Toulouse - Discovering France

Travelling to Toulouse

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Toulouse, a pretty good destination in France (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Toulouse and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Toulouse, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through France, here's everything to know about Toulouse for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Toulouse

Toulouse is a city located in southwestern France. It is the fourth-largest city in France after Paris, Marseille, and Lyon. The city is known for its rich history, impressive architecture, and vibrant cultural presence. Its culturally significant landmarks include the Basilica of Saint-Sernin, the Capitol Building and the Pont Neuf bridge. Toulouse is also home to renowned museums, galleries, and performance venues, as well as numerous parks and gardens. The city is famous for its cuisine, which features traditional southern French dishes prepared with fresh, local ingredients. Additionally, Toulouse is a hub for the aerospace industry, with major companies like Airbus located in the city.

What to visit in Toulouse

Sure, here are some tourist attractions in Toulouse, France: 1. Basilique Saint-Sernin - This is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the largest Romanesque churches in Europe. It was built in the 11th and 12th centuries and is home to many important relics. This is one of the must-visit tourist attractions in Toulouse.
2. Musée des Augustins - This museum has an impressive collection of medieval art, sculptures, and paintings from the 14th century onwards. The building itself is a former Augustinian convent, and its Gothic architecture is a sight to behold.
3. Pont Neuf - This is the oldest bridge in Toulouse, built in the 16th century. You can take a leisurely stroll along the bridge to enjoy views of the River Garonne and some of the landmarks of the city.
4. Musée Saint-Raymond - This museum houses artifacts from the Roman period, ranging from sculptures to everyday objects. The exhibits showcase the history of the Roman settlement of Tolosa, which is now Toulouse.
5. Jardin des Plantes - This botanical garden is one of the oldest in France, and showcases more than 1000 species of plants from around the world. It's a great place to relax and explore nature while exploring Toulouse.
6. Capitole de Toulouse - This is the main town hall of Toulouse, and its neoclassical façade is a sight to behold. The building also houses the city's opera house and a museum.
7. Musée Georges Labit - This museum is dedicated to Asian, African, and Oceanic art, and has a collection of more than 18,000 objects. It is housed in a Moorish-style building that was once the residence of Georges Labit, a collector of Asian art.
8. Canal du Midi - This 360km-long canal connects Toulouse to the Mediterranean, and is a popular spot for canal boat tours and cycling.
These are some of the top tourist attractions in Toulouse, France, each with its own unique history and cultural significance.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in France, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Toulouse.

When to go on holiday to Toulouse

The best time to visit Toulouse is during the spring (March to May) and the fall (September to November), when the weather is mild and pleasant, with average temperatures ranging from 50°F (10°C) to 70°F (21°C). The summer months (June to August) can be quite hot with temperatures in the mid-80s°F (low 30s°C), but it's also high tourist season. The winter months (December to February) can be cold and rainy, with lower temperatures averaging around 40°F (4°C). Overall, the best time to visit Toulouse depends on your preferences and activities planned during your stay.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Toulouse

There are several ways to get to Toulouse, France: 1. By Plane - Toulouse-Blagnac Airport is located 6.7km west of the city center. It is served by several airlines, including Air France, easyJet, Ryanair, and British Airways. From the airport, you can take a shuttle bus or a taxi to reach the city center.
2. By Train - Toulouse is well-connected by train to major French cities like Paris, Bordeaux, Lyon, and Marseille. There are several trains to Toulouse, including high-speed TGV trains. The main train station is Toulouse-Matabiau, which is located in the city center.
3. By Bus - Several bus companies offer services to Toulouse from other cities in France and Europe. Eurolines and Flixbus are some of the popular bus operators. The main bus station is located in the city center.
4. By Car - Toulouse is easily accessible by car. The city is located on the A61 motorway and is well connected to other major cities in France. There are also several car rental agencies in Toulouse if you wish to rent a car.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Toulouse, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Toulouse

Here are some typical foods of Toulouse with a short description for each of them: 1. Cassoulet - Cassoulet is a hearty stew made with white beans, duck or pork sausage, and pork or lamb shoulder. It's slow-cooked for hours and served hot, making it perfect for cold winter days.
2. Saucisse de Toulouse - The Toulouse Sausage is a staple of the Toulouse food scene. This sausage is made from coarsely ground pork seasoned with garlic and wine. It can be served grilled, roasted, or even pan-fried.
3. Foie gras - Foie gras is a luxury dish made from the liver of a duck or goose that has been specially fattened. It's often served as a cold pâté or terrine and paired with toast or crackers.
4. Garbure - Garbure is a warming soup made of cabbage, potatoes, carrots, beans, and a variety of meats. It's often served with crusty bread and can be a hearty main course or a hearty appetizer.
5. Cabécou - Cabécou is a soft, creamy goat cheese that is originally from the region around Toulouse. It's often served as an appetizer with bread or crackers and can also be used as a topping for salads or pasta dishes. These are just a few of the delicious dishes that you can try when visiting Toulouse!
You can find general info about typical foods in France here.

