Carcassonne Game Festival
Festival

Carcassonne Game Festival

Saturday, September 12, 2026 – Sunday, September 13, 2026
Cité de Carcassonne
The Carcassonne Game Festival, held on September 12, 2026, takes place within the historic walls of the medieval Cité de Carcassonne. This event invites fans of all ages to enjoy a day devoted to games, including board games, card games, and interactive workshops. Set against the backdrop of the ancient fortress, participants can engage with a variety of games designed to challenge strategy, creativity, and teamwork. The festival also showcases live shows and demonstrations, providing entertainment beyond just gameplay. Attendees will find numerous opportunities to learn new games, meet fellow enthusiasts, and take part in friendly competitions. The occasion creates a lively atmosphere in one of France's most iconic medieval settings, making it an appealing choice for both locals and visitors. With activities for beginners and seasoned gamers alike, this event is a delightful way to spend a day immersed in playful activities amid historical surroundings.

Tips for Attending

  • Arrive early to register for workshops and secure a spot in popular games.
  • Bring comfortable shoes as there will be plenty of walking around the fortress.
  • Check the festival schedule in advance to plan the shows and events you wish to attend.
  • Consider bringing a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated throughout the day.
  • Look out for stalls selling game-related merchandise and souvenirs.

Practical Information

Budget: Entry fees are moderate; budget additionally for food, merchandise, and any special workshops requiring extra fees.. Duration: Plan to spend at least 4-6 hours to enjoy the full range of activities and shows.. Food Drink: Food stalls offering a range of snacks and drinks will be available, including local specialties. Visitors can also find cafes and restaurants near the fortress.. What To Wear: Wear comfortable clothing and sturdy shoes suitable for walking on cobblestone streets and uneven surfaces within the medieval city.. Getting There: The Cité de Carcassonne is accessible by train and bus, with regular connections from major cities like Toulouse and Montpellier. Parking is available outside the fortress walls for those arriving by car.. Booking Advice: Tickets can be bought online prior to the festival or at the entrance, but early booking is recommended for popular workshops and shows.

Best For

FamilyFunGameLoversCulturalVisitorsHistoryFans

Venue

Cité de Carcassonne

Cité de Carcassonne, Carcassonne, France

Activities During the Festival

Attending Carcassonne Game Festival? Make the most of your visit with these recommended activities.

Interior of an ancient basilica with stone columns, vaulted ceilings, wooden pews, and stained glass windows
Historical Sites
Viator
(2 reviews)

Enjoy this self-guided tour of the Basilica of Saints Nazairius and Celsus in Cité de Carcassonne, exploring the untold tales of Western Christianity. Led by James McDonald, this indoor walking tour unveils mysteries within the Basilique Saint Nazaire et Saint Celse, unravelling history from Joan of Arc to the Crusade against the Cathars. Beyond traditional narratives, discover the nuances of Romanesque and Gothic architecture, the influence of Occitan culture, and the profound impact on medieval Catholicism. This tour is an engaging blend of entertainment and academic rigour, enriching your understanding of Christian doctrine within the Basilica's historical embrace.

From
€17.34
per person
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Toulouse: Self-Guided Walking Tour tour image
Walking Tours
Tiqets
(3 reviews)

Download Henri Trip - Walking Tour Toulouse, the app for a personalized tour of Toulouse. Choose your route. Whether you're into history, architecture, food, or art, the app has a tour for you. With audio guides in 8 languages, listen to the audio commentary with historical facts and anecdotes. Learn about each landmark in Toulouse with detailed information.

From
€9.90
per person
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medieval stone walls and towers of carcassonne castle overlooking the town under a cloudy sky
Editor's Pick
Walking Tours
Viator
(5 reviews)

This is a private walking tour. We will arrange a private pick up for you. The meeting point will be a centrally located meeting point that can be reached by foot. During this walking tour, you will have a chance to get to know the most important and historical sites of Carcassonne. Here are a few examples of what you will be enjoying during your tour: La Cité de Carcassonne Château Comtal and Ramparts Basilique of Saints Nazarius and Celsus much more! Your private official tour guide will be at your disposition during the duration of tour. You will have a chance to get to know the most unique locations and sites of Carcassonne and its old town.

From
€375.37
per person
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Tourists in hats stand on a wide path facing the twin-towered stone gate of Cité de Carcassonne under a clear blue sky
Walking Tours
Viator
9.6/10
(30 reviews)

This is the biggest fortified city in Europe, and you cannot miss some history details to unsderstand better this magnificient site! Learn more about the Cathars. Easy walk, 1h30

From
€155.00
per person
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Woman in shorts and tank top walking through vineyard rows with medieval stone fortress in background
Walking Tours
Viator
9.1/10
(15 reviews)

Embark on an intriguing journey through the landmarks of Carcassonne with TouringBee's convenient audio guide on your smartphone. This tour is specifically designed to explore the city in a brief period (1.5 hours). Follow the route on the app's map, starting from the train station, passing through the lower town, and ascending into the fortress. You’ll see: The legendary Canal du Midi Carcassonne's defensive walls and gates The city's museums and medieval reenactment camp The Castle of the Dukes of Carcassonne - Chateau Comtal Basilica of St. Nazarius After downloading the tour data, the app operates offline. The audio guide is best enjoyed through your headphones. Delight in captivating stories and legends while moving at your own pace, without the need to keep up with a tour group. If you only have one day to visit Carcassonne, spend it with a TouringBee audio guide and uncover the other sights the region has to offer.

From
€6.99
per person
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stone archway framing cobblestone path and medieval castle towers under cloudy sky
Editor's Pick
Historical Sites
Viator
8.9/10
(30 reviews)

Are you looking for a way to see Medieval Carcassonne without joining a tour group? This three-hour tour, narrated by historian, James McDonald takes you beyond the walls and back in time. Explore at your own pace with this affordable self-guided walking tour. • Find out how to identify the many “killing zones” in which enemies risked being trapped while besieging the city • Hear from producer James McDonald, an English historian of the medieval period specialising in the Languedoc • Do it all in 150 minutes or linger at stops along the way with complete control over when you start and finish • Get unlimited use before your booking date and after it • Use the virtual tour option at home Once you’ve booked, you’ll receive a ticket with instructions and a unique code listed under “Before You Go”. Then simply install the VoiceMap app and enter your code. The app displays directions to the starting point, and when you’re in the right place, just pop in your headphones and tap start.

From
€21.68
per person
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Where to Stay

Places to stay near Cité de Carcassonne

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