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The Perfect 1, 2 to 3 Days in Toulouse Itinerary

Last Updated on June 2, 2023

by Emily Marty

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Planning a Toulouse itinerary is one of the highlights when mapping out a trip to Southern France. Toulouse is the fourth-largest city in France and is easily one of the country’s most unique destinations.

Located in the Occitanie region, which is close to the Spanish border, Toulouse is famous for the terracotta bricks that much of its architecture features (it is referred to as the Pink City because of this), the Canal du Midi, which connects the city to the Mediterranean Sea, its numerous, well-preserved medieval cathedrals, and the hearty, traditional cuisine that is typical of the area.  

Whether you’re planning on spending 1, 2, or 3 days in Toulouse, read on! This itinerary is perfect for covering the city’s classic must-sees, as well as touching on some of the area’s local delights and includes a day trip to the iconic medieval citadel of Carcassonne, which is roughly an hour away by train. 

Table of Contents

How Many Days in Toulouse?

If you’re planning a trip to the south of France, you might be wondering how many days to spend in Toulouse to really get the most out of your time there. The city may be fairly compact, but there’s an incredible amount to do and see.

It’s home to some of France’s most iconic landmarks and is the perfect place to sample some of the lesser-known gems of French cuisine, like cassoulet and saucisse de toulouse . 

So, while 1 day in Toulouse is sufficient to cover the city’s main tourist sites, you should ideally try to spend at least 2 days in Toulouse to really get a feel for the place.

Seeing Toulouse in 2 days will also give you more time to immerse yourself in the unique Occitan culture and architecture that the city emblemises. 

If you’ll be spending 3 days, then you might like to make a day trip to the nearby, picturesque village of Carcassonne on your third day. Carcassonne is home to the Cité de Carcassonne, which is one of the best-preserved medieval citadels in all of Europe. 

Getting To & Around Toulouse

The city of Toulouse and the surrounding area are served by Toulouse-Blagnac Airport, which offers a range of flight connections to the UK and the rest of Europe, as well as within France.

Domestic and international bus and train connections are to the city are both available, too, with regular departures to Toulouse-Matabiau Station from many cities including Paris , Marseille , Montpellier and Lyon . It’s also possible to reach cities like Nice or even Barcelona , however, there aren’t any direct trains available. You can view train schedules here.

It’s worth noting that, in some cases, budget flights to Toulouse from Paris and Barcelona can be significantly cheaper than travelling to the city by train. 

The Toulouse city centre is fairly compact and walkable, and the city is known for having some of the most comprehensive public transit networks in the country. Renting a car in Toulouse is generally not necessary unless you’re planning on using it to explore the surrounding countryside as well. 

If you enjoy cycling, then you may want to consider hiring a bike for part of your stay in Toulouse. The city is home to over 280 self-service bicycle rental stations, with plenty in the city centre, that are operated by VélôToulouse.

Though it’s not really necessary for navigating central Toulouse, cycling makes for a great alternative to using public transit when exploring further afield. 

2 to 3 Days in Toulouse Itinerary 

This itinerary covers most of Toulouse’s main attractions, as well as some lesser-known local gems. It also includes a day trip to nearby Carcassonne , one of France’s most renowned historical sites. 

Day 1 – Toulouse City Centre Highlights 

The first of your 3 days in Toulouse is the perfect opportunity to find your feet and get yourself acquainted with some of the city centre’s highlights.

These sites are all within walking distance of one another, making this a convenient way to take in some of Toulouse’s most iconic landmarks at your own pace. You can also organise a walking tour or a food tour if you want to learn more about the area from a guide.

Toulouse Cathedral (Cathédrale Saint-Étienne) 

With origins extending back as far as the 3rd century, the remarkable Toulouse Cathedral owes its distinctive appearance to its various sections having been built over the course of hundreds of years.

The cathedral is also home to some gorgeous gardens, which double as a great place for a picnic, and stepping inside to view the incredible artwork and stained glass windows that decorate its interior is also highly recommended. 

Interestingly, many of the original stained glass windows in Toulouse Cathedral were shattered during the French Revolution at the end of the 18th century (destroying religious iconography was commonplace during a two-year period of the revolution known as the ‘Reign of Terror’) – the stained glass you’ll see in the cathedral today were mostly installed during the 19th and 20th centuries. 

Capitole de Toulouse & Place du Capitole 

The second stop on this part of the Toulouse itinerary is the city’s grand Capitole, a majestic, neoclassical city hall which also functions as its administrative centre.

Resting at one end of an elegant, impressive square known as the Place du Capitole, tours of the Capitole’s historic rooms are available from the morning until early evening on most days. 

The Place du Capitole showcases some real highlights of different architectural styles that have dominated in Toulouse throughout its lengthy history, with the grand Théâtre du Capitole and terracotta bricks of the Arcades du Capitole being just two examples of this.

Additionally, the centre of the square features a golden croix occitane or Occitan cross, the symbol of the Occitanie region of which Toulouse is the capital, as well as the Occitan language, which is indigenous to the area. 

Fromagerie Xavier 

Heaven on earth for dairy lovers, Xavier is probably Toulouse’s most famous cheese shop, and it’s not hard to see why. The boutique features an enormous selection of soft and hard local cheeses, and the service is fantastic, as well. This is a great place to pick up a souvenir, too. 

Couvent des Jacobins 

Construction on Toulouse’s massive Couvent des Jacobins began in the early 13th century, and the building is a fantastic example of French gothic architecture. Not only is the church and convent home to some incredible relics, including the remains of Thomas Aquinas, but the interior features some very striking features, including a huge, vaulted ceiling and the famous ‘palm tree’ pillar.

It’s also worth exploring the Couvent’s gardens and cloister, both of which are especially lovely in the warmer weather. 

Jardin Japonais Pierre Baudais 

Planned and constructed in 1981 by then-mayor Pierre Baudais, Toulouse’s Jardin Japonais is one of the most authentic Japanese gardens outside of Japan.

Home to a teahouse, karesanui Zen rock garden, a large koi pond, miniature Mount Fuji, and dragon sculpture, the Jardin Japonais is a fantastic place for some peace and quiet during your first day in the city. 

Canal du Midi 

Right behind the Jardin Japonais is a stretch of the Canal du Midi, a 240km long canal that connects Toulouse’s Garonne river to the Mediterranean Sea.

Considered one of the most impressive feats of engineering of the 17th century, the Canal du Midi joins the Canal du Garonne and was initially built to allow wheat to be traded more easily along the French interior and internationally. 

Nowadays, the Canal du Midi makes for a lovely place for a stroll. Lined by trees and benches, you can enjoy some fresh air and a picnic by the water before heading back to your accommodation or, alternatively, out for dinner. 

Day 2 – La Cité de l’Espace, Les Abattoirs, Garonne River & Saint-Sernin Basilica

The second day will be spent taking in some of the city’s cultural highlights in the Cité de l’Espace and Les Abattoirs, as well as strolling along the mighty river Garonne. 

La Cité de l’Espace 

One lesser-known fact about Toulouse is that it’s actually one of the European aerospace industry’s major hubs. Not only are a number of key aerospace manufacturers headquartered in and around the city (such as Airbus), but it’s also home to the Toulouse Space Center, which is the biggest space centre in all of Europe.

It’s perhaps not surprising, then, that Toulouse also has a fantastic museum dedicated to all things spaceflight; the Cité de l’Espace. The Cité boasts a planetarium, displays, and even features a number of impressive replicas, including a reproduction of the Ariane 5 rocket launcher, which stands at a whopping 55 metres tall! 

The Cité de l’Espace is a bit of a trek from the city centre, being more or less on the outskirts of Toulouse. If you’re travelling from the area around the Capitole, then it should take between 30-40 minutes to reach the Cité de l’Espace via public transport. It’s also worth noting that the Cité can be very crowded in the summertime. 

Les Abattoirs 

Don’t let the name put you off; Les Abattoirs is a fantastic gallery for contemporary and modern art located in the remains of an old slaughterhouse. 

With a fascinating permanent exhibition and varied temporary exhibitions, visiting the museum makes for a laidback, thought-provoking experience. Les Abattoirs is also located on the banks of the Garonne River and offers a charming view of Toulouse from its exterior. 

The museum’s café is also a great place to stop for lunch, serving delicious meals and desserts at reasonable prices.  

The Garonne River and Pont Neuf 

The Garonne River splits Toulouse in two and makes for one of the best ways to see the city. Originating in the central Pyrenées , the river flows all the way to Bordeaux . You can walk along its banks or even take a cruise along the river, if you prefer. 

Either way, make sure to cross the river over the Pont Neuf. Constructed during the 16th and 17th centuries, the Pont Neuf is a beautiful stone bridge and the banks on either side turn into a popular picnic spot in the summer. 

Near the Pont Neuf, you can also opt to visit the Georges Bemberg Foundation, an art gallery with a number of lovely works.

The Basilique Saint-Sernin de Toulouse 

Another of Toulouse’s most iconic landmarks is the Basilique Saint-Sernin de Toulouse – considered to be the largest Romanesque building in Europe. Especially noteworthy are the basilica’s bell tower and facade, as is its crypt, if you’re feeling brave.

Admission to the basilica is free and heading inside is definitely worthwhile for a glimpse at its mighty vaulted ceiling, organ, and altar. 

Cassoulet at Chez Emile 

No visit to Toulouse is complete without sampling cassoulet (if you’re a meat eater, anyway), a hearty, slow-cooked stew typical of the Occitanie region.

A great place in the city to try cassoulet is Chez Emile , a charming restaurant serving homestyle southern French cuisine and local wine, located just off the Place du Capitole. Note that bookings are recommended, especially on weekends!

Day 3 – Day Trip to Carcassonne 

If you’re planning on spending 3 days or a long weekend in Toulouse, then a day trip to the gorgeous citadel of Carcassonne makes for a fantastic use of your third day.

Perched on top of a hill overlooking the lush Languedoc countryside, Carcassonne is home to one of the best-preserved medieval castles in France, and the charming village itself is worth a visit, too.  

There is a regular train service from Toulouse to Carcassonne or you can organise a guided tour from Toulouse.

Cité de Carcassonne and Château Comtal 

The citadel of Carcassonne is, naturally, the main attraction here. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the area that the citadel now stands on has been occupied since the 3rd century CE.

The citadel as it appears today was constructed in the 14th century and has since undergone multiple restorations, with the most recent having been in 1997. 

Château Comtal is the castle within the citadel and is an incredibly atmospheric structure. It’s home to a small museum, cannons, and is truly something to behold. Entry to the citadel is free, whereas visitors need to pay a fee to enter the castle itself. 

Basilique des Saints Nazaire et Celse  

The gorgeous roman gothic basilica of Saints Nazarius and Celsus is a national monument in France, as well as being a fantastically well-preserved example of French gothic architecture.

Especially noteworthy is the stained glass window from the basilica’s choir, which is dated all the way back to 1280, making it one of the oldest stained glass windows in all of France. 

Musée des Beaux-Arts de Carcassonne

Some visitors may want to spend a full day inside the citadel; however, the following activities are recommended for those who want to explore the village of Carcassonne, too. 

While not huge, Carcassonne’s fine arts museum contains paintings by artists from across Europe and makes for a lovely interlude on this day trip. 

Saint Michel de Carcassonne

Saint Michel de Carcassonne is Carcassonne’s main cathedral and is another great example of French gothic architecture. It’s also within walking distance of Carcassonne railway station, so the cathedral is a pretty ideal final destination for your day trip. 

Where to Stay in Toulouse

Hôtel Héliot – This 3-star hotel is an excellent choice for mid-range travellers to Toulouse. They have a central location for exploring the city, a number of lovely and comfortable rooms to choose from and breakfast is available in the mornings.

Boutique Hotel SOCLO – For those looking for a sophisticated stay in Toulouse, you’re sure to love this boutique hotel. Centrally located close to all the city has to offer, they have a range of plush rooms on offer and plenty of amenities to ensure your stay is a great one.

Appartements Design Hypercentre – These apartments are perfect for those who would like their own private flat while visiting Toulouse. They have a range of apartments available along with an excellent, central location perfect for exploring the best of this French city.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Toulouse hotels!

There are so many things to do in Toulouse and it’s a fantastic city to visit at any time of year. No matter if you’re interested in history, art, culture, food, or beautiful pastel-coloured architecture, Toulouse has something to offer!

Are you planning a trip to Toulouse? Have any questions about this itinerary? Let us know in the comments!

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About Emily Marty

Emily is a writer for The World Was Here First. Originally from Melbourne, Australia, she is currently based in the UK. She enjoys exploring Northern & Western Europe and Southeast Asia and has a bit of a thing for islands in particular.

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One Day In Toulouse Itinerary, What To Do In A Day

Toulouse is a gorgeous city in southwest France known as La Ville Rose. If you’re planning a quick visit to this underrated gem, this is the ultimate one day in Toulouse itinerary.

I love Toulouse. It’s simultaneously lively and relaxed. The pink and red brick architecture is like nowhere else in France.

The city is blessed with beautiful churches, museums, and cobblestone squares. The food is very unique and some of the most famous in the world.

Plus, you won’t find the swarming crowds you do on a romp down the Champs-Élysées in Paris .

Overview Of One Day In Toulouse Itinerary

Here’s a quick snapshot of what you’ll see in Toulouse in one day:

• Place du Capitole
• Convent of the Jacobins
• Cathedral Saint Etienne
• Basilica of Saint Sernin
• Musee des Augustins
• Toulouse Markets
• Museums Choices

Canal Stroll

Before you go: here’s how to plan your visit to toulouse.

If you’re in a hurry, below are some of the top tours, hotels, and experiences for Toulouse. Don’t forget to plan ahead when visiting, especially in high season.

Best Tours & Experiences:

• Toulouse walking tour
• 3 hour private walking tour
• wine tastin g tour
• guided food tour
• guided pub crawl

Best Hotels:

• La Cour des Consuls
• Le Grand Balcon
• Boutique Hotel des Beaux Arts
• Grand Hotel de l’Opera
• Pullman Toulouse Ce ntre Ramblas

Mini History of Toulouse

Toulouse dates back to ancient times. The Romans, the Visigoths, and the Franks all settled there.

Beginning in the 7th century, Toulouse became the capital city of a large territory in southern France. It was a powerful city due to its rich countryside and mild climate.

In the 11th century, the Cathar ideology first appeared in Toulouse. It was a zealous religious sect that believed that all earthly things (including themselves) were tainted and sinful. 

Aspiring only to the purity of early Christianity, they were outraged by the worldliness of the medieval papacy and its debauched Catholic clerics.

The area remained independent until the 13th century. Then, barons in the north grew tired of the “heresy” of the Cathar religion.

They invaded the region and besieged Toulouse. The city fell to Simon de Montfort in 1216.

In 1463, a massive fire destroyed most of the city. The city was rebuilt in the distinctive pink-red brick that gives the city its nickname “La Ville Rose.”

At this time, the city capitalized on its woads, a flower that produced a pretty blue dye. The woad merchants used their riches to build beautiful mansions in Toulouse that are still there today.

During the 18th and 19th centuries, Toulouse was urbanized. As you walk through the city of Toulouse, you will see all the layers of its history.

One Day In Toulouse Itinerary

You may want to purchase the 24 hour Toulouse Tourism Pass for skip the line access to many attractions.

1. Breakfast

Start your one day in Toulouse with breakfast in the city center.

La Sherpa is a nice cafe and tea shop just off the main square with good crepes.

2. Place du Capitole

Then, stroll through the Place du Capitole, the grand central square of the city. Cafes surround the square on terraces under covered arches.

Pedestrianized since 1995, the Place is lined with lavish red brick buildings. It has a polished marble floor emblazoned with the Occitan cross, a medieval symbol of the region.

The Capitole is the city’s most famous building and serves as the city hall. It opens at 9:00 am.

The Capitole is a massive classical building that’s been the seat of government since the 12th century. It’s reminiscent of Buckingham Palace in London and the city hall in Nancy France.

The Capitole is free to visit and you definitely should. It’s open every day except Saturday.

A grand staircase takes you up to the most famous room, the Salle des Illustres. It’s filled with statuary and murals.

There are 10 canvases by Henri Martin depicting life in Toulouse. Another intriguing paintings is of Paule de Viguier. Her beauty was so extraordinary that she was called a “wonder of the world.” 

Behind the Capitole, there’s a garden with a donjon and remnants of the old city walls.

3. Convent of the Jacobins

Toulouse is really a city of churches and the prettiest one is the Church of the Jacobins. The church is bright and airy

The cloister is exquisite and houses a column that resembles a palm tree called the “Palm of the Jacobins.” It is an architectural wonder made up of a double nave and star-shaped vault under a massive pillar. 

There is a floor mirror for you to view the unusual palm tree. The cloister is one of the most photographed places in Toulouse.

The convent also houses the relics of the philosopher Thomas Aquinas, sometimes called the Aristotle of Christianity. Each year on January 28, his feast day, a service is held honoring the saint.

The convent often hosts concerts or other presentations.

4. Cathedral Saint-Etienne

Saint Etienne  is also known as Toulouse or Saint Stephens Cathedral. 

It’s a 13th century Gothic-Romanesque structure, and a curious mishmash of architectural styles. You will either love it or hate it.

It does have a lovely gothic nave, rose window, tapestries, and stone sculptures. The stained glass above the main entrance is quite breathtaking.

The cathedral sits in the Place Saint-Etienne. This is a lively square where people like to hang out.

It’s also near the Rue des Arts where you can find all the high end boutiques you could ever want.

5. Basilica of Saint Sernin

The  Basilica of Saint Sernin  is the top attraction in Toulouse.

The church is a magnificent well-preserved basilica, and one of the greatest churches in France. Built between 1080 and 1120, it’s now a UNESCO site.

Saint Sernin is a fine example of Romanesque architecture in the characteristic Toulousian red brick, designed in a crucifix. The church’s bell tower is a defining landmark in the city and part of the skyline.

There’s an interesting tale about Saint Sernin. Legend holds that some Celtic invaders stole 70 tons of gold from the Temple of Apollo in Delphi.

Becoming convinced it was cursed, they threw the gold in a lake.

The story goes that, despite Romans trying to steal it, the bulk of the gold is still in the lake — which is under Saint Sernin!

6. Musée des Augustins

Next, head to the  Musée des Augustin ,  It was definitely my favorite museum in Toulouse and it’s set in a beautiful 14th century convent. To me, it’s a must see with one day in Toulouse.

Musée des Augustins is one of the oldest public museums in France. It houses a treasure trove of fine art and Roman, Gothic, and Renaissance sculpture.

You’ll find an eclectic cache of French paintings from the 17th-20th centuries, including art works by Rubens, Ingres, Delacroix, Van Dyke, Courbet, and Rodin. 

The museum even has a few prints by Toulouse-Lautrec , who was born in nearby  Albi and is the region’s celebrated son.

There are also some sculptures by Auguste Rodin and Camille Claudel .

The medieval cloister and garden are especially magical, surrounded by salons filled with evocative statues, sculptures, and gargoyles.

On the southern side, there’s a long line of dog-like looking gargoyles recovered from a convent. You can sidle right up to them and snap a photo.

7. Lunch: Toulouse’s Markets

For lunch, sit down at one of the many cafes in the Old Quarter or Carmes district. Of course, you can also grab something to go from a boulangerie.

But, for a more unique experience and a crash course in gastronomy, you might check one of Toulouse’s markets. They are a dream come true for foodies.

The most famous market is the Marche Victor Hugo. It’s a must visit if you love food. You can pick up food from the specialty shops and pack a picnic. Or, you can sit down and eat at one of the many little restaurants.

You will find over a 100 stalls with local products, including cheese, breads, cakes, and charcuterie. Specialty produces from the region include duck, foie gras, and the croustade (apple cake).

The market is considered one of the most prestigious food markets in France, and is really a must see. You can also visit it on a  3.5 hour guided food tour .

Carmes Neighborhood

The Carmes neighborhood is one of Toulouse’s most charming medieval quarters. The streets are lined with red, pink, and orange buildings.

This is where you can wander and get lost. If you can, have a peak into some of the lavishly decorated courtyards.

Carmes is a great place to go shopping or antiquing. There are also a plethora of cafes and bars.

You’ll also find tapas bars and eateries. Because Toulouse is close to the Spanish border, there is a Spanish influence in the city.

Spend the rest of your afternoon in Toulouse exploring the city’s other fine museums, which are all very reasonably priced.

With only one day in Toulouse, I would probably just pick one or two that appeal most. Here are your options:

Les Abattoirs

Fans of modern art should head to Les Abattoirs . It’s across the Garonne River in the neighborhood of St. Cyprien.

The museum is a well-lit and airy modern and contemporary art gallery. It has over 2300 works of art. Impressive Fernand Leger mosaics decorate its brick exterior.

The museum has a permanent collection and a couple of spaces for temporary exhibitions. Check the website to see what’s on display.

In the past, I have seen an excellent exhibit on sculptor Eduardo Chillada. (Others have been more confusing.)

Next to the museum is the Green Raymond VI. It’s a nice spot for a picnic with a nice view of the river.

Hotel Assezat

In Carmes, you’ll also find the most beautiful building in Toulouse, Hotel d’Asseza t . The architecture was inspired by the Italian Renaissance.

The mansion houses the collection of George Bemberg. There is something for everyone here.

There’s a nice selection of paintings from the French and Italian Renaissance and French Impressionism, including paintings by Titian, Veronese, Bonnard, Sisley, Degas, and Monet.

There’s also a Pointillist Room with Paul Signac works. There are even some works by  Toulouse-Lautrec and Picasso .

Musee Saint-Raymond

Located right next to the Basilique Saint Sernin, the Musée Saint-Raymond is a top attraction in Toulouse if you have an interest in Ancient Roman history or archaeology. It’s housed in a brick medieval building.

This little gem of an archeological museum was built on the site of a former necropolis. Inside, you can find a marvelous collection of artifacts dating back to Roman times. 

They include sculptures and mosaics from the Roman villa of Chirigan, which dates from the 1st century A.D. You’ll also see a “family tree” of Emperor Augustus . In fact, apart from the Louvre , the Saint-Raymond has the most important collections of Roman busts in France.

There are two floors where you can discover the collections. There’s also a cave, funerary artifacts, tombs, and an archaeological site.

Cite de l’Espace

Toulouse is a center for space exploration. If you are visiting with kids and are remotely interested in space-related exhibitions, Cite de l’Espace is a must do.

It’s effectively a theme park focusing on the history of flight. There are hands on exhibitions, a life size space ship, an IMAX theater, and a planetarium. With only one day in Toulouse, keep in mind that the museum is a bit off center.

Musee George Labit

This petit and pretty museum houses the collection of Georges Labit, a traveler and art collector. It consists of objects and artifact that he brought back from Asia and Egypt. You’ll even find a real mummy.

Prefer street art to museums? No problem!

Head to the Rue Gramat. Since 2000, the facades have been dedicated to constantly changing frescos. If you want a tour of them, check in with the Tourist Office .

There are really two canals in Toulouse. The famous canal du Midi and the Canal de Briene. This is the perfect place to enjoy a stroll and is popular with bikers and runners.

You can also stroll down the popular Quai de la Daurade promenade, which is located on the banks of the River Garonne. 

This is a good place to take a sunset stroll. It offers up some of the most beautiful views of Toulouse’s many old world monuments.

You will get to see both bridges, the dome of La Grave hospital’s chapel, and the big wheel.

The quai is also the departure point for many river cruises. If you are visiting with young kids, there’s also a playground.

Pre-Dinner Cocktail

For a pre-dinner drink, you can head to the Galeries Lafayette . It’s a branch of the famous department store in Paris’ Opera district .

You can lounge with a glass of wine on the rooftop and have a panoramic view of the city below. If you go at sunset, the city will be ablaze in color.

Alternatively, head to Le 5 Wine Bar for a pre-dinner cocktail. It has been voted one of the best wine bars in the world on multiple occasions, and

The bar also offers price fix menus. The place is tiny, so you’ll need a reservation.

Or, you can check out the many cafes in Place St. Georges, Place Salengro, or Place Dupuy.

Restaurants

Toulouse is loaded with great restaurants, which will especially appeal to carnivores.

If you want to splash out on a Michelin restaurant and fine dining experience, check out L’Air de Famille, Les P’tits Fayots, or Py-r.

If you want to try a cassoulet (which you should in Toulouse!) I can recommend La Cave au Cassoulet. Be prepared for some serious portions.

Des Rose et des Orties is a relatively new concept spot that comprises a restaurant, bistro and wine cellar. It’s located near the Airbus factory, not in central Toulouse. But it may be worth the trek.

Vegetarians should check out La Palm des Haricots.

Practical Tips For Spending One Day In Toulouse

Here are some must know practical tips for making the most of your one day in Toulouse itinerary.

1. How To Get To Toulouse

Toulouse has an international airport, Toulouse-Blagnac Airport. It’s about 20 minutes from the historic center. You can take a taxi, bus, Uber, or book a private transfer .

If you’re in Paris, you take the high speed train from the Gare-de-Lyon station. It’s just over a 4 hour ride.

2. How To Get Around Toulouse

Even though Toulouse is the fourth largest city in France, it doesn’t feel that way. Toulouse is a compact and walkable city.

Navigating on foot is also the best way to take in some of the achingly beautiful streets.

But, that said, Toulouse does have a metro system with 20 stops. You can also speed around on a guided bike tour .

3. Where To Stay in Toulouse

If you plan to stay overnight with one day in Toulouse, there are some awesome hotel options that are quite reasonably priced compared to Paris.

Grand Hotel de l’Opera is a luxury hotel in the heart of Toulouse. It’s housed in a former convent to amp up the atmospherics. There are suites with lavish furnishings and rooms with views of the Place du Capitole.

Hotel des Beaux Arts is also in the heart of Toulouse. The rooms are modern and offer up great Garonne River views. There’s also a complimentary breakfast.

Le Grand Balcon is a stylish hotel that just screams old world charm. With photos of pilots, it pays tribute to Toulouse’s aviation history.

Pullman Toulouse Centre Ramblas Hotel is a 5-10 minute walk from the main square. If you want an ultra contemporary place to lay your head, this is it.

If you are more interested in an Air Bnb, Toulouse has so many great options. You can check them out here . The last time I visited Toulouse, I stayed in a beautiful gem in the Carmes district.

4. When To Visit Toulouse

Toulouse is a year round destination. I would avoid summer, if possible, because that’s when you get the intense heat and crowds.

Spring is a great time to visit Toulouse. The weather is fantastic and the flowers are in bloom.

September is also a fantastic month to visit. The weather is amazing and the crowds have ebbed.

Because Toulouse is in southern France, the weather is decent in winter too. You won’t have the bone chilling days that you do in Paris. But you may not spend as much time strolling along the river either.

5. Is One Day In Toulouse Enough?

One day is enough to see the main attractions, of which there aren’t too many.

But if you want to move at a more leisurely pace and gobble up more of the delicious food, 2 days or a weekend visit would be more ideal.

Last time I was in Toulouse, I was there for 4 days and never ran out of things to do and restaurants to try.

6. More Than One Day In Toulouse?

If you have more than 1 day in Toulouse, the city also makes a great base for taking day trips in southwest France. The most popular day trip is to the medieval citadel of Carcassonne .

More offbeat destinations are the towns of Albi and Cordes-sur-Ciel . I’ve linked my guides to all three destinations.

If you’d like to book a guided tour to one of these towns, here are some of your options:

• full day trip to Albi
• half day trip to Carcassonne
• full day trip to Albi and Cordes-sur-Ciel

If hope you’ve enjoyed my one day in Toulouse itinerary. You may enjoy these other France travel guides and resources.

• 3 day itinerary for Paris
• 5 day itinerary for Paris
• Hidden gems in Paris
• Best Museums in Paris
• 30+ beautiful towns in northern France
• Beautiful villages of Brittany
• Beautiful villages in Normandy
• Guide to Mont Saint-Michel
• 1 week road trip itinerary for Normandy
• 1 week itinerary for the Loire Valley
• 10 day itinerary for southern France
• Charming hidden gems in Provence

If you want to spend one day in Toulouse, pin it for later.

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Last Updated on May 21, 2024 by Leslie Livingston

Kirstie Will Travel

Making Everywhere You Go An Adventure

South of France · February 16, 2020

The Complete Toulouse Travel Guide

Welcome to the Complete Toulouse Travel Guide! More and more people are venturing further than Paris to explore France, and Toulouse is one of the top destinations on their bucket lists. It’s easy to see why. Toulouse has earned the nickname of La Ville Rose (The Pink City) but it goes so much further than the terracotta bricks that give the buildings a pink hue – a culture filled, peaceful weekend in Toulouse will leave you feeling all kinds of love. If you’re ready to visit this southern French beauty then keep on reading this Toulouse Travel Guide to discover everything you need to know about the city and what it can offer.

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Is Toulouse Worth Visiting?

To start off this travel guide to Toulouse, let’s ask the most important question- Is it worth visiting Toulouse? If you want the short answer, yes! Toulouse is one of the prettiest French cities. It is full of beautiful architecture as well as the iconic terracotta bricks that make up so many of the buildings, leading to its nickname as La Ville Rose. Despite being the fourth largest city in France , it feels very laid back and peaceful. If you’re looking for a picturesque place that’s perfect for wandering, with good weather and heaps of culture, Toulouse is the one for you.

