Carcassonne is a popular holiday destination located in the Languedoc region of the south of France. The city of Toulouse is just 90km away.
During the summer months of June, July and August, Carcassonne sees the majority of the city's annual 3 million visitors, so it goes without saying that August is one of the busiest months in the city.
What the weather like in Carcassonne in August ?
Most tourists come here to visit the beautiful medieval Cite de Carcassonne (a castle and fortification that overlooks the city) and to soak up the wonderful weather. Carcassonne enjoys a typically Mediterranean climate with hot and sunny summers.
Temperatures soar in August which is one of the hottest months of the year in Carcassonne. The average temperature is a balmy 22°C with highs rising to 27°C during the day. Even nights are hot in the city, with low temperatures only dropping to 16°C. Luckily, Carcassonne is located in a region of France that locals call the "country of the winds", so breezes from the west, north and south will cool things down a little and make the weather much more comfortable than it sounds.
August is also one of the sunniest months in Carcassonne. The region is actually one of the sunniest in France with over 300 days of sunshine a year, and August is lucky to receive 7 hours of glorious sunshine each and every day. At this time of year, holiday makers can expect long, bright days as standard.
Rainfall is relatively low, and most days will be dry enough for the abundance of outdoor activities and attractions in Carcassonne. There's an average of 40mm of rainfall over the month, which tends to fall lightly over 6 days.
If you're looking for great weather and a vibrant, lively atmosphere (and don't mind sharing the experience with crowds of other tourists), August is an ideal time to visit Carcassonne.
For more up-to-date weather information before you travel, make sure to check the weather forecast.
Tourists are well-catered for in Carcassonne and you'll have no problem finding great accommodation to suit your budget, especially in the peak summer season of August when absolutely everything is open for business.
Domaine d'Auriac
For a luxurious stay, Le Domaine d'Auriac is a five-star French Colonial villa that's located near to the A61 autoroute, just outside of the city. The beautiful building is home to a selection of stylish guest rooms as well as a bistro and a gastronomic Michelin stared restaurant where guests can enjoy an evening meal. Outside, the beautiful grounds feature a floral garden and terrace as well as an outdoor pool that's perfect for cooling off in the summer heat.
is conveniently located in the centre of Carcassonne just a short walk from the train station, making it an ideal base for exploring the city and surrounding areas. The budget-friendly hotel offers simple but comfortable accommodation and is a great choice for families, with rooms that can accommodate up to five people.
Bloc G
If you're looking for a modern hotel with all the amenities you need for a great holiday, look no further than Bloc G. This popular B&B features bright, spacious and air-conditioned rooms with contemporary décor as well as a restaurant and bar on site. What's more, it's just a five minute walk from the heart of Carcassonne.
If your stomach is rumbling after a busy day of sightseeing around Carcassonne, don't worry; the city is packed with amazing eateries serving everything from traditional French cuisine to contemporary fare.
is a great place to dine al fresco on warm August evenings. With a charming outdoor terrace located on the street, guests can watch the world go by with a glass of wine or a delicious meal. The menu features a variety of authentic French cuisine as well as some delicious pizzas.
Another popular choice is Auberge des Lices, where diners can sample some real tastes of France, from the suckling pig to the traditional cassoulet. The great value tasting menu is particularly recommended. This hidden gem is tucked away in a narrow street near to the Basilica of Saints Nazarius and Celsus.
Le Chaudron
Last but not least, Le Chaudron is a small but popular restaurant that's ideally located in the heart of the old medieval town. Fine dining is what you'll find here, with local ingredients that are transformed into creative and high quality dishes. The restaurant has an upscale but cosy feel inside and a sunny patio outside.
Things to do in August in Carcassonne
Remember its going to be hot but if thats OK then
August is great month to be in the city, with lots for tourists to see and do. Most tourists come to Carcassonne to see the fortified city, which dates back to 3500BC. Its walls, towers and bridges are breathtaking sights that transport visitors back to medieval times. However, the stone walls are not the only thing to do in Carcassonne.
Tourists often enjoy getting out of the city for a day and soaking up the sun on the nearby beaches. Whether swimming or just relaxing, August is the perfect time for this activity. The closest beach to Carcassonne is in Narbonne, which is located on the Mediterranean Sea around an hour's drive away. Once there, you'll find 5km of wide golden beach as well as a stylish marina to stroll around.
In late August, the city hosts the Féria de Carcassonne, a small but fun festival which honours all types of music: salsa, tango, flamenco, Occitan, and marching brass to name a few. Pop singers are also included in this 3-day concert. Don't miss this event if you'll be in Carcassonne in August.