Toulouse, known as “La Ville Rose” (The Pink City) for its stunning terracotta buildings, offers a delightful blend of rich history, modern attractions, and vibrant culture. After spending some time here, I’m excited to share my travel tips on how to easily enjoy this charming city in southwestern France. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend getaway or a longer stay, Toulouse has a lot to offer, from beautiful parks to remarkable museums, incredible food, and a laid-back atmosphere perfect for wandering.

1. Getting to Toulouse

First things first, getting to Toulouse is quite simple. The city is well-connected by air, train, and bus. Toulouse-Blagnac Airport is just a 20-minute drive from the city center and serves both international and domestic flights. If you’re arriving from Paris or other French cities, the train ride is an excellent option. The main train station, Gare de Toulouse-Matabiau, connects to most major French cities and is located within walking distance of the city’s attractions. The bus network is also robust and affordable if you’re traveling from nearby regions.

Once you’ve arrived, don’t rush—Toulouse is best explored at a relaxed pace, so take a moment to absorb the city’s atmosphere.

2. Exploring the City’s Center

The heart of Toulouse is incredibly walkable, which is one of the city’s best features. Most of the top attractions are clustered around the city center, so you’ll find it easy to see a lot without needing to take public transport all the time.

Start at the Place du Capitole, the grand central square. This is where the City Hall and the National Theatre stand, and it’s always lively with people. It’s a great spot to begin your exploration, sip a coffee at one of the many cafés, and soak in the energy of Toulouse. From here, the narrow, cobbled streets lead you to hidden gems. One of my favorite things was just wandering down the side streets and discovering small boutiques, quaint bistros, and beautiful architecture.

3. Historic Sites You Can’t Miss

Toulouse is a city steeped in history, and there are plenty of landmarks to visit that showcase its past.

  • Basilique Saint-Sernin: This UNESCO World Heritage site is one of the largest Romanesque churches in Europe. The basilica’s impressive architecture, especially its towering bell tower, will leave you in awe. Be sure to walk around its peaceful courtyard and admire the intricate details.
  • Le Couvent des Jacobins: Another historical gem, this convent is known for its striking gothic architecture and peaceful ambiance. Walking through its cloister, you get a sense of the city’s medieval past. The convent’s tranquil garden is a perfect escape from the bustle of the city.
  • Musée des Augustins: Housed in a former convent, this museum is one of the most important art collections in the region. It showcases works from the Middle Ages to the early 20th century. Whether you’re an art lover or not, it’s worth spending a couple of hours here, especially in the peaceful courtyards inside.
  • Pont Neuf: This is Toulouse’s oldest bridge, dating back to the 16th century, and a fantastic spot for taking in the beauty of the Garonne River. You can walk across the bridge and enjoy the views of both the river and the city’s skyline.

4. Toulouse’s Parks and Green Spaces

One of the most pleasant surprises of Toulouse was how green and lush the city is. Between exploring its historical sites, make sure to spend some time in the parks, which offer a serene escape.

  • Jardin des Plantes: This botanical garden is one of the most peaceful places in the city. It’s an ideal spot to relax, take a stroll, or have a picnic. With its beautiful flowers, expansive lawns, and fountains, it feels like an oasis right in the middle of the city.
  • Le Parc de la Prairie des Filtres: Situated along the Garonne River, this park is perfect for a leisurely walk. There are plenty of benches, grassy areas, and walking paths to explore. It’s also a great place to sit by the river and watch the sunset.
  • Canal du Midi: A UNESCO World Heritage site, this 17th-century canal runs through Toulouse and is perfect for a day of cycling or walking. There are plenty of paths along the canal, and if you feel adventurous, you can rent a bike and explore the canal’s charming surroundings.

5. A Taste of Toulouse: Dining and Food Experiences

No trip to Toulouse is complete without indulging in its culinary delights. The city is known for its hearty, flavorful cuisine, with a strong emphasis on local produce, meats, and wines.

