So, you’re planning a trip to the magnificent medieval Cité of Carcassonne. While you can (and should!) explore the walled city and the lower “Bastide” town on foot, you’ll quickly discover that the real magic of the Aude and Occitanie region lies just beyond the city ramparts.
From the dramatic Cathar castles perched on mountain peaks to the sun-drenched vineyards of Minervois and the sandy beaches of the Mediterranean, the best way to explore it all is with your own set of wheels.
But where should you rent a car? The airport? The train station? And how can you get the best deal?
This guide has you covered. We’ll break down all your options for car hire in Carcassonne. Plus, we have an exclusive 20% discount for our community members!
🌟 Exclusive Offer: 20% Off at ADA Carcassonne!
The English Speakers in Carcassonne Facebok group partnered with the fantastic local team at ADA Carcassonne to offer an amazing deal just for their community.
Members of the English Speakers in Carcassonne Facebook Group can get an exclusive 20% discount on their car rental!
ADA is a reliable local rental company with an office near the airport, offering great service and a wide range of vehicles (including vans if you’re moving!).
- The Offer: 20% off your rental.
- Who Qualifies: Any member of the “English Speakers in Carcassonne” Facebook group.
- How to Claim: Simply contact the ADA Carcassonne agency directly and mention you are a member of the Facebook group to secure your discount.
- Visit their site: ada.fr
5 Pro Tips for Renting a Car in Carcassonne
- Book an Automatic… FAR in Advance! The default (and cheapest) rental car in France is a manual transmission. If you can only drive an automatic, you must book it weeks or even months ahead, especially during peak summer season. They have very limited stock and sell out fast.
- Go Small The roads in the old villages (and even in parts of the Bastide) are narrow. A smaller car like a Renault Clio or Peugeot 208 is much easier to park and navigate than a large SUV.
- Tolls (Péages) The main A61 motorway that connects Carcassonne to Toulouse and Narbonne is a péage (toll road). It’s fast, but have your credit card ready. Your GPS will often give you a “no tolls” option, which will take you on the slower, but more scenic, D-roads.
- Parking at the Cité You cannot drive into the medieval Cité (unless you are staying at a hotel inside with pre-arranged parking). There are several large, paid car parks just outside the walls. Arrive early in the morning during summer to guarantee a spot.
- Take Photos (and Video!) Before you drive away, walk around the car and take a video or photos of any existing scratches or dings. This is your best protection against any potential deposit disputes later.
