3 day itinerary for Carcassonne

Itinerary

Carcassonne is a charming medieval city in the south of France, and I’m excited to help you plan a delightful 3-day itinerary that includes hiking, indulging in some delicious cassoulet, and exploring the historical sites. Let’s dive in!

## Day 1: Explore the Citadel and Local Cuisine

Morning:

• Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café. Try a croissant or pain au chocolat with a café au lait to fuel up for the day!
• After breakfast, head to the Cité de Carcassonne, the stunning medieval fortress. Spend a few hours wandering through the narrow cobblestone streets, admiring the impressive ramparts, and visiting the Basilica of Saint-Nazaire. The stained glass windows are absolutely breathtaking!

Lunch:

• For lunch, treat yourself to some cassoulet artisanal at a local restaurant. One great spot is Restaurant Le Parc, known for its authentic and hearty cassoulet. Make sure to pair it with a glass of local wine!

Afternoon:

• After lunch, continue your exploration of the Cité. Don’t miss the Château Comtal, where you can learn about the history of the fortress and enjoy panoramic views from the ramparts.

Evening:

• For dinner, consider trying a different local dish or some tapas at a nearby bistro. Afterward, take a stroll along the Aude River to enjoy the beautiful evening views of the illuminated fortress.

## Day 2: Hiking and Nature

Morning:

• After breakfast, prepare for a day of hiking! Head to Lac de la Cavayère, which is about a 15-minute drive from the city center. This picturesque lake is surrounded by beautiful trails and offers a perfect setting for a randonnée (hike). You can choose from various trails that range in difficulty, so pick one that suits your mood!

Lunch:

• Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy by the lake. You can grab some fresh baguettes, cheese, and charcuterie from a local market before you head out. There are plenty of lovely spots to relax and take in the scenery.

Afternoon:

• After your hike, take some time to relax by the lake. You can rent a paddleboat or simply enjoy the peaceful surroundings. If you’re feeling adventurous, there are also some fun activities like zip-lining nearby!

Evening:

• Head back to Carcassonne and freshen up. For dinner, explore the local dining scene further. You might want to try La Table de la Bastide, which offers a modern twist on traditional dishes.

## Day 3: Cultural Immersion and Relaxation

Morning:

• Start your day with a visit to the Carcassonne Market (if you’re there on a Tuesday, Thursday, or Saturday). It’s a great place to experience local culture, sample regional products, and pick up some souvenirs.
• After the market, visit the Museum of the Inquisition to learn about the fascinating (and sometimes dark) history of the region.

Lunch:

• Enjoy lunch at a café in the Bastide Saint-Louis area, where you can try some local specialties or a light salad.

Afternoon:

• Spend your afternoon visiting the Pont Vieux (Old Bridge) and take a leisurely walk along the river. You can also explore the Place Carnot, a lovely square filled with shops and cafés.
• If you have time, consider visiting the Château de Lastours, a short drive away, where you can explore the ruins and enjoy stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

Evening:

• For your final dinner in Carcassonne, indulge in a nice meal at Le Plo, known for its creative dishes and warm atmosphere. It’s the perfect way to wrap up your trip!

Tips:

• Don’t forget to try some local wines, especially the Minervois or Corbières varieties!
• Wear comfortable shoes for walking and hiking, as you’ll be exploring a lot!

I hope this itinerary helps you have an unforgettable time in Carcassonne! Enjoy every moment of your adventure! 🌟