Languedoc Roussillon, France
Major providers include Orange, SFR, Bouygues Telecom, and Free Mobile. Prepaid SIM cards ("cartes prépayées") or eSIMs are available for visitors. These provide local data and call services.
Most hotels, guesthouses, and restaurants offer free Wi-Fi. Public Wi-Fi exists in some city centers but often calls for registration. Using a local SIM or eSIM presents consistent mobile data access.
French is the official language. Many people in the tourism industry speak English, including hotels, major attractions, and some restaurants. English is less common in smaller shops or rural areas.
Using common French greetings and phrases leaves a positive impression on locals. A little effort goes a long way in fostering positive interactions.
Practice a few basic French greetings and phrases before your trip. Locals genuinely appreciate the effort.
Navigate Carcassonne's daily rhythm.
Generally open from 9:00 AM or 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM or 7:30 PM. Many smaller shops in the Ville Basse close for a lunch break (12:30 PM to 2:00 PM). Shops often close on Sundays.
Lunch service typically runs from 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM. Dinner service starts around 7:00 PM and continues until 9:30 PM or 10:00 PM. Many restaurants close between these hours.
Typically open from 9:30 AM or 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM or 6:00 PM, with hours extending in summer. Attractions often close one day a week, like Monday or Tuesday. Always check specific opening times.
Banks typically open from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM and from 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM, Monday to Friday. Some may open on Saturday mornings. ATMs are widely available in the Ville Basse and near the Cité entrance.
Some tourist-oriented businesses and restaurants in the Cité may close or have reduced hours during the low season (November-March). Confirm operational status if traveling during this period.
France observes many public holidays ("jours fériés"). Banks, post offices, and many shops and businesses close. Public transport may operate on a reduced schedule. Plan accordingly if your visit falls on one of these days.
Interact with local culture respectfully to enrich your experience.
Learning a few basic French phrases (see section 11.1) is valued. Be polite. Use "Bonjour," "Merci," and "S'il vous plaît." Ask permission before taking close-up photos of people, specifically children.
Do not rush your meal. Wait for staff to seat you at a restaurant. Keep hands visible on the table, not in your lap. Bread is commonly placed directly on the table, not on a side plate. See section 2.3 for tipping information.
Avoid discussing politics or religion unless you know your audience well. Respect private property. These topics can create discomfort in social situations.
Be mindful of people's privacy. Avoid intrusive photography. Do not photograph children without explicit parental consent. This shows respect for local residents.
Your efforts to learn and adhere to local customs will greatly enrich your travel experience and foster positive interactions with residents.
Carcassonne presents varying levels of accessibility for travelers with mobility challenges.
Exploring the Cité presents challenges due to cobblestones, steep inclines, and numerous stairs. This applies especially within the Château Comtal and on the ramparts. Some main pathways are accessible, but full exploration remains difficult for wheelchair users.
This area is generally flatter and more accessible, with wider pavements and modern infrastructure. This section of Carcassonne offers easier movement for all visitors.
Newer RTCA buses are generally wheelchair accessible. SNCF offers assistance for travelers with reduced mobility; book this service, called Accès Plus, in advance.
Modern museums in the Ville Basse may offer better accessibility. Call ahead for specific details regarding ramps, elevators, and accessible restrooms at various venues.
Limited specialized services specifically for tourists exist in Carcassonne. Many general services are available in French. Planning for personal assistance or translated resources is advisable.
Contact the Carcassonne Tourist Office for specific information on accessible routes and services. Consult general French accessibility travel guides online. These resources offer detailed information and tips for planning an accessible trip.
