Carcassonne or Toulouse: Which is better to visit?
Are you looking to understand where to spend your time or stay between Carcassonne and Toulouse? I’ve got you covered!
When it comes to exploring the enchanting south of France, two cities stand out as gems in the region: Toulouse and Carcassonne. Each of these towns offers its own unique charm and attractions, making it a delightful dilemma for travelers.
Here’s some more info to help you decide how to make the most of your time in these two special destinations, including the best things to do, the best times to visit, and how to travel between the two French cities.
There are a lot of towns nearby on the France and Spain border that are worth a visit if you are road tripping.
About Carcassonne
This medieval town is truly like something out of a fairytale. I felt like I was on a movie set the first night I spent walking around the old city.
Is Carcassonne worth visiting?
Yes, the walled medieval city (in French: la cité médiévale) is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that is very cool to visit.
The fortified city and medieval charm are a treat for history enthusiasts and romantics alike.
How many days do I need in Carcassonne?
You only need 1-2 days in Carcassonne.
I was there for 2 nights and spent one full day plus an evening exploring and it felt like the perfect amount of time. You don’t need more than 2 days here.
When should I visit Carcassonne?
I highly recommend shoulder season, which includes the months of April to May or September to November. During these months you’ll avoid the summer crowds and enjoy pleasant weather.
High season is the summer time (June to August) when the city comes alive with various cultural events. But it gets overcrowded which takes away from the charm of the city, in my opinion.
The best things to do in Carcassonne
You can hit all the highlights in one day in Carcassonne.
1. Tour Château Comtal (the castle)
The castle, called Château Comtal, within in the walled city is definitely worth a tour. I recommend the audio guide so you can learn more about the history of the city and the restoration of the castle.
It takes about an hour and half to tour the castle and walk the ramparts. The audio guide indicates it will take an hour so if you move swiftly I think you can cover it in an hour. We moved quite slowly as we took a ton of photos so it was closer to 1 hour and 45 minutes for us.
2. Walk across Pont Vieux
This historical bridge is pedestrian only so you can enjoy a leisurely walk with the imposing walled city and castle coming into view as you near the fortified city.
3. Enjoy the view from Pont Neuf
This newer bridge gives you a great viewpoint of both Pont Vieux and the walled city.
4. Wander the small lanes of the walled city
There’s plenty of cute shops and restaurants within the walled city. You’ll find something to buy for the whole family, from candy to candles.
5. Enjoy coffee or a meal with a view of the castle
There is more than a handful of well rated restaurants in the walled city, but some of them can get quite pricey. I recommend Meli et Zeli for a reasonable and tasty lunch in their outdoor garden space near the castle.
About Toulouse
Toulouse is also known as “la Ville Rose” (or in English, “the Pink City”) due to all the brick and terracotta used in the buildings. To me it appears more orange, but at sunset when the light hits the buildings just right, it looks more pink-ish.
It’s also known for its aerospace industry (Airbus has a big office there), rich history, and lively cultural scene.
Is Toulouse worth visiting?
Yes! Toulouse is a pretty city that gives small town feels but still big enough to offer you plenty of fun and interesting things to do on your trip.
How many days do I need in Toulouse?
I’d plan for at least 2 days in Toulouse, but you can enjoy a longer trip of up to 5 days if you have the time. If you are there for more than 3 days, I’d recommend taking a day trip to Carcassonne.
When should I visit Toulouse?
The best time to visit Toulouse is in the spring or early autumn when the weather is pleasant. The summer time can also be nice but it may get hot and beware that there isn’t air conditioning everywhere in the South of France.
I visited Toulouse in October and it was perfect weather, not too hot or too cold and not too crowded with tourists.
The best things to do in Toulouse
There’s so much to do and see! Check out my highlights below and select your favorites to explore.
1. Take a guided tour
A walking tour is a great way to kick off your time in Toulouse. You’ll get your bearings of the city and learn more about this historical city.
I recommend Harry’s free walking tour if you are passionate about history. If you are looking for a strictly sight-seeing tour, check out Denise’s 2.5 hour walking tour. Note: Both of these tours are free but it is expected to tip the guide at the end.
This food tour in Victor Hugo Market takes you through the large food market while you taste traditional baguettes, cheese, and other French delicacies.
This 3 hour bike tour covers the highlights and history of Toulouse. It also takes you along the famous Canal du Midi.
2. Visit the Le Capitole
If you do a guided walking tour you’ll see this and the next few points on this list so you don’t have to check it out on your own.
Located in the heart of the city, Le Capitole is Toulouse’s City Hall. Place du Capitole is the plaza where it is located, which has plenty of nice (aka overpriced) restaurants and luxury shopping.
You can go inside Le Capitole for free on weekdays and see some of the rooms and the beautiful art on display.
3. View the painted ceilings at Place du Capitole
Opposite Le Capitole in Place du Capitol you can admire the painted ceilings of the arched walkway that runs along the restaurants and shops. The paintings are a contemporary reinterpretation of the city’s heritage by artist Raymond Moretti. They showcase iconic figures from the region including the Counts of Toulouse and poets of the Occitan medieval courts.
