Things To Do
in Tarbes
Tarbes is a charming city located in the southwestern part of France, known for its picturesque streets and historic architecture. The city is nestled at the foot of the Pyrenees mountains, offering stunning views and outdoor recreational activities. Tarbes is famous for its annual festival, Tarbes en Tango, celebrating the art of Argentine tango.
The city is also home to the Haras National de Tarbes, a prestigious national stud farm renowned for breeding top-quality horses.
- "Bonjour" - Hello
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "S'il vous plaĂźt" - Please
- "Comment ça va?" - How are you?
- "Au revoir" - Goodbye
Prices
- đ Accommodation (per night): $50 - $150
- đœïž Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $30
- â Coffee: $2 - $5
- đ Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- đ Grocery shopping (per week): $40 - $80
- đïžââïž Gym Membership: $25 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the beautiful Jardins de Massey, enjoying a peaceful stroll among its lush greenery. Don't forget to explore the museum showcasing the area's rich horticultural history.
For lunch, try a local bistro and taste traditional French cuisine. Afterward, visit the Tarbes Cathedral to admire its stunning architecture and historical significance.
Wind down at a cafĂ© in the town square, savoring a glass of local wine. Itâs a great way to soak in the ambiance of Tarbes as the sun sets.
Begin your sightseeing at the historic ChĂąteau de Maubourguet, where you can delve into the region's past. The surrounding park is ideal for a relaxing walk.
Enjoy lunch at a nearby restaurant serving local dishes. Afterward, head to the Musée des Beaux-Arts to appreciate the impressive art collection.
Dine at a traditional brasserie, sampling regional specialties. Take a leisurely evening walk through the pedestrian streets and enjoy the vibrant night atmosphere.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful natural surroundings, including the Pyrenees mountains.
- Rich history and culture, with historical sites such as the Cathedrale Notre-Dame-de-la-SĂšde.
- Mild climate with warm summers and relatively mild winters.
- Access to various outdoor activities such as hiking, skiing, and cycling.
- Affordable cost of living compared to larger French cities.
- Limited job opportunities, especially for non-French speakers.
- Public transport options may be less frequent compared to larger urban areas.
- Smaller city may lack some amenities and entertainment options found in bigger cities.
- Potential language barrier for those who do not speak French.
- Less vibrant nightlife compared to metropolitan areas.
Best Activities in Tarbes
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
A beautiful park with walking paths, playgrounds, and picnic areas, perfect for outdoor activities such as walking, jogging, and relaxing in nature.
A scenic lake offering opportunities for fishing, boating, and picnicking, as well as walking and cycling around the picturesque surroundings.
Explore the stunning natural beauty and diverse wildlife of the Pyrenees National Park, offering a wide range of outdoor activities including hiking, mountaineering, and wildlife watching.
Tours
Uncover the best of Tarbes with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Tarbes
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers panoramic views of the Pyrenees mountains and the city of Tarbes
Beautiful public park with picturesque gardens and stunning views
Historic castle with scenic views of the surrounding countryside
Food in Tarbes
Tarbes Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A savory stew made with cabbage, beans, various meats, and sometimes duck fat, best enjoyed at traditional restaurants like Au Fin Gourmet.
Must-Try!
A slow-cooked casserole containing white beans, pork, and duck, available at Le Patio du Marquis and Le Picadilly for an authentic taste.
A cone-shaped cake made by drizzling layers of batter onto a rotating spit over an open fire, commonly found at local pastry shops and bakeries like Patisserie Marcadé.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Tarbes better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This bustling market offers an excellent selection of fresh produce, cheese, cured meats, and local delicacies like foie gras and confit, perfect for experiencing the essence of Tarbais gastronomy.
Held every Thursday, this vibrant market is a treasure trove of regional street food such as socca, a chickpea flour pancake, and artisanal cheeses from the Pyrenees.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Tarbes, it is important to greet people with a handshake and use polite language such as 's'il vous plaĂźt' (please) and 'merci' (thank you) in interactions.
