Sarah De Winne Carcassonne is famous for its stunning medieval citadel. However, it’s also a fantastic base for exploring other sites in Occitanie. With breathtaking Cathar castles, charming villages, scenic lakes and excellent vineyards nearby, there are countless opportunities for unforgettable day trips from Carcassonne.
Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover or a foodie, this guide to the 10 best day trips from Carcassonne by car will help you discover some of the region’s most remarkable destinations – all within easy driving distance of Carcassonne in southern France.
- 1. Lastours – Four Cathar Castles (20 minutes from Carcassonne)
- 2. Minerve – A Beautifully Preserved Medieval Village (1 hour from Carcassonne)
- 3. Montolieu & Saissac – A Perfect Twin Day Trip (25 & 35 minutes from Carcassonne)
- 4. Gouffre Géant de Cabrespine – A Spectacular Chasm (30 minutes from Carcassonne)
- 5. Lagrasse – One of France’s Most Beautiful Villages (45 minutes from Carcassonne)
- 6. Limoux – The Sparkling Wine Capital (30 minutes from Carcassonne)
- 7. Abbaye de Fontfroide – A Stunning Cistercian Monastery (50 minutes from Carcassonne)
- 8. Lac de la Cavayère – A Relaxing Escape Near Carcassonne (15 minutes from Carcassonne)
- 9. Canal du Midi – A Scenic River Cruise or Bike Ride (15-60 minutes from Carcassonne)
- 10. Narbonne – A Lively City with Roman History (50 minutes from Carcassonne)
- Final Thoughts on the Best Day Trips from Carcassonne
1. Lastours – Four Cathar Castles (20 minutes from Carcassonne)
One of our favourite day trips from Carcassonne is a visit to the impressive medieval ruins of the Lastours castles. Perched dramatically on a ridge in a beautiful valley, the four Châteaux de Lastours are a must-visit for history lovers and hikers. A short but steep walk leads to the remains of the four Cathar castles and the most spectacular panoramic views!
Personal Tip: For an unrivalled view of the four castles of Lastours, don’t miss the viewpoint opposite the castle known as the Belvédère. Our article about Belvédère Lastours tells you everything you need to know!
To discover more, don’t miss our comprehensive guide to the historic four castles of Lastours.
2. Minerve – A Beautifully Preserved Medieval Village (1 hour from Carcassonne)
Nestled in a deep gorge, the picturesque village of Minerve was once a Cathar stronghold. Today it is classified as one of France’s Most Beautiful Villages. Throughout the year, we love strolling through Minerve’s cobbled streets, exploring the ramparts and climbing down to the riverbed. Each time we visit Minerve, we discover something new!
Personal Tip:In front of the 11th century church, look out for a simple stone sculpture known as La Colombe de Lumière (The Dove of Light). Jean-Luc Séverac’s monument is in memory of the 140 Cathars who were tragically burnt at the stake at Minerve in 1210.
3. Montolieu & Saissac – A Perfect Twin Day Trip (25 & 35 minutes from Carcassonne)
A visit to Montolieu and nearby Saissac offers a combination of culture and history. A perfect mix for a relaxed day out.
Start your day in Montolieu (25 minutes from Carcassonne) which is known as ‘the book village’. Here you’ll find charming bookshops, art galleries and a literary atmosphere.
Then, drive a further 10 minutes to the town of Saissac to explore its medieval Cathar castle and enjoy breathtaking views over the valley.
4. Gouffre Géant de Cabrespine – A Spectacular Chasm (30 minutes from Carcassonne)
The Gouffre Géant de Cabrespine is a vast underground chasm near Carcassonne. In fact, it is one of the largest chasms in Europe! This attraction features an amazing glass walkway that allows you to hang over the void and peer into its depths! It took us some courage to walk to the end of the walkway, but it’s an amazing experience and a unique way to appreciate the size of the chasm.
The surrounding caverns are also full of fascinating geological formations and make for an interesting visit. For more those who are more adventurous, there is also a high ropes course in the chasm and kayaking on the underground river!
Personal Tip: The Gouffre de Cabrespine is an all-weather destination. It’s the perfect place to visit on rainy, overcast days or during the summer months to escape the heat of southern France!
The Gouffre Géant de Cabrespine is a unique natural wonder and is one of the best day trips from Carcassonne for those who enjoy adventure and geology. Discover more reasons to visit in our comprehensive article about the Giant Abyss of Cabrespine.
