Car HireCarcassonne Airport

The airport is around 4km from the city itself, it takes approximately 20 minutes via the D119. You’ll know you’re approaching the city when its magnificent castle – La Cité, with its turrets piercing the skyline – comes into view.

Make your way across the Aude River and turn off onto Place Gaston Jourdanne where you can park up and head to the castle on foot.

Although the castle captures the imagination and stirs the soul, it’s not the only location worth a visit. The newer part of Carcassonne has a sleepy pace to it. The N113 and D119 circle this pocket of the city, offering easy access to the boutiques, cafes and churches tucked into the area.

If you’re looking to explore further, Carcassonne is in the centre of a road network with routes to major cities. The A61 stretches to romantic Toulouse in the north, with its clutch of pink-tinged buildings.

Venture further beyond the city along the A62 to Bordeaux. This elegant metropolis is packed with elegant architecture and fascinating museums, surrounded by the region’s famed vineyards.

Two hours up the A10 will take you on to La Rochelle, one of the French Atlantic coast’s best destinations.

Let the lure of southern France pull you towards the coast. Journey along the A61 through pretty countryside to Narbonne. With its distinguished river, narrow alleyways and harbour, it’s an idyllic canal town to discover.

From Narbonne, head south along the A9 through the stunning national park, where lush countryside and handsome vineyards decorate the horizon. In under an hour you’ll reach Perpignan, a city brimming with history. A visit to the 13^th century Palace of the Kings of Majorca is a must, with its Gothic throne room, arched courtyards and otherworldly chapels.

While in France you’ll drive on the right-hand side of the road and overtake on the left. All passengers must wear a seatbelt and the use of mobile devices while driving is banned.

Look out for speed limit signs, as these can change depending on conditions. On motorways the maximum is 130 km/h, which dips to 110 km/h on dual carriageways and 50 km/h in urban areas.

Our local teams will be happy to answer any specific questions you may have about driving in France.

Carcassonne casts a spell on all who venture here. Visit the city and you’ll be transported to medieval lands, where castle walls proudly protected people from the threats that lay beyond.

Even the briefest of trips to Carcassonne is likely to linger long in your memory.

A royal fantasy

Make straight for La Cité,Carcassonne’s mesmerising fortified town which is undoubtedly the highlight of the city. Story book magic is in abundance here.

Built upon a hilltop more than two millennia ago, the fortress boasts 52 towers which rise – high and glorious – into the blue sky. Perfectly preserved, the fortress boasts enough treasures to spend a whole day exploring.

Enter via Porte Narbonnaise and head into the heart of the stronghold. Wander along the narrow cobbled passageways, lined with shops, and make your way up the ramparts. From here, you’re in the perfect place to bask in outstanding views of the city and surrounding countryside.

Head back down to ground level and seek out the Basilica of Saint-Nazaire tucked away in the southern corner of the citadel. Dating back to the 11^th century, this stunning cathedral boasts a blend of Roman and Gothic architectural detailing.

Catch a glimpse of the menacing gargoyles studded around the exterior before wandering into the vast nave to admire the beautiful stained glass windows decorating the walls.

Rural ruins

Go out of Carcassonne and into the countryside to find the famed Cathar Castles among thickly-forested hills and standing solitary upon isolated rocky ridges. Each unique, they all add to this region’s magical character.

From the airport, drive north-east through the dramatic countryside to the village of Lastours, nestled in the Orbeil Valley. Park up and follow the marked route up the hillside and to the mountain ridge. Here you’ll find the Castles of Lastours, four medieval wonders that offer a glimpse into the past of this historically rich region.

Head south along the D118 to Lapradelle-Puilaurens where you’ll find parking spots at the base of the hillside.

Ascend the rocky peak through thick pine forest to reach Puilaurens Castle, looming more than 2,200 feet above the Boulzane valley. Although a castle is thought to have been on the site since the 10^th century, the remains you’ll see are from the 13^th.

More dramatic ruins can be found in Cucugnan. Positioned high above the valley, 14^th century Queribus Castle looks as if it has been carved straight into the rock face. You can see its polygonal tower from miles away, marking its strategic position. Head up to the tower and drink in the spectacular views across the surrounding mountains.

Nothing Toulouse

Drive up the A61 in the direction of Toulouse, known as La Ville Rose. Famed for its pretty pink-tinged buildings, this romantic city is utterly enchanting. Meander through the atmospheric streets of the cobbled old quarter, opening out on to squares buzzing with locals.

You’ll find a goldmine of places to eat. Toulouse has a reputation for outstanding southern French cuisine and is the perfect place to sample its gastronomical delights.

Tuck into flavoursome cassoulet, a slow-cooked meat and white bean stew, at Le Colombier, that features the city’s signature sausage, saucisse de Toulouse.

Roam the stalls of vibrant Marché Victor Hugo, the city’s covered market, before heading up to one of the restaurants on the first floor to feast on succulent duck confit and perfect fries.

All the magic and beauty of this wondrous city and surrounding region can be explored fully with car hire from Carcassonne Airport.