Where to Stay in Carcassonne: 5 Top Hotels for Every Budget
In the Occitanie region, about halfway between Toulouse and the Mediterranean coast, Carcassonne is famous for its medieval citadel, a massive fortress with 52 towers and double walls that dominate the skyline.
Carcassonne is split into two main areas: La Cité de Carcassonne, the historic walled town, and the lower town (Ville Basse), where modern life hums along with shops, restaurants, and the Canal du Midi running through it.
Choosing the right hotel makes all the difference. Some put you right inside the historic walls, steps from the ramparts. Others offer a peaceful escape just outside the city. Here are some of the best places to stay, based on real traveler reviews.
1. Hôtel de la Cité Carcassonne – MGallery (5-star)
This 5-star luxury hotel (from $300) stands inside the medieval city walls, a historic setting with all the comforts of a luxury stay. Originally built on the site of an episcopal palace, the hotel carries centuries of history in its courtyards, archways, and stone walls.
Neo-Gothic architecture and elegant interiors across 46 rooms and 13 suites, many offering views of the basilica or the private gardens.
La Barbacane is the on-site Michelin-starred restaurant, housed in a grand dining room with vaulted ceilings. The Library Bar is a great retreat for a drink after a day of wandering through Carcassonne’s cobbled streets.
Guests love the outdoor pool, a quiet escape within the hotel’s private gardens, and the spa offering massages and treatments. The concierge service is also appreciated.
Check-in starts at 4:00 PM, check-out is at noon. The hotel offers valet parking and charging stations for electric cars. It’s also pet-friendly, though it’s best to check with them in advance.
Since it’s located inside the old city walls, car access can be tricky – call ahead for arrival instructions.
Customer feedback
Positives:
- Exceptional location within the medieval city walls, with stunning views.
- Impeccable service from both front desk and restaurant staff.
- Delicious food, outstanding signature menu at the on-site restaurant.
- Beautifully maintained property with charming, well-kept gardens.
- Comfortable and spacious rooms providing a luxurious stay.
Negatives:
- Some guests reported issues with room temperature control during colder months.
- A few reviews mentioned that certain areas, such as carpets, appeared worn and in need of updating.
- Limited parking availability – may require advance reservation.
- High room rates, which some guests felt were not fully justified by the amenities.
- Occasional noise disturbances from nearby events or other guests.
See the full reviews on Booking
2. Mercure Carcassonne La Cité (4-star)
Mercure Carcassonne La Cité (from $130) sits just outside the medieval city walls – an easy walk to Carcassonne’s fortress while making for a quieter stay. The hotel has a classic, understated style with comfortable rooms, many overlooking the garden or pool.
Guests appreciate the free parking, a rare find this close to the old town, and the friendly staff who make check-in and local recommendations easy.
The on-site restaurant and bar serve regional dishes and wines, with outdoor seating available in warmer months. Breakfast gets mixed reviews – some say it’s excellent, others find it pricey for the selection.
Rooms are clean and functional, with air conditioning and comfy beds, but some guests mention that lighting could be better and certain spaces feel a little dated.
The outdoor pool is a highlight – a peaceful spot to cool off after sightseeing.
Check-in starts at 3:00 PM, and check-out is at noon. The hotel is pet-friendly, and there’s a 24-hour front desk for late arrivals.
Overall: a solid mid-range option offering convenience, comfort, and parking near Carcassonne’s main attraction.
Customer feedback
Positives:
- Prime location near Carcassonne Castle, convenient for sightseeing.
- Friendly and helpful staff, consistently praised by guests.
- Free parking available on-site.
- Clean and comfortable rooms.
- Good on-site restaurant.
Negatives:
- Some guests experienced issues with the shower facilities.
- Carpeted rooms received mixed feedback – some prefer alternative flooring.
- Breakfast was considered expensive by certain guests.
- Minor maintenance issues reported, such as wooden shutters not locking properly.
- Some rooms were described as small or lacking sufficient lighting.
Full reviews and prices on Booking
3. Hôtel du Château & Spa – Les Collectionneurs (4-star)
Hôtel du Château & Spa (from $130) is as close as you can get to the medieval city walls without staying inside them.
Just steps from the entrance, it offers boutique charm and modern luxury, with a spa, heated outdoor pool, and stylish garden dotted with sculptures.
Rooms are modern, comfortable, and well-equipped, though some guests mention that they can be on the smaller side.