What is Toulouse Famous for?

As I mentioned above, Toulouse is nicknamed La Ville Rose, due to the beautiful pink hue of many of its buildings. It has an incredibly rich history in trade due to its position on the Garonne River.

Toulouse’s most famous dish is Cassoulet , and you won’t have any problems finding some in the city. Cassoulet is a rich meat and bean stew, containing sausages, duck or goose, and often various other meats. In Toulouse the meats are pork and mutton.

Art and Culture are rich in Toulouse, but its main moneymaker is the aerospace industry. Toulouse is home to many aerospace business headquarters, as well as the largest space centre in Europe .

How to Get to Toulouse

From the airport.

Toulouse Blagnac airport lies to the northwest of the city. The easiest ways to travel between the airport and the city are on the Navette Shuffle or Tram T2.

The Trams run from around 5:30 am-11:30 pm daily, and the journey takes a maximum of 30 minutes, depending on where you embark. Journeys from the airport to the city run a little later, until around 12:30 am. A single ticket costs €8 and can be bought on the tram. The unlimited city pass is valid on the airport shuttle.

The shuttle bus runs on a similar timetable to the tram. Transport starts at around 5am. The last bus to the airport runs at 9:40am, but buses to the city run until around 12:30am. The ticket costs the same as the tram, €8.

Read everything you need to know about the tram and the shuttle, with detailed timetables.

Toulouse is easily accessible from all major French cities by train. The Toulouse Matabiau Station lies just a 15 minute walk from the city centre. The SNCF website is the best place to find all the information you need to reach Toulouse by train.

Like the train links, you can also reach Toulouse easily by coach. I would usually recommend taking the train as the price difference is usually not significant, but the journey will be much shorter. Check out BlaBlaBus and FlixBus for the best options to reach Toulouse by bus.

Toulouse Travel Guide Tips and Tricks

How many days should i spend in toulouse.

Toulouse is the perfect size for a weekend getaway. It is relatively small, and although there is plenty to do there, you can get around everything in about 4 days maximum. There are a few good day trips to take from Toulouse which you can read about later on, so if you mix in some of these, you could spend a week in Toulouse.

Is Toulouse Safe?

Toulouse is an incredibly safe city. It is not very busy and feels very peaceful, so you’ll feel very at ease. I went to Toulouse as a solo female traveller and had no problems.

That being said, always make sure you keep an eye or your belongings, especially valuables. I always take precautions like keeping my bag across my body and avoiding putting my phone in my back pocket.

How to Get Around in Toulouse

Toulouse is a relatively small city, and you can easily get everywhere you want to go by foot. However, there is a very well connected public transport system if your feet get tired. It consists of metro, bus and tram, which means you have plenty of options for getting around. The public transport system is run by Tisséo, and you can find out more information about public transport on their website . Look for the Main Lines Map with the Network Maps section for the handiest guide.

Toulouse Travel Pass

As with most cities, Toulouse offers a travel pass that gives you unlimited access to public transport, many museums and monuments, and discounts for other attractions!

Prices: 

24 hours (one day) – €18

48 hours (two days) – €28

72 hours (three days) – €35

You can use the metro, tram and bus system as many times as you’d like during the time that your card is valid. You are also entitled to a return trip on the airport shuttle. Make sure you scan your card before accessing a public transport station and when you board.

There is free access to many of the museums and attractions that I’ll talk about later in this Toulouse travel guide, such as the Toulouse Museum , Les Abbatoirs and the Couvent des Jacobins . You can get discounts off some city tours, including the hop-on hop-off bus tour, and some aerospace attractions. Check out the full list on their website with all the information you need.

Toulouse Travel Guide: The Best Things to do in Toulouse

We’ve made it to the most important part of the Toulouse travel guide- what you should get up to. Here are all the highlights of the city that can be seen in just a couple of days or stretched out to a longer visit. I’ve included practical information for each place to make your planning easier.

Couvent des Jacobins

The Jacobins Convent is a historic Roman Catholic church. It has an important history in the French Revolution, and its really interesting to learn about the role it played. This is a beautiful piece of architecture that you can’t miss in Toulouse.

Practical Information

Address: Place des Jacobins, 31000 Toulouse, France

Opening Hours: 10am-6pm Tues-Sun (closed Mon)

Entry Fee: Access to the Church and the Chapel is free. To enter the Convent it costs €5 (€4 during off season). Entry is free for students, youths, disabled persons and various other concessions.

Website: Access their website here

Tickets can be bought online through the link above, or at the Convent itself. You can pay by card and cash.

Accessibility: The website states that the Convent is accessible to those with reduced mobility.

Basilica of Saint-Sernin

Another stunning piece of architecture in Toulouse, this is the largest Romanesque church in France and is actually a world heritage site. Saint-Sernin was Toulouse’s first bishop, and so this church was built to honour his legacy. Since Toulouse marks an important stop on the Santiago de la Compostela route, this church has received many visitors in the form of pilgrims over the centuries.

Address: Place Saint-Sernin, 31000 Toulouse, France

Opening Hours: 8:30am-7pm Daily. Open until 8pm on Sunday. In low season (1st Oct-31st May) the church closes at 6pm Mon-Sat, but stays open until 8pm on Sunday.

Entry Fee: Entry is completed free, and they even offer free guided tours of the church.

Website: Only accessible in French

Accessibility: No information on accessibility, 

Place du Capitole

Address: 1 Place du Capitole, 31000 Toulouse, France

This is the main square in Toulouse, in the heart of the city. It hosts Toulouse’s town hall, a beautiful and traditional terracotta building.

All around the square you’ll find different shops, and there’s restaurants where you can sit and watch the world go by. You can usually catch a local market at Capitole, which is a great way to see a different side to a city.

Top Tip: Make sure you pop by Capitole in the evening or at night to see the Hotel de Ville all lit up.

Pierre Baudis Japanese Garden

I love visiting Japanese Gardens in different cities, it’s such a great way to escape the city without having to venture too far. The Pierre Baudis Japanese Garden is absolutely no exception. It lies in the north of the city, about a 15-minute stroll from the centre, and you’ll be transported to absolute zen. You’ll find all the typical elements of a Japanese Garden and what’s more, this spot lies inside a spacious park, so you can explore that after your visit.

Address: Jardin Compans Caffarelli, Boulevard Lascrosses, 31000 Toulouse, France

Opening Hours: 7:45am-6pm daily

Entry Price: Free to enter

More Information (Only in French)

Discover top attractions and tours in Toulouse

Pont Neuf and Pont Saint-Pierre

Not quite as impressive as its Parisian counterpart, but this bridge over the Garonne river is still worth seeing. You can also check out Pont Saint-Pierre just along the river, and there are loads of points between the two to sit and watch the water. Make sure you also check out the Prairie des Filtres garden if the weather is nice, as you can relax right on the water with a picnic.

Toulouse Museum

The Museum of Toulouse is a museum of natural history, and a great spot to visit if you have a rainy afternoon in the city. It has a huge collection of items over various permanent exhibits such as the solar system and evolution. There is also a botanical garden outside.

Address:  35 Allée Jules Guesde, 31000 Toulouse, France

Opening Hours: Tues-Sun 10am-6pm. Closed Monday. The gardens close for lunch from 12:30pm-2pm.

Entry Fees: €7 for the permanent exhibition, additional €2 for temporary exhibitions. €5/€7 for concessions (youths, students, seniors, disabled persons). Children under 6 go free. See all reductions here

Website with more info about exhibitions and visits

The museum lies in the Le Busca area of Toulouse, which is also home to the Quai des Savoirs, a science centre, and a large park with plenty of room to explore.

Walk along the Canals

Toulouse is home to an impressive canal that runs from the city all the way to the Mediterranean coast. You can see the starting point of Canal du Midi in the north of the city and follow it as long as you like! There is also a smaller canal that is more central called Canal de Brienne, which feeds into the River Garonne. Either of these canals make for a lovely walk around the city, and they are dipped down from the road so it’s very peaceful and secluded.

When walking along Canal de Brienne, make sure you pop into Le Montagu for a coffee and pastry. It’s in the perfect position for a break, and they have some delicious delicacies.

Walk around the City

Don’t forget that one of the best ways to discover Toulouse is by walking the streets and seeing the beautiful architecture. Of course, in exploring the attractions above you’ll walk all around the city, but make sure you stop and take in everything that you see!

Where to Stay in Toulouse

A Toulouse Travel guide couldn’t be complete without finding you a place to stay! Toulouse has a beautiful range of accommodation to suit all budgets and styles so you’re sure to find something that is right for you.

La Petite Auberge de Saint-Sernin

I stayed in this cute little hostel on the north side of the city. It was very simple but the people were so lovely, and the place very clean. They have dorms of 4-8 beds, and they all cost about £20 a night, so you’re best trying to book a 4 bed dorm. This hostel was the perfect place for a couple of nights, especially if you are looking for somewhere calm and accommodating. They have one all female 4-bed dorm, so keep in mind that if you’d prefer that you’ll have to book early.

Adress:  17 Rue d’Embarthe, 31000 Toulouse, France

Check-in times: 10am-12:30pm, 2:30pm-9pm

Prices: €23/night or £20/night. Book in euros directly or in pounds at hostelworld

Additional Information: Washing machines are available for a small fee. Free wifi is available.

Other Accommodation Options

If you’re looking for something a little more upmarket, there are plenty of hotels in Toulouse, so you’ll find something to suit your style. I recommend checking out booking.com for the widest range of options.

Of course, my first stop for accommodation is always Airbnb. There are a great mix of budget rooms and boutique apartments. It is always nice to have a spot to call your own when travelling, which is why I love using Airbnb so much. If you haven’t used Airbnb before, make sure you sign up here to get up to £34 off your first booking!

Day Trips from Toulouse

Carcassonne.

This is one of the most popular day trips to take from Toulouse. Carcassonne is about an hour drive away from the city, and it takes the same amount of time by train.

The city is known for it’s hillside location and city walls. It has an important place in medieval history which is really interesting to learn about when visiting, and seeing this unique spot should be on everyone’s bucket list.

Also around an hour outside of Toulouse, but this time to the north, Albi is another town where you can see the traditional red brick that has made Toulouse so famous. It boasts one of the oldest and best preserved castles in France, the Palais de la Berbie, which is now an art museum.

One of the best parts of this town is how it has remained preserved from its historic architecture. It has led to the commune being recognised as a World Heritage Site, with note being made of the Old Bridge and various other religious buildings.

If you fancy ticking another country of the list during your time in Toulouse, then make a trip to Andorra for the day. It is a little further away, taking about 2.5 hours in the car. It is a little more complicated to travel by public transport as there is no train station in Andorra, but you can take a bus, which will take around 3.5 hours.

Andorra is rich in a culture puts its own twist on Catalan traditions. You can spend a lovely day learning all about this culture and the history of Andorra, whilst admiring the beautiful mountainous backdrop.

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February 16, 2020 at 10:24 pm

Such a great post! Thank you for sharing all the details

February 22, 2020 at 3:58 pm

Ahhh love Toulouse! Wish I had your guide when I visited. Don’t think I realised some the places you mentioned hehe. Must go back one day! Carcasonne was such an easy day trip and very pictureesque!

February 22, 2020 at 6:39 pm

This is a great post. I recently moved back to Spain and Toulouse is easy to get to from there and I have heard lots of really good things about it. This post would be perfect to look back on if I ever get the chance to go.

February 22, 2020 at 11:48 pm

Saving this one for later! I’ll be in France this summer. Thanks for sharing!

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48 Hours in Toulouse – 2 Day Itinerary

The fourth-largest city in France, Toulouse, is one of the many overlooked tourist destinations in the country. When in fact, Toulouse, also known as the “Pink City,” has so much to offer – distinctive buildings, a great food scene, old town scenery, historical and cultural traditions, and a lot more!

This is why, in this 2 Day Itinerary for Toulouse, we will share all the information you’ll need, especially if you’re still doubting whether to visit the town. Indeed, once you get to know Toulouse a little better, you’d want to book that ticket immediately and spend a weekend there.

Toulouse is ranked as one of Southern France’s prettiest cities. While famed for its pink facade, Toulouse offers an experience to explore its rich history and architecture. There are many landmarks to see, from the grandiose Saint Sernin Basilica to the Capitole de Toulouse, the town hall, and the opera house. 

Of course, a trip to Toulouse would only be complete with sampling their local cuisine. Although you might already be familiar with French cuisine, the city offers local delicacies like the cassoulet, a hearty stew made with white beans and various meats. So, check out the city’s many bustling food markets and quaint cafes to taste the local flavours. 

While there’s so much to see and explore in Toulouse (which we will discuss more later), it’s also essential to know the best time to visit the city. The weather here almost all year round is warm and sunny. 

But, if you’re wondering how to make the most out of your 48-hour trip to Toulouse, spring, and fall are generally the most pleasant seasons weather-wise. While the summer months are also famous for tourists, these months are when the city is a little bit crowded. 

In addition, make sure you’ll be staying somewhere convenient and accessible. Generally, those places are the centre of Toulouse, Capitole du Toulouse, and the Carmes districts. These areas are filled with charming streets and alleys lined with cafes, shops, and restaurants and are within easy walking distance of many of the city’s top attractions. 

Toulouse is a hidden gem that should be on your travel list. This 2-Day Toulouse Itinerary lets you know what to do on your two days there. All that’s left to do is pack your bags and prepare to embark on your Toulouse journey. 

If you’re wondering how many days in Toulouse is ideal or how many days do you need in Toulouse? Well it all depends on what your plans are? You could easily spend 2 weeks in Toulouse or 2 months and still not see or do everything.

Below is a great guide on what to do in Toulouse in 2 days because sometimes 2 days in Toulouse is all you have, especially if you’re spending a weekend in Toulouse or you’re travelling to Toulouse on short stop over trip and want to be able to tour some of the main areas within Toulouse.

In a hurry and need help quick?

Don’t panic if you are making last-minute plans for your Toulouse itinerary. We’ve got you covered. Our recommended hotels and tours for a getaway to Toulouse are listed below.

Recommended hotels:

• Hostel Toulouse Wilson (hostel)
• Ibis Styles Toulouse Capitole (budget hotel)
• Pullman Toulouse Centre Ramblas (mid-range hotel)
• Novotel Toulouse Centre Wilson (family hotel)
• La Cour des Consuls Hotel and Spa Toulouse (luxury hotel)

Recommended tours:

• Marché Victor Hugo Small Group Food Tour
• The essential of Toulouse by bike
• Explore Toulouse Wine Bars with a Local Wine Expert
• Unusual guided tour Toulouse in the Age of Enlightenment
• Private tour of Toulouse in an electric Tuk Tuk

Other Helpful Links

• Cheap flights
• Savings on accommodation from hostels to luxury hotels
• Affordable car rental options
• Affordable sightseeing tours and day trips
• Travel Adapter – All in one so you don’t have to carry a bunch around
• Wise Card : hold up to 40+ currencies at once to spend in in over 150 countries

This post contains some affiliate links for your convenience. Click here to read my full disclosure policy.

Table of Contents

Overview of 2 Days in Toulouse Itinerary

Here’s a glance at what you’ll see and do in two days in Toulouse:

Day 1: 

Get breakfast at Victor Hugo Market

Visit saint etienne cathedral , explore capitole de toulouse & place du capitole, have coffee at patisserie conte , relax at jardin japonais , stroll along canal du midi , get dinner at la cave au cassoulet .

Day 2: 

Enjoy Breakfast at Le Péry

Visit the basilique saint sernin, discover art at les abattoirs , lunch at antipodes, cruise along garrone river , wine & dine at cartouches.

Day 1 in Toulouse

One of the most popular markets in Tolous is the Victor Hugo Market, locally known as Marche Couvert Victor Hugo . It is located in the heart of Toulouse and is home to fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, and homemade bread, which will be heaven for food lovers. 

For your first meal of the day, visit Victor Hugo Market and have some coffee and croissant, or maybe a hearty meal from one of the many vendors. After your light meal, use your time and wander through the market, taking in the sights and smells.

As you visit the market, not only will you get to observe the local’s daily routine, but it’s also the perfect place to stock up on snacks for a picnic or to pick up ingredients for a home-cooked meal.

With origins going back to the 3rd century, Saint Etienne Cathedral , also known as Toulouse Cathedral, has been an important landmark for the locals. The church has this unique Gothic architecture featuring stunning stained glass windows, a magnificent organ, and soaring spires. 

In addition, the cathedral is also home to several gardens that can be a place for resting, relaxing, and even picnics. So, take advantage of this, and once you are in the area, take your time admiring the intricate architecture and peaceful atmosphere. 

It is located in the centre of Toulouse so it wouldn’t take much of your time to travel there. Moreover, it is also near your next destination – Capitole de Toulouse & Place du Capitole. 

For your third stop in the morning, it’s a must to see and visit the Capitole de Toulouse & Place du Capitole. These are two critical places in the city, offering neoclassical and majestic sights to see. 

The Capitole de Toulouse is a grand building that houses the city’s town hall, administrative centre and opera house. While not all city halls in all countries are considered a tourist destinations, this is an exception.

This is because of its exceptional neoclassical architecture, with a beautiful facade and a grand marble staircase that many travellers find attractive to see up close. 

Meanwhile, just a few steps in front of the city hall is where Place du Capitole. This square showcases different architectural styles that have dominated Toulouse throughout its lengthy history.

As you visit the square, you’ll find various cafes, shops, street performers, and plenty of people-watching opportunities.

After strolling around the historic centre of Toulouse, starting your afternoon itinerary with some sweets would be nice. Patisserie Conte is a local cafe and bakery that’s been serving up delicious pastries since 1950. 

They are famous for serving one of the best fenetra in Toulouse. Fenetra is a rustic tart made with almonds, apricot, and candied lemon peel. 

If you enjoy trying different kinds of pastry, you should take advantage of this. Moreover, grab a drink and replenish the energy you’ve used up. 

What’s better than a stroll in a tranquil and peaceful garden while travelling to another city? To do that, include the Jardin Japinais in your itinerary.

The Jardin Japonais is a Japanese garden built in 1981 by the city mayor, who had a trip to Kyoto. He wanted to let the residents of Toulouse experience what it’s like to be in a Japanese garden without the need to travel miles away. 

Jardin Japonais is designed in the traditional Japanese style and features winding paths, a koi pond, and plenty of cherry blossoms. As you stroll inside the garden, you will encounter an arched red bridge, a teahouse, a rock garden, and much more. 

One thing is for sure, if you visit the park, you’ll be doubting if you’re still in Toulouse because the surroundings just let off a Japanese garden, making it a perfect place to unwind and soak up some nature after a day of sightseeing.

Canal du Mi is a 250-kilometre network of waterways that links the Mediterranean and Toulouse. It was recognised as a UNESCO world heritage site in the 90s after being part of important history during World War II. 

As it runs through Toulouse, it has become a famous tourist destination for those who want to take leisurely walks and enjoy a calming time. 

So, before ending your first day in Toulouse, stroll along Canal du Midi’s banks. You even have the choice to walk or rent a bike and cycle the canal’s length; yes, it is also possible to take a boat tour if you prefer. 

Either way, you’ll enjoy the beautiful city and surrounding countryside views here, especially as the sunset reflect over its water. 

No trip to Toulouse would be complete without trying cassoulet, the hearty stew made with white beans, sausage, and various types of meat that’s a local speciality.

The best way to enjoy this dish is to visit a famous and renowned French restaurant in the city – La Cave au Cassoulet.

La Cave au Cassoulet is a charming French Bistro with an elegant and sophisticated atmosphere, candlelit tables and white tablecloths. 

This cosy restaurant promises a beautiful stay, serving delicious traditional dishes and an extensive wine list. The best way to end a tiring (but worthwhile) day! 

Day 2 in Toulouse

On your second day at Toulouse, start your journey with a delicious breakfast at Le Péry , a trendy and famous bar and restaurant at the square of Place Damloup. 

While the place is known as a bar and restaurant, they also have various brunch meals to fill you up before starting your tour. When visiting, make sure to try their famous tartines and potato galette. 

But, aside from the great French food they serve, they also take pride in their enormous terrace shaded with trees so diners can enjoy eating in the area all year round. Just the perfect palace to start your day!

After having your fill at Le Pery, take things slow and go on a walk through Basilique Saint Sernin . Here, you get to know the city’s historical past and, at the same time, enjoy beautiful architecture, 

The Basilique dates back to the 11th century. As you tour the vicinity, you will be welcomed with stunning architectural details, intricate carvings, and magnificent stained glass windows.

Aside from this, you can also visit the crypt beneath the Basilique, where ancient tombs and relics of past saints and bishops are. 

Basilique Saint Sernin also has its bell tower open to the public. You’ll get a great panoramic view of Toulouse’s skyline if you climb this. Just be prepared for the narrow spiral staircase that will take you atop.

While it remains a famous tourist destination, it still acts as an active church for locals. So if you wish to attend a service, you can experience the solemn beauty of a Catholic Mass or other religious ceremony if you want to. 

You can easily do all this alone, but a guided city tour will also help you gain more helpful information and discover stories about the basilica. In any case, take your time to appreciate the serenity and grandeur of this great religious site.

Art enthusiasts should be aware of Les Abattoirs , a contemporary art museum housed in a former slaughterhouse.

The museum showcases a diverse collection of modern and contemporary artworks, including paintings, sculptures, installations, and multimedia exhibits. 

So for your second stop on your second day, you should explore and visit Les Abattoirs. As mentioned, they have an array of exhibitions displayed for public viewing. But aside from this, they also offer a range of workshops and events for visitors. 

You can check out the gallery’s events and announcements online, so you know when would be the perfect time to visit.

Since Les Abattoirs is housed in a former slaughterhouse turned into a modern art museum, many travellers are curious about the buildings’ architectural style.

This is why many tourists and even locals come to visit and admire the building and, at the same time, enjoy the pieces they share with the public. 

After strolling around from one place to another, it’s time to enjoy more of the Toulouse food scene.

Antipode is one of the many famous restaurants in the city, and Michelin has reviewed it and received much praise from locals and food enthusiasts visiting the city. Adding to its story, it was built by two former students of Toulouse catering school. 

Since then, it has gained popularity, especially with its lunch menu; despite being a small establishment, many people visit it. So, coming earlier than the usual lunchtime is highly recommended to avoid long lines. 

Next up – hop on a cruise along Garonne River! After fueling up with some good French food, embark on a leisurely cruise along the Garonne River, which winds through Toulouse. 

While you can admire it from land, one of the best ways to admire the picturesque scenery, including the city’s iconic bridges and charming waterfront architecture, is by joining a cruise tour. A river cruise offers a unique perspective of the city and allows you to relax and enjoy the beauty of your surroundings.

Since the river is surrounded by beautiful landscapes, including hills, forests and vineyards, you can take in the atmosphere and feel the tranquillity of the city right before you end your 48-hour trip in Toulouse. 

This is highly recommended to be done during the afternoon, right before sunset. This way, not only can you enjoy the day scenery of the surrounding river areas, but you’ll also get to end (almost) your trip in Toulouse with a great view of the city’s sunset. 

Furthermore, if you have more time to spare you can always visit nearby beaches near the river.

After a long day of going around and exploring Toulouse, it’s time to wrap off your trip with some good food and wine at a good restaurant.

Cartouches is one of the best restaurants in Toulouse, and Michelin also reviewed it, saying they offer good value cooking and excellent food quality. 

So, since this would be officially your last stop in Toulouse, take advantage of their great cured meats and their long list of wine selections.

Plus, it is directly handled by the owner Nicolas Brousee and his wife, who will cater to you during your time at the restaurant. 

Tours in Toulouse

Bike tour .

While touring around Toulouse can quickly be done by foot or public transportation, it would also be a great idea to go on a bike tour around the city.

This way, you can admire the buildings in the town that have pale-coloured brick change into pink hues throughout the day and discover why Toulouse was named the Pink City. 

When you book this tour , a bicycle and gear will already be provided depending on your needs and comfort.

A professional guide will take you and your small tour group to see places, including famous landmarks, plazas and basilicas. 

Food Tour 

Toulouse offers excellent architecture, breathtaking views, and good food. While in town, make sure to taste every local cuisine you can. Doing this would be easier if you joined a local food tour.  

Lasting for only 3 hours (which will take little time), you will discover local delicacies and drinks as if you are a local.

You will visit five places offering sweet and savoury dishes with a guide and a small tour group. Some food you might sample during the tour includes foie gras, cassoulet, wine and violet.

2-Day Itinerary for Toulouse Wrap-up

After all, that said, you already know how to spend 48 hours in Toulouse. We have already given the necessary information you need to know in this detailed itinerary, including things to do, what to eat and tours to try.

All you have to do now is prepare your documents, book your flight and hotel in Toulouse and pack your bags – and you’re ready to embark on a 48-hour journey to Toulouse. 

Recommended tours in Toulouse

• Toulouse: Private guided walking tour

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Sam, a seasoned traveler across four continents and 49 countries, is a leading authority in travel planning. Her website, Travelling King, offers tailored itineraries and expert guides for seamless trips. Sam's expertise in luxury travel, fast travel, and destination guides keeps her at the forefront of the travel community.

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One day in Toulouse Itinerary – Top Things to do in Toulouse, France

Toulouse captivates with its blend of history, culture, and innovation. Known as “La Ville Rose” for its distinctive pink-hued buildings, Toulouse boasts architectural marvels like the Gothic Cathédrale Saint-Étienne and the Renaissance-style Capitole de Toulouse. Indulge in the region’s culinary delights at bustling markets and charming bistros, savoring local specialties like cassoulet and foie gras. With its picturesque riverbanks, lively atmosphere, and timeless charm, Toulouse offers an unforgettable experience for every traveler.

Toulouse: A Perfect Day Itinerary

Welcome to Toulouse! Experience the city’s history, culture, and cuisine in just one day with our guide. From pink-hued architecture to bustling markets, there’s much to explore in “La Ville Rose”!

Discover Toulouse’s Historic Heart

Start your day with a visit to the iconic Place du Capitole , home to the magnificent Capitole building. Explore its grandiose architecture and perhaps catch a guided tour inside. Then, wander through the charming streets of the historic center, admiring the Renaissance mansions and colorful facades.

Don’t miss the Basilica of Saint-Sernin , a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the largest Romanesque churches in Europe. Take your time to soak in the rich history and architectural beauty of this ancient city.

Explore the Couvent des Jacobins: 

Step into the tranquil ambiance of the Couvent des Jacobins , a medieval monastery renowned for its stunning architecture and rich history. Founded in the 13th century by the Dominican Order, this architectural gem served as both a place of worship and a center for intellectual and spiritual pursuits. Marvel at the exquisite gothic vaults of the church and wander through its peaceful cloister, which once provided refuge for monks seeking contemplation and study. Don’t miss the chance to visit the tomb of Saint Thomas Aquinas, one of the most influential theologians in Christian history, housed within the convent since the 14th century.

Explore the Vibrant Markets

Head to the bustling Victor Hugo Market, where local vendors offer a cornucopia of fresh produce, cheese, meats, and regional specialties. Enjoy browsing the stalls, sampling some delicious treats, and immersing yourself in the lively atmosphere. Take the opportunity to pick up some souvenirs or picnic supplies for later in the day. Don’t forget to admire the stunning glass and iron architecture of the market hall, a testament to Toulouse’s rich heritage.

Indulge in Toulouse’s Gastronomic Delights

Savor the flavors of Toulouse with a leisurely lunch at one of its many inviting bistros or brasseries. For an authentic taste of the city, head to Maison du Cassoulet Toulouse , where you can indulge in their renowned cassoulet , a hearty stew of white beans, sausage, and duck confit. Alternatively, try other regional specialties like foie gras or duck breast . Pair your meal with a glass of local wine or a refreshing glass of pastis, and enjoy the relaxed ambiance of dining al fresco on a sunny terrace.

Discover Aerospace Marvels

Embark on a journey through the history of aviation and space exploration at the Cité de l’Espace. Explore interactive exhibits, marvel at full-scale replicas of spacecraft, and learn about the pioneers of flight and space travel. Don’t miss the chance to experience a simulated space mission or take a virtual reality journey to the edge of the universe. Whether you’re a science enthusiast or simply curious, the Cité de l’Espace offers an unforgettable experience for visitors of all ages.

Stroll Along the Canal du Midi

Wind down your day with a leisurely stroll along the picturesque banks of the Canal du Midi . This 360-km network of navigable waterways linking the Mediterranean and the Atlantic through 328 structures is one of the most remarkable feats of civil engineering in modern times. Built between 1667 and 1694 by Pierre-Paul Riquet, the canal played a crucial role in facilitating trade and transportation during the 17th century. Admire the tranquil waters, lined with lush greenery and charming houseboats, as you soak in the peaceful ambiance of this UNESCO World Heritage site . Take a moment to relax on a bench or enjoy a refreshing drink at one of the waterside cafes. The canal provides the perfect setting for a serene end to your day of exploration in Toulouse.

