Carcassonne Castle Tickets
Don't miss out on these sophisticated attractions in Carcassonne! Pick from a variety of options such as guided museum tours, cathedral tours, and wine tasting.
-
Turn back time to the 13th century and discover the popular Cité de Carcassonne for a historical treat.
-
Once claimed by Romans, Saracens, Visigoths, and Crusaders, it is now your time to explore its hidden treasures.
-
Walk past fortified walls, watchtowers, ramparts, the Great Well, the Salle Pierre Embry, and the Count’s Castle.
-
Climb the square Bishop’s Tower, the sturdy construction that straddles both city walls.
-
Fun fact: Carcassonne was the first fortress to use hoardings in times of siege.
More details
-
Turn back time to the 13th century and discover the popular Cité de Carcassonne for a historical treat.
-
Once claimed by Romans, Saracens, Visigoths, and Crusaders, it is now your time to explore its hidden treasures.
-
Walk past fortified walls, watchtowers, ramparts, the Great Well, the Salle Pierre Embry, and the Count’s Castle.
-
Climb the square Bishop’s Tower, the sturdy construction that straddles both city walls.
-
Fun fact: Carcassonne was the first fortress to use hoardings in times of siege.
-
Embark on a 1.5-hour self-guided audio tour through the historic city of Carcassonne. Explore its picturesque landmarks including the Canal du Midi and the medieval reenactment camp at your pace.
-
Immerse yourself in Carcassonne's rich history with 19 professionally narrated audio recordings. Unearth tales of the Crusades, Visigoths, and Templars while enjoying lifetime access to the tour.
-
Skip the line and gain entry into Carcassonne Castle and Ramparts. Soak in 13th-century views of the stunning fortress once claimed by Romans, Visigoths, Saracens, and Crusaders.
-
Enjoy access to the castle courtyards, archaeological museum, and ramparts. Marvel at the fortified walls, watchtowers, and the Count’s Castle while perusing multilingual leaflets.
-
Fun Fact: Carcassonne was the first fortress to use hoardings during sieges, a protective wooden structure placed atop walls to defend against attackers.
More details
-
Embark on a 1.5-hour self-guided audio tour through the historic city of Carcassonne. Explore its picturesque landmarks including the Canal du Midi and the medieval reenactment camp at your pace.
-
Immerse yourself in Carcassonne's rich history with 19 professionally narrated audio recordings. Unearth tales of the Crusades, Visigoths, and Templars while enjoying lifetime access to the tour.
-
Skip the line and gain entry into Carcassonne Castle and Ramparts. Soak in 13th-century views of the stunning fortress once claimed by Romans, Visigoths, Saracens, and Crusaders.
-
Enjoy access to the castle courtyards, archaeological museum, and ramparts. Marvel at the fortified walls, watchtowers, and the Count’s Castle while perusing multilingual leaflets.
-
Fun Fact: Carcassonne was the first fortress to use hoardings during sieges, a protective wooden structure placed atop walls to defend against attackers.
-
Experience the grandeur of medieval history with a day tour of the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Cité de Carcassonne with bus transfers from Toulouse.
-
With your ticket to the Château Comtal, the Gallo-Roman fortress, bypass queues and dive right into exploring this 12th-century architectural marvel.
-
Admire the Gothic brilliance of Saint Nazaire basilica, with its towering spires looking like outstretched fingers, and stroll along the city walls.
-
Walk leisurely through the charming squares and ramparts, learning about this fortified city's pivotal role in the 13th-century Albigensian Crusade.
-
Fun fact: The city walls have been featured in several films, most notably the 1991 action-adventure film, Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves.
More details
-
Experience the grandeur of medieval history with a day tour of the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Cité de Carcassonne with bus transfers from Toulouse.
-
With your ticket to the Château Comtal, the Gallo-Roman fortress, bypass queues and dive right into exploring this 12th-century architectural marvel.
