The stuff of fairytales, the medieval walled town of Carcassonne is an Aude icon. With fortified ramparts surrounding 53 towers, ancient stone buildings and winding cobbled lanes set atop a hill encircled by vineyards, this is a magical spot. Carcassonne’s beauty and fame mean that it attracts crowds from within France and further afield, so there’s an excellent choice of accommodation options for a range of tastes and budgets. Whilst many of the best places to stay in Carcassonne are set close to the medieval city itself, some of our favourite hideaways stud the nearby countryside, offering the best of both worlds.

Rise early to stroll around the UNESCO-protected Cité de Carcassonne, admiring ivy-clad stone houses, some with half-timbered exteriors, tiny windows and asymmetrical doorways. The city has a rich history, and guided tours are a brilliant way to delve into Carcassonne’s past. Visit the Basilica of Saints Nazaire, the Counts’ Castle and other highlights before venturing to the lively lower town, where you’ll find the market hall, Place Carnot and the idyllic Canal du Midi.

Venture beyond the city for tours and tastings at superb vineyards, to amble through little villages and to swim or pedalo on the Lac de la Cavayère. Hiking, mountain biking, horse riding, kayaking and barge trips are also wonderful opportunities to see the area. Return to the best places to stay in Carcassonne to savour delicious regional cuisine and to cool down in the pool. Do be aware that these top spots fill up fast during the summer months!

The Best Places to Stay in Carcassonne

For Romance

• Hôtel du Château sits alongside the ramparts of medieval Carcassonne. A historic façade gives way to more contemporary interiors bedecked with rich textiles, indulgent bathrooms, a superb spa and a very swish swimming pool area. For design-conscious couples, in a top location.
• Les Chambres d'Aimé offers a stylish stay for grown-ups in a 19th-century stone house in central Carcassonne. Tuck in to generous breakfasts, unwind on the terrace or soak up the sun by the pool before retreating to one of five well-proportioned rooms. A couples' favourite.
• Hôtel Pont Levis is renowned chef Franck Putelat's second hotel, offering 12 sleek, modern rooms — some with private terraces and hot tubs — in an 18th-century bastide close to the Narbonne Gate. A luxurious choice for romantics and fans of smart design. There's also a swimming pool.

For Families or Groups

• B&B Demeure Saint Louis is an 18th-century guesthouse just outside the medieval city. As well as having five B&B rooms, the building boasts five expansive apartments — some with contemporary furnishings, others with classic antiques — providing space for 4 to 10 guests. Ideal for a group or family holiday, with the benefit of superb city views and well-equipped kitchens.
• Le Château de Palaja has simple, white-on-white rooms and suites within a historic mansion in the lovely village of Palaja. With family suites, a swimming pool, extensive gardens, table tennis, pétanque and bikes for hire, this is a brilliant family or group holiday choice. There are hiking, horse riding and biking trails in the area.

For Foodies

• Le Parc Hôtel is a swish, seven-guestroom property just outside the medieval city. Think sliding glass doors leading to private terraces, big beds and inviting seating areas. The highlight is the two Michelin-starred La Table de Franck Putelat, where the chef seeks the true essence of his ingredients through creative set menus, such as 'Emotion' and 'Action Reaction'. Very sophisticated.
• Le Domaine d'Auriac offers an immensely luxurious stay, minutes from the city. Elegant rooms and suites feature high ceilings and classic interiors. The golf course is fabulous, but the real foodie draw is the Michelin-starred Bernard Rigaudis Restaurant, where Chef Philippe Deschamps serves mounth-watering regional dishes in a traditional setting. Try the 'Grand Menu de Saison'.
• Hôtel de la Cité is an enchanting neo-Gothic property, tucked within the medieval ramparts. Feast on chef Jérôme Ryon's gourmet, Michelin-starred cuisine in the Barbacane Restaurant, marvel at the views from the terrace, and retreat to sumptuous rooms and suites. Gorgeous.

For a Rural Escape

• Château de Cavanac promises an idyllic, ivy-cloaked rural retreat, with traditional guestrooms featuring floral prints and big, garden-facing windows. With a pool, tennis court and traditional restaurant, this is a restful countryside choice.
• Domaine Michaud is an elegant, family-run B&B with soothing cream and white rooms, an inviting dining room for big breakfasts, and events spaces for intimate weddings. The garden boasts a pool, hot tub and stunning views of Carcassonne and the mountains. Very intimate.
• La Bastide Saint Martin has 15 rooms with stone floors and cosy beds in a pretty sandstone country house with blue shutters. The swimming pool, large gardens and restaurant are great, and the feel is low-key and relaxed. A charming escape for couples, friends or families.

For Great Value

• Ecuries de Sainte Croix is a rustic stone farmhouse with two rooms and three self-catering cottages. Expect simple furnishings, garden access, hearty breakfasts and a laid-back feel. Affordable and owner-run, perfect for quiet couples or keen hikers.

FOR AN APARTMENT OR HOLIDAY Villa

• If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

TRAVEL INFORMATION

• Fly to Carcassonne Airport, just outside the city, and continue your journey by car or bus. Visitors from regional hubs — such as Paris, Toulouse, Lyon, Dijon or Marseille — can easily travel to Carcassonne by high-speed train.
• Aude is wonderful for a road trip! Contact our online partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car.
• Visit between May and September for temperatures ranging from 21°C - 30°C, but do be aware that this is also peak season and the city gets very busy. For fewer crowds, great hotel deals and cooler temperatures, travel in April or October.

STILL NOT SURE?

• Explore our list of all the best places to stay in Narbonne.
• Alternatively, expand your search to see our pick of the best places to stay in Aude.
• Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.

Weather

Monthly Weather in Carcassonne