Places to Stay in Carcassonne: Hotels and Local Activities

You can swim in water heated to the ideal temperature. This architectural feat combines elegance and modernity, thanks to its glass façade, which gives it exceptional transparency and luminosity. The pool is open from early May to late October, so you can enjoy the sunny days and extend your summer.

The medieval city of Carcassonne is a unique architectural ensemble, bearing witness to over 2000 years of history. Its origins date back to Gallo-Roman times, when the town was a fortified settlement on the Domitian Way.

In the Middle Ages, the city became the seat of the Counts of Carcassonne, then the Viscounts of Trencavel, who gave it its feudal appearance. The city withstood the assaults of Franks, Saracens and Crusaders, but was eventually annexed to the kingdom of France in 1226. Under royal authority, the city was surrounded by a double wall, with 52 towers and 3 km of ramparts. The city enjoyed a period of prosperity, marked by the development of trade, crafts and culture. The Saint-Nazaire basilica, which blends Romanesque and Gothic styles, is its most striking symbol.

Today, the medieval city of Carcassonne is a not-to-be-missed place to visit, offering a plunge into the past through its cobbled streets, half-timbered houses, château comtal and museums. It also offers a wide range of cultural events, including a theater festival, concerts, exhibitions and the famous fireworks display on July 14th. The medieval city of Carcassonne is a lively place, preserving its soul and charm of yesteryear.

Leaving from Carcassonne, a number of sometimes unexpected visits begin:

• the Languedoc vineyards
• Cathar castles
• Abbeys

It’s a city and a region steeped in history that you’re sure to enjoy discovering.
For more information, visit the Carcassonne tourist office website: www.carcassonne-tourisme.com