  • Cassoulet: This traditional dish is a must-try while in Toulouse. It’s a rich stew made with white beans, sausages, and pork, and sometimes duck or mutton. There are many restaurants in the city that serve this dish, but I recommend trying it at a local bistro for an authentic experience.
  • La Halles de Victor Hugo: If you love food markets, this is the place to be. Open every day except Monday, the market offers a selection of local cheeses, meats, and fresh produce. You can grab a bite to eat at one of the market’s food stalls, or pick up fresh ingredients for a picnic. It’s the perfect place to immerse yourself in Toulouse’s food culture.
  • Café des Artistes: For a more contemporary twist on French cuisine, this café is known for its modern takes on traditional dishes. The atmosphere is cozy and welcoming, making it the perfect place to relax after a day of exploring.

If you’re a wine lover, Toulouse is close to several famous wine regions, including the renowned Cahors and Gaillac vineyards. You can enjoy a glass of wine at most restaurants, or take a short trip outside the city to visit the vineyards and learn about the winemaking process.

6. Shopping in Toulouse

Toulouse has plenty of shopping opportunities, whether you’re looking for high-end boutiques or unique souvenirs.

  • Rue d’Alsace-Lorraine: This is one of the main shopping streets in the city, lined with a variety of stores ranging from luxury fashion brands to more affordable shops. There are also several cafés where you can take a break while people-watching.
  • Les Galeries Lafayette: If you’re looking for a more traditional shopping experience, head to this iconic department store. It offers a variety of fashion, cosmetics, and home goods, making it a great spot to pick up some souvenirs.
  • Marché des Carmes: For something more local, check out the Marche des Carmes, a smaller but delightful market where you can find artisanal goods, fresh produce, and unique crafts. It’s a great place to pick up handmade items or local delicacies to take home.

7. Public Transport and Getting Around

One of the things I appreciated most about Toulouse was how easy it was to get around. The city has an efficient and affordable public transport system that includes buses, trams, and the metro.

  • Toulouse Metro: The metro system is quick and efficient, with two lines that connect major parts of the city. The stations are clean, well-marked, and easy to navigate. A single ticket covers both the metro and bus rides, making it an affordable option if you’re planning to travel around a lot.
  • Trams and Buses: If you prefer taking the tram or bus, the routes are well-connected and offer a scenic way to get around. The tram is particularly useful for reaching areas like the Cité de l’Espace, a space museum on the outskirts of the city.
  • Cycling: Toulouse is also incredibly bike-friendly. You can easily rent bikes through the city’s VélôToulouse system. It’s a fun way to explore the city at your own pace while enjoying the outdoors. There are many bike lanes and paths, especially along the Garonne River and the Canal du Midi.

8. Day Trips from Toulouse

While Toulouse offers plenty of things to do, there are also some incredible day trips that can easily be taken from the city.

  • Albi: About an hour’s drive from Toulouse, Albi is a UNESCO World Heritage city famous for its stunning cathedral, Sainte-Cécile, and its picturesque old town. The city has a relaxed vibe and is great for exploring on foot.
  • Carcassonne: This medieval walled city is around an hour’s drive from Toulouse. It feels like stepping back in time as you walk through the narrow streets and visit the fortified castle. The city is incredibly well-preserved and offers a unique glimpse into medieval France.
  • Cahors: Located about 90 minutes from Toulouse, Cahors is a wine-lover’s paradise. The town is surrounded by vineyards, and you can enjoy wine tasting at local wineries. The town itself is known for its beautiful bridges and medieval architecture.

9. Final Thoughts on Toulouse

From its rich history and stunning architecture to its beautiful parks and delicious food, Toulouse offers a unique and immersive experience for travelers. Whether you’re here for a short trip or a longer stay, this city has something for everyone. So, take your time to explore, get lost in its charming streets, and enjoy everything this vibrant and welcoming city has to offer.