There are two ‘Carcassonnes’ in effect. La Cite, pictured above is the most famous, having been used as a setting for a multitude of films, as well as being the inspiration for Walt Disney’s Sleeping Beauty Castle. It is a place you never tire of visiting, not just to soak up the atmosphere, but it offers a fabulous selection of restaurants, and is a wonderful place to dine on a warm summers evening. At the foot of the hill are a selection of bars and restaurants, and the river is a splendid setting for a picnic.

The city of Carcassonne, however, is a modern French city with Boulevards and a delightful square (Place Carnot - bottom right) which holds markets and often has street entertainers. Great for lunch. Excellent shopping also.