Carte Carcassonne Quartiers / Map of Carcassonne Areas
You can click on any areas in the map to find their names and read more info on each from the links below.
You can click on any areas in the map to find their names and read more info on each from the links below.
Carcassonne is a small but diverse city in southern France, and while it’s most famous for its Cité Médiévale, the rest of the city is made up of various “quartiers” (neighbourhoods or districts), each with its own atmosphere, lifestyle, and character.
The map is an approximate guide.
Here’s a local-style breakdown of the main areas:
La Cité Médiévale (The Medieval City)
What it’s like: This UNESCO World Heritage site is the postcard image of Carcassonne. It’s a fortified medieval citadel with cobbled streets, turrets, and ancient charm.
Living here: Almost no one lives within the walls full-time — it’s mainly home to restaurants, shops, and tourist attractions. That said, a few lucky people do own homes inside, often used as rentals or second homes.
Contains: Château Comtal, Basilique Saint-Nazaire, artisan shops, medieval museums, and seasonal events (especially big during summer and Christmas).
La Trivalle & La Barbacane
What it’s like: Nestled between the Bastide and the Cité, this bohemian quarter is known for its artsy feel and old-world charm.
Living here: Quieter than the Bastide but still close to everything. Popular with artists, writers, and those seeking authenticity. Many historic houses, often with views of the Cité.
Contains: Independent shops, cafés, galleries, and access to the beautiful Pont Vieux and Canal du Midi.
La Barbacane is the riverside area near the base of the Cité hill connected to La Trivalle. Quiet, with postcard views. Good for tourism rentals and second homes. Views of the Cité, riverside walks, small guesthouses, and calm.
La Bastide Saint-Louis (Centre-Ville)
What it’s like: This is the historic lower town, laid out in a grid system from the 13th century. It’s charming, walkable, and full of elegant 18th- and 19th-century buildings.
Living here: Ideal for people who love city life, cafés, and being close to everything. Apartments and townhouses abound, and it’s lively year-round.
Contains: Place Carnot (with its market), restaurants, boutiques, schools, the main post office, theatre, library, and many professional services.
Paicherou & Bellevue
What it’s like: Following the famous Aude River, this area is peaceful, green, and perfect for riverside walks or cycling.
Living here: Great for families and retirees, with a more residential feel. Modern apartments and classic maisons de ville line the river and connect up with the Bastide.
Contains: Parks, cycle paths and tree lined walks.
Grazailles / Montlegun
What it’s like: These are more suburban, practical areas, popular with locals. Not touristy, but very functional.
Living here: Affordable housing, lots of schools, healthcare, supermarkets, and public services. Feels very “lived-in” and community-driven.
Contains: Collèges and lycées, sports complexes, supermarkets, and family housing.
La Cité Ozanam / Saint-Gimer
What it’s like: A working-class area close to La Trivalle and the Cité. It’s got real local character but can be a bit rough around the edges.
Living here: Affordable, with a mix of housing types. Some regeneration and social housing developments. A good base for those wanting value near the old town.
Contains: Local shops, schools, and public transport routes. Walking distance to the medieval city.
Montredon / Villalbe / Palaja (outskirts/suburban satellite villages)
What it’s like: Leafy villages on the outskirts, technically communes or suburbs, but closely tied to Carcassonne life.
Living here: Ideal for those seeking peace, gardens, and a car-based lifestyle. Often more affluent, with villa-style homes and space.
Contains: Vineyards, views of the Pyrenees, and some hidden gourmet restaurants and chambres d’hôtes.
Pasteur
What it’s like: Scenic riverside area near the base of the Cité hill.
Living here: Quiet, with postcard views. Good for tourism rentals and second homes.
Contains: Views of the Cité, riverside walks, small guesthouses, and calm.
Saint-Jacques, Le Viguier
What it’s like: Scenic riverside area near the base of the Cité hill.
Living here: Quiet, with postcard views. Good for tourism rentals and second homes.
Contains: Views of the Cité, riverside walks, small guesthouses, and calm.
Saint-Michel, Domairon, Artigues, Estagnol
What it’s like: Scenic riverside area near the base of the Cité hill.
Living here: Quiet, with postcard views. Good for tourism rentals and second homes.
Contains: Views of the Cité, riverside walks, small guesthouses, and calm.
La Pierre Blanche, Saint-Vincent
What it’s like: Scenic riverside area near the base of the Cité hill.
Living here: Quiet, with postcard views. Good for tourism rentals and second homes.
Contains: Views of the Cité, riverside walks, small guesthouses, and calm.
La Reille
What it’s like: Scenic riverside area near the base of the Cité hill.
Living here: Quiet, with postcard views. Good for tourism rentals and second homes.
Contains: Views of the Cité, riverside walks, small guesthouses, and calm.
Curculis, Les Castors
What it’s like: Scenic riverside area near the base of the Cité hill.
Living here: Quiet, with postcard views. Good for tourism rentals and second homes.
Contains: Views of the Cité, riverside walks, small guesthouses, and calm.
Paicherou & Bellevue
What it’s like: Scenic riverside area near the base of the Cité hill.
Living here: Quiet, with postcard views. Good for tourism rentals and second homes.
Contains: Views of the Cité, riverside walks, small guesthouses, and calm.
Le Palais
What it’s like: Scenic riverside area near the base of the Cité hill.
Living here: Quiet, with postcard views. Good for tourism rentals and second homes.
Contains: Views of the Cité, riverside walks, small guesthouses, and calm.