January 30th 2024.
If you're in search of a charming and historic destination away from the chaos of city life, look no further than Carcassonne. This beautiful gem, located in the southeast of France near the Spanish border, offers a magical escape filled with breathtaking scenery and a thriving food scene. With a small population of only 45,996, Carcassonne is the perfect place to unwind and immerse yourself in its rich culture and history.
Dating back to the Neolithic period, Carcassonne is home to one of Europe's oldest castles. Its medieval fortified city is the largest of its kind and has been remarkably preserved over time. But it's not just the castle that makes Carcassonne a must-visit destination. The quaint village within the fortified walls is straight out of a fairytale, adding to the city's charm.
And the best part? Carcassonne is just a two-hour flight away from London, making it an easily accessible destination. In fact, the city was almost demolished in 1849, but thanks to public outcry, it was instead renovated and later became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1997.
Lizzie Collin, who recently visited Carcassonne, described it as a picturesque city with a beautiful atmosphere. She highly recommends taking a walk around the walled city, trying out the local restaurants, and visiting the castle for stunning views and architecture.
But there's more to Carcassonne than meets the eye. Did you know that it's home to not one, but two UNESCO World Heritage Sites? The Canal du Midi, a tree-lined canal that runs through the city, is also a must-see attraction.
With so much to offer, here are our top 10 things to do in Carcassonne:
1. Explore the 1500-year-old walled city and immerse yourself in its rich history.
2. Dine at the Michelin-approved Comte Roger for a taste of the local cuisine.
3. Go wine tasting at one of the many vineyards, like Domaine Rose et Paul.
4. Admire the stunning architecture of Basilique Saint Nazaire.
5. Visit the magnificent Carcassonne Cathedral, Saint Michael of Carcassonne.
6. Step inside the Carcassonne Castle and explore its lapidary museum and model of the city.
7. Take a scenic canal cruise along the winding Canal du Midi, passing by vineyards.
8. On Sundays, visit the Andre Chenier Square market for fresh produce and people-watching.
9. Spend a day at Lac de Cavayere, a beautiful lake just a short bus ride from the city.
10. Take a day trip to the nearby medieval towns of Mirepoix, Montségur, and Camon for stunning natural landscapes.
Wondering when the best time to visit Carcassonne is? The city welcomes tourists all year round, with peak season being from June to August. If you want to experience the festive atmosphere, Bastille Day on July 14th is a great time to visit. For a more relaxed and less crowded experience, consider going in the spring or during weekdays.
Fun fact: Carcassonne may look familiar because it's been used as a filming location for popular movies like Lady Godiva, Labyrinth, and Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves.
As for the weather, the peak summer months see an average temperature of 23°C, with highs reaching 28°C. Winter is mild, with highs of 11°C and lows of 4°C.
So how do you get to this magical destination? You can fly directly to Carcassonne from London for around £22, with return flights costing approximately £45. Alternatively, you can fly to Toulouse for £34 and take a 1.5-hour train ride to Carcassonne.
As for accommodations, Carcassonne offers a variety of options for all budgets. A two-night stay at a hotel starts at around £130, with Conde Nast Traveller recommending the luxurious Hotel de la Cite Carcassonne - MGallery Collection for £235. For a more budget-friendly option, the SOWELL COLLECTION Hôtel du Roi & SPA offers a two-night stay for £138. And for those traveling in a group, you can book a lovely two-bedroom house on Booking.com for just £256 for two nights.
In total, a two-night stay in Carcassonne can cost anywhere from £114 to £285, depending on accommodations and group size. With its charming atmosphere, rich history, and stunning scenery, Carcassonne is truly a hidden gem in the south of France. So why not plan your next getaway to this fairytale city? You won't regret it.
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