Medieval Citadel of Carcassonne Opening Hours (Castle and Ramparts)

Cité médiévale de Carcassonne seen from the banks of the Aude river.

About the Medieval City of Carcassonne

The medieval Cité of Carcassonne is a fortified town located in southern France, between Toulouse and the Mediterranean Sea. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it is one of the most visited and photogenic places in the country. With its double surrounding walls, multiple towers, cobblestone streets, and breathtaking views, it offers a truly immersive journey back to the Middle Ages.

Wandering through its gates feels like stepping into a historical film set—except it’s real. While still inhabited today, the Cité maintains a unique medieval atmosphere, with traditional shops, restaurants, and a deep cultural heritage. Whether by day or night, the silhouette of the walls rising over the Aude River is an unforgettable sight.

Visiting the Cité of Carcassonne

The Cité is a living quarter and an open part of the city of Carcassonne. That means it can be freely accessed 24/7, just like any other neighborhood. No ticket is required to walk its narrow streets, explore the shops, or admire the outer walls. It’s the perfect place for an early morning stroll or an evening walk under the medieval lanterns.

The Château and Ramparts

At the heart of the Cité lies its most iconic monument: the Château Comtal and its surrounding ramparts. This is the main attraction of the site. A visit allows you to explore the inner defensive corridors, climb the towers, and walk along the battlements with panoramic views of the Pyrenees mountains, the Montagne Noire, the Carcassonne gap, the Aude river, and the modern lower city.

Access to the Château and Ramparts is ticketed. We highly recommend booking your entry in advance through our trusted partner Visit Carcassonne, the dedicated platform for everything you need to know about the city.

Opening Hours of the Château and Ramparts

• April 1st – September 30th: Open daily from 10:00 AM to 6:30 PM (last access at 5:45 PM)
• October 1st – March 31st: Open daily from 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM (last access at 4:15 PM)
• Closed on: January 1st, May 1st, and December 25th

Please note that the last entry is 45 minutes before closing time. To enjoy the visit fully—especially the scenic views from the walls—we recommend arriving early and avoiding peak times.