5. Lagrasse – One of France’s Most Beautiful Villages (45 minutes from Carcassonne)
Lagrasse is officially classified as one of “Les Plus Beaux Villages de France”. With its medieval Benedictine Abbey, stone bridges and charming cobbled streets, it’s a delightful place to wander and soak up the atmosphere.
Personal Tip: Locals love to cool off in the River Orbieu during the hot summer months. Take your swimwear and a picnic to Lagrasse to enjoy sunbathing on the ‘beach’ area and wild swimming.
Read more about what you can see and do in this picturesque village in our article about Lagrasse France.
6. Limoux – The Sparkling Wine Capital (30 minutes from Carcassonne)
Known as the birthplace of Blanquette de Limoux (France’s oldest sparkling wine), Limoux is a great destination for wine lovers. Visit a local winery, enjoy a leisurely lunch in the town square and experience its relaxed ambiance.
Personal Tip: Head to Limoux between January and March to experience the longest carnival in the world! Every weekend, there are several parades plus performances by troops of masked locals (Pierrots and Goudils) accompanied by traditional music.
7. Abbaye de Fontfroide – A Stunning Cistercian Monastery (50 minutes from Carcassonne)
Fontfroide Abbey is a beautifully preserved Cistercian abbey set in a peaceful valley surrounded by vineyards. It features impressive medieval architecture, rose gardens and excellent wine-tasting opportunities.
Throughout the year, Fontfroide Abbey is also a fabulous setting for various art exhibitions, concerts and plant festivals. During our visit, there was a fantastic exhibition by street artist Spiktri who creatively transforms discarded everyday objects into striking sculptures.
TOP TIP: Don’t miss the shady terraces above Fontfroide Abbey that hide a sorcerer’s garden, bee hives, a secret lookout point and Neptune’s Fountain!
Read our useful article to discover more reasons why we think Fontfroide Abbey is one of the best day trips from Carcassonne.
8. Lac de la Cavayère – A Relaxing Escape Near Carcassonne (15 minutes from Carcassonne)
If you’re looking for a nature escape close to Carcassonne, Lac de la Cavayère is the perfect spot. This artificial lake offers walking trails, water activities and a high ropes course. There are even three sandy beaches, so it’s an excellent alternative to the coast for a relaxing day by the water! Locals even call the lake Carca-Plage!
9. Canal du Midi – A Scenic River Cruise or Bike Ride (15-60 minutes from Carcassonne)
The Canal du Midi is a UNESCO-listed waterway and a serene setting for a boat trip or cycling adventure. Exploring the tranquil beauty of the Canal du Midi is certainly one of the most relaxing day trips from Carcassonne and walking the Canal du Midi should not be missed!
Although the Canal du Midi passes through the centre of Carcassonne itself, there are plenty of picturesque ports and locks along the canal that can be reached within an hour’s drive of the town. Some of our favourite spots include:
- Trèbes: a picturesque canal port with plenty of canal side restaurants (15 minutes from Carcassonne).
- Homps: a pretty village, canal port and nearby Lake Jouarres (30 minutes from Carcassonne).
- Le Somail: an idyllic hamlet with an intriguing second-hand bookshop and plenty of canal side restaurants and boat rides (50 minutes from Carcassonne).
- Les 9 Écluses de Fonseranes in Béziers: the famous water staircase of nine locks created by local resident, Pierre-Paul Riquet (1 hour from Carcassonne).
Personal Tip: Use our article to discover the Malpas Tunnel, a hidden gem along the Canal du Midi between the canal ports of Poilhes and Colombiers.
10. Narbonne – A Lively City with Roman History (50 minutes from Carcassonne)
Narbonne is a vibrant city with a fascinating Roman past. Visit the underground passages of the Roman Horreum, explore the impressive gothic Saint-Just Cathedral and enjoy a meal by the Canal de la Robine. With its mix of history, markets and relaxed Mediterranean atmosphere, Narbonne makes for a perfect day out from Carcassonne.
TOP TIP: Join the locals and eat at Chez Bebelle in Les Halles de Narbonne (the town’s indoor market) for a unique gastronomic experience.
Discover more things to do in Narbonne (including some hidden gems!) in our local’s guide.
Final Thoughts on the Best Day Trips from Carcassonne
From medieval castles to charming villages, wine regions and scenic lakes, Carcassonne is surrounded by incredible destinations waiting to be explored. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation or a taste of local history and culture, these 10 best day trips from Carcassonne offer something for every traveller.