Enjoy Toulouse’s Nightlife and Cuisine

As evening falls, Toulouse comes alive with a vibrant nightlife scene. Head to the lively Place Saint-Pierre , where you’ll find a plethora of bars, cafes, and restaurants catering to every taste. Whether you’re in the mood for live music, craft cocktails, or traditional French fare, you’ll find plenty of options to choose from. Take your time to savor the flavors of Toulouse one last time before bidding adieu to this enchanting city.

Where to stay in Toulouse?

La Cour des Consuls Hotel and Spa Toulouse

46 Rue des Couteliers, 31000 Toulouse

A luxury haven in Toulouse’s historic heart, offering refined rooms and suites adorned with chic décor. Pamper yourself at the spa or indulge in gourmet delights at their esteemed restaurant, all amidst elegant ambiance and impeccable service.

BOOK A ROOM HERE

Hôtel Innes by HappyCulture

13 Bis Rue Matabiau, 31000 Toulouse

Nestled in Toulouse’s vibrant Capitole district, this boutique hotel boasts cozy rooms with modern amenities. Enjoy complimentary snacks and beverages in the lounge, and explore the city’s attractions just steps away from this charming urban retreat.

Mercure Toulouse Centre Saint-Georges

Rue Saint Jerome, 31000 Toulouse

Located near Place Wilson, this contemporary hotel provides comfortable rooms with sleek furnishings and city views. Guests can savor regional cuisine at the on-site restaurant or unwind with a drink on the terrace, experiencing Toulouse’s vibrant atmosphere firsthand.

Odalys City Toulouse Centre Compans Caffarelli

39 Rue du Béarnais, 31000 Toulouse

Ideal for extended stays, these spacious apartments offer a blend of comfort and convenience. With fully equipped kitchens and proximity to Compans Caffarelli Park, guests can enjoy a home-away-from-home experience while exploring Toulouse’s cultural treasures and green spaces.

A few facts about Toulouse

• Aerospace Hub : Toulouse is known as the “Space City” due to its significant presence in the aerospace industry. It’s home to Airbus headquarters and hosts major aerospace companies, research institutes, and the Cité de l’Espace , a space-themed park and museum.
• Pink City : Toulouse earned the nickname “La Ville Rose” (The Pink City) due to the distinctive pinkish hue of its buildings, created by the use of terracotta bricks in construction.
• Cultural Heritage : Toulouse boasts a rich cultural heritage, with landmarks like the Basilica of Saint-Sernin , a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the Capitole de Toulouse , a grand neo-classical building housing the city hall.

• Gastronomy : The city is renowned for its gastronomy, featuring local specialties like cassoulet (a hearty bean stew), foie gras , and Toulouse sausages. Its vibrant food markets and traditional brasseries offer a taste of authentic French cuisine.
• Student Population : Toulouse is home to one of the largest student populations in France, with prestigious universities like the University of Toulouse and Toulouse Business School attracting students from around the world.
• Canal du Midi : Toulouse is a gateway to the Canal du Midi , a UNESCO World Heritage Site that connects the Atlantic Ocean to the Mediterranean Sea. The canal is popular for leisure activities such as boating, cycling, and scenic cruises.

What’s the best time to visit Toulouse?

The best time to visit Toulouse is during the shoulder seasons of spring ( April to June ) and autumn ( September to October ). During these months, the weather is mild and pleasant, perfect for exploring the city’s outdoor attractions without the summer crowds. Spring brings blooming flowers, particularly enhancing the charm of Toulouse’s parks and gardens, while autumn showcases vibrant foliage, creating picturesque landscapes.

Additionally, these seasons offer a myriad of cultural events and festivals, including the Toulouse International Art Festival in spring and the Toulouse Jazz Festival in autumn, providing visitors with opportunities to immerse themselves in the city’s vibrant arts scene.

However, if you prefer warmer temperatures and don’t mind larger crowds, summer ( July to August ) can also be a great time to visit, despite higher tourist numbers and occasional heat waves. Winter ( December to February ) tends to be cooler and quieter, ideal for travelers seeking a more tranquil experience and lower accommodation prices.

Day Trips from Toulouse:

Located about an hour northeast of Toulouse, Albi is famous for its stunning red-brick cathedral, the Cathédrale Sainte-Cécile, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore the historic Old Town with its charming streets, visit the Toulouse-Lautrec Museum dedicated to the renowned painter, and stroll along the banks of the Tarn River.

Carcassonne

Journey about an hour and a half southeast of Toulouse to discover the medieval fortress city of Carcassonne. Explore the well-preserved ramparts, towers, and cobblestone streets of the UNESCO-listed Citadel, and delve into the city’s rich history at the Château Comtal and the Basilica of Saint-Nazaire.

Cordes-sur-Ciel

Just over an hour northeast of Toulouse lies the picturesque hilltop village of Cordes-sur-Ciel. Marvel at its well-preserved medieval architecture, wander through narrow cobblestone streets lined with artisan shops, and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding countryside from the top of the village.

Saint-Émilion

Approximately two hours northwest of Toulouse, Saint-Émilion beckons with its scenic vineyards, historic wine cellars, and charming village center. Explore the underground catacombs, sample world-class wines at local wineries, and soak in the ambiance of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Extra tips for visiting Toulouse, France

• Public Transportation : Utilize the efficient public transportation system, including buses, trams, and the metro, to navigate the city easily. Consider purchasing a Toulouse City Pass for unlimited travel and discounts on attractions.
• Walking and Cycling : Toulouse is a walkable city with many pedestrian-friendly areas. Consider exploring on foot or renting a bicycle to discover hidden gems and enjoy the city’s charming streets and parks.
• Language : While French is the official language, many locals, especially in tourist areas, speak English. Learning a few basic French phrases can enhance your experience and show respect for the local culture.
• Safety : Toulouse is generally a safe city, but be cautious of pickpockets in crowded areas, especially around tourist attractions and public transportation. Keep your belongings secure and be aware of your surroundings.
• Dining : Experience Toulouse’s gastronomic delights by dining at local restaurants and cafes. Don’t miss trying regional specialties like cassoulet, duck confit, and Toulouse sausage, paired with a glass of local wine.
• Local Markets : Explore Toulouse’s vibrant markets, such as Marché Victor Hugo and Marché des Carmes, to sample fresh produce, cheeses, and artisanal goods. These markets offer a glimpse into daily life in Toulouse and are perfect for food enthusiasts.
• Reservations : Make reservations in advance for popular attractions, restaurants, and tours, especially during peak tourist seasons, to avoid disappointment and long queues.
• Respectful Behavior : Show respect for local customs and traditions, such as greeting people with “Bonjour” and saying “Merci” when leaving a shop or restaurant. Dress modestly when visiting religious sites and adhere to posted rules and regulations.

Make sure you have everything you need

What to pack for your next trip.

Make your next trip as simple and as enjoyable as possible by packing smart. It’s amazing how much stress top travel items can save you, so choose carefully. Things like lightweight travel backpacks, for example, are ideal for short trips and allow you to move around with ease, and a passport holder will make sure you keep your documents safe at all times. Check our travel checklist guide for 2021 to make sure you haven’t missed anything, and travel to your next destination in style and with maximum comfort.

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Toulouse travel blog — the fullest toulouse travel guide guide for first-timers.

Coming to France, do not forget that there is a very charming and gentle but no less vibrant place here, where is considered a “fairyland”, that is Toulouse. Neither as magnificent as Paris nor contemplative, ancient like Lyon. Bringing a gentle but dynamic, modern beauty, that is what makes Toulouse city different. So, is Toulouse worth visiting, how to visit Toulouse, what to do in Toulouse and how to plan a budget trip to Toulouse for the first-time perfectly? Let’s check out our Toulouse travel blog (Toulouse blog) with the fullest Toulouse travel guide (Toulouse tourist guide, Toulouse guide) from how to get to Toulouse, best places to visit, best time to come, what to eat as well as top things to do in Toulouse to help you maximize your trip as follows!

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No matter what time of year you come here, Toulouse will still welcome you with the freshness and excitement of a young city but still have the gentleness of a heritage city. During my first days in France, Toulouse gave me a warm and peaceful feeling like at home.

France is famous for tourists from all over the world because of its ancient architecture, gentle and poetic natural landscape. Along with that is a rich culture and unforgettable dishes. To fully experience those things, you should choose for yourself the Toulouse journey.

A brief introduction to the city of Toulouse (#toulouse blog)

Toulouse is a beautiful city located in the southwestern part of France, the capital of the French department of Haute-Garonne and of the Occitanie region. The city is located on the banks of the Garonne River, 150 kilometers (93 miles) from the Mediterranean Sea, 230 kilometers (143 miles) from the Atlantic Ocean and 680 kilometers (420 miles) from Paris. It is the fourth largest city in France, with 1.060.000 inhabitants as of May 2023. In France, Toulouse is known as the “Pink City” (La Ville Rose). The Toulouse is France’s fourth-largest, after Paris, Lyon and Marseille, and ahead of Lille and Bordeaux.

For many years, Toulouse has always been voted as one of the most beautiful cities in France. Toulouse has an area not too large, so getting around in the city is also quite comfortable. Not only attracting tourists with an ancient and peaceful beauty, Toulouse is also considered one of the cleanest cities in France, a city without dirt.

As the capital of the European aerospace and space industry, and the fourth largest city in France after Paris – Marseille – Lyon, Toulouse is one of the most attractive tourist destinations in the Southwest of France. Not only that, but this is also the intersection between many different cultures and a heritage land of France with unique architectural works such as Toulouse-Lautrec Museum, Augustins museum, St. Etienne Church, Saint Sernin Church, Place du Capitole and many castles have left their historical imprints.

You can confidently wear light-colored clothes or wear white and black shoes all day without worrying about dirt. There are garbage cans everywhere in the city or public places have separate areas for smokers. Truly a civilized city, isn’t it!

When should you visit Toulouse?

The weather and climate in Toulouse are quite mild. You can travel Toulouse in most seasons of the year. In the two seasons, spring and summer, the number of tourists from all over the world flocking to Toulouse always increases very high. That also leads to the price of services such as restaurants, hotels will also increase. If you don’t want to have to jostle and wait, you should come to Toulouse between June and August every year. You should not come here in winter because the weather is quite cold, wet and often rains, which greatly affects your journey to discover Toulouse.

In addition, winter in Toulouse is quite cold and rainy, so tourists rarely come here in this season because the weather will affect a part of your journey to explore the city!

How to get to Toulouse? (#toulouse travel guide)

Toulouse-Blagnac Airport, French name: Aéroport de Toulouse-Blagnac; airport code: TLS) is located about 7 km northwest of Toulouse city center and partly in Blagnac, in the Midi-Pyrenees region.

You can land in Paris then catch the train or bus to Toulouse. The major cities of France are connected by high-speed trains, so moving is quite easy and does not take much time.

Getting from the airport and Toulouse city center? (#toulouse guide)

Airport Shuttle: The airport is well connected to the bus system. Shuttle service connecting the airport with Toulouse bus station. Shuttle bus departs 20 minutes/trip. Routes 30 and 88 serve various locations in and around the city.

Hotel shuttle: Some hotels in the area provide airport transfers upon request: Courtyard Toulouse Airport, Holiday Inn Express Toulouse Airport, Holiday Inn Toulouse Airport, Novotel Toulouse Aeroport, Pullman Toulouse Airport , Radisson Blu Hotel Toulouse Airport.

Tram: Toulouse Airport is also connected to the city center by the TISSEO T2 tram line. The tram departs every 15 minutes, moving between the airport and stops at Arènes and Palais de Justice. Total one-way trip time is 21-32 minutes.

Taxi: Taxis are always available at the airport, outside the arrival halls, between gates B3 and C1.

Train/bus: From Paris or other cities in France, you take the train to Toulouse (Toulouse Matabiau station) by the SNCF and OUI bus system for 27 euros or more/way.

Car rental: Car rental agencies are available at the airport: Avis/ Budget, Enterprise, Europcar, Goldcar, Hertz, Sixt. All of these agents are located in the common area outside arrival hall C.

How to get around Toulouse?

Besides, when you get around Toulouse you can travel by public transport such as bus, metro or metro. With an extremely developed transportation system, more than 101 different bus routes, a metro system consisting of 2 lines T1 and T2, a metro system including lines A and B, giving visitors a variety of choices and options.

Metro / Bus: There are 2 metro lines and many bus lines of the Tisséo system with a fare of 1.60 euros/way, you can buy a 10-time ticket of 13.40 euros.

Bike: There are 253 automatic bicycle rental points under the Vélo Toulouse system, so you can easily find a bike for yourself and cycle around the city for 1.20 euros/day or 5 euros/ 7 days, at each bike rental point with a map of that area.

On foot: Toulouse is not a very big city, so you can walk to most of the touristy inside the city quite comfortably. This is definitely the best way to explore the city.

What to do and where to go in Toulouse? (#toulouse travel blog)

La ville rose (#toulouse travel blog).

Toulouse has a youthful and warm color not only because it is a young city that attracts a large number of domestic and foreign students to study, but also because of the name “pink city”. Since Roman times, the architecture here has been made up of light pink to dark orange fired bricks that alternate throughout the city. So, a strolling around the city to admire this color and watching people passing by is also an interesting experience.

Midi Canal and Neuf bridge

After a bold French lunch, I walked along the great avenue Jean-Jaurès, enjoying the peaceful feeling of the city, watching the clear green water of the Midi canal. This is one of the greatest constructions of the 17th century and was recognized by UNESCO as a world heritage site in 1996. The canal joins the largest river in France – the Garonne, while crossing the middle of the river Garonne is Neuf Bridge – one of the famous places that many tourists enjoy visiting. The bridge connecting the two banks of the city center since the 16th century is like a romantic picture but no less classic, with brick houses, museums, hydroelectric dams and large parks. In the summer, you can leisurely breathe in the fresh air and stroll under the green trees, visit churches and busy markets, typically Carmes market.

If you are still wondering where to go in Toulouse, surely the Midi Canal will be a great suggestion for you. This is a beautiful canal with peaceful and poetic natural landscape. Here, visitors will be immersed in a green natural space, enjoy the fresh, airy and extremely pleasant atmosphere. It seems that all the worries of life will disappear when you come to the Midi Canal.

Crossing the Garonne River, the Neuf Bridge is one of the interesting tourist spots in Toulouse. Built in the 16th century, Neuf Bridge is the central bridge connecting the two banks of the city. Standing on this bridge, you can observe most of the famous buildings around and relax watching the Garonne river flowing by. In addition, on the bridge is also installed a telescope to help visitors see the whole city of Toulouse in sight.

Church of Saint Aubin

Address: 45 Rue Pierre-Paul Riquet, 31000 Toulouse, France Hours: Wednesday, Saturday, Monday: Closed

In an ancient city like Toulouse, there is no shortage of quaint sites for us to explore. One of the most famous churches in Toulouse is the Church of Saint Aubin. This church is quite special and it is unlike any other church in the world because it has no bell tower, no dome. However, this is always a very attractive tourist spot in Toulouse.

Located in the west of Toulouse city with its unique architecture and decoration, it is a perfect blend of Romanesque and Gothic styles. The church, which dates back to the mid-19th century, is a fascinating historical landmark when visiting Toulouse.

Stadium Municipal de Toulouse

Address: 1 All. Gabriel Biénès, 31000 Toulouse, France

As the 7th largest stadium in France, this place has hosted some Euro 2016 soccer matches. This is not only the home ground of Toulouse football club, but also used to organize football matches.

Airbus Factory (near Blagnac airport)

With tickets from 15.50 euros/person, you will be able to visit the Airbus A380 production line, for non-European tourists will need to register 2 days in advance to visit.

Church of the Jacobins

Address: Pl. des Jacobins, 31000 Toulouse, France Hours: 10 AM–6 PM/Monday: Closed

The 700-year-old church of the Jacobins is always amazes visitors with its exquisite Southern French Gothic Architecturee. Take a lot of time to walk in this tranquil setting and admire every corner, corridor, clock tower.

Place du Capitole

A few streets away from Saint-Sernin church is the famous Capitole square, where I can admire historic buildings dating back to the 16th-18th centuries such as the Crowne Plaza (1 of the 3 famous 5-star hotels in Toulouse), or the Hôtel de Ville building, the National Capitol theater with an architecture characterized by 8 columns built of pink bricks in the facade.

Victor Hugo Market (#toulouse travel guide)

If you’re lucky, you can even take part in some of the markets held in the Capitole square or stop by the nearby Victor Hugo market and munch on some oysters. Victor Hugo Market dates back to 1896 with a larger area than the markets of Carmes and Saint Cyprien. Here, you can not only enjoy fresh seafood, sausages, cheese and dried fruits, but also treat yourself to a great lunch with the signature appetizer of foie gras served with fig jam, toast and some black pepper, followed by duck confit dish cooked to perfection with just the right amount of tenderness, served with french fries with a few lettuce leaves. To make your lunch perfect, you should order a glass of white wine to sip, indulge in the enticing scent of the nearby pastry stalls and think about your next schedule.

Basilica of Saint-Sernin

Address: Basilica of St. Sernin, 7 Pl. Saint-Sernin, 31000 Toulouse, France

The church was built in Roman architecture, the decoration details are also elaborately designed and detailed from the bell tower to the glass windows. The church was completed in the 13th century, with many areas for visitors to visit such as the chapel, the 6-storey clock tower or the tomb of Saint Sernin.

I started an energetic summer day with a hot cappuccino and a croissant at La Mie Câline bakery, then visited the Basilica of Saint Sernin, one of the largest churches in downtown Toulouse and of Europe. Decorated in Roman style with meticulous attention to detail, along with a huge bell tower and intricate sculptures, it was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1998.

Toulouse Cathedral (Cathedrale St-Etienne)

Address: Pl. Saint-Étienne, 31000 Toulouse, France Hours: 8 AM–7 PM

It was built in the early 13th century and was recognized by UNESCO as a world heritage site in 1992 as a typical work of medieval Gothic architecture in France.

Arc de Triomphe

Referring to the Arc de Triomphe, perhaps visitors will think of the magnificent city of Paris, but in the pink city of Toulouse, visitors will also admire a triumphal arch that is not inferior. The Arc de Triomphe in Toulouse has eight stone pillars, which are a memorial to the fallen Haute-Garonne soldiers.

Toulouse-Lautrec museum in Albi

Address: Palais de la Berbie, Pl. Sainte-Cécile, 81000 Albi, France Hours: 10 AM–12:30 PM, 2–6 PM

Lautrec Albi Museum is also one of Toulouse’s historic landmarks where visitors will admire a unique artistic paradise. The museum has many great collections of the world and many works of contemporary art.

Japanese Garden

Address: Jardin Compans Caffarelli, Bd Lascrosses, 31000 Toulouse, France Hours: 8 AM–8 PM

If you are a nature lover, Toulouse is a great place to visit with lots of parks and luxuriant trees. The most special is the Japanese Garden (Jardin Japonais) created in 1981, inspired by gardens in Kyoto, located in the heart of Compans Caferelli area. With a large area and located in the middle of a ground of nearly 10 hectares, this place includes manicured trees, many green meadows, including a plant exhibition, a lake and many other attractions. Everything seems to blend together to create an oriental flair in the heart of Europe.

In the garden, there are hundreds, thousands of different types of ornamental plants that are cared for and trimmed very carefully by gardeners. With bold Japanese style, visitors here can admire rare oriental scenery along with a variety of activities such as plant exhibitions, lakes…

River Garonne

If Amsterdam (Netherlands) is famous for the legendary Amster river, or the city of light Paris with the poetic Seine river, Toulouse boasts the Garonne river like a silk strip crossing the city, creating an impressive space. statues, with the harmony of architectural works. The rivers seem to have created soft touches, an open space, contrasting with the industrial landscape of dynamic Toulouse.

The cities on the Garonne River were once settled by the ancient Romans, so today Toulouse still has small streets and many buildings built of red brick in the Pseudo-Roman style. That is why Toulouse is called by the name La Ville rose (Pink City).

France is a place where nature is endowed with beautiful rivers. And in Toulouse, too, there is a river like a beautiful watercolor painting called Garonne. The Garonne River is the largest river in France, the two banks of the river are an indispensable scene in France: The old houses are connected together, along with the rows of green old trees stretching,…

An extremely fresh air that you can experience when you come here, stroll under the trees, breathe in the fresh air and explore the historic bridges spanning the gentle river. There will be a lot for you to discover here!

Theater du Capitole

Address: Pl. du Capitole, 31000 Toulouse, France

End a day of sightseeing with a visit to the Theater du Capitole, which many travelers consider the ideal suggestion. The theater often organizes performances of ballet or opera. The space here is not too big but elegantly designed, spacious seats and good acoustics. Opening hours are from 10am to 1pm and from 2pm to 5:45pm.

What to eat?

After a long day of exploring, you can pamper yourself with an appetizer of snails cooked with garlic, parsley and butter (Escargot de Bourgogne) followed by a main course of Bourgogne beef cooked with wine (Boeuf Bourguignon). Otherwise, you should choose to enjoy Cassoulet stew – a typical dish of the Midi-Pyrénees region with the fleshy taste of white beans mixed with the greasy taste of duck meat. Besides, sausages served with toast and salad are also dishes that you cannot miss when coming to Toulouse.

Referring to Toulouse is referring to a unique but very rustic and rustic cuisine of the South of France. The dishes that you must definitely enjoy when traveling to Toulouse must include:

• Foie gras: It is an expensive luxury dish, probably no stranger to foodies who are passionate about European dishes. The Toulouse goose (Oie de Toulouse) is the breed used to produce foie gras fatty liver.
• Cassoulet: A famous dish throughout France, a culinary symbol of the city. In Toulouse, this casserole is prepared with duck, beans, vegetables and herbs in a way that is unique to the region. When enjoying the dish, diners will be surprised by the light, delicate taste, not fed up by the meat and very cool.
• Confit de canard (Duck Confit) : In the traditional recipe, all parts of the duck are used and salted before being cooked in fat for great flavor and tenderness.
• Saucisse de Toulouse (Toulouse sausage) is a sausage that requires a rather strict processing process. It is made primarily of lean, medium-sized meat and is recognizable for its pink, slightly reddish color. Mainly served with fries.
• Violet flower is used as a spice in some meals, cakes and sweets, there are also dishes and drinks that come from violets. Purple jam and jellies are famous in Toulouse, but you should also try purple syrup and wine. A true icon of Toulouse’s gastronomy, the city celebrates purple each year in February.

Besides, Toulouse has a variety of cakes from sweet to savory you should try. We recommends trying fenetra, tarte aux noix, savory meat pie and egg bougnette….

Where to eat?

French restaurants: Le Bibent, La Braisière or restaurants near the Jean-Jaurès metro and Pierre Goudouli park with prices from 12 euros a la carte and from 25 euros per set menu. And you should visit L’Entrecôte restaurant, which is very famous for its steak with its special sauce and apple salad with walnuts, priced at 19 euros excluding drinks.

If you want to try Asian dishes, you can visit Denfert Rochereau with Pachinee (Thai dishes) restaurant, O’Bali (Indonesia) and many Vietnamese and Japanese restaurants nearby with prices from 8.50 euros/dish and from 14.50 euros according to the set menu.

Café: There are many cafes with an average price of 1,50/2.50 euros for espresso/cappuccino, if you want to drink coffee or chocolate with ice and large size, go to Columbus for an average price of 4.50 euros.

Where to stay?

Below we recommend more best budget, mid-range and upscale hotels with good ratings and reviews you can refer to.

• Le Grand Balcon ( Agoda , Booking )
• Plaza Hotel Capitole Toulouse – Anciennement-formerly CROWNE PLAZA ( Agoda , Booking )
• Hotel Albert 1er ( Agoda , Booking )
• ibis budget Toulouse Centre Gare ( Agoda , Booking )
• Grand Hotel de l’Opera – BW Premier Collection ( Agoda , Booking )
• Appart-Hotel Clement Ader ( Agoda , Booking )
• Mercure Toulouse Centre Saint-Georges ( Agoda , Booking )
• Campanile Toulouse Purpan ( Agoda , Booking )

Check out more top and best hotels in Toulouse on Agoda.com or Booking.com

Some best day tours, trips, activities and transfer services, tickets in, from and to Toulouse you can refer to

• Toulouse City Pass
• La Halle de la Machine Admission in Toulouse

Read more France guide here .

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Luxe Adventure Traveler

Adventure Travel With a Glass of Wine

The Perfect 3-Day Weekend in Toulouse

By Jennifer Dombrowski 15 Comments

Paris will always be a French classic. But if there’s anything we’ve learned over our decade of visiting France and our year of calling this country home, it’s that there is so much more to France than the French capital. From the fantastic location situated between the Pyrenees and the Mediterranean, to the seemingly infinite restaurants, wine and tapas bars serving exceptional cuisine, Toulouse is quite literally a rose colored gem. With one taste of the candied violets, one evening in the world’s best wine bar and one rose-gold sunset as the city seems to be set ablaze in pinks, oranges and reds, you’re sure to fall in love. It’s why you should definitely add La Ville Rose to your France itinerary, and be sure not to miss these things to do in Toulouse while you’re there:

Toulouse is just a hop, skip and a jump from Bordeaux and can be reached on the train in only two hours. It’s four hours from Paris. Either way, you can hop on an early train and be in La Ville Rose before lunch.

You’ll notice immediately that Toulouse’s architecture is quite a bit different than that of the Haussmann buildings of Paris or the Neoclassical architecture of Bordeaux. Pinkish-red terracotta brick dominates the city, which gives it the nickname of La Ville Rose.

Walking Tour of Toulouse’s Great Monuments

A 2-hour walking tour of the great monuments with a guide from the Office of Tourism is a great introduction to France’s fourth largest city. We discovered that Toulouse is one of France’s best preserved Renaissance cities.

Pride towers dot the skyline. They were a sign of wealth when the merchants, known as the Capitouls, built their mansions in the city.

Many are still private or have been converted to office space, but you might be lucky to find some doors open to the courtyards of these impressive places. Don’t be afraid to have a peek inside; the locals know and are proud of what special places they are.

After eight years of visiting churches and cathedrals in Europe, they’ve become a bit of more of the same. Not in Toulouse! There are three you should definitely have a look inside of. Cathedral Saint-Etienne, Basilica Saint-Sernin and Convent of the Jacobins are each unique and play an important part of Toulouse’s tumultuous religious history.

Cathedral Saint-Etienne is like a trip through time. The original cathedral is Romanesque, an architectural style from medieval Europe, and dates from the early 13th century. When the Romanesque architecture style was abandoned for the Gothic style, a second cathedral was started in that style. The Romanesque part was intended to be knocked down and the new Gothic cathedral built over the former.

But the money simply ran out, and so today the two cathedrals stand in a mishmash of architectural styles side-by-side. Get the best look at the disconcerting architecture from the west entrance.

Begun in the 11th century to serve the pilgrims on their way to Santiago de Compostela, Saint-Sernin is the largest Romanesque church certainly in Europe and believed to be the largest in the world. The enormous church is 377 feet (115 meters) long, 210 feet (64 meters) wide and 69 feet (21 meters) high.

The church is named for the first Bishop of Toulouse, Saturninus. In 250 BC, Saturninus refused to pay homage to the gods. He was tied up to a bull and dragged from the steps down the street in a bloody and violent death. He was buried, and in the 5th century his remains were moved to the current site of Saint-Sernin.

Pilgrims still flock to the church today, and a visit inside to admire the carvings, gilded ceiling frescoes and pipe organ from 1888 are impressive evidence why.

Another Romanesque masterpieces, though entirely different from Saint-Etienne and Saint-Sernin…and really, anything else built in the Romanesque period, is the Convent of the Jacobins . It was started in 1230 by the then future Saint Dominic as a place to preach Roman Catholicism.

The first church was built entirely of the pink brick and only half as high and half as long as the current convent we see here today. As the congregation grew over the next century, the church was expanded and the vaulted roof was constructed. The builders inserted just one oversized column in the center. The ribs that held up the vaulted ceiling radiated from all directions of the column and it looks like a palm tree inside the church. It’s known as Le Palmier des Jacobins, the palm tree of the Jacobins.

The other significant feature of the Convent of the Jacobins is that the remains of Thomas Aquinas are interned here. Author of Summa Theologiae, Thomas Aquinas is regarded as one of the greatest theologians of the Roman Catholic Church and the model teacher for those studying to enter the priesthood. He was canonized as a saint in 1323 and his remains were placed in a stone reliquary after being returned from Italy in 1368.

Place du Capitole has been the seat of the municipal government since the 12th century. While the sprawling neoclassical building with its eight columns representing the original eight Capitouls is impressive itself, it’s the interior 19th-century Salle des Illustres (Hall of the Illustrious) that is truly spectacular.

It was painted by artists including post-impressionist Henri Martin, and weddings still take place here regularly. If visiting on a Saturday, you’re likely to see at least a few.

Don’t miss the painting of “Belle Paule” painted by Henri Rachou in 1882. Paule de Viguier was considered the most beautiful woman of her time and King François I gave her the nickname Belle Paule when he visited Toulouse. She was just 15 years old, but the Capitouls commanded that she appear daily on her balcony for the people of Toulouse to revel in her beauty.

Something else that is easy to miss also on Place du Capitole is the series of modern paintings adorning the ceiling of the arcade directly across the square from the town hall building. A unique painting is set in each square lining the entire arcade.

