Carcassonne is one of the most well-known medieval cities in France, famous for its impressive fortress. Here is a two-day itinerary for visiting this wonderful place:
Day 1: Historical Carcassonne Morning:
- Citadel of Carcassonne (La Cité de Carcassonne): Start your day by visiting the famous fortress. Take a walk along the castle walls and enjoy the views of the surrounding area. Be sure to visit the Basilique Saint-Nazaire et Saint-Celse - an exquisite Gothic structure with stunning stained glass windows.
- Château Comtal (Count's Castle): Explore the castle and immerse yourself in the history of medieval France. The castle houses a museum with interactive exhibits.
Lunch:
- Have lunch at one of the restaurants within the citadel, where you can try traditional cassoulet - a local dish made with beans and meat.
Afternoon:
- Take a stroll through the narrow streets: Discover souvenir shops, workshops, and cafes located in the medieval alleys of the citadel.
Evening:
- Dinner at a restaurant with a view: Spend the evening at one of the restaurants overlooking the fortress. The atmosphere at sunset is particularly impressive.
Day 2: Surroundings of Carcassonne and the modern city Morning:
- Canal du Midi: Start the day with a walk along this historic canal, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site. You can rent a bike or take a leisurely stroll, enjoying the beautiful nature.
- Carcassonne Markets: Visit the city's daytime markets to buy fresh local produce and souvenirs.
Lunch:
- Head to a cafe to enjoy a light lunch of local dishes or have a picnic in the park near the canal.
Afternoon:
- Bastide Saint-Louis: Explore the more modern part of Carcassonne, with its wide streets and picturesque squares. Visit the fine arts museum or stroll through Place Carnot.
Evening:
- Culinary masterclasses: End your stay by attending a culinary masterclass on preparing traditional Languedoc dishes.
On the second day, you will gather new impressions from the combination of historical and modern atmosphere that Carcassonne offers. Enjoy your trip!