Prepare to be enchanted by magical Carcassonne, this fortified city nestled on a rocky hilltop in southern France. Gaze upon the tangle of turrets, battlements and walls and you’ll feel like you’ve landed in a storybook world.
Explore all the gems of this historical city with car rental in Carcassonne to make the most of this unique location.
Walk around La Cité
Live out your royal fantasy inside the medieval La Cité, the city’s fortified town. Walk across the drawbridge and you’ll quickly find yourself captivated and inspired by the spectacular surroundings.
Admire the monumental turrets, show-stopping architecture and explore the cobbled streets of the 2,000-year-old stronghold – you can literally touch the history. Close your eyes and it’s easy to visualise La Cité in all its glory as a fortress during the Roman, Gaul and Moor eras.
Head deeper into the complex in the direction of Château Comtal to access the ramparts. Walk along the battlements and drink in the mesmerising views of the nearby lush countryside – you may even catch a glimpse of the Pyrenees in the distance.
Escape the crowds and watch the world go by
After soaking up La Cité’s ancient atmosphere, enjoy a change of pace and scenery at La Ville Basse – it’s the perfect place to escape the crowds and explore beyond the headline landmarks.
Amble through the lower town of Carcassonne, which dates back to the Middle Ages, and refuel at one of the wonderfully tempting cafés. Indulge in a freshly-baked croissant and wash it down with a coffee as you watch the world go by.
Back outside, explore the boutique shops lining the medieval streets. Work your way to the Place Carnot in the heart of Carcassonne and meander between the fresh produce stalls that line the square.
Visit the village of Lastours
Pack up your hire car, wind down the windows and enjoy the rural scenery all the way to Lastours. As the entrance to the Valley Orbiel and the Black Mountains, this unspoilt destination is the perfect place to hike through thick pine forests, vineyards and olive groves.
Marvel at the quartet of striking castles looming over the village on a rocky outcrop, then trek your way up to the medieval ruins and pause to soak up the green-tinged views of the valley below.
Fall in love with the French coast
Ignite a new passion for day trips with a visit to Collioure. Travel to this picturesque coastal spot near the Spanish border and enjoy a blast of sea air.
Soak up the sunshine on the pebbled beach before enjoying a refreshing swim in the glittering Mediterranean that laps at the shore. It’s worth taking your snorkel with you to spot local marine life in the beautiful bay.
When temperatures peak, you can retreat to the village and wander in the shade of lemon trees among the pretty streets. Finish your day trip with dinner at one of the quayside restaurants, sampling the village’s famed anchovies as you gaze out upon the sparkling sea.
Car hire in Carcassonne allows you to soak up the enchanting medieval atmosphere of Carcassonne, as well as the delights of the wider Languedoc region and the south of France.