The Dôme de la Grave sits on the left bank of the Garonne and is the most photographed of Toulouse’s monuments. Currently, it’s closed to the public but we hear a project is underway to restore the interior and re-open it.

A bit ironic, but Pont Neuf (the New Bridge) is actually the oldest bridge in Toulouse. It was constructed from 1544 – 1632 and the seven arches are not symmetrical. It was purposely designed that way to help the city resist various assaults on Toulouse from the river and was quite effective at doing so.

Xavier is an unmissable stop when visiting Toulouse. The cheese shop, with master cheese refiner François Bourgon now at the helm after his father retired, has served Toulouse as the best cheese shop for more than 30 years. In 2011 François won the coveted title of Meilleur Ouvrier de France, a type of artisan award placing him among the top cheese refiners in all of France.

What is cheese refining, exactly? François was kind enough to take some time out of his day to show up. He works with farmers to receive some 450 varieties of cheeses and he places them in optimum conditions in his cheese cellar for the bacteria and molds to age the cheese.

He’s even worked with a farmer to create his own specialty cheese, Le Pavé Toulousain. It’s a cow’s milk cheese aged to different styles and it travels well since it’s sold in its own box. This specialty of Xavier is perfect for bringing home as an edible souvenir.

N°5 Wine Bar

For dinner, make a reservation at N°5 Wine Bar , awarded the Best Wine Bar in the World 2017 and Best Wine Bar in Europe 2016 by World of Fine Wine. Chef/owner Thomas Cabrol offers a tasting menu that is always a surprise of plates artfully showcasing seasonal and local ingredients, which you can enjoy with a card to try various wines from the Enomatic wine by the glass dispenser. Or his impressive wine list offers 300 wines by the glass and more than 3300 wines by the bottle.

It’s a small and lively wine and tapas bar, where we quite enjoyed dining at the counter where we could see Chef Thomas cooking and plating each course.

We knew we were in for a treat when a little plate with various butters and dips was served as our first tapas. The colorful dips looked like a painters palette.

Tapas after tapas came out of the kitchen: a perfectly cooked egg with mushroom cream, white ham with truffle, tomato and mozzarella salad, green gazpacho with basil sorbet and finally apricot and marscapone sorbet with saffron. The tapas were just the right size to relish all the flavors, yet not to much that we left feeling overly full.

Between tapas, we couldn’t help but notice a very old bottle in its own little wine fridge. It’s one of the oldest wines in the world found on a ship that sunk off the coast of Holland in 1735. The shipwreck was discovered in 1982 and it was like a movie of discovered treasure. The shipwreck contained thousands of gold and silver coins, plus intact bottles of Madiera wine from 1675. Both the coins and the wine were salvaged.

There’s 10 total bottles of the 1675 Madeira, though most are on display in museums. Three bottles were sold at auction, and Thomas couldn’t resist purchasing one.

The bottles were resealed to protect the wine, and for a mere € 7000 you can order a glass that will be served using Coravin technology. Or you could just purchase the entire bottle if you’ve got € 45,000 lying about – just be sure to offer Thomas a taste. And for € 100,000 you can take the bottle home for your very own collection.

La Cité de l’Espace

While trips to the moon still might be light years away for us regular folk, you can live out your deep space fantasies at La Cité de l’Espace . Since Sundays are typically a quiet day in France with most shops, museums and even restaurants closed, it’s the perfect way to spend a Sunday or a rainy day in Toulouse.

Toulouse has long been one of Europe’s most important centers of aeronautics and has been named the International City of Space for 2017. The massive La Cité de l’Espace has also called Toulouse home for the last 20 years and celebrates its anniversary with a year long calendar of events and special exhibitions. As the name implies, it’s a small city of all things space including a full scale 53 meter high replica of the Ariane 5 rocket launcher, a replica of the MIR Space Station that was used to train the astronauts going to the space station and the Soyuz spacecraft that carries people and supplies to and from space.

You can actually go inside both the MIR Space Station training replica and the Soyuz spacecraft to get an idea of what life is like for the astronauts.

Inside, a massive multi-level exhibition hall has some 250 interactive exhibits to learn about meteorology, space craft, our solar system and all things outer space. Don’t miss the moon rock – it’s one of only two moon rocks in France, with the other being in a museum in Paris. The moon rock was brought back by astronauts of the Apollo 15 mission.

There’s also a Martian meteorite and the Caille meteority, the biggest meteorite ever discovered in France weighing 625 kilograms (1378 pounds).

And if you want to experience a bit what it feels like to be an astronaut, there are space sensation experiences like the rotating chair, moonwalk simulator, and moon runner experience. You receive a timetable and map at the welcome desk, so be sure to check the times for these experiences because they are only at specific times throughout the day.

In celebration of the twentieth anniversary, a gorgeous new planetarium opened a mere two weeks before our visit. Along with Houston and Paris, it’s the one of the top planetariums in the world. We watched the 45-minute Auroras show with a translation device that translated to English for us through headphones. As Northern Lights addicts , the movie was incredibly well done and filmed in cooperation with Canada Keep Exploring and the Aurora Village in Yellowknife. It will play at the planetarium through 2018 and we highly recommend you watch it. It’s like being under the Aurora…minus the eyelash freezing temperatures of the Arctic.

Fondation Bemberg

From deep space to art is a bit of a transition to make, but the Fondation Bemberg is worth a visit. The impressive collection, including 30 paintings by the French artist Pierre Bonnard, is housed in one of the 16th century private mansions called the Hôtel d’Assézat. The mansion belonged to a rich pastel merchant and Capitoul of Toulouse named Pierre d’Assézat.

Toulouse Plages

For two months in summertime, Toulouse celebrates the lovely weather with the Toulouse Plages. And on a weekend, the plages are the place to be. Just relax along the river or join in the various activities from dance classes to slip-n-slides. There’s seriously something for everyone from tennis and badminton on the grass to volleyball on the sand. Or take to the river in a kayak. All the activities are free, with the exception of riding the Ferris wheel, so you can’t go wrong hanging out at the plages.

Head to Le Bibent on Place du Capitol. Normally such a square in Paris would be lined with tourist trap cafes, but Le Bibent is the furthest thing from a tourist trap serving quick meals. The gastronomic restaurant is loved by locals and known among the best restaurants in Toulouse.

The building dates from 1861 and the Belle Époque decor with abundant mirrors, chandeliers and frescoes is luxurious in itself. Chef Christian Constant opened the restaurant in 2011 and is famous in his own right. He has been chef at the Crillion and Ritz in Paris, is owner of the Michelin star Le Violon d’Ingres also in Paris, owns six restaurants in France and has been a judge on Top Chef, M6 from 2010 – 2014.

The name Le Bibent means to “drink good” in Occitane slang and you can be assured that you’ll definitely eat good. The menu changes to feature seasonal products from the southwest of France, and we were happy to take recommendations.

We started with fried shrimp with a mango sauce and a perfectly cooked egg with peppers and ham. We tried the filet of beef with creamy mashed potatoes as our main course, and finished off with the chocolate tart by Christian Constant and a peach cut and stuffed with ice cream on a bed of Chantilly cream.

La Guinguette

La Guinguette is a floating terrace moored on the Quai de Tounis with a beautiful view of sunset and Pont Neuf. It’s only open in summer (July – September), but it’s a beautiful spot to enjoy some jazz music, a drink and the lit up monuments of Toulouse if nightlife isn’t really your scene.

Let’s Visit Airbus and Aeroscopia Aeronautical Museum

Toulouse is the home of Airbus headquarters and employs more than 21,000 people at its various sites in Toulouse. The A380, the world’s largest passenger airliner, is assembled in Toulouse and you can tour the factory.

We’ve always been interested in airplanes and we both love plane spotting, which has become a much tougher hobby to have since tightened security after 2001. These days we mostly watch A380 parts, like the massive wings, sail on down the river past Bordeaux as they travel to the plant in Toulouse for assembly. And, of course, we spend loads of our time on airplanes.

Naturally, we were super excited to visit Airbus on our Toulouse trip, especially since the A380 is our favorite airliner to fly on. An Airbus visit is a must for any aeronautics nerd like us.

There are two parts at Airbus: discover the plant and A380 assembly site on a 90-minute guided tour and the Aeroscopia Aeronautical Museum.

Photos aren’t allowed on the A380 tour , but you visit the plant, testing stations and assembly line while learning about the world’s largest passenger airliner.

The Aeroscopia Aeronautical Museum is full of aircraft from across the years since aviation was born in 1903, including three that you can board for an inside look: Concorde, A300B and a Super Guppy.

There were only 20 Concordes ever produced and two of them are here at the Aeroscopia Aeronautical Museum. It is one of only two supersonic transports that were used commercially and traveled from Paris to NYC in just under 3.5 hours and from London to NYC in just 2.5 hours.

Concorde entered service in 1976 and flew for 27 years until it was retired due to low sales in 2003. In the 1990s, a one-way ticket cost anywhere between $10,000 – $20,000. Back then only the most elite could afford a class of air travel even higher than first class and now, the only way most of us will ever see the inside of a Concorde is at the museum.

La Maison de la Violette

Back in Toulouse, stop by the La Maison de la Violette . This lovely edible flower is to Toulouse what lavender is to Provence.

Violets of Toulouse were actually thought to have been brought back by soldiers during the Napoleonic Wars, though the history of how this little purple flower came to be embedded in Toulouse’s story just isn’t well known. The first documented violets appeared around 1854 and sometime in the 19th century people decided to candy the flowers, creating the Toulouse specialty you can still find today.

By 1908, there were more than 600 violet producers and a cooperative. More violet products were created, like the perfume “violette de Toulouse” created by Berdoues in 1936 and the violet liqueur created by M. Serres in 1950. Violet syrup, violet honey, violet jelly, violet vinegar, violet mustard and more followed.

But in 1956 a terribly cold winter killed many of the violets, which bloom in the wintertime. By 1983, the cooperative disappeared and only a few violet producers remained.

An organized called Terre de Violettes helped revitalize violet production and the products starting in 1993. Since 2003, the city of Toulouse organized a violette festival each February to celebrate the flower and its part in Toulouse’s history.

The best place to buy violet products, taste them and learn about the history is La Maison de la Violette. It’s housed on a barge on the Canal du Midi and you can taste everything imaginable violet. From violet chocolate bars like Queen Elizabeth once ate to violet teas, La Maison de la Violette is a violet lover’s dream come true. It’s a flavor I really love, so I quite literally tasted everything from a violet ice cream topped with candied violets and violet syrup to violet mustard.

The candied violets, which you can use to decorate cakes or drop in to a glass of champagne to make a violet cocktail, are the original specialty and one of my favorite products. I also love the violet tea with a bit of violet honey, of course, and violet syrup to top ice cream, desserts or even cottage cheese.

Graine de Pastel

We’ve mentioned the Capitouls and the pastel trade. Pastel is a plant with the scientific name Isatis Tinctoria that was discovered to produce a hue of blue and could be used to dye textiles blue. Interestingly, the plant is actually yellow and it’s not known how it was discovered to produce the blue dye.

During the Renaissance, merchants from Toulouse, Albi and Carcassonne became extremely rich selling pastel all over Europe.

Unfortunately, the plant suffered from severe rainfall and it wasn’t until about 15 years ago that it was re-discovered to be growing in the Midi-Pyrenees. You can still find textiles dyed with the blue hue, but it now has another use.

The seeds of the pastel plant have extracts that are known to be very good for the skin and have anti-aging effects and cosmetic products produced with the extracts are wildly popular among women in France. By cold pressing, the pastel oil is obtained and rich in omegas 3, 6 and 9. Omegas 6 play a major role in the hydration of the skin, omegas 3 help maintain elasticity and omegas 9 help relieve very dry sky.

I hadn’t heard of pastel or Graine de Pastel before, but I was introduced to all the products at their first and flagship shop in Toulouse. You can discover their line of skin care products from oils to moisturizers, many of which are packaged fittingly with Belle Paule appearing on them. I particularly liked the moisturizing foot cream, which finally healed my horribly cracked and dry feet after trekking in Nepal.

Musée des Augustins

Housed in the former Convent of the Augustins, the building and grounds alone make the Musée des Augustins worth a visit. There’s an impressive sculpture collection of Roman, Gothic and 19th century sculptures from throughout France that represent the Occitane culture displayed in the fine arts museum.

Our favorite exhibition is the stunning Jorge Prado and the Romanesque Sculpture exhibition. Contemporary meets Romanesque as the miniature sculptures of biblical scenes are set upon pillars. The progression of the exhibit also shows the evolution of sculpture during the period with some stories repeated in the progressive sculpture styles.

There’s also a café set in the museum’s interior courtyard, which would be a lovely space to sit and read or relax for a while right in the heart of Toulouse.

BWAMOA is a new non-alcoholic drinks concept that had only opened about a month before our visit. Owner Vincent, who travels the world to come up with the variety of tea and non-alcoholic beers that BWAMOA offers, invited us to try just about everything.

The concept is a bit like bubble tea, where in addition to the green tea, black tea or non-alcoholic beer you have complimentary solids like the tapioca beads in the milky caramel tea that Vincent told us is his personal favorite. We also liked the freshness of the hibiscus and raspberry green tea. And being in Toulouse, we had to also try the violette green tea.

Vincent and his partner, Sophie, who both have backgrounds as dieticians, are fun and the drink shop is really something different for France. We definitely suggest popping in, especially since it’s conveniently located between the Musée des Augustins and La Cour des Counsils.

Monsieur Georges

Located on Place Occitane, one of the prettiest squares in Toulouse, Monsieur Georges has been on fixture on the square for eight years. Originally a traditional French restaurant, it was re-imagined in early 2017 and re-opened as a tapas style restaurant.

Though this square was once the stage for public executions in Toulouse, it’s now a favorite for locals to enjoy the terraces and Monsieur Georges is one of the best. The small plates can be shared and its best to start with 2-3 per person, then you can always order more.

As with all the best restaurants, the menu changes with seasonal dishes but the ham croquettes are a regular and we definitely recommend them. You also can’t go wrong with the cheese plate and something fresh like a tomato and mozzarella salad.

Where to Stay in Toulouse

La Cour des Counsils by Sofitel’s MGallery is located in the heart of historic Toulouse, walking distance to everything in the city and public transportation to reach La Cité du Espace and Airbus. The location is perfect a luxury city break.

Housed in two converted 18th century town houses, La Cour des Counsils has 32 rooms wrapping around a central courtyard that is open to guests. The location, despite being in the heart of the city, is very quiet. The rooms are modern with conveniences such as air conditioning, a Nespresso machine and tea kettle, free wifi and some Graine de Pastel toiletries.

There’s a spa offering a variety of massages and treatments, and Graine de Pastel products are utilized in the spa as well.

La Cour des Counsils also has a gourmet restaurant that offers breakfast and brunch on weekends, in addition to dinner. We had the brunch, which there was a fine selection of yogurts, cheese and charcuterie, gazpacho, fresh fruits, smoked salmon and a variety of hot dishes.

Know Before You Go

My trip to Toulouse was in partnership with Toulouse Tourisme in order to bring you this story. However, Luxe Adventure Traveler maintains full editorial control of the content published on this site. As always, all thoughts, opinions, and enthusiasm for travel are entirely our own. This article contains affiliate links. When you book on Booking.com , Oui.SNCF or FlixBus through our affiliate partner sites, we earn a small commission at no additional cost to you.

Loved this post? We love when you share our content! ~ Jen & Tim

About Jennifer Dombrowski

Jennifer Dombrowski is an independent travel publisher and an American expat who has lived in Bordeaux, France since 2016. She previously lived in Northern Italy in a small village near Venice for seven years where she fell in love with wine and wine tourism. She is an award-winning travel writer. She is also a travel correspondent on Traveling on the American Forces Radio Network. Luxe Adventure Traveler was named one of the top travel blogs to watch by the Huffington Post and TripAdvisor, and has been featured by top publications such as National Geographic, CNN, Buzzfeed, and Business Insider. Jennifer's photography has also been featured on publications such as USA Today and Travel + Leisure and on the Travel Channel.

Jayce Cairo says

August 20, 2017 at 10:51 AM

That looks like a really jam-packed three days! I’ve only been to Paris but Toulouse also looks pretty awesome! I’d probably walk around and wonder at the architecture more than check out the aeronautical museum. Hehe. I love looking at paintings on ceilings.

Cindy Collins says

August 20, 2017 at 12:35 PM

We spent a few hours in Toulouse last year (sadly that’s all the time we had) and we loved it. Such a beautiful city. We did the two hour walking tour too and loved the Basilica Saint-Sernin and walking on the banks of the Garonne. We really regretted not staying longer but it’s definitely somewhere we’d go back. Awesome city.

Jennifer Dombrowski says

August 29, 2017 at 11:15 AM

Glad to hear you enjoyed your brief visit, Cindy. Toulouse really surprised us and there was so much to do there. I think we’ll definitely be back, especially since it’s only a short train ride away for us.

Anthony Jury says

August 21, 2017 at 12:10 PM

The closest I have ever gotten to France is watching the cyclist slug it out at the Tour De France on Australian Television. Toulouse looks breathtaking, from the cathedral, to the river beach, it looks to have everything for everyone. I know walking buff like me would love to do a walking tour, nothing better than taking in the sights at leisurely pace.

August 22, 2017 at 5:28 PM

It sounds like you had an amazing weekend! I’m very jealous! After reading about the delicious restaurants, cheese and assortment of wine I feel I need to take a trip to Toulouse very soon.

August 22, 2017 at 6:37 AM

I had a friend in Toulouse and I was supposed to go but it didn’t push through. I didn’t know that all these existed there. I should have gone. I am highly interested in the space museum.

August 29, 2017 at 11:21 AM

Does your friend still live in Toulouse? You should go visit them and discover the city!

Jen Joslin says

August 22, 2017 at 3:50 PM

You’ve certainly packed a lot into three days, and it sounds amazing! I love that Toulouse has beautiful renaissance architecture along with a modern and thriving food scene. I would definitely be interested in the walking tour and tasting some of those inventive drinks at BWAMOA!

August 29, 2017 at 11:26 AM

The drinks at BWAMOA are something so totally different for France! And I’ve always been a tea drinker, so it was right up my alley.

jitaditya says

August 22, 2017 at 6:30 PM

Heritage building and space research? Wow, this is literally the place where past and future meet! Personally, I love the fact that there is a short train ride involved in your plan. Nothing like a good train ride to set the mood.

August 29, 2017 at 11:27 AM

We’re not usually train travel kind of people, but the trains in France are very nice and quite good. We don’t mind at all traveling in France by train.

August 22, 2017 at 8:36 PM

Toulouse seems like a great destination for a short trip! I would love visiting Musée des Augustins and Place du Capitale! It looks wonderful! I would also be all about the cheese – as always!

August 29, 2017 at 11:28 AM

Toulouse is definitely perfect for a city break.

Jennifer Melroy says

August 23, 2017 at 5:20 PM

History, wine, cheese, and planes. Why have I not been to Toulouse (although you had me at wine)? This city combines some of my favorite things, I really need to go here.

January 20, 2019 at 10:13 PM

Great post! A good combination of everything. Thank you guys!

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Toulouse Travel Guide – Why You Should Visit And What to Do When You Get There

Toulouse is filled with colourful streets, an ancient centre and vibrant nightlife. throw in one of france’s best food markets and you have the perfect city break. my toulouse travel blog has all you need to know, what to do, where to stay, and where to taste the best french cuisine..

I’m not often left to my own devices on press trips, but I really appreciated the freedom to explore Toulouse on my own. Although it is France’s fourth largest city, walking around the city centre, it feels anything but. I start obsessing about the colourful buildings and ogling at the many boulangeries and patisseries that I pass by. Before I know it, I’ve spent two hours rambling around Toulouse’s old town and my mind is filled with lots of inspiration for my Toulouse travel blog.

            View this post on Instagram                         A post shared by Sarah Slattery – Travel Expert (@the_travel_expert) on Jun 13, 2019 at 11:23pm PDT

  Toulouse is not thronged with tourists and feels remarkably quiet for a Saturday morning. I decide to grab a chair in Café des Artistes, one of the many al-fresco cafés in Toulouse. I tried a chocolatine (Toulouse’s equivalent of a pain du chocolat), sure it would be rude not to! Listening to the locals chatting in their dreamy French accent, I’m beginning to feel like a local. I even managed a ‘Chocolatine s’il vous plait’ and ‘Merci Monsieur’ to my dashing French waiter! I was feeling quite pleased with myself and was loving the idea of exploring a strange city alone. 

Unfortunately this ‘living like a local’ notion didn’t last long. I try discreetly to get a selfie of the café with my iPhone, but all I can see is my big head, and nothing of the pretty café behind me. I took out my selfie stick, and just like that, I was a tourist again…  

  Toulouse is a pretty cool place to be a tourist though. The city is really easy to navigate and it is such a joy to ramble around – you cannot help but fall in love with its pretty streets. Known as La Ville Rose, or The Pink City, most of the buildings have a delightful pinkish-terracotta brick facade.

            View this post on Instagram                         A post shared by Sarah Slattery – Travel Expert (@the_travel_expert) on Jun 17, 2019 at 11:47am PDT

  Toulouse is a university town and has a wonderful atmosphere, it felt like the kind of city that I could live in. I love Paris (who doesn’t?), but I could never see myself living there. It seems I am not alone in my thinking, Toulouse has often been voted the most attractive place to live in France by natives too. As well as Toulouse’s pretty streets and cultural centre, it is a lively city that hosts over 1000 events each year. There are festivals on regularly, with nominal entrance fees, and summer evenings are particularly animated. The Victor Hugo Market has a nocturnal gathering four times a year from 6.30pm – 10.30pm and this just happened to be on while I was there. The streets surrounding the market were thronged with locals enjoying wine and charcuterie plates, the atmosphere was electric.

  Toulouse is also superbly situated to enjoy many of France’s beautiful towns and region, located between the Pyrenees and the Mediterranean. You can enjoy a hike in the mountains, a day at the beach, take a trip to the ancient city of Carcassonne, or go wine tasting in Bordeaux. Toulouse also happens to be the gateway to the Basque country, which brings me nicely on to my next point – Toulousans love tapas!  

Toulouse Travel Blog – Where to eat in Toulouse:

Expecting good food in France is a given, but I was really surprised by the Basque influence in Toulouse. We spent our first evening in Le Bar Basque, a nice spot down by the Garonne River. Of course, as the name suggests, they served tapas, but I saw tapas menus sketched on blackboards outside many bars and restaurants in Toulouse. Even traditional French restaurants had a tapas section on their menus. I love tapas, so this suited me no end. Most tapas were typically French cuisine, but if fois gras or rabbit rillettes are not your thing, there was always a charcuterie plate and delicious cheeses available.

  We dined in a traditional brasserie ‘ Huguette’ on our first night. I enjoyed sharing the charcuterie plate, but the pièce de résistance was the black pudding with marinated peppers – I was close to uttering ‘ Oh là là’, it was that good. Huguette is worth a visit for this dish alone, in fact my fellow journalists all bought some to bring home. I also tried the traditional Toulouse sausage, when in Rome and all that, but personally I didn’t see what the fuss was about…

  The following day we visited the Stade Toulousain rugby stadium. Toulouse is a massive rugby city. If you happen to be a rugby fan, take a trip to the stadium and dine in the club’s restaurant, Brasserie de Stade Toulousain. The attention to detail was superb, even the glasses were black and red, Stad Toulousain’s colours, and the food was pretty good too! You will also spot the Heineken Cup displayed proudly in the bar. 

  Cosmopolitain is a good choice if you are looking for tapas with a French twist. This modern tapas bar has an extensive menu and a cool vibe. Don’t miss the gnocchi au pesto with pata negra (Spanish black ham) or the carre du cochon – a delicious side of pork.

  If you happen to be visiting during the summer time, then make sure you visit La Brasserie du Capoul for some al-fresco dining. I enjoyed steak-frites, as you do, but there was a variety of dishes ordered from our group and everything was top class. While the food is great, the service is a little slow, so make sure you give yourself plenty of time – we had a flight to catch so unfortunately missed cheese and dessert!

  In order to get a better understanding of the local cuisine, we took a food tour of the Victor Hugo Market, by Taste of Toulouse. The ground floor is packed with various vendors selling everything from fois gras to candied violets (a local sweet in Toulouse), and upstairs there are five restaurants that only offer fresh produce from the market below. Walking around the market sampling the delicious produce was one of the highlights of my weekend. The tour culminated with a nice lunch at the market’s wine bar. We enjoyed what we purchased paired with some delicious wine. It really was a superb tour and something I would highly recommend if visiting Toulouse.

Read more on my visit to the Victor Hugo Market with Taste of Toulouse here.  

Toulouse Travel Blog – Top things to do in Toulouse:

Take time to explore toulouse on foot..

Toulouse has many stunning cathedrals and impressive UNESCO World Heritage Sites, but strolling around its side streets was one of my favourite things to do in Toulouse. There are very few straight lines, most of the streets are curved which only adds to their mystery. You always wonder what is around the corner…

Visit the Basilica of Saint-Sernin.

The Basilica of Saint-Sernin is one of the largest Romanesque churches in Europe and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It was built in the 11th century in honour of Saint Saturnin and it served pilgrims on their way to Santiago de Compostela. Entry is free, but you can pay an additional charge to visit the ambulatory and the crypt.

Walk along the Garonne River.

Another favourite of mine was walking along the Garonne river. Its tree-lined path is stunning. Don’t miss Quai Lucien Lombard, it is the perfect place to capture the Dôme de la Grave, Toulouse’s most photographed monument. The Pont Neuf, despite its name, is one of Toulouse’s oldest bridges and is also located here.

Visit the Place to Capitole

The Place du Capitole is the heart of Toulouse and happens to be the seat of the municipal government since the 12th century. I found the neoclassical building really impressive, but I’m told that its interior is truly spectacular.

During our visit the square was transformed into rugby pitches for the FestOval, a rugby festival that takes place annually to coincide with the final of the French rugby championships. Former rugby internationals were on hand to help nurture younger players and there was a terrific atmosphere throughout the city. The final was stream-lined on to the square on Saturday evening – and luckily Stade Toulousian won the championship!

Visit the Airbus Factory and Aeroscopia Aeronautical Museum.

Toulouse is the home of Airbus headquarters that employs more than 21,000 people, suffice to say it is a really big deal in Toulouse! The A380, the world’s largest passenger airliner, is assembled here and you can tour the factory. You have to pre-book this tour a week in advance, so we were unable to see it. Instagrammers take note – photos are not allowed on the A380 tour…

If you don’t fancy taking the Airbus tour, but are still remotely interested in planes, visit the nearby Aeroscopia Aeronautical Museum . You don’t need to pre-book and you can visit the museum without a guide, so you can drop-in at any time. I loved stepping onboard Concorde and seeing the intriguing Airbus Supper Guppy. This is a 45-minute tour and is well worth doing.

Visit La Cité de l’Espace – The City of Space.

No Toulouse travel blog would be complete without mentioning La Cité de l’Espace . Live out your deep space fantasies and visit one of the best planetariums in the world! See the moon rock from the Apollo 15 mission, see the full-scale 53-metre-high replica of the Ariane 5 rocket launcher, and step inside the MIR Space Station training replica and the Soyuz spacecraft. There are experiences scheduled throughout the day including a moonwalk, rotating chair and moon runner experiences. This museum will give you extraordinary insight into an astronaut’s journey into space.   

Cycle along the Canal du Midi.

The Canal Royal du Languedoc, or the Canal du Midi as it is more widely known, is a 240km route with 63 locks that required 12,000 workers to build! This UNESCO World Heritage Site has a tree-lined canal that links Toulouse with the Mediterranean Sea. It is full of walkers and cyclists but if you fancy just relaxing and enjoying the scenery you can get a canal boat instead.

Spend an afternoon in Carmes.

Carmes is a historic, yet chic neighbourhood that is full of charm and character. It is a nice place to pick up some local souvenirs or, better still, enjoy a glass of wine and Toulouse tapas! Don’t miss the Saint-Etienne Cathedral located on the outskirts of Carmes. With architecture stretching across several centuries, its unusual and eclectic style will leave you wondering if you love it or hate it! 

Toulouse Travel Blog – Top tip for visiting Toulouse:

Make sure you buy the Toulouse Tourism Pass. This gives you free access to all public transport, including the airport shuttle, free entry to the museums and monuments, a guided tour provided by the tourist office, discounts at attractions such as Aeroscopia and La Cité du Espace, and various shops and shows. Priced at just €18 for 24 hours, €28 for 48 hours or €35 for 72 hours – don’t visit Toulouse without it!

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How to get to Toulouse:

Aer Lingus operates up to seven flights weekly from Dublin to Toulouse as part of its summer schedule and operates twice-weekly flights during the winter schedule. Fares start from €70.99 one-way including taxes and charges. Visit aerlingus.com .

Where to stay in Toulouse:

Budget: We stayed in the Hotel Albert 1er , a 3-star hotel that is superbly located just minutes from the Place du Capitole.  It is a family-run, eco-friendly hotel with spacious rooms furnished in a modern French style. 

Luxury: If you are looking for something a little more luxurious, check out Le Grand Balcon , a 5-star hotel located in the heart of Toulouse that combines tradition with trend beautifully.

