Join a guided small group day trip from Toulouse to the UNESCO-listed Cité de Carcassonne. Explore the stunning medieval fortress, visit the Cathedral, and enjoy a guided walking tour of this historic landmark. Enjoy some free time.
Carcassonne small group Half-Day Tour from Toulouse (shared)
Summary Description
Highlights
- An Idyllic Half Day Trip from Toulouse to Medieval Carcassonne
- Visit the Impressive Saint Nazaire Basilica
- Catch the Highlights of this Old Walled City
- Local Tour Guide, Expert in Carcassonne
Description
Discover the Magic of Carcassonne on a Half-Day Tour from Toulouse
Embark on a journey to one of France’s most iconic UNESCO World Heritage Sites, the fortified Cité de Carcassonne. This half-day tour offers an in-depth exploration of the medieval fortress, blending rich history, captivating architecture, and breathtaking landscapes.
Morning or Afternoon Departure from Toulouse
Start your adventure with a convenient pickup at a centrally located meeting point in Toulouse. Meet your friendly English-speaking driver-guide, who will outline the day’s itinerary before setting off in a comfortable, air-conditioned minivan.
During the scenic one-hour drive, take in the beautiful Languedoc countryside, with its rolling hills, fields of sunflowers, and the tranquil Canal du Midi, which will accompany you on the route to Carcassonne.
A Glimpse into Carcassonne's Fascinating History
The history of Carcassonne dates back over 2,500 years, beginning with early settlements in the 6th century B.C. Throughout the ages, the city has witnessed Roman occupation, Visigoth rule, Saracen invasions, and the rise of the Cathars. It was fortified and expanded during the reign of French kings, eventually becoming the largest surviving medieval walled city in Europe.
After centuries of decline, the Cité was restored in the 19th century by the renowned architect Viollet-le-Duc, transforming it into the magnificent fortress we see today.
Guided Tour of the Cité de Carcassonne
Arrive at Carcassonne and step into a fairy-tale setting of towering walls, winding cobblestone streets, and stunning medieval architecture. Follow your guide along the ramparts, soaking in panoramic views and stories of knights, sieges, and battles.
Key highlights of the guided tour include:
• The Ramparts: Walk along the fortified walls for incredible views of the surrounding landscape.
• Saint-Nazaire Basilica: Admire its stunning stained-glass windows, dating back to the Middle Ages.
• Charming Streets: Wander through narrow alleys filled with quaint shops and discover the hidden gems of the old town.
Free Time to Explore
After the guided tour, enjoy some free time to explore the Cité at your own pace. Visit local boutiques, grab a coffee at a charming café, or simply soak in the magical atmosphere of this historic site.
Return to Toulouse
Conclude your journey with a relaxing drive back to Toulouse, reflecting on the stories and sights of the day.
Included / Excluded
- Pick up and drop off at centrally located meeting point
- English speaking driver guide
- Visit of the Cité of Carcassonne
- Free time for personal discovery
- Travel in premium A/C minivan
- Entrance fees to monuments or attractions
- Personal travel insurance & expenses
- Meals & drinks (lunch)
- Gratuities for the driver/guide
Start / End Locations
Start Location: Place d'Arménie, Pl. d'Arménie, 31000 Toulouse, France
Important Information
Know Before You Book
- Tour available from April to end of October (except May 1st)
- Tour is operated in English
- Prices are per person
- Please be ready 10 minutes before arrival time
- 4 hour tour to Carcassonne from Toulouse
- Comfortable walking shoes are required
- Tour is not wheelchair accessible
Cancellation
Cancellation Cutoff: 24 hours
Cancellation Notes: Up to 24 hours before the beginning of the activity: full refund Less than 24 hours before the beginning of the activity or no-show: no refund
Options and Pricing
| Per person pricing | RETAIL PRICE |
|---|---|
| Adult (18 - 64 years) | €85.00 |
| Child (5 - 11 years) | €75.00 |
Points of interest
Terms and Conditions
Please contact us for all our Terms & Conditions
FAQ
What can I expect during the Carcassonne small group Half-Day Tour from Toulouse?
During the tour, you will enjoy a guided exploration of the UNESCO-listed Cité de Carcassonne, including visits to the Cathedral, ramparts, and the picturesque streets of this medieval fortress. You will also have some free time to explore on your own
How do we travel from Toulouse to Carcassonne for the tour?
The journey begins with a pickup at a centrally located meeting point in Toulouse, followed by a scenic drive in a comfortable, air-conditioned minivan with our English-speaking driver-guide
What historical significance does Carcassonne hold?
Carcassonne's history spans over 2,500 years, witnessing Roman, Visigoth, and Saracen influences, as well as the Cathar heritage. It's renowned for being the largest surviving medieval walled city in Europe, restored beautifully in the 19th century
Who leads the guided tour in Carcassonne?
An expert local tour guide, familiar with Carcassonne's history and architecture, will lead you through the medieval city, sharing fascinating stories and insights along the way
What are some of the highlights of the guided tour?
Key highlights include walking along the fortified ramparts for panoramic views, exploring the Saint-Nazaire Basilica with its stunning stained-glass windows, and wandering through charming medieval streets filled with shops
Will there be time for personal exploration during the tour?
Yes, after the guided tour, you will have free time to explore the Cité de Carcassonne at your own pace, visit local boutiques, cafes, or simply soak in the unique atmosphere
Are there any specific architectural features to look out for in Carcassonne?
The medieval architecture of Carcassonne is captivating with impressive ramparts, quaint cobblestone streets, and significant landmarks like the Saint-Nazaire Basilica, known for its medieval stained-glass windows
How long is the drive from Toulouse to Carcassonne?
The scenic drive from Toulouse to Carcassonne takes approximately one hour, offering beautiful views of the Languedoc countryside, including fields of sunflowers and the tranquil Canal du Midi
What kind of group size can I expect for this tour?
This is a small group day trip, ensuring a more personalized and intimate experience while exploring the historic sites of Carcassonne
Is the tour suitable for children and families?
The tour is family-friendly, providing an engaging and educational experience for all ages, rich in history and fascinating tales of the medieval city
About operator:
Ophorus Tours is both a licensed Tour Operator, member of Atout France and ETOA, and a Transportation company with headquarters in Bordeaux. We operate since 2005 and conduct Walking Tours, Day Trips, Private Tours, Shore Excursions and multi-regional Tours throughout France.
Our multilingual office staff is made up of France Travel Experts that design unique itineraries for both individuals and groups. Their perfect knowledge of the destination allows them to suggest carefully crafted programs to professionals of the Travel Trade all over the world.
Our in house team of licensed, multilingual Tour Guides are local Experts that can conduct any type of tours including (but not limited to) Cultural & Historical, Food & Wine, Luxury, Battlefields, Active, Family friendly, Faith-based etc...
Our multilingual office staff is made up of France Travel Experts that design unique itineraries for both individuals and groups. Their perfect knowledge of the destination allows them to suggest carefully crafted programs to professionals of the Travel Trade all over the world.
Our in house team of licensed, multilingual Tour Guides are local Experts that can conduct any type of tours including (but not limited to) Cultural & Historical, Food & Wine, Luxury, Battlefields, Active, Family friendly, Faith-based etc...
Basic Information
- Duration: 4 hours
- Trip difficulty: Moderate
- Max Group Size: 8
- Category: Day Trips & Excursions
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