Carcassonne is located in the south of France's Languedoc region, just east of the city of Toulouse. The city is a major tourist attraction and most visitors come for one thing; the UNESCO World Heritage-listed castle which overlooks the city from its hilltop position. In fact, this is the second most visited attraction in France after the Eiffel Tower. Those visiting the region in search of the famous castle can expect a typical Mediterranean climate with hot sunny summers and mild winters.
Whats the weather like in Carcassonne in November ?
The autumn month of November sees a decrease in tourism in Carcassonne as temperatures drop and the summer weather is left behind. However, some recommend visiting during this off-peak season; not only are there less crowds of tourists, but the weather is actually quite mild compared to other parts of Europe at this time (such as the UK.)
November's average temperature is around 10°C though temperatures can range quite significantly at this time of year. The average high is a pleasant 12°C during the day, but at night the average low drops to around 7°C. This can feel quite chilly, especially as the region is known for its windy weather, so a jacket is recommended.
Sunshine levels also drop at this time of year, but holiday makers will still be pleased to find some sunny weather. Days are generally still quite long with at least 1 hour of bright sunshine on average.
Rainfall stays consistent throughout the autumn season and is actually quite low compared to winter and spring. The average precipitation is 40mm and there's an average of 10 wet days throughout the month. Holiday makers can expect short spells of rain and storms that will dry up quickly.
In general, the weather in November is much cooler than the sizzling summer months but can provide very enjoyable conditions for a winter break in the south of France.
In off peak months such as November, holiday makers will be able to find some excellent deals on hotel rooms in Carcassonne. Tourists are well catered for in the city, with many hotels and B&Bs to suit every need.
Inter-Hotel Carcassonne-Pont Rouge
provides a great base for exploring the whole region. Located 3 miles out of the city centre, close to the airport, this hotel is easily recognisable thanks to its bright pink façade. Inside, guests will find bright, modern and spacious rooms that are fully-equipped with private bathrooms, flat screen TVs and free Wi-Fi. A buffet breakfast is served every morning.
If you're looking for budget-friendly accommodation, look no further than the
Hotel Premiere Classe Carcassonne.
Located within easy reach of the city and its attractions, this hotel features basic but comfortable rooms that sleep 2-3 people; perfect for couples or families. Free parking and a daily breakfast service are provided.
Another popular choice with travelers is
which is just a 10 minute drive from the historical city. Along with well-appointed rooms, guests can enjoy the hotel's convenient on-site restaurant and bar.
Whatever time of the year you visit Carcassonne you'll be spoiled for choice when it comes to eating out. The city is well-known for its delicious dining scene and authentic French cuisine.
Le Trivalou
Located on the oldest street in Carcassonne, Le Trivalou restaurant is the place to go if you're looking for authentic French dining. The restaurant has a small but welcoming dining room where guests can relax with a glass of wine and some tasty food. One of the most highly rated dishes here is the cassoulet, a traditional dish from the south of France that has to be tried.
Le Brassens
is another popular choice with locals and tourists alike. Tucked away in a side street behind the Salle du Dome, this hidden gem serves fresh and delicious home cooked food that's often considered some of the best in the area. Perfect for a satisfying dinner after a day of sight-seeing.
L'Arganier
Last but not least, if you fancy something a little different to the usual French cuisine, head to L'Arganier. This eatery is located in the small town of Trebes just a short drive (or canal ride) from Carcassonne, but is worth the journey, especially if you love flavorsome Moroccan and Mediterranean food. Dishes such as tagine and cous cous are served in a cosy and colourful setting.
November is a great time of year to see the city's sights such as the fortified walls and medieval castle. The cooler weather might require coats and jackets, but it is not too cold to visit these amazing attractions.
The School Museum
For those unpredictable days, you may want to plan some indoor activities such as one of the city's museums. The School Museum is a fun way to spend a couple of hours, especially if you're travelling with children. This small but interesting attraction features old-fashioned classrooms from between the 1880 and the 1960s that tourists can look around.
Salle du Dome
This is also an excellent time of year to visit the Salle du Dome if you want to soak up some culture. This theatre hosts a large selection of entertainment, such as opera, dance, musical comedy, jazz, variety shows and comedy acts. They even produce Shakespearian plays in French.