For more information:

I was a guest of Aer Lingus, Visit Toulouse and Atout-France. For more information on Toulouse visit toulouse-visit.com and france.fr .

Like this post?

Read more on my visit to the Victor Hugo Market with Taste of Toulouse here.

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South West , Travel

Toulouse travel tips: 10 things you need to know before visiting toulouse, france.

Are you visiting South West France soon and looking for the most useful Toulouse travel tips? We are here to help!

Toulouse is one of the most beautiful cities in France and while it’s a pretty popular place to visit for the French themselves, a lot of international tourists completely overlook it. This is a mistake you are not going to do!

Toulouse was my home for years and it’s fair to say that I am completely in love with it!

This city is full of history and culture. There is something for everyone to enjoy.

It’s also a paradise for foodies (so is the rest of South West France to be fair!)

If you’re planning a trip to Toulouse, make sure you read this list of travel tips first! I am going to tell you everything you need to know before your visit.

From where to stay, to what to eat and how to get around!

So, are you ready to discover the best travel tips for visiting Toulouse? Let’s get started!

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning I get a commission if you decide to make a purchase through my links, at no extra cost for you!

Table of Contents

Stay in the city centre of Toulouse

One of the best things about Toulouse is that its city centre is quite small and compact. This makes it really easy to get around on foot.

The city centre is also where you’ll find most of the attractions, restaurants and cafes.

For this reason, you definitely should stay in the centre. While accommodation may be a tiny bit more expensive than in the surrounding areas, it’s totally worth it!

Firstly, it’s not that much more expensive.

Secondly, you will truly get to enjoy the city and it will be much more practical at night.

Since Toulouse is such a lively city and has so many restaurants and bars, you will want to enjoy some nice meals in the evening and being able to go back to your accommodation on foot is a huge advantage.

While public transport is quite good in Toulouse, it’s just not worth you going too far. The difference in price won’t make up for the cost of the metro and the time wasted in transportation.

Here are the areas I recommend:

• Capitole . This is as central as it gets so you can’t beat it but it’s also the most expensive part.
• Esquirol . Perfect for restaurants and bars.
• Carmes . Beautiful neighbourhoods with loads of shops.
• St Pierre. Ideal for nightlife.
• Jean Jaures , Jeanne d’Arc and Compans Caffarelli are also excellent options in terms of location and are usually a bit cheaper.

If you are looking for hotel recommendations, here they are:

• Grand Hotel de l’Opera in Capitole. Incredibly well located with amazing views over the Capitole Square.
• Mercure Toulouse Centre Wilson in Jean Jaures. Great location and convenient if you want access to nightclubs or the station
• Hôtel Le Père Léon in Esquirol. It’s close to the restaurants and bars so you’ll never be bored in the evening here.

Get a Toulouse City Card

If you’re going to be spending a few days in Toulouse, I suggest getting a Toulouse City Card.

Prices start at 18 euros for 24 hours and it includes free entrance to most of the museums and monuments in Toulouse as well as discounts on various activities, restaurants and bars.

It also includes unlimited use of public transport so it’s definitely worth it!

Finally, with this card , you can book one of the walking tours organised by the visitor centre of Toulouse for free! This alone makes the card worth it!

If you’re not planning to visit any paying attractions in Toulouse then of course, you can skip it but if you have even one on your list, you’ll get your money back with this card.

While you can take it for 72 hours, I recommend to take the 24 or 48 hours and gather all the attractions with an entrance fee plus your walking tour during that time.

Here are some of the best places to visit with the card:

• Couvent des Jacobins
• Natural History Museum
• Abattoirs Museum
• Augustins Museum

You will also get discounts on the bus tours, cité de l’Espace and cruises.

You can purchase the Toulouse City Card online and pick it up at the Tourism Office just behind Capitole when you arrive.

At this point, don’t hesitate to ask the staff for advice. They are adorable and super useful. They can also help you book your walking tour.

Book a walking tour

So, I know I just said to book the Toulouse Tourism Card and that a walking tour was included.

If that’s the option you are going for, perfect.

However, if you do not want to do any of the paying attractions such as the Jacobin Convent or the museums, it will work out a bit cheaper to book a walking tour on its own.

Toulouse is a city where we walk so walking tours make all the sense in the world.

In the space of 2 to 3 hours you will have discovered most of the city!

Also, the guides are passionate! They are locals who know the city like the back of their hand so they won’t only show you the famous landmarks, they will also show you some hidden gems and give you insider tips.

It’s such a good way to spend your time in the city and it’s excellent value for money.

See prices here.

Learn a few phrases in French to help you get around

Obviously, I am not expecting you to learn French just so you can visit Toulouse however, knowing a few sentences and the basic words will always come in handy!

In touristy places, people at the front desk will probably speak English but everywhere else, it’s not a guarantee.

As you may know, the French aren’t too good at speaking English and they are extremely shy about it.

Here are a few sentences you should know:

• Bonjour! (Hello!)
• S’il vous plait. (Please.)
• Merci. (Thank you.)
• Au Revoir. (Goodbye.)
• Oui. (Yes.)
• L’addition s’il vous plait. (The bill please.)
• Je ne comprends pas. (I don’t understand.)
• Parlez-vous anglais? (Do you speak English?)

LOCAL TIP: So, I know the French have the reputation to be rude but let me break this stereotype.

The French aren’t rude, especially not in Toulouse. As a matter of fact, the Toulousains are known for being extremely friendly and helpful.

The thing is though, the etiquette is very important in France and that starts with the language.

They will not like if you expect them to speak English in their own country. While some of them can, they will appreciate you asking them to speak another language and not trying to impose yours in what is their home.

They also love politeness and in France that starts by saying ‘Bonjour’.

It’s incredibly important to say to say hello. If you don’t, you’re off to a very rocky start.

There is a whole ‘Bonjour process’ in France with la bise and everything around it but I’ll spare you the details since you don’t need to do all of that.

Here is how to start your interaction in order to make sure you will get the warmest welcome: ‘Bonjour. Désolé, je ne parle pas Français. Savez-vous parler Anglais ?’.

This means “Hello. Sorry, I don’t speak French. Do you speak English?”.

While this may look like a very simple thing to say, I promise it will change everything.

Also, don’t forget the please and merci. It’s super important too!

Sample some of the local cuisine

South West France is famous in the entire world for its food. That’s where the foie gras comes from as well as the duck confit.

For this reason, it would be a shame to leave Toulouse without tasting the local dishes.

You will find all sorts of restaurants in Toulouse so make sure to pick a traditional place like Chez Émile in Saint-Georges, La Maison du Cassoulet or Le Point d’Ogre in Carmes.

I would also highly recommend La P’tite Gouaille in Esquirol. It’s authentic, affordable and located in a typical Toulouse cave with bricks. It’s a locals’ favourite!

If you are looking for a place for lunch, head to the café de la Concorde in the Chalets neighbourhood. Again, it’s super good value for money and loads of locals come here for lunch. They don’t serve food in the evening though.

Now that you know where to eat, let’s talk about what to eat!

The first one would be the Cassoulet. The origins are these dish are debatable since two other places (Carcassonne and Castelnaudary) claims the dish is theirs. Regardless, Toulouse has its own version and it’s worth trying it.

A cassoulet is a hearty dish made with white beans, sausage and pork rib or belly. It will usually cost between 15 and 20 euros but I promise you’ll be super full after that!

Here are another few dishes from Toulouse that are worth trying:

• Toulouse sausage: a type of sausage that is specific to the region
• Confit de canard: duck leg confit, another iconic dish from South West France
• Foie gras: while this doesn’t come from Toulouse itself, it’s still a famous delicacy from the region
• Violets : Toulouse is known for its sweets, liquors and cakes made from this flower

PRO TIP: You can also join the food tour of Victor Hugo market . This is the largest and best market in the city. No matter what, it must be on your itinerary but if you want to taste local dishes and wine, this food tour (ran by a native-English speaker who lives in Toulouse) will be perfect for you.

Rent a bicycle and explore all the narrow streets and alleyways

One of the best ways to explore Toulouse is by bicycle. The city is quite flat so it’s perfect for a leisurely ride.

As a matter of fact, you’ll quickly notice that there are bikes everywhere and that the locals use their bikes for everything.

Best of all, it’s very easy to rent a bike in Toulouse.

You can use the VélôToulouse (nicknamed Velouse by the locals). Basically, it’s a network of public bikes. You will find stations all over the city and it’s very affordable.

Most locals take the annual plan since it’s cheap as chips but you can also rent one for a day.

Go to one of the stations (again they are everywhere so you won’t need to look for them for long) and head to the machine where you can pay for a ticket.

It costs 1.20 euro for one day or 5 euros for 7 days. Yes, you’ve read that right. You see what I mean when I say it’s super cheap!

You will need a card to do that though since the company needs to make sure they can hold a deposit in case you don’t return the bike to the station.

You will be able to cover so much ground with the bike and since it’s flat and the weather is nice, it’s such a pleasant thing to do!

PRO TIP: Since you don’t know the city like the back of your pocket yet, I would recommend booking the e-bike tour of Toulouse first.

Basically, you will be with a local guide who will take you all around the city centre on an electric bike. Not only is it great fun and you get to learn so much about the city but it will also be a great opportunity to get more familiar with the city and you’ll feel more comfortable exploring on your own after.

Stroll around the city centre

This may sound a bit silly at first but yet, that’s probably the best Toulouse tip of them all.

As I previously said, Toulouse has a very small and compact city centre which makes it easy to explore on foot and bike.

Of course, there are some landmarks to check out and I’m sure you’re already looking at the Jacobins Convent but Toulouse is not Paris.

It’s not a city where you go from landmark to landmark trying to tick off bucket list items.

It’s a city where people take their time and enjoy ‘ flâner ‘.

What on earth is flâner , I hear you say. Well, that’s a French concept that actually doesn’t have a translation in English so the best I can do is to give you an example.

Flâner means taking your time, wandering around, looking at the buildings, popping up in local boutiques, stop for a coffee. Basically it’s exploring without having a specific goal.

It’s walking around, relaxing and just see where that leads you.

Toulouse is a city where the whole concept of flâner will make so much sense because that’s simply the best way to discover it.

Also, since it’s small, you won’t ever go that far and if you do feel like you’re lost at some point, you can be sure to find a metro station nearby that will bring you back to somewhere you know.

Do not rent a car in Toulouse

I simply can not stress this enough: DO NOT GET A CAR!

Toulouse is not the best city to explore with a car. Streets are narrow, most of them are one ways, the traffic on the ring road is insane and also, well, Toulousains are quite hot-headed drivers and have very little patience.

Since the city centre is mainly pedestrian anyway, you won’t even get to enjoy your car in the city.

Finally, parking is a nightmare and can be very expensive. On top of it, most parking spots are limited to 2 hours.

So, now you got it, as long as you are staying in the city, you really shouldn’t rent a car. Not only will it be a hassle but it will cost you a fortune.

You can do so if you are planning on taking some day trips though. Speaking of that, that’s my next point!

Take day trips and explore more of South West France

Toulouse and Bordeaux might be the most famous spots in this region of France but they are far from being the only places worth visiting.

South West France is incredibly beautiful! It’s a land of traditions and authenticity that has been shaped throughout centuries of history!

That’s something you should learn more about.

Toulouse is ideally located in the centre of Occitanie which means that there are many places you can visit in one day from the city including castles, villages , cities and lakes!

Here are some of the one I highly recommend:

• Carcassonne
• Cordes-Sur-Ciel
• The Pyrenees
• Saint-Cirq-Lapopie

READ MORE: 21 Best Day Trips from Toulouse, France

Have a picnic at La Daurade

If ‘When in Rome, do as the Romans do” is your motto then this one is for you!

La Daurade are the quays / waterfront located on the side of the River Garonne. You can easily access it from Capitole, Esquirol or Saint-Pierre.

Here you will find restaurants, cafes but also a lot of green spaces.

Most locals go there during the summer with a picnic and some drinks and enjoy a nice evening between friends while watching the stunning sunset.

You usually get to see the sky turning all pink (which is beautiful on top of these pink buildings), the beautiful cupola of La Grave hospital and the reflection on the water.

It’s simply beautiful! (and free!)

Toulouse is a city that has much to offer in the way of history, culture and beauty.

Toulousains are known for their hospitality so you’ll feel right at home no matter how long your trip lasts.

So now that you know the best travel tips and things to know before visiting Toulouse, pack your bags and enjoy the Pink city!

You may also be interested in:

• 13 Prettiest Villages near Toulouse, France
• 21 Best Day Trips from Toulouse, France
• Toulouse 1-Day Itinerary: Exactly How to spend 1 Day in Toulouse, France

FrancePocketGuide

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The Daily Packers

The genuine toulouse travel guide – 1-3 day.

• July 17, 2021
• Destination , Europe , France

Toulouse Travel Guide

Toulouse is a city located Southwest of France. It is the 4 th biggest city of the country with 487 000 or so inhabitants. Toulouse is most known as the “ville rose” (Pink City) because of the color of the traditional local building material, clay bricks.

But Toulouse history is long, and it once was the Capital of the Wisigoth Kingdom in the 5 th century, then the capital of the Aquitaine Kingdom between the 7 th and 9 th century and so on. Today it is the the capital of the Occitanie region, of the Haute-Garonne department, and the seat of Toulouse Métropole.

We spent one and half days there and we think that’s more than enough to get to see the city and its main landmarks. But you could stay up to 3 days in the city. You will always find something to do.

Table of Contents

Mapping the day.

Getting there

There are many ways to get to Toulouse. You can fly there and land at Toulouse Blagnac airport which lies north-west of the city. From there, tale the tram to shuttle AERO (28min to the city center) or the Tram B (also 28min).

But you could also arrive by train, and you will then arrive right next to the city center.

Moving Around

For us the best way to move around Toulouse city center is on foot. Nothing better than walking in this beautiful city. But rest assure there are plenty of buses and also a couple of trams.

Google map will perfectly lead you and tell you which one to take.

When to Visit

You can visit the city all year round, but the weather might not be that nice. Toulouse as a city in south as a better weather than most of France though.

As most of the cities in France, the best time to visit is Mai, June and then September. It is always better to avoid the summer Holidays (July, August).

Where to Stay

We found an amazing Airbnb in the city center, within walking distance of everything. It is a spacious studio with one of the best views in town and a garage.

What to Eat

You may know that we are plant-based diet people, so Toulouse specialities as most of the specialities are not the best for us but here are still some of the local specialities are:

• Toulouse’s Sausage: thick pork sausage sold rolled into a snail shape.
• Cassoulet: stew made of white beans, bacon, salt pork and sauce.
• Chicken à la Toulousaine: chicken filled with Toulouse sausage and is accompanied by other meat, garlic, tomato, onion, and tasty olives.
• Goose liver
• Apple Roustade or apple crumble: super crispy apple pie

Things to do

• Basilique Saint-Sernin de Toulouse

Visit the Saint-Sernin Basilica, the largest conserved Romanesque church in Europe. Built between 1180 and 1120 the church is known for the quality and quantity of its Romanesque sculpture.

• Couvent des Jacobins

Explore the Jacobin Convent and take a stroll within its private area for 5€ per person. This will allow you to discover a beautiful complex and access to the Cloister, the Chapter House, the Chapel of Saint Antonin, the Refectory, and the exhibitions that are held there regularly.

It was built by the Order of Preachers, a mendicant order whose first convent of the male branch was founded in 1215 in Toulouse by Dominic of Guzman, the future Saint Dominic, to promote the preaching of the Gospel and to fight against the Cathar heresy. These buildings, made entirely of brick, are considered to be the jewels of the Languedoc Gothic art of monastic construction of the thirteenth and fourteenth centuries.

• Musée des Augustins

Walk by to admire the landmark (which we did, as we are not too fan or museum) or visit the fine arts museum which conserves a collection of sculpture and paintings from the Middle Ages to the early 20th century. The paintings are from all over France, the sculptures representing Occitan culture of the region with a particularly rich assemblage of Romanesque sculpture.

Saint Stephen's Cathredal

This is one cathedral that cannot be missed. It has 2 really distinct faces and even gave its name to the surrounding neighbourhood. Yet the origins of the cathedral are unknown. Its first traces date back to 1071, when Bishop Isarn decided to rebuild the then ruined building.

• Jardin des Plantes

Take some fresh air in the public garden of Toulouse. This huge garden is actually a complex of 3 gardens connected together with bridges. The others being the “Grand rond’, a garden within a huge roundabout and the “Royal Garden” an exotic trees and pond garden.

• Capitole de Toulouse

The historic heart of the city, Toulouse’s elegant Capitol sprawls across the vast Place du Capitole and houses the theater of the same name. From there you will be able to just stroll around and get lost in the sold streets of Toulouse.

Pass the famous Pont Neuf to access the other side of Toulouse (Saint Cyprien). Built in the 16 th century. This is a great starting point for a walk along the river.

• Pont Saint Pierre

Similar to Pont Neuf, this bridge allows you to cross the Garonne River. Built in 1849 and restored in 1987, it is a bridge with a metal deck

• Saint Cyprien

Located on the west bank of the Garonne, the lively Saint-Cyprien neighborhood includes the parks of the Prairie des Filtres and the Raymond VI garden. Students from La Grave Hospital University shop in the food markets and Indian stores, and gather in the outdoor cafes and bars of the Place Olivier. Photographs are exhibited in an old water tower, modern art is on display at the Abattoirs, and a huge collection of posters can be seen at the Centre de l’Affiche.

• Canal du Midi

Walk some kilometre on the edge of one massive canal and discover local people exercising as you cannot really walk all the canal as it is 241km long.

The Canal du Midi is a French navigation canal with a division canal that has linked Toulouse to the Mediterranean Sea since the 17th century. Originally named “Canal Royal de Languedoc “, the revolutionaries renamed it “Canal du Midi” in 1789. From the 19th century onwards, the Canal Latéral à la Garonne, which doubles the Garonne from Bordeaux to Toulouse, extends the Canal du Midi to provide a navigable route from the Atlantic Ocean to the Mediterranean Sea: the two canals together are called the “Canal des Deux-Mers”.

Cité de l'Espace

If you have a spare day or have a rainy one, pay a visit the space city.

The Cité de l’espace is a center of scientific culture oriented towards space and the conquest of space, devoted to both astronomy and astronautics. It was inaugurated in June 1997 and allow you to see real space machine and even allow you to visit a space station.

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Best Things to do in Toulouse France

Written By: The Planet D

Updated On: February 9, 2024

Toulouse might just be the most underrated city in France! Never fear, we are here to change that. Once you see all the amazing things to do in Toulouse, you’ll be sure to add it to your France itinerary. If you are planning a road trip through France or hopping on the Eurail, make sure to set aside two or three days to visit this charming French city.

We hadn’t thought of visiting Toulouse before booking a boat trip with Le Boat through the South of France on the Canal du Midi, but I’m glad we set aside a few days to enjoy it. Toulouse always seemed overshadowed by the likes of Paris , Nice, or Marseille . But when we arrived at the Grand Balcon hôtel located just off the main square of the city, we knew we were in for a treat.

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Things to do in Toulouse

Known as the Pink City (La Ville Rose), Toulouse got its name from the pink bricks used to build most of its buildings. Toulouse is France’s fourth largest city after Paris , Marseilles, and Lyon and yet it is easy to explore on foot.

With a student population of 140,000 academics attending its prestigious university, it makes Toulouse a cool place to visit in France. We made the most of our three days in the city and want to share with you all the reasons you should add Toulouse, France to the top of your list.

Where is Toulouse?

Toulouse is located in the south of France three hours north of Andorra and three hours west of Montpelier. It is not located on the Mediterranean coast like Cannes or Marseille but instead is located inland directly on the banks of the River Garonne. The Canal du Midi runs through Toulouse as well.

The charm of visiting Toulouse is its laid-back vibe. It may not have as many famous attractions as Paris , but its hospitality is second to none. We had heard that the people of Toulouse are the friendliest in France and after visiting this beautiful city, we agree.

Everyone was warm and welcoming and thrilled to offer advice to help us plan our time in the city. It reminded me of traveling 20 years ago when we could simply sit on a terrace to enjoy a coffee while watching the people pass by. Toulouse will make you slow down, relax and really feel the energy of the city.

What to do in Toulouse, France

There are a lot of things to do in Toulouse and the best way to make the most of your time in la Ville rose is to purchase the Toulouse Pass. We always purchase a city pass when exploring a new destination as it makes entering museums and famous landmarks easy. The Toulouse Pass offers 1, 2, or 3 day passes that include public transport and free entrance into most of the city’s most popular tourist attractions.

1. Le Capitole

Commonly known as Capitole, Le Place du Capitole is most likely the first place you’ll stop in Toulouse. The main city square of Toulouse is gorgeous. The Capitole dominates the square spanning 420 feet (128 meters) along the eastern containing City Hall, The Opera House (Theatre du Capitole). Located in the Old Quarter, the Place du Capitole is lined with restaurants with outdoor terraces.

Make sure to look down as the cobblestones are adorned with the Occitan cross depicting the signs of the zodiac. During the day, it fills up with merchants selling everything from dresses and hats to souvenirs while at night it is wide open making for the perfect gathering place.

From the Place du Capitole, you can hop on a Toulouse City 70 minute bus tour. My Brother and Sister in Law took this tour and loved it as a fantastic introduction to all of the things to do in Toulouse. Check out rates on GetYourGuide

2. On The River Garonne

The Garonne River is the heartbeat of the city with it cutting through the center of Toulouse. There are public parks, picturesque bridges and historic buildings lining the river. The best way to see the River Garonne is to book a river cruise. Your Toulouse Card includes 20% off Cruises on the Garona River or Canal du Midi with Les Bateaux Toulousains.

3. Place de la Daurade

Le Capitole may be the official gathering place in Toulouse, but The River Garonne is where you’ll find the majority of the population relaxing on its banks. The lovely promenade along the river’s banks attracts sunbathers, cyclists, and people out for an evening stroll as the sun goes down. The Garonne River offers beautiful views of the dome of La Grave and Pont Neuf. Just like Paris , Toulouse has its own Pont Neuf.

4. Pont Neuf

Located on the Garonne River the Pont Neuf (New Bridge) is the most photographed place in Toulouse, France and with good reason. Contrary to its name, Pont Neuf is the oldest bridge in Toulouse dating back to the 16th century. The best place to photograph is from the left bank of the River Garonne. Keep an eye out for the hidden red devil perched on the bridge. I’m not sure why it is there, but it’s a unique addition to this historic structure.

5. Basilique Saint Sernin

It may not have the magnificent setting of Notre Dame in Paris, but Basilique Saint Sernin is one of the must-visit cathedrals in all of Europe. It has been welcoming pilgrims along the Camino de Santiago (Way of St. James) for centuries.

We went inside not really expecting a lot, but ended up spending much longer than expected. The massive cathedral is the largest Romanesque church in France and is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The nave is 21 meters high with huge marble pillars and altars. Don’t miss going into the crypts of Basilique Saint Sernin and take your time to view the paintings and frescoes, jewels, and relics that date back to the 6th century.

6. Church of the Jacobins

The Jacobins Convent was much more difficult to view than expected. It is surrounded by narrow streets, but once we found the angle it worked for a photograph. Dating back to 1230, this church was built as a monastery and played a role in creating the first university in Toulouse.

The campus today is located just across the street from it. It was built in the style of Southern Gothic architecture and has been restored over the centuries. Don’t miss searching for the “Palm Tree” which is located in the apse and is one of 22 ribs of the incredible vaulted ceiling.

It is free to enter with your Toulouse Pass and it is worth going inside to see its beautiful architecture of vaulted ceilings, stained glass windows, cloisters, and historic relics.

7. Canal du Midi (UNESCO World Heritage Site)

The Canal du Midi is located in Toulouse and this UNESCO World Heritage Site is a must-see. You can take a barge dinner cruise down the canal or you can stroll along its banks. It is interesting to see the old barges converted into houseboats where people actually live year-round on the historic water vessels.

The Canal du Midi begins in Toulouse and runs all the way to the Mediterranean Sea for 250 km. It is considered a major feat of engineering that was built from 1666 – 1681. For centuries it was an important mode of transportation, but with the invention of the railway, it declined. However, today it is popular for bargers and houseboats to take a trip along the historic route. We did exactly that after our time in Toulouse. Say tuned for more in the coming days!

8. Day Trip to Carcassone

Located on the Canal du Midi just one hour from Toulouse, Carcassone is a must-stop on your itinerary. This day tour takes you to the UNESCO World Heritage city of Carcassonne which is listed as one of the 25 great sites of Midi-Pyrénées. The fortified city houses the magnificent Château of the Counts of Carcassonne and the Remparts.

9. Musee George Labit (George Labit Museum)

While you are in the area of the Canal du Midi, stop at the Musee George Labit. This is a small museum, but it is the prettiest in all of Toulouse. Entrance is free with your Toulouse Pass and it’s worth popping in to take advantage of its air conditioning. The outside is a colorful mosaic, and inside you’ll see Asian and Egyptian art and antiquities.

10. Jardin Japonais (Japanese Garden)

The perfect place for a walk in the early morning is the lovely Japanese Garden of Toulouse. Jardin Japonais offers 7000 square meters of green space complete with the typical rocks, water, and pavilion you see in a traditional Japanese garden. There is a zen rock garden and even bamboo. While walking through the Botanical Garden we saw people enjoying Tai Chi and meditation and we spied large golden fish in its Koi pond.

11. Cité de l’espace

Toulouse is the center of the aeronautics and space industry in France. In fact, Toulouse is one of the leading centers in aerospace in the entire world. Airbus Group has its headquarters in Toulouse employing 27,000 people. The interactive displays at the Cité de l’espace include everything aer onautics related. Several airplanes are on display from old World War relics to the Airbus of today and there is not one but two of the legendary Concordes on display. Being the aviation capital of France, it is from Toulouse that the first Concorde took flight. Anyone who has even a bit of interest in aeronautics should make sure to visit the Cité de l’espace.

12. Grand Balcon hôtel

Our hotel Grand Balcon plays tribute to the aviation history of Toulouse. When you enter its doors, you’ll see photos of the famous pilots that graced its walls. This former guesthouse, located just off the Place du Capitole, to aviation pioneers feels like a little slice of history. Its chic rooms are even designed to capture the feel of a flight with its main lounge offering that Avant-Garde of the 1930s when aviators let off steam in its halls. See rates and availability on Booking.com / See Reviews and compare prices on TripAdvisor

13. Take a trip to Wine Country

Toulouse is located in the heart of one of the best wine regions in the world and a trip to Southern France wouldn’t be complete without booking a wine tour. This tour takes you to discover the wines and winemaking of Limoux.

Owned by Baroness Philippine de Rothschild, the Domaine de Baronaques is your first stop where you’ll tour the barrell room, vat house and view the French Chateau that dates back to the 19th century. You’ll then have the opportunity to taste three wines produced in the area. See more details here.

14. Museum de Toulouse

The Museum de Toulouse is the Natural History Museum in Toulouse. There’s one in every city right? It’s a huge museum with 32,000 sq ft (3000 square meters) of exhibition space. This is the perfect place to escape the heat of Southern France and to enjoy its displays that take you on a journey through time.

15. Jardins des Plantes

Jardins de Plantes is another fantastic greenspace in Toulouse. Located next to the Museum de Toulouse, we strolled through this on our way to the Canal du Midi. The 7-hectare gardens house sculptures, ponds, pedestrian pathways and play areas. It connects with other gardens too making it the perfect place to find some shade.

16. Jardin Grand Rond

This 18th-century garden is located in the hub of the city. The grand roundabout connects four tree-lined major thoroughfares in the city and you can walk from it along the shaded paths to the Garonne River, the Museum of Toulouse, Jardin Royal, Jardins de Plants, and the Old Quarter. Enjoy this greenspace in the middle of the city while admiring its gardens, sculptures, and pedestrian pathways.

17. The Hôtel d’Assézat

During a walking tour from the Toulouse Tourism office, we visited the Hotel d’Asézat but had no idea what they were saying as it was all in French. (We thought we understood enough to get by but bailed halfway through) The Hôtel d’Assézat was built to shelter the Foundation Bemberg which is a major art gallery that houses the personal collection of Georges Bemberg. The art dates back to the middle ages and the 16th century with a focus on 19th and 20th-century French paintings.

Other Toulouse Museums

We didn’t have time to go into every museum in Toulouse, but it is a city that is made for art lovers and culture seekers. We have lined up some of the more notable museums you must visit. From the Musée des Augustins to Les Abbatoirs there is something in Toulouse for everyone.

18. Musée des Augustins (Augustins Museum)

This fine arts museum is housed in the Augustinian monastery with Roman sculptures being the main attraction. The Musée des Augustins is one of the oldest museums in France housing more than 4000 works of art from works from the middle ages, all the way to the 20th century. The building is a work of art unto itself with its southern gothic architecture and cloisters.

19. Les Abattoirs

Located on the former Abbatoir, Les Abbatoir is no longer a slaughterhouse, but instead a modern and contemporary art museum that houses performances, events, and concerts.