The staff gets consistent praise for being friendly and helpful, namely for check-in and local recommendations.
The on-site spa is a highlight, with a hot tub and massage treatments available year-round. Breakfast is available, but a few guests feel it’s a bit pricey for the selection. Parking is limited, so reserving a spot in advance is recommended.
Check-in starts at 4:00 PM, and check-out is by 11:30 AM.
Overall: a great a boutique stay right next to the medieval city, with the added perks of a spa and heated pool.
Customer feedback
Positives:
- Perfect location, just a short walk from the medieval city walls.
- Friendly and helpful staff.
- Comfortable rooms with modern amenities.
- On-site spa and heated outdoor pool for relaxing.
- Stylish garden with sculptures by local artists.
Negatives:
- Room sizes: some guests found them smaller than expected.
- Some guests felt that the breakfast was overpriced for the selection offered.
- Limited parking spaces – may require advance booking.
- A few reviews mentioned that certain rooms lacked sufficient natural light.
- Noise from nearby attractions or events occasionally disturbed some guests.
See all reviews and prices on Booking
4. Hôtel Montmorency Cité Médiévale (3-star)
Hôtel Montmorency is part of the same establishment as Hôtel du Château & Spa – Teritoria (4-star). Both hotels sharing the same address, reception, bar, terrace, heated pool, outdoor Jacuzzi, and spa. Montmorency is a 3-star option with a more budget-friendly stay (from $80) while still providing access to the same high-end facilities.
The hotel also sits right by the main entrance to Carcassonne’s medieval city, and has a modern design with bright, stylish decor. Guests appreciate the comfortable beds and effective air conditioning, especially in the summer.
The outdoor pool and spa, and the gardens and terrace are the same standout features as for Hotel du Château.
Rooms vary in size, with some on the smaller side. A few guests mention that lighting in the rooms could be improved and that noise from nearby roads or other guests can be an issue.
Breakfast gets mixed reviews – some enjoy it, while others feel the selection could be better for the price.
Check-in is available from 4:00 PM, and check-out is by 11:00 AM. The hotel has private parking, but it fills up fast, so make sure you reserve a spot in advance.
Overall: modern comfort for an affordable price, easy access to the medieval city, and a pool to cool off after a day of exploring.
Customer feedback
Positives:
- Excellent location, just steps away from the medieval city entrance.
- Modern and bright decor with a pleasant atmosphere.
- Comfortable beds and effective air conditioning.
- Well-maintained pool area with ample sunbeds.
- Attractive grounds and pretty gardens.
Negatives:
- Some guests found the rooms to be small and dark.
- Breakfast: some guests expected more variety.
- The fact that there are two separate hotels is not clearly communicated.
- Noise from nearby roads or other guests was a concern for some visitors.
- Limited on-site dining options beyond breakfast.
5. Adonis Carcassonne – Résidence la Barbacane (3-star)
Adonis Carcassonne (from $60) is a budget-friendly stay just outside Carcassonne’s medieval city, offering apartment-style accommodations with kitchenettes. A good option for travelers looking for extra space and a more independent setup.
Rooms are spacious and practical, but some guests mention that furnishings feel outdated and maintenance could be better.
The location is convenient, just a short walk to the old town, though a few guests found it hard to locate at night.
The residence has underground parking available at a reasonable price. The calm atmosphere makes it a relaxing place to stay.
Breakfast is available, but reviews are mixed – some appreciate the convenience, while others say it’s not worth the extra cost.
Check-in is from 3:00 PM to 8:00 PM, and check-out is by 11:00 AM.
Overall: an affordable stay with kitchen facilities near Carcassonne’s medieval city.
Customer feedback
Positives:
- Proximity to the medieval city, convenient for exploring local attractions.
- Calm and pleasant environment for a peaceful stay.
- Spacious studios and apartments with ample room.
- Underground parking available at a reasonable price.
- Good value for money, especially for longer stays.
Negatives:
- Some guests found the residence difficult to locate, especially at night.
- Reports of maintenance issues, such as torn curtains and outdated furniture.
- Heating systems were inadequate for some guests during colder periods.
- Cleanliness standards varied, with some areas needing improvement.
- Breakfast offerings limited and not worth the additional cost.
Check out all the reviews here
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Cover photo: Hôtel du Château & Spa – Les Collectionneurs