When I first heard about Carcassonne, it sounded like the perfect mix of history and charm. A medieval city with walls, turrets, and a castle overlooking the French countryside, it immediately grabbed my attention. Since I prefer a more local experience when I travel, I decided to stay in B&Bs during my visit to get a better sense of the place. After spending some time in both the old and modern parts of the city, I found that B&Bs were a great way to experience Carcassonne at my own pace.
Carcassonne is split into two main sections: La Cité, the old fortified city, and La Bastide Saint-Louis, the more modern lower town. Each area has its own appeal, and depending on where you stay, you get to see a different side of Carcassonne.
Staying Inside the Medieval Walls
For my first visit, I decided to stay in an B&B right inside La Cité. I wanted to experience what it would be like to live in the heart of the medieval city. The B&B was down a quiet side street, with stone walls and an old-fashioned feel. Inside, the host had done a nice job combining the building’s historic character with modern conveniences. There were exposed beams, stone walls, and simple, traditional furniture, but the kitchen and bathroom had been updated for comfort.
What I loved most about staying in La Cité was how peaceful it was early in the morning and later at night. In the mornings, I’d take a walk before the day-trippers arrived, and it felt like I had the place to myself. The streets were calm, and it was a nice time to explore without any rush. In the evening, after most tourists had left, the whole area took on a quiet, relaxed vibe. I enjoyed sitting outside on the small terrace of my B&B with a glass of wine, soaking in the atmosphere.
Exploring the Lower Town
After a few days in La Cité, I moved to another B&B in La Bastide Saint-Louis, the lower town. This part of Carcassonne feels more modern and is where most locals live. The B&B in La Bastide was bright and open with large windows that let in plenty of sunlight. It had a different atmosphere from La Cité – more laid-back and convenient. The streets were wider, and there were more local shops and local restaurants around.
In La Bastide, I felt more connected to everyday life in Carcassonne. I enjoyed walking to the nearby bakery in the mornings to pick up fresh pastries and coffee. The pace was slower, and there were fewer tourists, which gave me the chance to see a more local side of the city.
One of my favorite things about staying in La Bastide was the walk to La Cité. It’s only about 15 or 20 minutes across the old stone bridge, the Pont Vieux, which offers a great view of the fortified city on the hill. Each time I crossed the bridge, it reminded me why Carcassonne is such a special place, blending history with everyday life in a way that’s easy to appreciate.
Why I Chose B&Bs
What I found great about staying in B&Bs in Carcassonne was the variety. Whether you’re looking for a small, historic apartment within the fortress walls or a more modern, comfortable space in the lower town, there’s something to suit every preference. For me, staying in an B&B gives a more relaxed and flexible experience compared to a traditional hotel. You can cook your own meals, enjoy a bit more privacy, and feel like you’re part of the neighborhood.
One of the other benefits of B&Bs is that the hosts are often locals who can give good advice on things to do and see. My hosts were really helpful, offering tips on the best places to eat, shortcuts to popular spots, and even ideas for day trips outside of the city. Their local knowledge added a lot to my stay, giving me a chance to explore beyond the typical tourist routes.
Practical Tips
While staying in an B&B in Carcassonne is a great experience, there are a few things to keep in mind. If you’re staying in La Cité, be aware that the streets can be narrow and some of the buildings are quite old, which means you might have to deal with steep stairs or small spaces. It’s all part of the charm, but it’s good to know ahead of time. Parking inside La Cité can also be tricky, so if you’re driving, you’ll likely need to park outside the walls and walk to your accommodation.
In the lower town, parking is usually easier, but during peak tourist season, it can still be a bit challenging to find a spot. However, most B&B hosts are very helpful and will give you advice on where to park and how to get around.
Final Thoughts
Staying in B&Bs during my time in Carcassonne was a great way to experience the city. Each area, whether inside the walls of La Cité or in the more modern lower town, has something different to offer. The flexibility and range of options with B&Bs allowed me to feel more connected to the local culture and explore the city in a way that suited my style of travel.
Whether you’re looking to stay right in the heart of the medieval city or prefer the quieter pace of the lower town, there’s an B&B in Carcassonne that can make your trip more enjoyable. I left feeling like I had really gotten to know the city, and staying in different areas through B&Bs made that possible. If you’re planning a trip to Carcassonne, I’d definitely recommend checking out some of the unique B&B options available.
