Tips on Avoiding Carcassonne Tourist Traps

Carcassonne Tourist Traps

Carcassonne is a town in France that was of strategic importance in ancient times and today is a major tourist destination. However, visitors to the region should be aware of a few tips that will help them avoid tourist traps.

Tourist Offices

Visitors to the area are advised to carry their own maps. The office of tourism, which is located outside of the train station, can close at unexpected hours. Whether the office closes for lunch or other reasons, it can leave you standing around waiting for it to open again, particularly if you need a map of the town. Fortunately, you can print maps from the town’s web page prior to visiting.

Shops and Restaurants in the City

Much of what is for sale inside the city is designed with tourists in mind. As a result, the prices can be a little high. This is particularly the case with shops that are located on the street and positioned near the main entrance. A recommendation to visitors is to buy things like souvenirs in the Ville Basse. It’s also much more affordable to there.

Parking

When visiting the city, parking can be a source of frustration for those new to the area. Parking is only allowed in designated places, and you have to pay for it. The first half an hour is free, after which you have to pay more than three euros for just one minute after your initial thirty minutes. Due to crowds, it might also take you a significant amount of time to find an empty place to park.

Promenades en Bateau

The Promenades en Bateau is a canal trip that may not be worth the cost of entry for some tourists. It leaves from just outside the railway station. At a cost of 10 euros per adult for a two-hour trip, it may be a little more expensive than some people are hoping for. The ride also doesn’t provide a great view of the city from the boat.

Editor’s note: The information contained on this page was compiled using real traveler reviews about how to avoid tourist traps in Carcassonne.