Sophie, our budding photographer, offers you her 13 favourite places for an exceptional view of the Medieval City of Carcassonne.
In love with Carcassonne, I enjoy living in the city and photographing the Medieval City several times a year from all its angles. As I like to share, I decided to give you my best plans for unforgettable photos. A real circuit for budding photographers to make you the envy of all your friends!
From the Pont Vieux which connects the lower town to the Cité. Now entirely pedestrian, it offers an unobstructed view to make the must-see photo.
By the exterior ramparts (it is quite practicable) or interior (even easier and even accessible to people with reduced mobility). The Cité is indeed surrounded by 2 walls which offer splendid views of the Bastide Saint Louis, the Pyrenees and the Montagne Noire.
Behind the church of St. Gimer, the Barbacane, a sort of advanced fortification which gives its name to the district, climbs directly up to the Castle of the Counts. Be careful, the path must be taken with good shoes!
In the Barbacane district, take the street “la petite côte de la Cité” which climbs straight up with magnificent views of the ramparts and the Aude. Good to know: The Porte d’Aude, a medieval gateway, has been used as a backdrop for many films such as Les Visiteurs, Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves and Le Corniaud.
From the Chemin de Sainte Croix which leads straight to the Tour Narbonnaise, passing through the vineyards. To be found with the pedestrian itinerary “Paysage et Cité”.
At the main entrance to the Cité. After crossing the drawbridge, the Narbonnaise Gate with its two spurs is worth a photo!
From the Quai Bellevue in the town centre on the other side of the Aude. An opportunity to have a little picnic.
With a cocktail in hand please! From the garden terrace of the Hôtel de la Cité.
The terrace of the “Tribe” hotel (ex 3 Couronnes) offers a splendid view of the Cité which can be admired while sipping a drink.
From the Place St Jean inside the City, there is a magnificent view of the bridge leading to the Castle of the Counts.
From the ancient theatre of the Cité, there is a breathtaking view of the towers.
At the top of the bell tower of the Saint-Vincent church in the city center. This 360° panoramic view of the bastide Saint-Louis, and the city of Carcassonne, the Montagne Noire and the Pyrenees is worth it. There are 232 steps to climb.
By taking the ring road that goes around the city of Carcassonne, there are several sides on which it is possible to stop.
The advantage of sailing on the Canal du Midi is that it does not make you seasick! View of the City from the cruise ships with passage of locks in the foreground.
