179 km. When choosing a bus, it is worth checking the schedule in advance to plan transfers as efficiently as possible.

Traveling by car gives you freedom of movement and the ability to independently plan your route along the roads of France. The trip from Narbonne to Carcassonne will take minimal time: about 0.8 hours to drive 60 km. The route from Béziers (about 89 km) is also quite convenient and lasts approximately 1 hour.

If you are departing from the city of Castres, expect to spend about 1.2 hours on the road, covering a distance of 66 km. Using a taxi or a rented car allows you to comfortably drive directly to your hotel, avoiding reliance on public transport schedules.

To ensure your visit to the legendary fortified city goes perfectly, we have prepared a list of useful recommendations. These tips will help you better navigate Carcassonne and avoid common tourist mistakes.

1. Clothing and Footwear. The historic center is paved with ancient cobblestones, so comfortable flat shoes are mandatory. Heels are best left for dining at the hotel. Also, bring a windbreaker, as it can be breezy on the fortress walls.
2. Transport. Inside the Cité fortress, traffic is restricted; it is best to get around on foot. Local buses and tourist trains operate to connect the Lower City and the fortress.
3. Finances. The official currency is the Euro (EUR). Bank cards are accepted almost everywhere, but it is advisable to carry cash for buying souvenirs in small shops or paying at markets.
4. Health and Safety. Pharmacies are marked with a green cross and operate on a standard schedule. The city is safe for tourists, but in crowded places, it is worth keeping an eye on personal belongings.
5. Communication. The main language is French. In the tourist zone, staff often speak English, but knowing basic phrases like "Bonjour" (Hello) and "Merci" (Thank you) is always appreciated.
6. Local Etiquette. When entering a shop or café, it is customary to greet the staff. The French value politeness and a calm tone of communication.
7. What to Avoid. Visiting the main attractions at noon during the peak season. The best time to explore the fortress is early morning or the pre-sunset hours when the flow of tourists subsides.
8. Additional Tip. Be sure to try the local dish cassoulet (a stew with beans and meat) — this is the gastronomic calling card of the region.

By following these simple rules, you will be able to fully enjoy the medieval atmosphere and the hospitality of the south of France. We wish you an unforgettable journey!