20. Toulouse Gastronomy

Toulouse is known for its gastronomy and dining in the city is a real treat. It boasts Michelin Star chefs and home-cooked family restaurants. One of the main dishes of Toulouse and this region of Southern France is the French cassoulet. Cassoulet is traditionally made with white beans cooked with duck confit and Toulouse sausage but today you can order vegetarian Cassoulet as well. So give it a try while there.

21. Where to Eat in Toulouse

La gourmandine restaurant.

This modern bistro has an amazing patio that is perfect for warm summer evenings. It had delicious food and fantastic cocktails. We had a set menu that was delicious from start to finish, my favorite was the fresh berries for dessert.

L’Air de Famille restaurant

We loved our set menu in L’Air de Famille restaurant. As mentioned in the Michelin Guide, this small tavern was packed with locals. It offers wine pairings with exceptional food in a relaxed unpretentious atmosphere. We loved the old records playing traditional music.

If you visit Toulouse France, you will have added one of the great cities to your travels. Toulouse has everything you could want out of an authentic French vacation. From shopping on Rue Saint Rome in the city centre to exploring the incredible southern gothic style architecture, you will not be disappointed.

This city may be large, but it feels small. It’s easy to get around and explore on your own and the people truly are the friendliest in all of France. (from our experiences in the country).

When visiting the South of France, Toulouse will be a city that you will remember for years to come.

Read more about France Travel

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Looking to book your next trip? Why not use these resources that are tried and tested by yours truly.

Book Your Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner. We have used them for years and have found that they have the best flight deals.

Book your Hotel: Find the best prices on hotels with these two providers. If you are located in Europe use Booking.com and if you are anywhere else use TripAdvisor.

Find Apartment Rentals: You will find the cheapest prices on apartment rentals with VRBO . 

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6 Simple Tips to Visiting Toulouse in France to Guide You

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Travel long enough and you should realise that not all cities need to dazzle you with attractions. Sometimes all it takes is a vibe, especially in a foreign country. At least that’s how I felt after visiting Toulouse in the South of France. Even with two full days of sightseeing there, it’s not the Toulouse attractions that stick with me, but rather how it felt to be there. A bit like my hometown of Melbourne, it’s more about the culture and way of life than any specific landmark.

With all that in mind, it wouldn’t make sense now for me to rattle off all the things to do in Toulouse. Instead, I’m going to focus on aspects of Toulouse that I liked. Hopefully this guide with my Toulouse photos and reasons you should visit, will give you a better sense of what to expect from the city. That way, you’ll be fully prepared to make the most of your Toulouse travel experience.

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How to get to Toulouse and get around

Toulouse has one of the largest airports in France, making it easy to travel to Toulouse as your first stop in France or the country’s south. Even better, the airport is very accessible from the city centre. To get from Toulouse Airport to the city simply take the T2 tram to either Arenes or Palais de Justice. Both of these stops give you access to the Toulouse Metro with stations right through the city. 

Travellers also have great options when it comes to arriving by train and bus. You can easily use Flixbus to get to Toulouse from other major cities and destinations in the South of France. Intercity, regional and TGV trains all come into Gare de Toulouse Matabiau right next to the bus station, as well, simplifying matters.

As previously mentioned, Toulouse has trams and a metro network for getting around the city. I used both to get around without issue. Toulouse also has city buses, but I never found a need for them. Walking around is fine a lot of the time, especially if you’re sightseeing, but you may need some form of public transport if you stay out of the city centre as I did.

Where to stay in Toulouse

One constant when I travel to France is that I almost exclusively stay in Airbnbs with people hosting me in their spare rooms. This has proved to be the most affordable way to travel in France, while also getting to meet friendly locals.

A slight downside to staying with locals is you may end up a long way from the city centre, as I did. While I enjoyed experiencing a local neighbourhood, the commute to see the sights slowed me down.

I understand that this approach isn’t for everyone. The good news is that you’ll certainly find many of Toulouse’s hotels and hostels much closer to the city centre. My recommendation for where to stay in Toulouse is to look at accommodation in either Capitole, Saint Georges, Saint-Etienne, or Dupuy. As for actual places to stay, these places are highly rated:

• Le Grand Balcon Hotel
• Hotel Albert 1er
• Boutique Hotel SOCLO
• Villa du Taur

Recommendations for visiting Toulouse

Throughout my sightseeing in Toulouse, I noticed themes in the different activities I was doing. While sometimes they meant visiting a major Toulouse attraction, more often than not, it was about appreciating different sides of the city. Here are my tips for exploring Toulouse so that you don’t feel like you’re missing anything.

Wander the Historic Centre of Toulouse

Much like any city in France or Europe, the best place to start with Toulouse is its historical centre. There you’ll find many of the main places to visit in Toulouse and get a real sense of what the city is like. I know this isn’t unique to a Toulouse visit, but it’s worth mentioning all the same.

The borders of the historical centre are a bit vague, but the heart of its Old Town is the Capitole de Toulouse area. You’ll see much of this area if you walk from the Toulouse City Hall or Hotel de Ville right down to Le Pont Neuf bridge on the river.

But again, don’t look at this part of the city as just somewhere to pass through between landmarks. Rather than wondering what to do or what to see in Toulouse, instead just enjoy exploring its city centre. Appreciate where you are and I’m sure you’ll start to better appreciate the city’s atmosphere.

While there are some pretty great pedestrian streets lined with historic buildings, it gets even better when you get into all the city’s narrow alleys. This isn’t just true for Capitole de Toulouse, but also much of the city centre between the Garonne River and the city’s main boulevard.

Linger on the Beautiful Riverfront

As nice as walking through the historical centre is, it can’t compete with the simple beauty of Toulouse’s river. The Garonne River flows right through the city’s core, with high brick walls running by either side. These walls sit in the shade of leafy trees, creating quite a pretty view of the river for you to enjoy.

What makes this one of the best things to see in Toulouse is not only the river and buildings along the far bank but the bridges over the Garonne. The most iconic bridge in Toulouse is the Pont Neuf, a picturesque arch bridge finished in 1632.

One cool thing about the bridge is the ornately decorated openings between each arch are designed to look like the faces of lions. However, the Pont Saint Pierre is no slouch either, thanks to its more modern steel design which I have to say I appreciated.

You really can spend quite a while down by the Garonne River given how much there is to see. This is because there are plenty of significant buildings on both banks of the river.

Buildings like the Notre-Dame de la Daurade or the Chapelle Saint-Joseph de la Grave create quite an imposing presence by the riverfront. There are even venues like Les Abattoirs and its collection of Modern and Contemporary art that you can pay a visit to.

Admire its Balconies and Architecture

Having just come from Sicily before arriving in Toulouse, it was hard not to notice how different the architecture was. Even compared to other places I’ve been in the South of France previously like Nimes , Toulouse stood out. And I’m not just talking about overly grand buildings like the Hôtel d’Assézat seen below.

No, two features of the city’s architecture distinguished it. One is something that Toulouse is so well-known for that it’s earned the city the nickname “La Ville Rose”. It translates to “The Pink City” and comes from the many historic buildings made from terracotta bricks .

You’ll see plenty of these buildings around town, especially around Carmes and St Etienne. But there’s a nice mix of building types around the city, and as they’re often different colours, it creates quite a colourful cityscape.

The other main feature is the city’s love affair with ornate balconies. All around the city centre, you’ll spy balconies done in elaborate wrought iron. It may be a common obsession across cities in France, but Toulouse is the one place where they just seemed everywhere. At least to me anyway.

Find its Distinctive Churches

We all know that it’s quite easy to tire of seeing churches when travelling in Europe. So when you come across ones that are even a little out of the ordinary, it feels like a win. Thankfully that’s the case with some of the main churches of Toulouse. Several of the most popular Toulouse sights are indeed churches and yet they couldn’t be more different.

The city’s most famous is the Basilica of Saint-Sernin because the Basilica is the largest remaining Romanesque building in Europe. It dates from the 12th century and was part of the no-longer-standing Abbey of Saint-Sernin. Other interesting features of it include the lone gate standing away from the building and its five-tiered bell tower.

Then there’s the Toulouse Cathedral , a usually lopsided Gothic building that’s made from two incomplete churches. Perhaps that explains why the main entrance is elaborate stonework, while the rest is simple brickwork. I also found the Notre-Dame du Taur kind of interesting, with its flat and skinny facade wedged in between normal houses.

Take a Break in its Gardens and Parks

If we’re talking about taking it easy in Toulouse then you have to spend some time relaxing in its many green spaces. The centre of Toulouse can feel a bit dense, so it’s nice to break up the sightseeing with wide-open spaces.

The best place for this kind of thing is the intersection of neighbourhoods at the Grand Rond . Not only is this huge roundabout home to quite a nice park and pavilion but it’s also surrounded by other parks and gardens. From Grand Rond it’s worth walking along the vibrant Esplanade Des Français D’Afrique Du Nord lined with trees.

That’s because the esplanade offers access to two lovely gardens, the Jardin Royal and Jardin des Plantes. This is the part of the city to go to if you’re after somewhere peaceful to have lunch. For me though, I just enjoyed having somewhere to sit and rest during my sightseeing.

Explore Different Neighbourhoods

With more time in Toulouse, it’s worth visiting different neighbourhoods around the city. You’ll probably find it a little hard to visit all of these with only one day in Toulouse, but this is more than a “one day city”. Sticking to central neighbourhoods like the Capitole and Carmes is all well and good, but they won’t give you a well-rounded idea of the city.

First up is the classy and elegant neighbourhood of Saint-Etienne , home to the Toulouse Cathedral. It’s directly adjacent to both the Capitole and Carmes but feels noticeably more upmarket in parts. It may even be my favourite part of the city, although the cafes and restaurants of Carmes are pretty inviting.

Then there are districts like Le Busca and Dupuy just past Saint-Etienne that feel like more local inner city suburbs. Very little of Toulouse feels touristy, but these areas aren’t. And that’s the point of exploring destinations like this; gaining a little insight into a place beyond the famous attractions you always hear about.

Have you visited or ever wanted to visit Toulouse? Do you mind visiting destinations that don’t have star attractions? Please share your thoughts in the comments below

David is the author behind the Travelsewhere travel blog and is always on the search for the quieter, less-visited corners of the world.

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I really get the impression Toulouse is a great option/mixture of Paris and Strasbourg/Colmar! So pretty!

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Toulouse Destination Guide (2024): What You Need to Know

The gem of southern France is the pink city of Toulouse. Ideally positioned close to both Spain as well as the Mediterranean Sea, Toulouse has access to some of the freshest produce and finest wines France has to offer. Not only that, but it is the home of the aerospace industry in France, making it an important commercial centre. In this Toulouse destination guide we share everything you need to know to plan your next trip to Toulouse.

Short on time? Here are our Toulouse France top recommendations: Highlights : peruse the famous Victor Hugo Market and watch the sunset at Quai de la Daurade with views of Pont Neuf and the Garonne River . Activities : book your Toulouse France Tours with Get Your Guide . Accommodation : we use Booking.com to find the best hotels. Transport : TrainLine for trains and FlixBus for intercity buses. Flights : find cheapest flights with cashback on WayAway . Airport Lounge Access : start your holiday the right way with Priority Pass . Travel Medical Insurance : SafetyWing Nomad Insurance is the ideal choice for long-term travellers and digital nomads.

What is Toulouse famous for?

Toulouse is known as the pink city or la Ville Rose in French. It owes this name to the rosy hue of its terracotta brick buildings. These buildings, made from local clay, glow in the sunset light along the River Garonne. The city boasts a rich architectural heritage, with churches such as the UNESCO listed Basilica of Saint-Sernin, Renaissance mansions and neo-classical facades. It is also a city of Art and History, with many museums and cultural attractions.

As the heart of Europe ’s aerospace industry, Toulouse hosts the headquarters of Airbus and other aerospace engineering and research companies in its Aerospace Valley.

Toulouse is also a paradise for food lovers, with regional specialties such as cassoulet, saucisse de Toulouse and tarte aux noir. These dishes reflect the city’s tradition of hearty and delicious cuisine.

Why you should visit Toulouse France

Toulouse has a unique blend of culture, history and geography which makes it a must visit destination in France . It is a very scenic city, set on the Garonne River . The famous Canal du Midi starts in Toulouse, connecting the Garonne River with the Mediterranean Sea. One of our favourite things to do in Toulouse is to go to the banks of the Garonne in the late afternoon and watch the sunlight filter down on the city. Many buildings throughout the city were built using terracotta bricks and this has given the city a pinkish hue. This has earned the city the nickname “La Ville Rose” or The Pink City.

Toulouse is also home to the aviation and aerospace industry in Europe . A popular tourist attraction in the city is Cite de l’espace, which is a spaceflight discovery centre that attracts millions of visitors each year. Other popular destinations in the city include the many historic buildings in the town centre and the expansive gardens dotted throughout the city. To top it all off, Toulouse is known as a foodie destination due to its proximity to some of the best agricultural areas in France.

Toulouse Destination Guide: Know before you go

Basic info about toulouse france.

• Language – French, although the regional language Occitan is still spoken by a small portion of the population. English is spoken to some extent, particularly in hotels and tourism businesses. However not everyone you meet will be able to speak English. We find that if you at least attempt to speak a bit of French, you will get a warmer reception than if you just assume everyone speaks English. In our experience, most people we’ve spoken to start speaking English as soon as they hear our feeble attempts at speaking French.
• Currency – euro (EUR). This has been the official currency of France since 2002. Currency exchanges can be found in Toulouse and ATMs are widely available.
• Population – 46,000 (2015)
• Area – 65 km 2
• Department – Haute-Garonne
• Region – Occitanie (in the former Midi-Pyrénées region). Toulouse is the capital of this region.

Utilities in Toulouse France

• Electricity – France uses Types C and E power plugs. The country operates on a 230v supply voltage at 50Hz. Power outages are not common in France.
• Water – the tap water in Toulouse is safe to drink. In cafes and restaurants, you can ask for a “caraffe d’eau”, and the waiter will bring you a pitcher of water that is free and safe to drink.
• Toilets – sit-down flushing toilets are the most common type of toilet in France. You can flush your toilet paper directly into the bin. Public toilets are common in France. Many public toilets are free to use, but some charge anywhere from 50 cents to 2 euros to use.
• Telephone country code: +33

Where is Toulouse France?

Toulouse is the capital of the Occitanie region of southern France. The Occitanie region was formed in 2016 as an amalgamation of 2 former regions. The region that Toulouse lies in used to be known as the Midi-Pyrénées region.

The closest major French cities to Toulouse are Montauban, Narbonne as well as Montpellier . Toulouse is around one hour by train from Montauban, 1.5 hours by train to Narbonne and 2 hours from Montpellier . Toulouse is also only one hour by train ride from the historic castle city of Carcassonne . If you are considering visiting France overland, Toulouse is also one of the closest major cities to the countries Andorra and Spain .

How to get to Toulouse France

Toulouse destination guide: arriving by land, toulouse france intercity land transport.

The main transport options for travelling overland to Toulouse France are:

• Private vehicle
• Private transport operator
• Navette (Shuttle Bus) – this runs from Toulouse Airport to the Toulouse Matabiau train station. The cost is 9 euro per person or 6 trips for 36.70 euro (prices as at 2024). Shuttles run every 16-20 minutes depending on the day and the journey time is between 20-45 minutes.

Driving to Toulouse from within France

If you are driving to Toulouse from within France , here are the travel times and distances:

• Montauban – 47 minutes (55km) with tolls or 1 hour 9 minutes (52km) without tolls
• Narbonne – 1 hour 44 minutes (151km) with tolls or 2 hours 43 minutes (156km) without tolls
• Montpellier – 2 hour 44 minutes (243km) with tolls or 3 hours 51 minutes (271km) without tolls
• Paris – 6 hours 50 minutes (679km) with tolls or 8 hours 52 minutes (679km) without tolls
• Carcassonne – 1 hour 9 minutes (93.4km) with tolls or 1 hour 45 minutes (105 km) without tolls

Intercity trains to Toulouse France

Trains are a cheap and efficient way to get to Toulouse France. The main train station in Toulouse is Toulouse Matabiau. This station is connected to the Toulouse Métro.

The following regional train lines service Toulouse:

• Toulouse–Albi-Rodez
• Toulouse–Montauban
• Toulouse–Saint-Sulpice
• Toulouse–Carcassonne
• Toulouse–Tarbes and Bayonne
• Toulouse–Foix
• Toulouse–Auch

The following train brands service Toulouse:

• TGV train – this is France’s intercity high speed rail service
• Intercités – this is a non-high speed rail service which operates on the ‘classic’ rail network in France
• Intercités de Nuit – this the overnight passenger train service in France
• TER (Transport Express Régional) – the TER rail service is run by the regional councils of France

The French national railway company that operates these services is called SNCF.

We recommend using the app and website TrainLine to book intercity train tickets in France . This is the app we used. We found it very easy to use with great functionality. Another great feature is that you can see days ahead to see what times of the day were the cheapest rates. The TrainLine app was much easier to use than the SNCF website and app, which we found really cumbersome and difficult to use.

Intercity buses to Toulouse France

A common way to get around France is by using intercity buses. These are a budget friendly alternative to trains, but are generally a slower option. Intercity bus companies operating in Toulouse France include FlixBus as well as Blablacar Bus. Popular bus destinations from Toulouse include:

• Barcelona Spain – travel time 5-6 hours. Tickets start from 13 euro one way.
• Andorra la Vella Andorra – travel time 4 hours. Tickets start from 36 euro one way.
• Carcassonne France – travel time 1 hour 20 minutes. Tickets cost 3 euro per way.
• Montpellier France – travel time 2.5-3.5 hours. Tickets start from 6 euro one way.
• Marseille France – travel time 5-6 hours. Tickets start from 8 euro one way.
• Lyon France – travel time 8-10 hours. Tickets cost 12 euro per way.

Toulouse destination guide: Arriving by air

The nearest airport to Toulouse France is Toulouse Airport (Airport code TLS). This international airport is also known as Toulouse-Blagnac Airport. It is 6.7 km northwest of the city.

Other nearby airports include:

• Carcassonne Airport (Airport code CCF). This airport is 82.3km away.
• Lourdes/Tarbes (Airport code LDE). This airport is 125.3km away.
• Perpignan Airport (Airport code PFG). This is 150.2km away.
• Pau Airport (Airport code PUF). This is 151.8km away.

The national airline of France is Air France.

Toulouse destination guide: Arriving by boat

The Garonne River run through Toulouse. Additionally, the Canal du Midi connects Toulouse to the Mediterranean Sea. It is possible to get to Toulouse by boat, however the only commercial boat operations in Toulouse run scenic cruises in the local area.

Toulouse destination guide: How to get around Toulouse France

Walking in toulouse france.

By far the easiest and cheapest way to get around Toulouse is to walk. Moreover, Toulouse is a very walkable city. It is also very scenic, so walking is a very pleasant way to get around.

Local buses in Toulouse France

Local buses service Toulouse.

Trams in Toulouse France

Trams service Toulouse. The Toulouse tramway is a 2-line tram system which encompasses 27 tram stations.

Métro trains (subway or underground) in Toulouse France

Toulouse has a metro train system. The metro system includes 2 lines with a total of 38 stations.

Vehicle hire in Toulouse France

A wide variety of vehicles can be rented in France . This includes:

• Bicycles – Toulouse is the perfect place for cycling. There are self-service electric bike share services available in the city such as VélÔToulouse. Bikes can be found outside the train station at Toulouse and throughout the city. Alternatively you can hire a bike from a bike hire shop such as Avélo31 Bike Rentals.
• Electric scooters – electric scooters are another popular mode of transportation in France. They are lightweight and less bulky compared to bikes. Due to these qualities, they are great for navigating the little alleyways that are typical throughout France. Similarly to bikes, electric scooters can be hired in many areas around France. To hire a scooter you will need to download the relevant app in order to unlock the scooter. The price usually includes an unlocking fee as well as a by the minute rate. Expect to pay around 10-13 euro an hour.
• Motorcycles

The French drive on the right side of the road.

Navettes (shuttles) in Toulouse France

Navettes make short repetitive journeys between two destinations. Common journeys include going between the airport and the city centre. These journeys can be booked on demand for a fixed price. There is a navette from Toulouse Airport to the Toulouse Matabiau train station. The cost is 9 euro per person or 6 trips for 36.70 euro (prices as at 2024). Shuttles run every 16-20 minutes depending on the day and the journey time is between 20-45 miniutes.

Taxis in France

Taxis are common in France . Fares are regulated and are usually metered. The exception to this will be standard journeys such as airport trips. In this case the fare will be a fixed price. However in general your fare will include the following costs:

• The pickup fee or minimum fee – this is charged as soon as you get into the vehicle
• There may also be an additional fee for extra people or heavy luggage
• A reservation fee – this will be higher if you book in advance compared to if you want a taxi immediately
• Price per kilometre – this price can vary depending on the time of day
• Price per hour – this is a price that gets charged when the taxi is stuck in heavy traffic. The price also varies depending on the time of day

Ride-share services in France

There are many rideshare services operating in France . These include Uber, Lyft, InDriver and Carpool.

Toulouse France destination guide: Is Toulouse France worth visiting?

Toulouse is a charming city in southern France that is certainly worth visiting. It is a gorgeous place with beautiful architecture and the scenic River Garonne flowing through it. Toulouse has a relaxed atmosphere, delicious local food and is also Europe ’s centre for the aerospace industry. Additionally, it has spectacular parks and interesting museums, providing tourists with plenty of different things to see and do. Furthermore, Toulouse is one of France’s major transport hubs and is also in close proximity to Spain and Andorra , making it easy to get in and out of the city.

Toulouse destination guide: How long to spend in Toulouse France

Toulouse is a great place to come for a weekend. It is a very livable, cosmopolitan city which can easily keep you entertained for much longer. We spent 10 days in Toulouse and enjoyed taking time to enjoy the various activities available in this beautiful city.

Toulouse destination guide: What to do in Toulouse France

Toulouse is a beautiful French city with many activities on offer. It has a range of great free activities as well as paid activities.

Toulouse destination guide: Free things to do in Toulouse France

There are enough free activities in Toulouse France to keep you entertained for a weekend or even a leisurely week:

• Victor Hugo Market
• Capitole de Toulouse
• Basilique Saint Sernin
• Jardin Japonais Pierre Baudis
• Couvent des Jacobins
• Quai de la Daurade
• Jardin des Plantes
• Garonne River
• Cathédrale Saint-Étienne
• Canal de Brienne
• Jardin du Gran Rond
• Chapelle des Carmélites
• Espace EDF Bazacle
• Marché des Carmes
• Jardin Raymond VI
• Prairie Des Filtres

For more details, see our Toulouse travel guide on the 17 Best Free Things To Do in Toulouse France .

On the 1 st Sunday of every month entry to Toulouse museums is free. This includes:

• Musée des Augustins
• Museum of Natural History
• Musée Saint-Raymond
• Musée Georges-Labit
• Les Abattoirs
• Musée Paul-Dupuy

Toulouse destination guide: Paid activities in Toulouse France

A number of attractions in Toulouse France charge an entry fee:

• Cite de l’espace – entry fee is 24.50 euro for adults (as at 2024)
• Halle de la Machine – entry fee is 11.60 euro for adults. Additionally a ticket for the Minotaur excursion is 11.60 euro (as at 2024)

Weather in Toulouse France

Toulouse enjoys a warm temperate climate. Its climate is heavily influenced by the nearby Mediterranean area. It has cold winters, with average temperature range between 2°C and 9°C (35°F – 48°F) in the coldest month of January. Summers last from June to September and are hot and sunny, with the average temperature range between 17°C and 28°C (62°F – 82°F) in the hottest month of July. It is a windy city and experiences frequent and sometimes powerful winds. Snow is rare but not unheard of in Toulouse. The month with the most rainfall is May with 9.8 days of rain on average and the driest month is July with an average of 5.9 rainy days.

Best time to visit Toulouse France

With delicious food, bustling local markets, gorgeous riverside paths and architecturally interesting buildings, Toulouse has a lot to offer at any time of year. However Toulouse is particularly enjoyable during the warmer weather months of May to September. This is also when the city comes alive with plenty of events and festivals. Of particular note are the Rio Loco music festival, the Tangopostale Tango festival and Le Nouveau Printemps cultural festival. Toulouse also has an open-air cinema (La Cinémathèque de Toulouse) during July and August each year.

Internet and mobile phones in France

Since June 15th, 2017, Roam Like at Home (RLAT) rules came into force for European Union countries. As such, people with European Union mobile numbers are no longer charged temporary mobile roaming fees if they travel within the European Union. This means that if you have a European Union mobile number, you can use that number anywhere within the European Union and you will be charged for calls, texts and data in the same way as if you were in your home country. There are limits to this in order to prevent abuse of these rules.

The main internet and phone companies in France include Orange, SFR, LeFrenchMobile, Bouygues Telecom, Lebara, Lycamobile and Free.

5G has been in France since November 2020. However 2G is expected to continue in France until 2030.

Cell phone SIM cards can be bought in many places throughout France. These include phone stores, some supermarkets, newspaper kiosks as well as online.

How much to budget for Toulouse France?

Is toulouse expensive.

Toulouse isn’t the cheapest place to visit, but it is reasonably affordable by European standards. The city has plenty of beautiful outdoor areas to explore as well as a range of free or cheap activities. Buying food from supermarkets or looking for fixed price lunch specials is another way to keep costs down. However if you have more to spend, Toulouse can certainly accommodate more expensive tastes.

Toulouse destination guide: Daily spend for a couple travelling in Toulouse France

As a rough guide, we recommend the following budgets for a couple:

• Low-budget daily spend – 100 euro per day for a couple will get you hostel accommodation, self catering and bakery meals, walking throughout the city and free or cheap activities such as strolls along the Garonne River , exploring historic buildings such as the churches and cathedrals and visiting the markets.
• Mid-range daily spend – 300 euro per day for a couple will get you mid-range accommodation, walking or hiring a bike to get around the city, dining at reasonably priced cafes and restaurants and some paid activities.
• Luxury spend – 1000 euro per day for a couple will get you a premium experience in France , staying at luxury hotels, travelling by private transport, doing a range paid activities and eating at high end restaurants.

Toulouse destination guide: Accommodation in Toulouse France

There is a good range of accommodation to suit all budgets in Toulouse France. Airbnb operates in France and we were impressed with the range of options available in Toulouse. We found that some Airbnbs in France have very slow internet speeds, so we’d recommend making sure you are happy with the internet speed provided before making a booking.

Where to stay in Toulouse France?

We recommend the following accommodation in Toulouse France:

• Best boutique hotel in Toulouse France – Hotel SOCLO Toulouse is a beautiful Toulouse hotel in an excellent location. The rooms are clean and spacious with stylish décor. The garden, bar and pool area is a highlight and the staff are great.
• Best bed & breakfast in Toulouse France – La Mélanotte is a cosy bed & breakfast on the outskirts of Toulouse. It is on a peaceful estate with a gorgeous house and garden. Additionally, the owners are very warm and welcoming.
• Best luxury 5 star hotel in Toulouse France – for a luxury experience in Toulouse we recommend La Cour des Consuls Hôtel & Spa Toulouse – MGallery . This high end hotel is in the heart of Toulouse. The staff provide exceptional service and the facilities are excellent. This charming property is in a historic building with spacious rooms with very comfortable beds.
• Best furnished apartment in Toulouse France – we stayed at Residhome Toulouse Ponts Jumeaux . This was our first Aparthotel in France and we were extremely impressed with the quality of the rooms and the service. Our apartment was well appointed and modern décor and it had everything we needed for a comfortable stay.

How much is accommodation in Toulouse France?

For short-term accommodation, a general price per night is as follows:

• Budget accommodation – 20-30 euro for dorm accommodation
• Mid-range accommodation – 50-150 euro for a private room
• Luxury accommodation – 150-250 euro a night for a luxury hotel
• Rental property – 50-400 euro a night for a fully furnished 3-5 bedroom home

Toulouse destination guide: Food in Toulouse France

Toulouse is a food lover’s paradise. From markets such as Marché Victor Hugo to Michelin guide restaurants and everything in between, Toulouse will have your taste buds tingling!

How much does food cost in Toulouse France?

Our price guide for your food budget in Toulouse France is as follows (prices as at 2022):

• Restaurant meal – 15-20 for a main dish
• Bakery food – 1-2 euro for a croissant or baguette, 5 euro for a sandwich
• Glass of wine – 4-6 euro
• Coffee – 3-4 euro
• Tasting menu at 2 Michelin star restaurant – 120-155 euro per person

Regional dishes in Toulouse France

• Saucisse de Toulouse (Toulouse sausage)
• Canard de confit (duck confit)
• Tarte aux noir (walnut tart)
• Violet jam and jelly
• Foie gras d’oie (goose liver pate)
• Fénétra – a pastry with almonds, candied lemons and apricot
• Garbure – a thick stew of meat, cheese, stale bread and vegetables
• La bougnette – large meatballs made with pork, eggs and bread and traditionally made for Easter
• Cachou – a small licorice lozenge used to freshen breath

Cheap Eats in Toulouse France

• Boulangeries (French bakeries) are a great place to get cheap and delicious food. Baguettes are typically around 1 euro. Croissants and pain au chocolat are around 1 euro. Other common food that can be found in boulangeries include quiches, pastries, sandwiches and pizzas.
• Boucheries (French butchers) often have ready made food which is a great cheap eat option. We particularly enjoyed farcis, which are vegetables stuffed with meat.