-
Admire the Gothic brilliance of Saint Nazaire basilica, with its towering spires looking like outstretched fingers, and stroll along the city walls.
-
Walk leisurely through the charming squares and ramparts, learning about this fortified city's pivotal role in the 13th-century Albigensian Crusade.
-
Fun fact: The city walls have been featured in several films, most notably the 1991 action-adventure film, Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves.
-
Experience an immersive 1.5-hour audio-guided tour of Carcassonne, unearthing the city's rich past while strolling at your own pace.
-
Delight in the convenience of an offline map, GPS navigation, and lifetime access, ensuring a seamless exploration of Carcassonne's picturesque landmarks.
-
Be intrigued by Carcassonne's medieval history as you wander through city museums, the imposing Chateau Comtal, and the inspiring Basilica of St. Nazarius, a Romanesque-gothic minor basilica.
-
Discover the city's well-preserved fortifications, marvel at the architectural grandeur, and learn about the legendary Canal du Midi. Get engrossed in stories of the Crusades, the Visigoths, and the Templars.
-
Fun fact: The Carcassonne fortress inspired the design of the castle in Walt Disney's Sleeping Beauty.
More details
-
Experience an immersive 1.5-hour audio-guided tour of Carcassonne, unearthing the city's rich past while strolling at your own pace.
-
Delight in the convenience of an offline map, GPS navigation, and lifetime access, ensuring a seamless exploration of Carcassonne's picturesque landmarks.
-
Be intrigued by Carcassonne's medieval history as you wander through city museums, the imposing Chateau Comtal, and the inspiring Basilica of St. Nazarius, a Romanesque-gothic minor basilica.
-
Discover the city's well-preserved fortifications, marvel at the architectural grandeur, and learn about the legendary Canal du Midi. Get engrossed in stories of the Crusades, the Visigoths, and the Templars.
-
Fun fact: The Carcassonne fortress inspired the design of the castle in Walt Disney's Sleeping Beauty.
Pro tips to help you make a pick
Standard tickets include entry to the Chateau Comtal (The Count’s Castle) and its ramparts. Explore at your own pace with multilingual leaflets or an audio guide to uncover its history and architecture.
Entry tickets come with skip-the-line benefits, saving you 15-30 minutes during busy periods. Without these, wait times can extend from 45 minutes to an hour, especially during summer and festivals.
For visitors traveling from outside Carcassonne, tickets with round-trip transfers from Toulouse, a popular day-trip hub, simplify logistics and let you focus on exploring the castle and citadel.
It’s recommended to book your tickets 1-2 weeks in advance as Carcassonne is a top destination, especially during peak seasons.
The castle is part of the Cite de Carcassonne, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Stroll the cobblestone streets, and browse local shops, with the help of a self-guided audio tour to gain deeper insights into its landmarks and rich history.
About Carcassonne Castle
Discover the captivating history of Carcassonne Castle, a medieval marvel atop 'La Cité.' With roots tracing back to Romans and Crusaders, this UNESCO World Heritage Site boasts thick walls, spiky turrets, and a moat, reminiscent of a Disney fairytale. From its vantage point, relish panoramic views of Carcassonne, the Aude river, Canal du Midi, and the Pyrénées. Immerse yourself in centuries of history and get your tickets for a one-of-a-kind trip to the magnificent castle.
Carcassonne Castle pioneered siege tactics, using hoardings – wooden ramparts extending from upper walls – for enhanced protection during medieval conflicts.
Romanticized by poet Gustave Nadaud in the 19th century, Carcassonne became a national symbol, captivating hearts and attracting tourists through the ballad "Carcassonne."
With a captivating backdrop, Carcassonne featured in cinematic classics like "Robin Hood" and "Ladyhawke," as well as fantasy epics like "Dragonheart" and the iconic "Game of Thrones."
Each summer, Carcassonne transforms into a medieval wonderland during the "Fête Médiévale." Street performers, artisans, and jousting tournaments bring the Middle Ages to life in a vibrant spectacle.