Mealtime is highly valued in Tarbes, so always wait for the host to start eating before beginning your meal. It is also customary to keep your hands on the table during the meal.
Respect personal space by avoiding prolonged eye contact and maintaining an appropriate physical distance when engaging in conversations.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Tarbes with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Tarbes
Ensure a smooth experience
In Tarbes, France, tipping is not required as a service charge is often included in the bill at restaurants. However, it is customary to round up the total or leave a small tip for exceptional service.
Payment in Tarbes, France is commonly made using cash or credit/debit cards. It is important to note that some smaller establishments may only accept cash, so it's always advisable to carry some euros while visiting Tarbes.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Tarbes.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Tarbes, France. Comfortable temperature and blooming flowers make for a picturesque setting.
Ideal for outdoor activities. Warm weather and longer days make it perfect for exploring the city and surrounding areas.
Beautiful fall foliage and moderate temperatures make this a great time to visit, especially for enjoying local festivals and events.
Cool temperatures but fewer tourists. Enjoy festive holiday markets and the cozy atmosphere of the city.
Tarbes at Night
Hiking in Tarbes
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A stunning peak in the French Pyrenees offering breathtaking views and various hiking trails. Popular for both day hikes and longer treks.
Known for its beautiful landscapes and challenging trails, this mountain pass is a great spot for experienced hikers looking for a scenic adventure.
A UNESCO World Heritage site, this area features impressive natural amphitheaters and offers several hiking routes for different skill levels.
A picturesque lake surrounded by mountains, with hiking trails that provide lovely views and access to nature.
A trail that takes hikers through a series of beautiful alpine lakes, ideal for nature lovers and those seeking tranquility.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Tarbes through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Tarbes by plane.
Located approximately 170 km from Tarbes, Toulouse-Blagnac Airport is the biggest international airport in the region, offering a range of international flights.
Situated about 200 km from Tarbes, Bordeaux-MĂ©rignac Airport serves as an international airport with various domestic and international connections.
Located roughly 40 km from Tarbes, Pau Pyrénées Airport is a smaller international airport providing limited connections but close proximity to Tarbes.
Approximately 620 km away, Madrid-Barajas is a major international airport in Spain, offering extensive global connectivity.
About 650 km from Tarbes, Barcelona-El Prat is another primary international airport in Spain, well-connected to various destinations worldwide.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The primary demographic group in Tarbes, comprising the majority of the population with diverse cultural backgrounds.
Includes individuals and families with roots in North African countries such as Algeria and Morocco.
Represents a smaller community of residents originally from various Sub-Saharan African nations.
Includes citizens from other European Union countries living in Tarbes.
Small groups primarily consisting of individuals from Southeast Asia and East Asia.
A mix of various other ethnic backgrounds not categorized in the above groups.
The Soul of Tarbes
Discover the essence of Tarbes through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Rugby is one of the most popular sports in Tarbes, with a strong local team and passionate supporters.
Basketball is widely played in Tarbes, with local clubs and competitions that attract many participants.
Football is a popular sport in Tarbes, with several clubs and a vibrant youth participation scene.
Athletics enjoys popularity in Tarbes, with various events and training programs for all age groups.
Given the scenic landscapes around Tarbes, cycling is a favored activity among locals, with many enjoying road and mountain biking.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Tarbes.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Tarbais cuisine leans heavily on meats and dairy, several eateries like Le Cri de la Cassolette and La Table du Marmiton offer delicious vegetarian and vegan interpretations of local dishes, ensuring a satisfying experience for non-meat eaters.
Visitors with gluten sensitivities can find accommodating choices at restaurants such as Le Bistro de Jean and La Cantinelle, where gluten-free versions of regional specialties are thoughtfully prepared.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Tarbes with these cultural adventures.