Fine dining in Toulouse France

Toulouse is home to a number of Michelin Guide restaurants.

2 star Michelin restaurants in Toulouse France (2024)

1 star michelin restaurants in toulouse france (2024).

• Stéphane Tournié – Les Jardins de l’Opéra
• Michel Sarran

Michelin Bib Gourmand restaurants in Toulouse France (2024)

• L’Air de Famille
• Une Table à Deux
• Chez Loustic

Michelin Plate restaurants in Toulouse France (2024)

• Genty Magre
• Les P’tits Fayots
• Les Sales Gosses
• Les Têtes d’Ail
• Les Planeurs
• Au Pois Gourmand
• L’Hippi’curien
• Mas de Dardagna

Toulouse France culture

France national holidays.

• New Year’s Day – 1 January
• Good Friday – the Friday before Easter Sunday, typically in March or April. This is only observed in Alsace and Moselle.
• Easter Monday – the Monday after Easter Sunday, typically in March or April.
• Labor Day – 1 May
• Victory Day – 8 May
• Ascension Day – this is celebrated 40 days after Easter
• Whit Sunday – this is the Christian holiday of Pentecost. It is celebrated 50 days after Easter, typically in May or June
• Whit Monday – it is the day after Whit Sunday, typically in May or June
• Bastille Day – 14 July
• Assumption Day – 15 August
• All Saints Day – 1 November
• Armistice Day – 11 November
• Christmas Day – 25 December
• St Stephen’s Day – 26 December. This is only observed in Alsace and Moselle.

National symbols of France

• France flag – a tricolour flag featuring three vertical bands coloured blue, white and red from left to right.
• France coat of arms – this features a lictor’s fasces (a bundle of wooden rods with an axe protruding from the top). This symbol rests on branches of laurel and oak. There is also a ribbon with the national motto “Liberté, égalité, fraternité”. The lictor’s fasces represents magisterial power, law and governance. The oak is the national tree of France and symbolises strength and endurance. The laurel is a symbol of triumph.
• National flower – fleur-de-lis (also known as the lily flower)
• National bird – Gallic rooster

France pastimes

• National dish – Pot-au-Feu
• Popular drinks – Pastis, wine
• National sport – football
• Religion – 41% Catholic, 40% non-religious (as at 2019)

Famous people from Toulouse France

• Noteworthy people born in Toulouse France – model Tina Kunakey, singer Carlos Gardel, singer Jain, politician Louis Aliot, writer Bernard Werber, actress Camille Razat, rapper Florian Ordonez
• Sports stars from Toulouse France – footballer Blaise Matuidi, footballer Gaël Clichy, footballer Jean-Daniel Akpa Akpro

Is Toulouse France Safe?

France travel guide: safety in france.

We travelled through France for two months and found the country to be extremely safe. As with any country, there are good areas as well as bad areas. Watch out for pickpockets particularly in Paris, Marseilles , Nice , Lyon, Cannes as well as Strasbourg. Also, make sure no-one is watching whenever you are entering pin codes and never lose sight of your credit card when making a purchase.

General safety considerations in France

Other general safety considerations for travel in France :

• Drinking water – The tap water is safe to drink in Toulouse.
• Mosquitoes – the tiger mosquito has been present in France since 2004. This type of mosquito spreads diseases such as Zika, dengue and chikunguya.
• Road safety – French motorways are the safest in continental Europe . However the National and Departmental roads are much less safe. Additionally, roads are the leading cause of violent death in the country. Consequently, it is important to take care on the roads in France.
• Water safety – If you visit any of the lakes or waterways near Toulouse take care when swimming as currents and waves may be stronger than you expect.
• Sun safety – Exposure to the sun can have adverse short-term and long-term effects on the skin, eyes as well as the immune system. Sun protection such as sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses is very important to ensure you don’t get burnt.

As with any destination, take all of your normal safety precautions.

France Blogs

You can find our France travel blogs below.

20 Best FREE Things To Do in Nice France (with map)

15 Best FREE Things To Do in Toulon France (with map)

24 Best FREE Things To Do in Marseille France (with map)

18 Best FREE Things To Do in Avignon France (with map)

10 Best FREE Things To Do in Nîmes France (with map)

14 Best FREE Things To Do in Montpellier France (with map)

17 Best FREE Things To Do in Toulouse France (with map)

10 Best Things To Do in Carcassonne France (with map)

10 Best FREE Things To Do in Carcassonne France (with map)

Nice Destination Guide (2024): What You Need to Know

Toulon Destination Guide (2024): What You Need to Know

Marseille Destination Guide (2024): What You Need to Know

Avignon Destination Guide (2024): What You Need to Know

Nîmes Destination Guide (2024): What You Need to Know

Montpellier Destination Guide (2024): What You Need to Know

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Toulouse Solo Travel Guide

Planning a solo trip to Toulouse ? Here’s everything you need to know for your visit:

QUICK FACTS

• The capital city of the Midi-Pyrénées region in France, with about  1,050,000 residents (metro area).
• Serves as the centre of the European aviation and space  industries.
• Its university is one of the oldest in Europe and the country’s third largest, after Paris and Lyon.
• Capital of French rugby with favourite team Stade Toulousain having won 4 Heineken Cups.
• Nickname: La Ville Rose (“Pink City”).

PRACTICAL INFORMATION

• Currency:  Euro  (EUR).
• Spoken languages:   French  (though a minority still speaks the original Occitan ).
• Best time to visit: from  May  to  October  (pleasant, temperate climate).
• Arriving via airport:  Aéroport Blagnac (TLS) is linked to the city centre by La navette aéroport for €5. Alternately, a taxi ride will cost €20 to €25.

WHERE TO STAY

• Best hostel for solo travelers: Eklo Toulouse (better than anything else in town). Clean rooms, friendly English-speaking staff, and located right next to a public transport stop for convenience. Book ahead so you don’t have to settle for anything else!
• Located on the western banks of the Garonne, Saint-Cyprien  has plenty to offer – from affordable accommodation to proximity to the main attractions.
• Les Carmes off Place de l’Esquirol boasts the city’s trendy district, with plenty of shopping and dining options.
• Rue du Taur borders the Latin Quarter and is the best place to stay on a budget, while still being surrounded by the city’s charming history.

GETTING AROUND

• Tisseo runs the metro, tram and bus transportation around the city. Tickets allow travel across the entire network and cost €1.70 for a single ride and €14.50 for a bundle of 10, while a day pass for unlimited travel is €6.50.
• Taxis need to be booked through 05 34 250 250, or hailed from the ranks found at the main squares such as Place du Capitol or at the Matabiau railway station.
• Pass Tourisme allows free or discounted access to major attractions around the city and free travel on the Tisséo network. 1-day pass costs €18, €2-day pass for €28 and 3-day pass for €35.

TOULOUSE NIGHTLIFE

• Drinking age is 18 ,   and last call is 2 AM  (some clubs stay open until early morning). 
• Place Saint-Pierre is a favorite among students and young professionals for cheap meals and drinks at any of the sports bars.
• The fashionable crowd heads to Île du Ramier for an elegant night listening to jazz and alternative music.
• Boulevard de Gare hosts the best nightclubs for all night dancing to the tune of drum and bass, house and techno. Entrance is often free before midnight.
• Great bars for solo travelers: La Mécanique des Fluides, La Cave à Rock, The Petit London (pub).

UNIQUE LANDMARKS TO VISIT

• Aircraft manufacturer Airbus offers 60 minute guided tours of the aviation facilities – the only authorized tours of the production of A380, A340 and Concorde planes.
• Cité de l’Espace is a contemporary theme park dedicated to space travel and discovery, featuring replicas of satellites and rockets. The dedicated planetarium offers a variety of shows in 4 languages.
• Place du Capitole is the original site of the historic Town Hall, and now houses the seat of municipal administration and the Théâtre du Capitole for opera and ballet.
• Basilique Saint Sernin is one of the finest Romanesque buildings, dating back to the 11 th century (now a UNESCO World Heritage Site).
• Pont Neuf links the quarters of Saint-Cyprien and Esquirol and is particularly spectacular at night, when its arches are illuminated by floodlights.
• Le Château-d’Eau rises on a former water tower converted into a photography gallery.

INTERESTING WALKS

• Follow the historic Canal du Midi as it meanders through the city on the way to Carcassone.
• Pack a light lunch and settle in any of the city’s beautiful gardens and parks, from Jardin Royal to the Jardin de Plantes ,   a short walk from the Capitole.
• Stroll down Rue d’Alsace-Lorraine on the way to Cathédrale Saint-Étienne, and window shop at the high end boutiques.
• Rue du Taur is an excellent blend of medieval and modern buildings, from historic churches to little bistros.
• Check out the second hand shops on  Rue Gambetta  and   flea markets on  Grand Rond –  a perfect chance to mingle with locals as they barter at the stalls.

LOCAL WISDOM

• The region’s gastronomic specialties are duck, foie gras and cassoulet, a hearty stew of beans, vegetables and pork. To sample them at the best and most affordable restaurants, check out the area around the Capitole .
• Take a boating trip aboard a gite along the river Garonne and admire the terra-cotta brick buildings that give the city its nickname, “La Ville Rose.”
• Try to catch a local rugby game at Stadium de Toulouse and soak up the excitement.
• Great restaurants to try: Les Sales Gosses ($$), L’Emboucaneur ($$), Restaurant Les P’tits Fayots ($$$), Campagne (for lunch), La Sandia ($$ – Mexican).
• Where to find good cheap eats : Marché Victor-Hugo is a covered food market with 6 establishments to choose from. Alternatively, find something along Rue des Gestes . Specific recommendations: Les Filous Toulouse or Le New goa ($ – Indian).
• Dangerous areas : street delinquency is generally kept under control by the police, but try to avoid the Matabiau railway station area at night.

Recommended trip duration:  2-3 days

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• Nice, France
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France Travel Blog

Is Toulouse Worth Visiting?

Proudly perched on the Garonne River, the stunning city of Toulouse ranks high among the top destinations in southern France. Some travelers prefer to visit Bordeaux, but for a good number of others, Toulouse is the chief charm of the south, hence their visitation. Lyon can boast of its cuisine, Bordeaux its wine, but for Toulouse, the weather and calm vibe are worth experiencing.

From the special culinary treats, the adorable city character, to the stately architecture, Toulouse is a vibrant and gorgeous city. At night, you should take a walk across the Garonne to see the magnificence of the city’s monuments in grand style. 

Here Is Why Toulouse Is Worth Visiting:

Trip to space at la cité de l’espace.

The city is worth visiting for the continent’s space capital. For those who fancy the chance to take on space for a day at the Cité de l’Espace, a visit to Toulouse will afford them that. Participants will see replicas of the popular Ariane 5 rocket and the MIR space station. Children’s visitors can also take time to relish the virtual reality simulators. This will make them feel like astronauts, and who knows, a future iconic astronaut might be inspired after a visit to La Cité de l’Espace. It is located at Avenue Jean Gonord, Toulouse.

The Admirable Place du Capitole 

This place might be the most camera-captured attraction in the city. Given away by its brick façade, visitors will be amazed by its grace and grandeur. They can step inside the square’s court and discover the many rooms, each a massive show of largesse. The Salle des Illustres is one of them, and in 1994, it was tagged a  Monument Historique .

Strolling Through Adorable Gardens

The city is a perfect place for lovers of nature. Surely, there is a lot of gardens and parks where visitors can relax or have a picnic with loved ones. For family travelers, the Jardin de Compans Caffarelli playgrounds will be attractive to them. But if you are a lone traveler and in need of some ‘me time’, the Jardin des Plates is a fitting option.

Toulouse Is a Gastronomy Paradise

When you visit Toulouse, you must try some local treats. I recommend that you must. Locals take the art of food preparation seriously, and this is shown in the effort that goes to satisfying visitors at restaurants. In the city, tourists will come to appreciate the traditional dishes served there. There are more than 120 local treats that have the signature of the city.

While the  cassoulet  is Toulouse’s most popular dish, you can indulge in anything cooked with goose or duck. When you go out to eat, be prepared to be amazed by how well the treats are good.

The Stade Toulousain

Rugby followers know that the Stade Toulousain is one of the world’s best rugby teams. When you visit, go and watch the club play one of their home matches in a great surrounding marked with passion and devotion. Visitors are bound to be thoroughly entertained by the festive atmosphere in the Ernest Wallon stadium. The spirit is infectious, as you would not know the moment you join the fans in chanting the anthems. Stade Toulousain is located at Stade Ernest Wallon, 114 Rue des Troenes, Toulouse France.

World’s Best Wine Bar

Enophiles will particularly love the city of Toulouse despite Bordeaux’s reputation. The city has the best wine in the world- a testament to its excellent wine credentials. It will be recalled that in 2017, Le Wine Bar was duly recognized as the best wine bar in the world, according to the Glass Wine List. The bar has more than 3000 indexed wines, so visitors are certain to find something that interests their taste bud. Bordeaux will have to take the L on this. Le Wine Bar is located at 5 Rue de la Bourse, Toulouse.

Architecture 

France has some of the most splendid architectural structures in the whole of Europe, and Toulouse is home to some of them. The city is nicknamed  La Ville Rose  (The Pink City) because of the brick (red) facades that are visible across the city. Given the time of day, these popular buildings have various shades, which gives Toulouse its vibrant feel.

The city has retained many of its royal town buildings, which still stands from the period when Toulouse’s pastel industry flourished. Do not forget to visit the Hotel Assezat, a symbol of the city’s architecture that plays host to the Georges Bemberg Foundation. It is located at Place d’Assezat, Toulouse.

Cultural Significance   

The city of Toulouse is the cultural capital of medieval Europe. That is why you will find many relevant museums there. You will be amazed at the uniqueness of some of the catalogs been displayed. As an example, a Picasso painting at the Musee des Abattoirs in the Saint-Cyprien region is a beauty. There is the  La depouille du Minotaure en costume d’Arlequin,  which is also of the Spaniard’s paintings.

Garonne River

The Garonne River is one of the most popular things in Toulouse. And one of the most rewarding things to do is to take a stroll alongside the river. The Garonne crosses Toulouse and is a special attraction for visitors coming into the city. The river is the ideal spot to see the sunset or take a bike ride.

Toulouse by Night

Toulouse at night has many splendid views to cherish. The lights especially bring out the beauty of the city’s popular monuments and give them a majestic look. Take out your cameras and capture the lovely scenes you will not get anywhere else.

Basilica of Saint Sernin

This massive basilica is a landmark and usually regarded as one of the greatest churches in the country. Situated just 5 minutes from the city square, this church is a place to visit. The architecture is incredible, and the inner décor and art are beautiful. When the basilica is less occupied, visitors can take a guided tour to know more about the interesting histories while having a view of the grounds. Or you can just attend a service. It opens from 8:30 am to 7:00 pm and located at 13 Place Saint Sernin Toulouse.

Pont Neuf 

This is a popular old bridge in the city and is raised in the late 1500s. Given the nice sights there, lots of people usually use it to take walks or ride their bikes. And along the Pont Neuf are information on its construction. Pont Neuf courses across the Garonne with a 375 m length. It links many cities. The river also offers interesting activities like an electric boat drive and paddle boating. When you are there, see the colored lights that lit up the bridge.

Is Toulouse Worth? – Summary

The Space station and the Garonne are some of the things Toulouse is worth visiting for. There are museums, churches, and even gardens that make the city a place to be. Upon visitation, see what the city has to offer, and you will be amazed at how lovely it is. There are lots of things to explore and learn about the Pink City that will keep it close to your heart on every vacation.

Peter is the editor of France Travel Blog. He has traveled to France many times and is ready to share the knowledge in this travel guide for France.

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Beyond the ordinary: Is Toulouse worth visiting? Experience Toulouse’s unmatched charm

Discover the charm of Toulouse, a hidden gem in southwest France. Explore the city's history, culture, and cuisine. Is Toulouse worth visiting? Let us convince you.

Last Update: May 15, 2024

• Destination

Are you planning a trip to France and wondering whether Toulouse should be on your itinerary? Look no further! Toulouse, known as the “Pink City” due to its distinctive architecture, is full of history, culture, and delicious food. In this article, we’ll explore all the reasons why Toulouse is worth visiting.

As a city that ranks high among the top destinations in southern France, truly Toulouse is worth visiting. Proudly perched on the Garonne River, this stunning city has a lot to offer to its visitors. While some travellers prefer to visit Bordeaux, for a good number of others, Toulouse is the chief charm of the south, hence their visitation. Enter Toulouse, the French city that exudes soul and charm.

Toulouse’s unique blend of French elegance and rugged passion is reflected in its rose brick architecture with blue-grey undertones, which light up in fiery red, orange, and pink hues at sunset.

In this comprehensive guide, we will take you through the reasons why Toulouse is worth visitin g and why it should be on your list of travel destinations.

Is Toulouse worth visiting?

Yes, Toulouse is a nice city where you can walk free through the parks, riverside or town centre. When we visited it looked like it was a dream, as the town has a slow pace and friendly locals, with boutique shops, boulangeries, cute cafes and markets in plain sights.

Planning a trip to Toulouse you will have plenty of things to do, and we suggest an ideal weekend escape from the hustle and bustle of big cities. Thanks to cheap flights with low-cost airlines, Toulouse is one of the best cities to visit in Central Europe.

No time to get through all? Check our quick suggestions!

Discover handpicked tours and accommodations tailored to enhance your journey. Act fast—secure your spot before they’re gone!

❤️‍🔥 Our favourite activities in Toulouse

• Toulouse city card with all sights included // 💲 BEST VALUE FOR MONEY
• Toulouse Food tour with a local // 👉 BEST TOUR!

🛎️ Best places to stay in Toulouse for every budget

• Quality Hotel Toulouse // BEST BUDGET OPTION
• Le Grand Balcon Boutique Hotel

Best time to visit Toulouse

The best time to visit Toulouse is from April to June or September to November when the weather is mild, and crowds are thinner. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures, ideal for exploring the city’s sights and outdoor attractions.

Summer months can be hot and humid, but it’s a popular time to visit due to school holidays and festivals like the Toulouse Summer Festival. Winter in Toulouse can be chilly, but the city’s Christmas markets and events make it a magical time to visit.

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How to get to Toulouse

Toulouse is easily accessible by air, train, or car. Toulouse-Blagnac Airport offers direct flights to major European cities and is just a short shuttle or taxi ride from the city centre. The city’s train station has connections to destinations throughout France and Europe , including high-speed trains to Par is .

Driving to Toulouse is also an option, with major highways linking the city to other parts of France and Spain . To find the best deals on flights, hotels, and rental cars, check out the below comparison.

How to get from Paris to Toulouse

Take a direct high-speed train from Paris Gare de Lyon station to Toulouse Matabiau station . The journey takes about 5 hours and prices vary depending on the time of day and how far in advance you book.

Fly from Paris Orly airport to Toulouse-Blagnac airport. Flight time is about 1 hour and prices can be quite reasonable if you book in advance.

Drive from Paris to Toulouse, taking the A20 highway. The journey takes about 7 hours depending on traffic and stops along the way.

What Makes Toulouse Special?

• The Architecture | The city is known for its stunning pink brick buildings, which give the city a unique character.
• Perfect for History buffers | Toulouse has a rich history dating back to the Roman Empire, and you can see it in the numerous historical sites scattered throughout the city.
• Cultural scene | Toulouse is a hub for art, music, and literature. The city is home to many museums, galleries, and theatres.
• Delicious Food | Toulouse is famous for its delicious cuisine, including cassoulet, a hearty stew made with beans, pork, and sausages.

10 reasons why you should visit Toulouse, France:

• The unique pink-hued architecture

Experience the Calm Vibe and Great Weather

Hub for art, music, and literature, delicious local cuisine, unesco world heritage sites and roman history, a city with character, perfect for walking around, toulouse at night is charming and vibrant.

• Lovely markets
• Great museums

Convenient location for exploring other areas of Southern France

Visit toulouse for the unique pink-hued architecture.

As said, Toulouse is known as the “Pink City” due to its distinctive pink brick buildings, which give the city a unique character and charm. That’s why among some of the reasons why Toulouse is worth visiting, the architecture is among the tops.

The city’s stunning pink-hued buildings present locally-sourced brick well known worldwide. Away from the oblivious, the Basilique Saint-Sernin is also one of the most notable examples of Romanesque architecture in France and is definitely impressive and unmissable.

Still, we will talk more about this later. Continuing to highlight Toulouse’s magnificent architecture, we can’t miss mentioning the Hotel d’Assezat and the Jacobins Convent.

If you’re looking for a relaxed destination with a calm vibe, Toulouse is the perfect place to visit. Even just one day in Toulouse can restore the mind and body. The weather is mild throughout the year, making it an ideal destination to visit in any season.

So whether you’re looking to enjoy a leisurely stroll around the city or indulge in some of the local cuisines, Toulouse has a lot to offer in terms of relaxation.

Toulouse has long been a hub for art, music, and literature, with a thriving cultural scene that continues to attract visitors from around the world. The Musée des Augustins , housed in a former monastery, boasts an impressive collection of art from the Middle Ages to the 20th century .

The Théâtre du Capitole hosts opera and ballet performances, while the Halle aux Grains is home to the Toulouse National Orchestra. Book lovers should visit the Librairie Ombres Blanches , a beloved independent bookstore that’s been around since 1975.

The Musée des Augustins and other museums in Toulouse are available for free purchasing the 72-hour city card . Alternatively, we suggest booking a tour with a local, check the availability:

If you’re planning a weekend break in Toulouse, let me tell you about some fantastic food you can try there. Toulouse is renowned for its delicious cuisine, and one of its signature dishes is cassoulet. This hearty stew is made with white beans, pork, and sausages, and it’s absolutely mouth-watering.

But that’s not all – Toulouse has so much more to offer when it comes to food. The local restaurants are famous for their delectable desserts, like crème brûlée and macarons. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!

Even if you’re not a big foodie, I highly recommend giving the local cuisine a try. It’s sure to leave a lasting impression on you. So why not make Toulouse your next weekend break destination and indulge in some of France’s best food? You won’t regret it! BOOK YOUR TOULOUSE FOOD TOUR!

Toulouse is a city steeped in history and culture, and its UNESCO World Heritage sites and Roman history are a testament to this. The Basilica of Saint-Sernin, a masterpiece of Romanesque art, is one of the most significant landmarks in Toulouse and a UNESCO World Heritage site .

The church’s crypt contains the tomb of Saint Saturnin, Toulouse’s first bishop, and is an essential pilgrimage site. Additionally, Toulouse’s Roman amphitheatre, Les Arenes, is an impressive example of Roman architecture.

The amphitheatre could seat over 15,000 spectators and was used for various events, including gladiator fights and animal hunts. These UNESCO sites and Roman ruins are a testament to the city’s rich cultural heritage and offer visitors a glimpse into Toulouse’s past. BOOK A SELF-GUIDED AUDIO TOUR OF TOULOUSE. also consider Purchasing a Toulouse city Card which allows you access to the Basilica and other sights for free.

Apart from the food, Toulouse also has a unique and adorable city character that is worth exploring. I loved my walk on the riverside, and it was fantastic to see locals hanging out there watching a fabulous sunset over the Garonne. Visiting Toulouse, you will live in a perfect boheme movie scene; everything seems perfect and at peace.

The buildings, museums, art galleries, artists mastering their art and every brick smell of history and chronicles of an era of the past that is actual today more than ever. The city has given an identity to the whole region that is recognizable everywhere, just walking around.

The Place du Capitole is a must-visit spot in Toulouse, with its grand square and stunning architecture. Believe us, you will be impressed, even though at the time of our visit, it was partially walkable because of an event taking place.

At night, Toulouse comes alive with a whole new charm. One of the best things to do in Toulouse at night is to walk across the Garonne River and see the magnificence of the city’s monuments in grand style.

The city is known for its stunning illuminated buildings and monuments, which create a magical and unforgettable atmosphere.

If you are a photography lover like us, you can’t miss spending some time on the river banks, getting a snap of the Basilique Notre Dame la Daurade from sunset to dusk.

Fantastic local markets

Toulouse has many great shopping opportunities, including the famous Victor Hugo Market , which offers fresh produce, meats, and cheeses. Toulouse’s local markets are an essential part of the city’s cultural fabric.

From the historic Marché Victor Hugo to the bustling Marché des Carmes , these markets offer visitors the chance to experience the region’s rich gastronomic traditions and artisanal products. Get deeper into the local culture of this part of France; exploring the market, you can take some tasty souvenirs back home.

Do you want some inspiration? Look for Roquefort Cheese (made in the nearby village of the same name), Miel de Toulouse, Pain de Campagne, and Croustade aux pommes (basically an apple tart). Finally, of course, we couldn’t miss liqueur; look out for the Armagnac , a type of brandy produced in the area.

Other markets to visit in Toulouse

• Marché des Carmes
• Marché Saint-Aubin

Great museums where you spend days roaming around

The Musée des Augustins is a fantastic museum that houses an impressive collection of European art from the Middle Ages to the 20th century. Consider visiting also the Cité de l’Espace . This must-see sight of Toulouse is open to anyone interested in space and aeronautics.

The museum’s interactive exhibits and stunning displays showcase the history of space exploration, from the first moon landing to current missions. You can also experience what it’s like to be an astronaut through simulators and virtual reality experiences.

However, the museum’s most impressive feature is undoubtedly the full-scale replica of the Ariane 5 rocket, which towers over the museum’s grounds. Also, consider visiting the Museum of Old Toulouse (Musée du Vieux Toulouse), which is fantastic for getting deeper into the evolution from a little countryside village to the prominent city Toulouse is today.

Toulouse’s location is its greatest asset, as it is conveniently situated between the Pyrenees mountains, the Mediterranean coast, and the lush Dordogne, and the vineyards of the Languedoc-Roussillon region. It means that Toulouse is an excellent base for a longer trip through France.

Also, Toulouse is considered a great alternative to Paris. The Pyrenees Mountains are just a short drive from the city, offering endless outdoor activities, including hiking and skiing. The Pic du Midi Observatory , a renowned astronomical research centre, is also located in the Pyrenees and can be reached in about two hours from Toulouse.

The picturesque town of Albi is another excellent day trip option from Toulouse , located about 80 kilometres northeast of the city . Visitors can explore the mediaeval Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site , and marvel at the imposing Sainte-Cécile Cathedral, one of the largest brick buildings in the world.

For a more off-the-beaten-path destination, the town of Carcassonne is a three-hour drive from Toulouse . This fortified mediaeval town boasts an impressive castle and well-preserved walls and is a favourite among history buffs.

On the other hand, established tourist destinations like the historic city of Bordeaux or the coastal resort town of Biarritz are also within driving distance from Toulouse. Bordeaux is about a two-hour drive to the northwest, while Biarritz is about three hours southwest. Both cities offer unique cultural experiences and beautiful scenery.

5 Top Things to Do in Toulouse

• Visit the Basilica of Saint-Sernin
• Explore the Musée des Augustins
• Take a stroll along the Canal du Midi.
• Visit the Cité de l’Espace
• Enjoy the local cuisine

Best places to stay in Toulouse

Where to stay in Toulouse

CITY CENTRE ACCOMMODATION

GRAND HOTEL DE L’OPERA

Fantastic location, located close to Capitolo Metro Station, Grand Hotel de l’Opera is the perfect place to stay in Toulouse. With an average room price, you will love your stay here!

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QUALITY HOTEL TOULOUSE

Le grand balcon hotel, final thoughts: is toulouse worth visiting.

In conclusion, Toulouse is worth visiting. We know that it might be an off-the-beaten-path city to visit in France, but even so, you should put a pin on the map. Although we visited alternative cities most of the time, and Toulouse, many others left us speechless.

Visiting France, you will start to think if the authentic French culture is just in Paris , but well, it is definitely elsewhere, and only by visiting other cities can you see that. Check out our guides to Nice to explore more of Southern France . Of course, the architecture is among the many reasons to visit Toulouse.

Still, also the vibrant nightlife, the Boehme atmosphere and the delicious cuisine should motivate you to get on the plane directly to France.

From the special culinary treats and the adorable city character to the stately architecture and magnificent nightlife, Toulouse has much to offer its visitors. So, if you’re planning a trip to southern France, be sure to add Toulouse to your list of must-visit destinations. You won’t be disappointed!

FAQ | Is Toulouse worth visiting?

How long should i spend in toulouse.

I highly recommend spending at least three days in Toulouse to truly immerse yourself in the city’s culture, history, and sights. Within three days, you can explore the main attractions, enjoy the local cuisine, and even take a day trip to nearby destinations. However, if time allows, extending your stay will allow you to discover more of what the city has to offer.

Is Toulouse expensive?

Compared to other cities in France, Toulouse is relatively affordable. However, prices can vary depending on the season and your travel style.

What is the best time to visit Toulouse?

The best time to visit Toulouse is during the spring (April to June) or fall (September to November) when the weather is mild and the crowds are smaller.

How nice is Toulouse?

Toulouse is very nice; it is fantastic to explore in spring but also very charming in winter. The city’s pinkish bricks make the atmosphere like in a movie, and you can feel the perfect French vibes walking along the Garonne or getting into any local market. The architecture is very lovely in Toulouse, and you don’t need much-guided tours to explore it.

