: Carcassonne

Carcassonne is globally famous for its spectacularly restored medieval fortress, the Cité de Carcassonne, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The city has two distinct parts: the fortified Cité on the hilltop and the lower town (Ville Basse) across the Aude River. The Cité's double ring of ramparts and towers make it one of Europe's most complete medieval fortifications.

Carcassonne has a TGV station on the high-speed line between Toulouse and Montpellier. Carcassonne Airport receives low-cost flights from the UK, Ireland, and Belgium. By car, the A61 motorway passes the city.

The Cité is pedestrian-only within its walls and is reached from the lower town by a 15–20 minute walk uphill or a short bus. The Ville Basse is flat and walkable.

The Cité de Carcassonne: walk the ramparts, visit the Château Comtal, and explore the Basilique Saint-Nazaire with its stunning stained glass. The lower town offers the Musée des Beaux-Arts and the Canal du Midi.

Guided tours of the Cité. The Canal du Midi towpath for cycling or walking. The summer festival with concerts within the Cité. Wine tasting in Corbières and Minervois.

Cassoulet de Castelnaudary is the signature dish. The Cité has tourist-oriented restaurants; more authentic dining in the Ville Basse.

Corbières, Minervois, Côtes de Malepère wines. Blanquette de Limoux (sparkling white). Pastis.

Atmospheric hotels within the Cité (pricey). The lower town offers wider range. Chambres d'hôtes in the Corbières countryside.

The Cité has tourist shops. The lower town's market is better for Corbières wines, cassoulet ingredients, olive oil, and local honeys.

The Cathar castles (Quéribus, Peyrepertuse, Puilaurens). The Canal du Midi. Narbonne, Béziers. Toulouse (45 minutes).