Is Toulouse an expensive destination for tourists?

Compared to some other cities in France, Toulouse can be a bit expensive for tourists. However, it is still considered to be less expensive than Paris. Prices for accommodations, dining, and transportation may vary depending on the time of year and specific activities that you plan to do. You can still find budget-friendly options such as staying in hostels or apartments, eating at local restaurants, and using public transportation. It is always a good idea to do some research and plan your budget ahead of time to make the most of your trip to Toulouse.

Where to find accomodation in Toulouse

There are several areas in Toulouse that are popular with tourists and offer a variety of accommodation options: 1. Capitole: This is the heart of Toulouse and is known for its lively atmosphere, shops, and cafes. It's a great location if you want to be close to the city's main attractions.
2. Saint-Cyprien: This area is on the other side of the Garonne River and offers a more relaxed and residential vibe. There are plenty of parks and green spaces to explore, and it's a great location if you want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city center.
3. Saint-Georges: This area is known for its historic architecture and charming streets. It's a great location if you want to be close to both the city center and the train station.
4. Carmes: This area is known for its trendy shops, boutiques, and cafes. It's a great location if you want to be in a lively area with plenty of things to do and see.
5. Jolimont: This area is a bit further from the city center but offers a more affordable option for accommodation. It's a great location if you don't mind being a bit further from the main attractions and want to save some money.
You can check hotel prices at Toulouse here:
Booking.com

Is Toulouse a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Toulouse is generally a safe place for tourists. Like any city, it's important to take the usual safety precautions such as being aware of your surroundings, not leaving your belongings unattended, and avoiding poorly-lit areas at night. However, violent crime, in particular, is relatively rare in Toulouse. Petty theft and pickpocketing can occur in crowded areas such as public transportation or tourist attractions, so it's important to be mindful of your belongings in these situations. Overall, Toulouse is a safe destination for tourists to visit.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in France here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Toulouse.

What type of travelers will enjoy Toulouse the most?

Toulouse is a wonderful city that can cater to a variety of interests and travel styles. Couples will enjoy Toulouse for its romantic atmosphere, charming architecture, street cafes, and sunny weather. The city is also ideal for young people looking for fun, as it has a vibrant nightlife with numerous bars, nightclubs, and music venues. Families will love Toulouse for its many museums, parks, and family-friendly activities such as cycling, boat tours, and sightseeing.
Overall, Toulouse is a great destination for everyone, regardless of age or travel style.

How to get around Toulouse

In Toulouse, you can use several modes of transportation to move around the city, such as: 1. Bus: Toulouse has a comprehensive bus network operated by Tisséo that covers most parts of the city.
2. Metro: Toulouse has two metro lines that cover the central part of the city.
3. Tram: Toulouse also has two tram lines that run through the city's suburbs.
4. Bicycle: The city has a bike-sharing scheme called "VélôToulouse," which allows you to rent a bike for short periods.
5. Walking: Toulouse is a relatively small city, so many of its attractions can be easily explored on foot.

What to see around Toulouse

Sure, here are some nice places you can visit on a day trip from Toulouse: 1. Albi - Visit the stunning Cathedral Sainte Cécile, Toulouse-Lautrec Museum, and wander the medieval streets.
2. Carcassonne - Explore the medieval fortress, La Cité, and the Château Comtal.
3. Montauban - Admire the pink-brick buildings and the museum Ingres Bourdelle, both typical of Toulouse architecture.
4. Castres - Stroll through the charming city center and explore the Museum Goya.
5. Auch - Visit the impressive Cathedral Sainte Marie and take a walk around the old town, home to lovely cafes and markets.
6. Saint-Cirq-Lapopie - Find a hidden gem in this scenic medieval village overlooking the Lot River.
7. Rocamadour - Visit this stunning pilgrimage site built into a cliff side, with a beautiful castle and the Chapelle Notre-Dame.
Hope you find these suggestions useful!
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