Is Toulouse a walkable city?

Yes, Toulouse is walkable and is fantastic. Walking through Rue du Salé, just behind the local market, and getting lost around Rue d’Alsace Lorraine, the main shopping road, was one of my highlights of visiting Toulouse.

Have you got already the insurance for travelling to France?

When planning a trip to Toulouse, don’t forget to add travel insurance to your checklist. It’s not just a precaution; it can be a lifesaver in case of unforeseen circumstances. Your luggage could get lost, or you might face flight or train delays.

If you plan to rent a car, the rental agency might reduce the cost of car insurance if you already have travel insurance. And in case of any accidents or damage, your travel insurance can cover the costs. Click here to find great deals on travel insurance for your Toulouse trip and enjoy your vacation with peace of mind!

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Are you planning to visit France soon?

Before you travel to France, we have some recommendations for you:

TOULOUSE CITY GUIDE | Organise your Toulouse itinerary taking inspiration from our city guide. We created a perfect guide to optimise time visiting the city in Southern France. Read now our Toulouse one day itinerary!

HOW TO SPEND 2 DAYS IN PARIS | Discover the magic of Paris in just 2 days with our guide. From the Eiffel Tower to the Louvre, click here to plan your perfect Parisian itinerary! Read more about the most romantic things to do in Paris for couples.

MOST INSTAGRAMMABLE PLACES IN PARIS | Get ready to up your Instagram game with our guide to the most Instagrammable places in Paris. Click here to discover the picture-perfect spots!

WHAT TO DO IN PARIS IN WINTER | Don’t let the cold weather put a damper on your trip to Paris. Check out our guide for the best things to do in Paris in winter. READ MORE!

NICE ONE DAY ITINERARY | Short on time but still want to experience the best of Nice? Check out our one-day itinerary for a perfect day in the symbol of the French Riviera. Read the ultimate guide!

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Weekend in Toulouse – 2024 guide to visits and itineraries

Visiting Toulouse for a weekend is the perfect time to tour its historic heart, to enjoy the banks of the Garonne and of course to taste its gastronomy and its gentle way of life!

As I am from Toulouse and I love my city deeply, I will tell you below the visits not to be missed and my ideas for itineraries to discover the real pink city in 2 days.

Why organize a weekend in Toulouse?

Toulouse, nicknamed "the pink city" because of the color of its bricks, is known for its rich historical heritage, its delicious cuisine and its lively atmosphere. Far from being as bourgeois as Bordeaux or as bling bling as Paris , Toulouse is a city with a strong character and a southern atmosphere which is the pride of Toulouse residents.

For tourists, Toulouse is also an essential destination for its rich architectural, artistic and gastronomic heritage. The historic center of Toulouse is a collection of buildings and monuments dating back several centuries. The Saint-Sernin Basilica, from the 11th century, is one of the city's most emblematic sites. The Capitole de Toulouse is another architectural gem which houses the Hôtel de Ville as well as the Théâtre du Capitole. The square itself is a lively meeting place, lined with cafes and shops.

But what I like most about Toulouse is its festive side and its slightly Spanish atmosphere. In Toulouse, for example, you can take advantage of best wine bar in the world but also tapas bars and memorable rugby evenings! The joy of living of Toulouse residents is contagious and contributes to making Toulouse a unique and endearing city.

What visits should you not miss in Toulouse?

If you only spend 2 days in Toulouse, you are probably wondering what are the best visits to do? Well, here is the list of visits that I consider to be the most beautiful and interesting for your weekend:

• Place du Capitole
• The Basilica of Saint-Sernin
• The Jacobins convent
• The banks of the Garonne
• The Hôtel d’Assézat
• Saint-Étienne Cathedral in Toulouse
• The Augustinian Museum
• Garden plants
• The City of Space

Itineraries to visit Toulouse in 2 days

Visiting Toulouse can be done very easily in 2 days but you need to do the tour well and not miss the beautiful nuggets and hidden treasures of the pink city. you need to know the right routes.

So, here are my itinerary tips to discover both the must-see sites and what is most unique about the city!

Day 1: Discovery of the emblematic sites of Toulouse

To begin your immersion in the vibrant heart of Toulouse, here is a recommended itinerary to discover the must-see attractions of the pink city (see map of my tour to visit Toulouse in 1 day :

• Visit the  Capitol ,  Basilica of Saint-Sernin , and the  Jacobin Convent . Admire the unique architecture and rich history of these iconic landmarks.
• Enjoy the charm of the city, with the sun reflecting off the brick buildings.
• Explore the market and its surroundings, full of restaurants and bistros. This is the perfect opportunity to taste local products and exchange recommendations with locals.
• 14 p.m.: Saint-Etienne district : Stroll through the streets lined with cafes, second-hand booksellers and antique shops.
• 15 p.m.: Hôtel d’Assézat  : Discover the Renaissance courtyard of this mansion.
• 16 p.m.: Saint-Cyprien district  : Cross the Pont Neuf to explore the Château d’eau and Les Abattoirs, highlighting modern and contemporary art.

Your first day in Toulouse will end on a gourmet and festive note, with a dinner at the Saint-Georges Square (see restaurant recommendations at the end of the article).

Day 2: Discovery of Toulouse off the beaten track

Toulouse is a city full of surprises and hidden treasures. By getting off the beaten track, you will discover an authentic side of this city.

For example, the historic center of Toulouse is particularly rich in mansions dating from the 16th century. It was thanks to the pastel trade that the great Toulouse merchants were able to enrich themselves and have these magnificent residences built.

I therefore offer you a walking tour which allows you to better discover the most beautiful mansions in my city but also the Garonne and its magnificent quays and other more unusual places.

Here is the Toulouse discovery itinerary off the beaten track:

• Morning : Visits from the left bank to the right bank of the Garonne to the Place de la Daurade
• Midi : Lunch break at Bistro'Quai
• Afternoon : Departure from Dalbade to visit the most beautiful mansions in Toulouse and finish at the Jardin des Plantes.

Toulouse circuit off the beaten track

For your 2nd day in Toulouse, here is the map of the route to follow to visit Toulouse off the beaten track:

And here are the visits offered in this tourist circuit:

Abattoirs Museum on the Left Bank of Toulouse

From your hotel, take the metro line A and exit to the Saint Cyprien republic station .

The Toulouse Modern Art Museum is located at 76 Allées Charles de Fittes: the  Abattoirs museum . This museum is the result of the transformation of the old walls of Toulouse meat slaughterhouses. These pink brick buildings with neo-classical architecture have been listed in the supplementary inventory of historic monuments since 1990.

Catalans Bridge

Continue on the Pont des Catalans to benefit from a beautiful viewpoint on the banks of the Garonne.

Bazacle space

Immediately after the bridge, turn right towards the promenade du Bazacle to join the Bazacle space  which can be visited from 11 am (discovery of the hydraulic universe, exhibitions and terrace with a superb view).

Nuggets around the Place Saint-Pierre

Then turn rue de la Boule to discover the Saint-Pierre-des-Cuisines church .  It is the oldest church in southwestern France. It is built on an old Gallo-Roman necropolis and classified as a historical monument. It is also known for its auditorium whose impeccable acoustics allow you to enjoy concerts in a magnificent setting.

Don't miss the Saint-Pierre-des-Chartreux church , rue Valade right next to the Place Saint Pierre  !

This square has two totally different atmospheres. During the day, it has the calm and peaceful atmosphere of a charming square well located on the banks of the Garonne.

In the evening and at night, it is a particularly lively and noisy place (especially Thursday and Saturday evenings) because it is the meeting place for students who come there or even have a go or to party there.

Place de la Daurade to end the morning

Take the Lucien Lombard quay and walk along the Garonne to arrive on the Place de la Daurade .

Good restaurant deal – Bistro'Quai

It's time for a well-deserved lunch break!

A stone's throw from the Place de la Daurade, I recommend the Bistroquai (1 rue Jean Suau). It's a small, very simple restaurant that offers tasty food and a beautiful terrace! And, as it is good, cheap and not very big, it quickly sells out… So don't hesitate to book.

The church and quays of La Daurade

Set off along the Daurade quays towards the basilica Our Lady of the Sea Bream . This beautiful church, with a classical facade, was completely rebuilt at the end of the 18th century. It adjoins the School of Fine Arts whose splendid facade must be admired.

The Dalbade

Turn left into the Metz street then right in the rue des Couteliers .

Then take rue de la Dalbade where the Dalbade church  that deserves a visit. This XNUMXth century church rd  century owes its name to the original whiteness of its walls (albade). Restored and enlarged, its whiteness gave way to the red of the brick. I love its Renaissance portal and its colorful tympanum!

Some mansions

Continue until the Pierre's hotel rue de la Dalbade. This hotel has an incredible XNUMXth century facade, built in stone while brick is omnipresent in Toulouse, hence its nickname of stone hotel.

Don't miss the Molinier hotel and his portal from 1556, still a magnificent testimony of the Renaissance!

Continuing rue du Languedoc you can admire the Vieux-Raisin hotel whose facades in red ocher fairground bricks bear caryatids carved in limestone, as well as various statues representing the ages of life.

Finally, when you turn into rue Ozenne, you will discover the mansion "l ' Dahus hotel  » (where Crédit Agricole Banque Privée has set up its offices).

Jardin des Plantes and Museum

Going to the end of Rue Ozenne, you will reach the Jardin des Plantes . It is a public garden that I particularly like for its bridges, its kiosk, its footbridges and its pretty waterfall.

Right at the entrance to this garden is the Toulouse Museum . If you still have a little time, I invite you to discover its collections of natural history and, more particularly, ornithology, prehistory and ethnography.

When the day of sightseeing is over, you can then head to the Palais de Justice to take the metro or tram to your hotel.

And if you are looking for a hotel very close to the Palais de Justice, I recommend the Pier Toulouse Hotel.

What awaits you for your weekend in Toulouse

If you come in summer, you will experience the relaxed and sunny atmosphere of Toulouse and discover the unique characteristics of Toulouse residents:

• Relaxation is one of the important values ​​in Toulouse. You will often find Toulouse residents seated in cafes and restaurants, enjoying a good meal accompanied by a glass of local wine.
• Pay attention to Toulouse vocabulary: To immerse yourself more in the local culture, know that certain expressions should not be taken literally. Butt of the idiot or it breaks my balls are not real insults in Toulouse but are part of the punctuation in the sentences of Toulouse residents.
• Rugby is a true religion in Toulouse. Stade Toulousain has won numerous titles and is considered one of the best rugby clubs in France. The people of Toulouse are proud of their team and their support is unwavering. The city's bars fill up during big matches, creating an electric and festive atmosphere.
• Prepare for the heat: During the summer months, Toulouse can be very hot. Don't forget to take hydration regularly and apply sunscreen.

Restaurants to discover during a weekend in Toulouse

Toulouse cuisine is renowned for its richness and generosity. Don't miss out on tasting the famous Toulouse sausage, a must-have in local gastronomy. Accompany it with a glass of regional wine, such as Fronton or Gaillac.

Toulouse has many restaurants offering traditional and inventive cuisine. Here are some recommended addresses:

• Le Genty Magre: This gourmet restaurant offers refined cuisine using fresh, local produce. Don't miss their specialty: cassoulet, a traditional dish from Toulouse.
• Chez Emile: This traditional brasserie is renowned for its generous and friendly cuisine. Try their cassoulets, their duck confit or their duck breast accompanied by a gizzard salad.
• Les Jardins de l'Opéra: Located in a magnificent setting, this restaurant offers creative and modern cuisine using local products. Their tasting menu is an unforgettable experience.
• Le Bibent (a real historical monument) Place du Capitole: Café and restaurant with classic French cuisine.

For those looking for a less conventional experience, Elbows on the Table et The dirty kids' canteen offer quality cuisine in a relaxed atmosphere. For a panoramic view of the city, My Doe on the Roof is unmissable (Rooftop of Galeries Lafayette).

Toulouse in 2 days – Where to sleep?

For your weekend in Toulouse, here is a hotel that I recommend because it is very well located in the historic center of Toulouse (100 meters from the Capitol):

See this recommended hotel in Toulouse

With those 2-day tour itineraries , have you been around Toulouse? No no no !

There are still some beautiful walks or important visits missing such as the Canal de Brienne, the Canal du Midi , the Cité de l'Espace ... but for that it will take an additional day that I will mention in another article: Toulouse in 3 days

What to see around Toulouse? Mon tourist weekend in Ariège The most beautiful villages of the Lot Circuit of the most beautiful villages of the Gers 2 days tour around Toulouse Road trip in unusual accommodation in Occitania Visit Albi in 1 day Tourism around Carcassonne

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From the Garonne to the Canal du Midi, from Saint-Sernin to the Cité de I'espace, on a guided tour, tourist train or boat, your stay in Toulouse is sure to be an absolute joy.

The South West cultivates the essential ingredients that make for great food: quality produce, local specialities, a reputation for conviviality, and commit ted producers and chefs. Let ’s get ready to enjoy the flavours.

Toulouse is the capital of the Occitanie region and its geographical location make it ideal for escapades to explore an area that boasts countless exceptional sites.

Find here all the information to organize your stay in Toulouse: tourist office, transportation...

• Travel trade and groups

The "Ville Rose"

Toulouse, surprising & welcoming, a city of heritage and a land of adventure.

Exhibitions, concerts, festivals… the Ville Rose is always brimming with events! And for the foodies, there’s always a new restaurant to discover.

Take the time to stroll through the narrow streets and squares of the city centre to soak up the friendly atmosphere of this southern city, and watch the terrace cafés come alive at all hours of the day. From the banks of the Garonne to historic monuments, from the Cité de I’Espace to Airbus, Toulouse has surprises in store for you.

of your stay

Here’s a selection of Toulouse’s must-sees and must-dos during your stay!

The capitole

The Basilica of Saint-Sernin

The Jacobins Convent

The Hotel d’Assézat

The Canal du Midi

The Banks of the Garonne

My day in toulouse..., to the rhythm of the ville rose.

Starting the day with a chocolatine and a coffee at a terrace café, then marvelling at the works on show at an exhibition, strolling through the streets and meandering along the banks of the Garonne: visiting Toulouse also means taking the time to enjoy every moment.

A feast for the eyes

Push open the doors of the town hall, then the Basilica of Saint-Sernin and the Jacobins Convent.

A café by the Garonne

A leisurely coffee break in La Daurade to take in the views of the River Garonne.

A Jewel of the Renaissance

Linger a while in the courtyard of this magnificent mansion house.

A gourmet lunch

Give in to the irresistible market stalls and the friendly ambience at Les Carmes and enjoy lunch in the square.

Head to the left bank

A photo opportunity at the foot of the winged mermaid fountain on Place de la Trinité before heading towards the Pont Neuf and the Left Bank.

On the banks of the Garonne

A lovely walk along the river, from Port Viguerie to the Raymond-VI Gardens. Along the way, you'll visit two major exhibition venues: the Château d'Eau and Les Abattoirs.

The star of the show

Don’t forget to visit the inside of La Grave chapel, which has recently been renovated.

Dinner time!

Sit down for a glass of wine and some tapas in your local neighbourhood: Place Olivier, Saint-Cyprien or L’Estrapade ?

Your Summer in Toulouse

The aeronautical adventure

Exploring Outer Space

A ride on the back of a Minotaur

Wandering around Toulouse

A stroll through the market

A nature break in the heart of the city

With the kids

Great ideas.

Whether you have a baby, a teenager or a whole gaggle of kids of all ages, Toulouse offers a wide range of activities for you and your clan: parks and gardens, Le Muséum, the Cité de I’espace, the Hall of La Machine and its impressive Minotaur, not forgetting visits by train or boat….

TOULOUSE MUSEUM

AEROSCOPIA AERONAUTICAL MUSEUM

L’ENVOL DES PIONNIERS

LA HALLE DE LA MACHINE

CITE DE L’ESPACE

TOULOUSE TOURISTIC TRAINS

LES BATEAUX TOULOUSAINS

CITYTOUR TOULOUSE

LE QUAI DES SAVOIRS

SAINT-RAYMOND MUSEUM, TOULOUSE ARCHAEOLOGY MUSEUM

Places to visit around toulouse.

Getaways less than two hours

Excursions by bus

Albi & cordes-sur-ciel - carcassonne.

Destination responsable

Travel agencies, tour operators and groups

Congressistes

your moments on

#visiteztoulouse

Explore more on these 7 day trips from Toulouse

Sep 7, 2023 • 7 min read

Toulouse is connected to many amazing regions by train for a rewarding and easy day trip © Getty Images

Toulouse lies between France's Mediterranean and Atlantic coasts, not far from the Pyrenees mountains as well as a number of charming cities such as Bordeaux, Agen, Carcassonne and others. 

This makes the Ville Rose a fantastic base for a wide variety of short trips, lasting half a day, a day or more. It would be a shame to miss out if the length of your stay in Toulouse allows for it. Also, sometimes you can get tired of the urban hustle and bustle of Toulouse. Why not explore the surrounding Toulouse region, and discover its natural riches in areas that are still under the radar?

Here are some ideas for trips you can enjoy in couples, with your family or with a group of friends; eight destinations to enjoy fresh air, a sea swim or discover the culinary and architectural heritage. And a few surprises.

1. Stroll through the medieval city of Carcassonne

Travel time: 40 mins

Carcassonne is Toulouse's little sister. A fortified medieval city, built around 1130, it overlooks the entire town. Entering the fortifications is like stepping back nine centuries, or finding yourself in an episode of Game of Thrones . 

In addition to tour guides (and guided tours) of this Unesco World Heritage site, there are numerous educational workshops on life in the past, crafts of today and yesteryear, folklore, and cute boutiques along the cobbled streets. 

A visit to Carcassonne and its medieval city can be done in a single day. An ideal destination for families interested in discovering the secrets of yesteryear – but also for couples with the city's many fine restaurants ideal for evenings out with your loved one. 

How to get from Toulouse to the medieval city of Carcassonne:

Take the train from the Matabiau station. Many journeys are made every day for a simple reason: Toulouse and Carcassonne are on the lines linking the Atlantic and Mediterranean coasts. By taking the train from Toulouse to Carcassonne, you'll save time and money compared with driving.

2. Discover the Pyrenean mountains 

Travel time: 1.5 hours

A break in nature and fresh air is always a hit on vacation. Ax-les-Thermes fits the bill perfectly with Pyrenean mountain landscape and many natural parks. Whether in winter or summer, Ax-les-Thermes remains an under-the-radar destination. 

There's plenty to do: the ski slopes of the Ax 3 Domaines resort; hikes within easy reach of the Château de Lordat ruins; the Orlu wildlife park with its magnificent resident wolves; the natural hot baths and spa at Le Couloubret; spa treatments and rustic mountain restaurants. 

To make the most of this destination, you would ideally spend the night. However, Ax-les-Thermes is easily reached in less than two hours by train. It's a popular destination for people from Toulouse who make the round trip in a day by train to spend a day skiing here, for example. 

How to get from Toulouse city-center to Ax-les-Thermes: 

Numerous direct trains run between Toulouse and Ax-les-Thermes, covering the whole day. Tickets range from 9 to 25 euros on the Sncf website. By car, allow an hour and a half via the A66 freeway.

3. Enjoy the gentle Mediterranean coastline in Narbonne 

Travel time: 1.5 hours

Looking for a breath of sea air less than two hours from Toulouse? Head for the Mediterranean town of Narbonne , with its beaches, natural marine park, sunny terraces and one of the world's largest traditional buffets.

Far removed from mass tourism, the small, modest town of Narbonne has a number of nuggets worth discovering. The Narbo Via museum covers the town's Roman past. Next explore the splendid Chalets Gruissan beach, Narbonne plage, the Etang de Bages, and all the other ponds that make up the beauty of the Sainte-Lucie Nature Reserve and the Parc Naturel de la Narbonnaise en Méditerranée. These “picnic in a bag” walks are accessible to everyone, and include swimming if the weather permits. Don't forget your hiking boots, swimsuit and flip-flops. 

In the evening, enjoy the Grands Buffets de Narbonne – a prestigious all-you-can-eat buffet that has won international awards. Enjoy traditional French dishes and service, plus the world's largest cheese platter. The restaurant is open at lunchtime but staying overnight to enjoy dinner is a great option.

How to get from Toulouse to Narbonne:

The average train journey from Toulouse to Narbonne is 1.5 hours – although some journeys take 1 hour 10 minutes. The line is direct and costs only €1 at certain times of the year, on average it’s a €10 trip. 

4. Pedal along the Canal du Midi

Travel time: up to 4 hours cycling

The Canal du Midi is the pride of Toulouse with plenty of long trails for walking and cycling. I recommend a trip on a VelÔToulouse , which can be rented easily and cheaply throughout the pink city. 

Leaving from the Port Saint-Sauveur in the city of Toulouse, you can reach up to Avignonet-Lauragais in four hours, via a specially-designed greenway. Discover rural landscapes, the canal, villages and castles along the way. It's an easy, level ride. A perfect day out with a picnic in the bag  to get away from the city and enjoy the company of friends and family.

How to get from Toulouse Marengo train station to Voie Verte from Port-Saint-Sauveur: 

You can pick up a VelÔToulouse from Matabiau station and pedal to Port-Saint-Sauveur via boulevard Lazare Carnot in twelve minutes to start your cycling tour.

5. Taste wine at its source in these vineyards

The south of France is rich with vineyards and quality wines. Toulouse and the surrounding region are a perfect example. As a family, a couple or a group of friends, you can set off to discover a gastronomic adventure.

Among the destinations to visit is Fronton with its Maison des Vins et du Tourisme . This magnificent building awaits you amidst the hectares of vines of Château de Capdeville in the Fronton appellation. Tastings, tours and purchases of over 150 wine referencing are possible here alongside wine professionals. You can also go further and meet wine growers and winemakers directly on their estates. Seven hectares surround the building, which you can explore and enjoy for picnics or aperitifs. The Maison des Vins et du Tourisme regularly organizes winegrower meetings and tastings, as well as artistic events. Find out about the program in advance. 

How to get from Toulouse to Fronton

By car, from downtown Toulouse, less than 40 minutes via the A62 freeway.

6. Get into African safari mode

Travel time: 1h 50 mins 

The Sigean African Reserve is one of the best places in France to get close to African wildlife in complete safety. This giant wildlife park boasts 3,800 endemic African animals, including mammals, reptiles and birds. You can discover them on foot and by car, in the middle of their habitat, with the animals roaming freely – in the lions' park and the bears' park. 

The visit can be completed in a day (minimum four hours), but a car is compulsory for the park experience and there’s a lack of public transport to get there directly. 

How to get from Toulouse to Réserve Africaine de Sigean:

If you're coming by train, you'll pass through Narbonne, and the line is easy and regular. You can also rent a car in Narbonne (the reserve is 15 minutes from the station). If you're coming by car, you'll need to take the A61 freeway.

7. Lose yourself in the garden and labyrinth of Merville 

Travel time: from  30 mins to 1h 20 mins (by car or bike)

Merville, a town just outside Toulouse in Haute-Garonne, boasts a French singularity: a resplendent château with a five-hectare garden featuring a plant maze. There's no better way for couples, families or friends to spend some green time (with a playful touch). 

It's not for nothing that the Château de Merville, which was built in the 18th century, was awarded the "Remarkable Garden" label. Immerse yourself in the history of France and its heritage, with this high point of French garden design. 

How to get from Toulouse to Château de Merville: 

Car is the preferred means of getting to Merville due to the lack of easy, regular public transport. It takes around 30 minutes. If you rent a VelÔToulouse bike from Toulouse station, you'll need 1h 20 mins. The route is simple and level via the grand boulevard des Minimes and the Chemin de l'Enseigure.

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Home » Travel » Six Simple Day Trips from Toulouse

Six Simple Day Trips from Toulouse

So, you’re due to spend some time in Toulouse, and you’re looking for Toulouse day tours, right? Well, you’re in luck. Toulouse is an excellent base from which to explore. Within easy reach, you’ll find enchanting medieval towns, land rich with fabulous vineyards, and bustling modern cities – but if you don’t have a car, getting around can sometimes be more complicated.

Many of the guests who join us on our gourmet Toulouse Walking Tours are in the middle of a more comprehensive journey around France, and they’ll often use Toulouse as their travel HQ. Its central location and numerous train connections to other cities in the region mean that you don’t HAVE to rent a car if you want to take a day trip. 

Join us today as we select six of our favorite day trips from Toulouse, which are just an easy, direct train ride away. If you have any questions, please get in touch . 

Visit Carcassonne from Toulouse

We’ll begin with an obvious choice. The medieval city of Carcassonne is a jewel of 13th-century architecture – towers, defensive walls, and winding cobblestone streets make it one of the most popular sightseeing tours from Toulouse. Wandering through the atmospheric streets of Carcassonne is the closest you can come to entering the pages of a book of fairy tales. 

Sat picturesquely atop a hill, Carcassonne’s fortifications enwrap the historic town, with its walls featuring no less than 52 watchtowers! Needless to say, Carcassonne’s founders were taking no chances. They wanted to ensure no one could lay siege to their town. 

The site’s cinematic beauty earned it UNESCO World Heritage Site status in 1997, and it remains a favorite among history-loving tourists in France. 

In addition to the astounding appearance of the town, you’re guaranteed a warm welcome from the locals and plenty of delicious traditional French cooking.

Enjoy Gaillac Wine When in Toulouse

Wine enthusiasts traveling through Toulouse will not want to miss out on a trip to Gaillac. 

Found just 57 kilometers northeast of Toulouse on the river Tarn, the Romans established Gaillac in the classical era, giving the area its winemaking tradition. 

Christian monks continued producing wine throughout the medieval period and cultivating new grape varieties (visit the Abbey St. Michel to get a profound feel for the town’s medieval past). 

A wonderfully walkable town, Gaillac is ideal for those who like to wander, stopping for coffee, food, and wine as they do so.

Don’t leave Gaillac without trying some of the delicious red, white sparkling, sweet, or rosé wines they’re renowned for – just head over to Maison des Vins in Gaillac for a free tasting of a rotating selection of local wines 

If you are passionate about wine, why not join us for the Toulouse Wine Bar Tour ? With this tour experience, you will develop your tasting vocabulary and learn all about the wine regions surrounding Toulouse. 

Travel to Albi from Toulouse

Another town located on the river Tarn and another gorgeous destination possessing historical wonders. Albi is well known for its characteristic brick architecture, with the town’s highlight being its 13th-century cathedral, the largest brick cathedral in the world. 

Albi was also the birthplace of the much beloved French artist Henri-Toulous Lautrec. A museum dedicated to the iconic painter is located within the splendid Palais de la Berbie, another brick architecture masterpiece. 

We highly recommend that any art lovers check out the Lautrec Museum as it provides an intimate insight into the artist’s fascinating life. 

See Medieval Cahors

Inhabited since the days of Celtic civilization in France, Cahors is most famous for the Pont Valentre (pictured above), a magnificent arched bridge that dates from the 14th century. 

Most excitingly for the gourmands among you, Cahors is also famous for wine and food. Wine has been in production here since the time of the Romans, and the town is particularly known as the original home of its Malbec grapes and the distinctive “black” wine made from them. 

The foods most associated with Cahors are truffles and foie gras. Enjoy a relaxing day in this picturesque town and indulge in plenty of delectable local specialties. 

Marvel at Castres’ Historical Architecture

Located just 65 kilometers east of Toulouse, you’ll be struck by Castres’ brightly painted Renaissance houses upon arrival. These homes once housed the town’s merchants and artisans, who brought the town prosperity via the textile industry. 

Culture vultures will want to head to the Musee Goya to see works from the Spanish master and examples of work from a dizzying array of other notable artists. 

Journey from Toulouse to Bordeaux

A perfect destination for oenophiles, Bordeaux promises fabulous wine, glorious 18th-century architecture, and plenty of museums. This is one of our favorite sightseeing tours from Toulouse.

Begin your day in Bordeaux by exploring the city’s old town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. La Grosse Cloche is one of France’s oldest belfries and a wonderful glimpse of Bordeaux’s medieval past. 

To experience the splendor of Bordeaux’s 18th century, head to the Grand Théâtre-Opéra National de Bordeaux. The interior of this enormous Neo-Classical building served as an inspiration for Paris’ famous Opéra Garnier.

Within the opera house’s restaurant, Le Quatrième Mur , you’ll find a charming tea room that offers great views of the Place de la Comédie – a perfect stop for afternoon refreshment. 

Bordeaux’s Jardin Public is another good choice for those looking to relax. Established in the 18th century to offer Bordeaux’s residents a green space for recreation, this delightful park has been designed in the English style and offers a beautiful setting in which to enjoy a picnic. 

Finally, as dedicated wine lovers, it would be remiss of us not to recommend the Cité du Vin, Bordeaux’s museum dedicated to all things wine. The extensive multimedia and interactive exhibits dive into wine production and culture across the globe.

This utterly fascinating modern museum will leave you thirsting for a fine bottle of locally produced wine!  

This brings to a close our suggested day yours from Toulouse. Please contact us if you have questions about this blog or our Toulouse Gourmet Walking Tours . 

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