Threatened with demolition in 1849, Carcassonne was saved by architect Prosper Mérimée. The restoration, spanning over 40 years, rescued the castle from oblivion, preserving its historical significance.
Why visit Carcassonne Castle?
Highlights
The Ramparts
Walk atop the impressive ramparts of Carcassonne Castle for panoramic views of the city and countryside. Delve into the castle's rich history and architecture while enjoying the expansive vistas offered along the walls.
The Château Comtal
The oldest section of Carcassonne, the Château Comtal, comprises the inner castle. Explore its ancient grounds, which include the keep, chapel, and great hall. Discover artifacts from its history in the on-site museum.
The Basilica of Saint-Nazaire
Nestled within the castle walls, the Basilica of Saint-Nazaire stands as a Romanesque-Gothic marvel. As a significant religious site, it showcases stunning architectural features and intricate stained glass windows.
The Musée de la Cité
Discover the Musée de la Cité, nestled within the castle walls, housing relics from Carcassonne's past. Exhibits feature weaponry, attire, and insights into the castle's role during the Albigensian Crusade.
The Porte Narbonnaise
Behold the grandeur of the Porte Narbonnaise, Carcassonne Castle's principal entrance. Admire its fortified structure, complete with towers and a drawbridge, a picturesque setting for capturing timeless photographs.
The Tour de la Justice
Ascend the towering Tour de la Justice, the castle's highest point, for breathtaking vistas of the city and its surroundings.
The Château Comtal Gardens
Find tranquility within the Château Comtal Gardens, a serene enclave amidst the castle's walls. Immerse yourself in the beauty of its diverse flora while basking in the peaceful ambiance.
The Cathar Museum
Journey through history at the Cathar Museum, housed within the castle walls. Unravel the narrative of the persecuted Cathars, exploring their culture, beliefs, and tumultuous past through engaging exhibits.
Plan your visit
Narbonne Gate
Serving as the eastern entry point to Carcassonne Castle, the Narbonne Gate features interconnected towers that enhance the fortifications of the castle's inner walls.
Rodez Gate
Positioned to the north of Carcassonne Castle, the Rodez Gate boasts multiple reinforced Roman towers, contributing to the defensive structures of the castle.
Saint-Nazaire Gate
Located in the southern section of Carcassonne Castle, the Saint-Nazaire Gate provides a magnificent vantage point overlooking the town of Carcassonne.
Aude Gate
Formerly known as the Gate of Toulouse, the Aude Gate stands out as the most aesthetically pleasing and impressive entrance to Carcassonne Castle. It offers a quieter and more serene ambiance compared to other entrances.
April 1–September 30: 10am–6:15pm; last admission to the chateau at 5pm and to the ramparts at 5:45pm.
October 1–March 31: 9:30am–4:45pm; last admission to the chateau at 3:45pm and to the ramparts at 4:15pm.
Closed on: January 1, May 1, and December 25
There is a cloakroom located near the entrance of the castle where you can leave your large bags or luggage for a small fee.
An information desk is located near the entrance of the castle where you can get assistance with planning your visit, ask questions, and purchase tickets.
A charming souvenir shop located near the exit of the castle offers a variety of Carcassonne-themed mementos, from postcards and magnets to replicas of medieval armor and weaponry.
Restrooms are available throughout the castle grounds, conveniently located near major points of interest. They are well-maintained and kept clean.
Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the castle grounds, allowing you to stay connected and share your experience with friends and family.
Limited free parking is available outside the castle walls, on a first-come, first-served basis. It's recommended to arrive early, especially during peak season, to secure a spot.
Some areas of the Carcassonne Castle are wheelchair accessible, while some are not. Staff members will be able to assist you with maneuvering through accessible areas.
Guide dogs assisting the visually impaired guests are allowed.
Browse by themes
Nearby cities to explore
World at your tap.
Get the Headout app to get tickets on your phone and access app-only deals. Talk about win-win.
