Carcassonne Languedoc Roussillon, France Travel Guide
Carcassonne Airport (CCF), also known as Carcassonne Salvaza Airport, sits about 3 km (2 miles) west of the city center. It mainly serves low-cost carriers, specifically Ryanair, offering seasonal routes to several European cities.
Toulouse-Blagnac Airport (TLS) is a major international airport located about 90 km (56 miles) northwest of Carcassonne. It offers a broader range of airlines and direct connections to major global hubs and European cities.
Flight availability to CCF is highly seasonal, with more routes and higher frequency during summer.
Prices generally rise during peak season (July-August) and holidays. Book flights in advance for better rates. Dollar Flight Club for deals.
No direct transatlantic flights to CCF. Connect through major European hubs (Paris CDG, London LHR, Amsterdam AMS) then to TLS.
Carcassonne sits inland in France, meaning no direct border crossings exist.
France is part of the Schengen Area, meaning minimal border checks for travelers coming from other Schengen countries.
If traveling from a neighboring country like Spain, the border crossing occurs before reaching Carcassonne.
Carcassonne connects well by regional (TER) and intercity trains. Carcassonne Station (Gare de Carcassonne) is in the Ville Basse. Routes include frequent direct TER trains to Toulouse (1 hour), Montpellier (1.5-2 hours), and Narbonne (30 minutes).
FlixBus and BlaBlaCar Bus offer budget-friendly intercity bus services. Routes link Carcassonne to major French cities like Toulouse, Montpellier, and Perpignan, with some international destinations. Bus travel offers affordability but often involves longer journey times.
Major motorways (A61, E80) serve Carcassonne, connecting to Toulouse, Narbonne, and other cities. Roads in France are well-maintained. A valid driving license is necessary. An International Driving Permit is recommended for non-EU license holders.
Highways are in good condition. Rural roads are generally good but can be narrow and winding. Driving in Carcassonne, especially in older areas, has challenges due to narrow streets. Parking is difficult and expensive near the Cité.
Major international rental companies, like Europcar, Hertz, Avis, and Sixt, maintain offices at Carcassonne Airport (CCF) and/or the train station. Enterprise also operates in the area. Prices vary significantly by season, duration, vehicle type, and insurance coverage. DiscoverCars.com for comparisons.
The minimum age for renting a car is typically 21-25, with potential young driver surcharges for those under 25. Inspect the car thoroughly for any existing damage before departure and ensure it is noted on the rental agreement.
Limited options in Carcassonne itself; more readily available in larger cities like Toulouse or Montpellier.
Several shops in Ville Basse offer bicycle rentals; excellent for Canal du Midi towpaths.
Drive on the right. Seatbelts mandatory. Speed limits: 50 km/h urban, 80 km/h rural, 110-130 km/h motorways.
Large paid parking lots are available just outside the Cité walls. These include P1 La Cité and P2 Porte Narbonnaise. During peak season, these lots fill quickly. Arriving early aids in securing a spot. Consider alternative transport if you arrive later in the day.
The Ville Basse offers paid street parking and underground parking garages. Parking Gambetta and Parking des Halles. These parking options provide convenience for exploring the modern city area. Prices may vary by location and duration.
Highways are in excellent condition. Expect toll roads (péage) where payment is by cash or credit card.
Rural roads are generally good but can be narrow and winding; exercise caution in hilly or vineyard areas.
Driving within the Cité is restricted to residents and authorized personnel. City driving can be challenging due to narrow streets.
Prepare any necessary documents, like boarding passes or train tickets, before arriving at your departure point to streamline the process.
