Carcassonne offers several parking options for visitors, especially around the Cité de Carcassonne and the more modern Bastide Saint-Louis area. Here’s an overview of key parking locations, including approximate costs and useful tips.
1. Porte Narbonnaise Parking (Cité de Carcassonne)
- Location: Just outside the main entrance to the Cité de Carcassonne.
- Type: Paid outdoor parking, suitable for short-term visits.
- Cost: Around €5 for the first hour and €2 per additional hour, with a daily cap of about €12.
- Details: Ideal for those who want to be close to the Cité. In peak season (summer), it fills up quickly, so arriving early is recommended.
2. Parking P1 & P2 (Château Comtal)
- Location: Near the Château Comtal and entrance to the medieval city.
- Type: Paid outdoor parking.
- Cost: Similar to Porte Narbonnaise, with hourly rates of €5 initially, then €2 per additional hour, maxing around €12-15 per day.
- Details: Convenient for direct access to the Cité. It can be crowded during the high season, and spaces may be limited.
3. Parking Gambetta (City Center)
- Location: Near Place Gambetta, between the Cité de Carcassonne and Bastide Saint-Louis.
- Type: Underground parking.
- Cost: Approximately €1.50 per hour, with a daily max of around €10-12.
- Details: A good option for those planning to explore both the medieval Cité and the Bastide area. It’s shaded, which is useful during summer, and offers easy access to shops and restaurants.
4. Parking André Chénier (Bastide Saint-Louis)
- Location: Close to the train station and the Canal du Midi.
- Type: Paid parking, underground.
- Cost: About €1.50 per hour, with a daily max of €12.
- Details: Ideal for visitors exploring the Bastide area or taking a leisurely stroll to the Cité. This lot is close to the main train station and is generally easier to find available spaces than those closer to the Cité.
5. Free Parking Options
- Gravel car park near the train station: A 15–20 minute walk from the Cité, it offers free parking and is often a reliable option for those who don’t mind a bit of a walk.
- On-street parking: Certain areas within the Bastide Saint-Louis offer free parking, though spaces can be limited. Be sure to check signage, as some zones are resident-only.
- From 12-2 onstreet parking is also free.
Additional Tips
- Peak Season Consideration: Parking in Carcassonne, especially near the Cité, can be challenging in July and August. Arriving early or later in the day is a good strategy.
- Payment Methods: Most paid parking areas accept both cash and card payments, most parking places on the street accept PaybyPhone app payments also.
- Electric Vehicles: Some spots, like Parking Gambetta, have electric vehicle charging stations.
Each parking location gives you easy access to Carcassonne’s landmarks, allowing you to explore its medieval architecture, scenic views, and charming neighborhoods comfortably.
