An architectural masterpiece and UNESCO World Heritage Site, this city surrounded by fortified walls is one of the museums of the region.
Carcassone is divided in two parts. The medieval city sits atop a bluff and the 18th century bastide lies at its feet on the other side of the river. In the city we of course recommend visiting the castle and the church where you can see the evolution of architectural styles from Romanesque to Gothic. A walk around the ramparts is also impressive to realize the size of these fortifications.
Most tourists don't go down to the bastide and that's a pity. The museum of fine arts houses a very beautiful selection of works from the 17th to the 19th century. The bastide abounds in small, intimate boutiques and excellent artisan pastry and chocolate shops.
On the way to Carcassonne we suggest you to go through the Montagne Noir (Black Mountains) and stop in Saissac for the beautiful view of a Cathar castle and the Pyrenees, then further on to Montolieu, a delightful village of books and booksellers, where you will also find beautiful art galleries and an impressive contemporary art exhibition at the Cérès Franco Cooperative Collection.
