Carcassonne: Castle and Ramparts Entry Ticket
Hightlight
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English-Speaking
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Group-Friendly
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Local guide
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Non smoking
History
Carcassonne, a fortified hilltop city in southern France, traces its origins to the 6th century BC as a Celtic settlement, later becoming a key Roman outpost by the 1st century BC. Fortified in the 4th century, it evolved into a strategic stronghold during the Middle Ages. The powerful Trencavel family, who ruled in the 12th century, shaped its early medieval prominence until the Cathar Crusade (1209–1229) led to their exile and the city’s decline under the Inquisition. In the 13th century, King Louis IX ordered the construction of Carcassonne’s iconic double-walled ramparts and expanded the Château Comtal, cementing its military significance.
By the 19th century, the city lay in ruins until architect Eugène Viollet-le-Duc began its restoration in 1844, a project completed in 1911 by his pupil Paul Boeswillwald. Their work revived Carcassonne’s medieval splendor, earning it UNESCO World Heritage status in 1997. Today, the city stands as a testament to 2,500 years of history, blending Gallo-Roman, medieval, and Cathar legacies with its restored towers, ramparts, and castle, offering a vivid glimpse into France’s fortified past.
Highlights
- Explore the Château Comtal, home of the powerful 12th-century Trencavel family.
- Climb the Bishop’s Tower, a unique structure straddling both city walls.
- Admire the Salle Pierre Embry’s 15th-century polychrome alabaster statues.
- Walk the medieval western ramparts for stunning views.
- Learn Carcassonne’s 2,500-year history with a multilingual leaflet.
Full Description
Step into the medieval world of Carcassonne with an entry ticket to the Château Comtal and its ramparts, a UNESCO World Heritage Site located at 1 Rue Viollet-le-Duc, Carcassonne. This self-guided tour, aided by an informative leaflet in 11 languages (French, English, German, Italian, Spanish, Portuguese, Dutch, Japanese, Chinese, Russian, Polish), allows you to explore at your own pace, typically taking 1–2 hours. Discover the castle’s courtyards, archaeological museum, and newly accessible western ramparts, offering panoramic views of the fortified city and Aude Valley.
Uncover Carcassonne’s layered history, from its 6th-century BC origins to its Roman and medieval fortifications, the Cathar Crusade’s impact, and its 19th-century restoration by Viollet-le-Duc. Visit the Bishop’s Tower, a rare structure bridging the inner and outer walls, and admire the Salle Pierre Embry’s early 15th-century alabaster statues, showcasing Gothic artistry. The museum displays artifacts from the city’s Gallo-Roman and medieval past, while the ramparts reveal the strategic genius of the double-walled design. Perfect for history lovers and casual visitors, this ticket offers an immersive journey through Carcassonne’s storied past.
Why Choose This Attraction?
This affordable entry ticket provides flexible access to one of France’s most iconic medieval sites, ideal for history enthusiasts, families, and independent travelers. The self-guided format, with a detailed multilingual leaflet, allows you to explore Carcassonne’s castle, ramparts, and museum at your own pace, enriched by vivid storyboards and historical insights. The UNESCO-listed city’s restored grandeur, from its 52 towers to the Trencavel legacy, captivates visitors, as reviews highlight the informative and engaging experience.
Perfect for a half-day visit, it pairs well with exploring Carcassonne’s medieval village, dining at local bistros, or strolling the nearby Canal du Midi. Free entry for under-18s and EU citizens under 26, plus accessibility for limited mobility, adds value, making it a must-do for anyone seeking France’s fortified heritage.
What’s Included
- Entry ticket to Château Comtal, courtyards, archaeological museum, and western ramparts.
- Informative leaflet in French, English, German, Italian, Spanish, Portuguese, Dutch, Japanese, Chinese, Russian, or Polish.
Pricing
From $15 per person
Meeting Point
Château et Remparts de la Cité de Carcassonne, 1 Rue Viollet-le-Duc, 11000 Carcassonne (Open in Google Maps).
How to Get There
- By Train: From Toulouse to Carcassonne station (~45 minutes), then a 15–20-minute walk or 5-minute taxi to the Cité.
- By Bus: Line 4 from Carcassonne’s lower town (Bastide) to Cité Médiévale stop (~10 minutes).
- By Foot: From Carcassonne’s lower town, walk to the Cité via Pont Vieux (~20 minutes, scenic).