4. Visit Basilica Saint Sernin
This beautiful church was built in the 11th century to honor St. Saturnin, Toulouse’s first bishop. It is free to visit and admire the intricate architecture.
5. Visit Couvent des Jacobins
The Gothic church has unique architecture inside with the columns resembling palm trees. The church is free to enter but the cloister and gardens require paid admission.
The Couvent is also the final resting place of influential theologian Thomas Aquinas.
6. Walk across Pont Neuf to Saint-Cyprien
Pont Neuf translates to “New Bridge” in English, but it was built in the 16th and 17th centuries. The stone bridge connects the historic center of Toulouse with Saint-Cyprien.
Saint-Cyprien is a less touristy neighborhood and where you’ll find the locals hanging out after work. If you want to do as the locals do, grab a beer here or enjoy some tapas at L’Extrapade or Vasco Le Gamma.
7. Enjoy French pastries
There are a plethora of delicious French bakeries around Toulouse. Grab a few pastries from Maison Pillon and go sit in the Jardin Pierre Goudouli. Head to Flower’s Cafe for scrumptious cakes.
8. View the sunset from a rooftop bar
On the sixth floor of the department store, Galeries Lafayette, there is a fine dining restaurant, Ma Biche sur Le Toit, that has an outdoor bar. Go here for coffee or a cocktail at sunset time.
9. Enjoy the park in La Daurade
The park located on the banks of the river Garonne is the perfect place to watch the sunset. You can have a picnic, grab a few beer, relax with a book, or go for a walk down the promenade that runs along the river.
10. Partake in Happy Hour
Filochard is a good spot for cheap beers and free peanuts during their 6:30-7:30 happy hour. It’s located in Quartier de la Daurade.
Another popular drinking spot, especially for the younger crowd, is Saint-Pierre. If you’re looking for a bit more of chill vibe, avoid Place Saint-Pierre on Thursday and Friday evenings.
11. Try a delicious caramel crêpe
I feel like I see Nutella and Chocolate crepes at almost every corner in France, but caramel is my personal favorite. Le Sherpa makes a mouth watering caramel crepe with house made sea salt caramel.
12. Stroll in the Jardin Japonais Pierre-Baudis
The Japanese Gardens are free to visit and quite a beautiful botanical garden to enjoy a walk.
13. Learn something new at one of the city’s museums
Depending on what interests you, there’s several museums worth checking out in Toulouse.
Les Abattoirs is the Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art. The museum is in a former slaughterhouse, adding to the eclectic charm.
Musée des Augustins is a beautiful museum located in a Gothic convent showcasing a collection of fine arts from medieval sculptures to post-impressionist paintings. If you are an art lover, do not miss this museum!
Aeroscopia is the Aerospace Museum. Airbus has offices in Toulouse, making it important to the European aerospace industry.
Museum de Toulouse is the natural history museum. This is a good museum to check out if you are traveling with kids.
How to travel between Carcassonne and Toulouse
Heading from the medieval charm of Carcassonne to the city life of Toulouse, or vice versa? Here’s a few options for the scenic journey.
Day Trip
You can book a day tip to Carcassonne from Toulouse by coach bus.
By Train
The train is arguably the most convenient way to travel between Carcassonne and Toulouse. The journey can take as little as 45 minutes on the faster Intercités services, offering a smooth ride with lovely views of the French countryside.
Trains run frequently throughout the day, so you’ve got plenty of options. Use SNCF’s website to check schedules and book tickets. Booking in advance can snag you some good deals.
Note: ‘Toulouse Matabiau’ is the name of the train station in Toulouse. You can opt for second class if you’re budget-conscious. It’s comfortable enough for the short journey. First class offers more space and quiet if that’s a priority.
By Bus
If you’re watching your euros, the bus is your best bet. It takes longer than the train, usually around 1.5 to 2 hours. FlixBus is a popular choices, check out their website for timetables. Book early, especially during peak travel times, to secure the best rates.
By Car
Renting a car gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace, turning the journey between Carcassonne and Toulouse into a mini road trip.
The A61 motorway connects the two cities, offering the quickest route. If you’re not in a hurry, consider the smaller D roads for a scenic drive through quaint villages and vineyards.
Remember, French motorways have tolls. Keep some euros handy, or check if your rental car has an electronic toll payment device.
By Bike
If you’re up for an adventure and want to soak in the picturesque landscapes of southern France at a leisurely pace, cycling could be the way to go. Follow the Canal du Midi bike path, a tranquil and relatively flat route that offers charming views and passes through delightful towns.
Bike rental shops are available in both Carcassonne and Toulouse. Ensure you get a comfortable touring bike, and don’t forget the helmet and lock.
TL;DR: Carcassonne vs. Toulouse: Which is better to visit?
Toulouse and Carcassonne offer distinct experiences that cater to different tastes. Toulouse is an urban hub while Carcassonne takes you on a journey to the past within its well-preserved medieval walls.
Whether you have a week or just a few days to spare, these two French treasures promise fun cultural experiences. Make your choice or explore both to discover the full spectrum of what southern France has to offer.
Heading elsewhere in France? Plan a stop in the seaside town of Collioure to enjoy some fun in the sun.