- By Car/Taxi: Drive from Toulouse (~1 hour via A61) or park at the Cité’s lot (€5–10/day); drop-off at 1 Rue Viollet-le-Duc.
Good to Know
What to Bring:
- Passport or ID card (required for entry; free for under-18s/EU under-26).
- Comfortable shoes for cobblestone paths and rampart steps.
- Cash for nearby bistros or souvenir shops (no food inside).
- A camera for panoramic views from the ramparts.
- A light jacket (castle interiors can be cool).
Know Before You Go:
- Not allowed: Scooters, bicycles, helmets, non-folding strollers, large luggage, pets (except assistance dogs).
- Closed: January 1, May 1, December 25; ramparts closed July 14 (fireworks).
- Closes early (4:00 PM) on December 24 and 31.
- Free entry: First Sunday of January, February, March, November, December; European Heritage Days (3rd weekend of September); under-18s; EU citizens under 26 (pre-book timeslot at www.remparts-carcassonne.fr with valid ID).
- Partially accessible: Barbican and main courtyard suitable for limited mobility; ramparts and upper castle have steps, unsuitable for wheelchairs.
- Expect 1–2 hours for the visit; arrive 15 minutes early for ticket checks.
- No audio guide included, but leaflets provide detailed information; audio guides may be available for rent (~€3, check on-site).
Reviews
- The leaflet made Carcassonne’s history come alive! The storyboards were fascinating, and the ramparts’ views were incredible. A must-see for history lovers!
- Amazing experience with an informative and witty leaflet. The Cité’s beauty is unreal—walking the ramparts was a highlight. Plenty of eateries nearby made it a perfect day.
- Very detailed self-guided tour, far better value than pricey guided options. The Bishop’s Tower and alabaster statues were stunning. Highly recommend exploring the whole Cité!
Maps
Contact
Video
FAQ's
What does the leaflet cover, and how does it enhance the visit?
The leaflet, available in 11 languages, details Carcassonne’s 2,500-year history, from its Celtic and Roman origins to its medieval role under the Trencavel family, the Cathar Crusade’s impact (1209–1229), and Viollet-le-Duc’s 19th-century restoration. It highlights key sites like the Bishop’s Tower, Salle Pierre Embry’s alabaster statues, and the double-walled ramparts, with notes on their architectural and strategic significance. It enriches the 1–2-hour self-guided tour by providing context and pointing out details, perfect for independent exploration.
How accessible is the castle and ramparts for people with mobility challenges?
The barbican and main courtyard are accessible for those with limited mobility, but the ramparts and upper castle involve steep steps and uneven surfaces, making them unsuitable for wheelchairs or significant mobility issues. Free entry is offered for visitors with disabilities (plus one companion, with ID), but contact the ticket office (www.remparts-carcassonne.fr) in advance for partial access details. A companion is recommended, and the lower Cité’s flat areas are more accommodating.
What are the best times to visit to avoid crowds?
Early morning (9:00 AM–10:00 AM) or late afternoon (after 3:00 PM) reduce crowds, especially in summer. Spring (April–May) or fall (September–October) offer milder weather and fewer visitors. Book tickets online for faster entry, as the Cité can get busy, particularly on weekends. Free entry days (e.g., first Sundays of January–March, November–December) are popular, so arrive early and pre-book timeslots for under-18s/EU under-26.
Can I combine the castle visit with other activities in Carcassonne?
Yes, the 1–2-hour visit leaves time to explore the Cité’s medieval streets, shops, or restaurants (try cassoulet, ~€15–20). Visit the nearby Basilique Saint-Nazaire (free) or take a Canal du Midi boat tour (~€10, 1 hour). The lower town (Bastide Saint-Louis) offers markets and cafés, a 20-minute walk away. Plan 4–6 hours for a full day, factoring in dining and walking from the parking lot or shuttle.
What makes Carcassonne’s ramparts and castle unique?
Carcassonne’s double-walled ramparts, built in the 13th century, are a rare example of medieval military engineering, designed to deter invasions like the Cathar Crusade. The Château Comtal, home to the Trencavel family, blends Romanesque and Gothic elements, restored by Viollet-le-Duc to its 13th-century glory. The Bishop’s Tower, straddling both walls, and the Salle Pierre Embry’s 15th-century alabaster statues add architectural distinction, while the UNESCO status underscores its global significance as a preserved fortified city.
