Things To Do
in Toulouse
Toulouse, located in southern France, is known for its beautiful architecture and rich history. The city's distinctive red-brick buildings give it a unique charm. Toulouse is a vibrant cultural hub with numerous museums, art galleries, and theaters.
The city is also famous for its aerospace industry and is home to the headquarters of Airbus.
- "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 - $40
- â Coffee: $2 - $5
- đ Public transport ticket (single journey): $1.50 - $2.50
- đ Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $70
- đïžââïž Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Basilica of Saint-Sernin, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The stunning architecture and serene atmosphere make for a peaceful morning.
Head to the Capitole de Toulouse for lunch and take in the vibrant square. Afterwards, stroll through the surrounding streets and admire the beautiful buildings.
Wrap up your day at the Garonne River with a scenic sunset walk. Enjoy dinner at a nearby restaurant, savoring local specialties.
Begin at the MusĂ©e des Augustins, home to a collection of medieval and Renaissance art. The museumâs architecture is equally stunning.
Visit the Fondation Bemberg, showcasing a rich collection of art in a former mansion. Spend some time at its beautiful gardens.
Indulge in a dinner at a traditional bistro and experience the local cuisine. Consider catching a performance at the Théùtre du Capitole.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and history, including historical architecture and museums.
- Vibrant student atmosphere due to several universities and educational institutions.
- Mild climate with warm summers and mild winters.
- Access to beautiful natural landscapes, including the nearby Pyrenees mountains.
- Strong aerospace industry presence, home to Airbus and other aerospace companies.
- Delicious local cuisine, known for dishes like cassoulet and Toulouse sausages.
- Traffic congestion can be an issue, especially during peak hours.
- Higher cost of living compared to some other French cities, though still lower than Paris.
- Limited public transportation options outside the main city area.
- Occasional issues with safety and petty crime, like in most metropolitan areas.
- Language barrier for non-French speakers, as French is predominantly spoken.
- Variable job market depending on the industry, with competition in certain fields.
Best Activities in Toulouse
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy a leisurely bike ride along the scenic Canal du Midi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and take in the beautiful countryside and charming villages along the way.
Pack a picnic and spend a relaxing day in the Jardin des Plantes, a lovely botanical garden with a variety of plants, flowers, and walking paths.
Explore Toulouse from a different perspective by taking a boat tour on the Garonne River, where you can admire the city's landmarks and historic bridges.
For the more adventurous, the Pyrenees Mountains offer great hiking opportunities just a short drive from Toulouse, with stunning views and diverse trails for all levels of hikers.
Tours
Uncover the best of Toulouse with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Toulouse
Visit one of these nice places.
An ancient basilica with stunning views of Toulouse and its surroundings, perfect for photography enthusiasts.
A historic bridge offering picturesque views of the Garonne River and the cityscape, ideal for capturing the essence of Toulouse.
A botanical garden providing beautiful natural scenery and a tranquil setting for capturing vibrant photos.
Food in Toulouse
Toulouse Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A hearty slow-cooked stew made with white beans, sausages, and duck or pork, often flavored with aromatic herbs. Head to La Maison Du Cassoulet or Chez Emile to savor an authentic version of this iconic dish.
Must-Try!
Fénétra is a savory quiche-like pie filled with Swiss chard, cream, and bacon, baked in a flaky pastry crust. Visit Le Genty Magre for a delectable rendition of this traditional Toulousain specialty.
This delicate violet-flavored candy is a unique local treat. You can find these sugary delights at various confectionery shops in the city, such as Les Vergers de Laubaret.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Toulouse better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
One of the most famous markets in Toulouse, Marché Victor Hugo is a paradise for food lovers. Explore an array of fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, charcuterie, and other local delicacies. Don't miss the opportunity to sample freshly prepared street food, including savory crepes and artisanal chocolates.
This vibrant open-air market is perfect for indulging in regional street food offerings. Enjoy an assortment of food stalls serving Toulousain favorites like grilled sausage sandwiches, crispy fritters, and freshly baked pastries.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Toulouse, it's customary to greet people with a handshake, especially in formal settings. For friends and acquaintances, a kiss on the cheek (known as la bise) is a common way to greet each other.
When dining in Toulouse, it's important to wait until the host gestures for you to start eating. Additionally, it's polite to keep your hands on the table, rather than on your lap, during the meal.
French people value their personal space, so it's polite to maintain a certain distance when engaging in conversation. It's also common to use formal titles like 'Monsieur' and 'Madame' when addressing people, especially in initial interactions.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Toulouse with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Toulouse
Ensure a smooth experience
In Toulouse, France, tipping is not obligatory as a service charge is usually included in the bill at restaurants and cafes. However, leaving a small amount as a gesture of satisfaction is appreciated, typically rounding up to the nearest euro or leaving 5-10% of the total bill.
In Toulouse, France, cash is widely accepted, but credit and debit cards are also commonly used for most transactions. Contactless payments are increasingly popular, and major credit cards like Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted. It's advisable to carry some cash for smaller purchases and businesses that may not accept cards.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Toulouse.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Toulouse, with mild temperatures and blooming flowers. Expect outdoor events and festivals, such as the Toulouse International Art Festival.
Warm and sunny weather, perfect for exploring the city's outdoor attractions. Expect lively street markets and open-air concerts.
Cooler temperatures and fewer tourists, making it a great time to visit Toulouse's museums and historic sites. Expect harvest festivals and food markets featuring regional specialties.
Cool and occasionally rainy weather, but with fewer crowds and lower prices. Expect traditional Christmas markets and seasonal decorations throughout the city.
Toulouse at Night
Hiking in Toulouse
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A beautiful range of hills located to the east of Toulouse, perfect for hiking with various trails offering breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.
Located about 1.5 hours from Toulouse, these mountains provide numerous hiking paths ranging from easy walks to challenging climbs, famous for their stunning landscapes.
A scenic area along the Garonne river with well-marked hiking trails, suitable for walkers of all levels and ideal for enjoying nature and bird watching.
A must-visit destination for hikers, offering several trails with spectacular panoramic views from the summit, accessible via cable car.
Located just outside Toulouse, this forest features marked hiking trails through lush nature, ideal for a quick getaway and family-friendly walks.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Toulouse through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Toulouse by plane.
The main airport serving Toulouse, located approximately 7 km from the city center.
Major international airport located in Barcelona, Spain, approximately 250 km from Toulouse.
International airport serving Montpellier, France, located about 170 km from Toulouse.
International airport located in Biarritz, France, approximately 190 km from Toulouse.
Regional airport serving NĂźmes, France, located around 140 km from Toulouse.
Airport serving Carcassonne, France, located about 90 km from Toulouse.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority population, native and descendants of the original inhabitants of France.
People from North Africa, particularly Algeria, Morocco, and Tunisia, making up a significant portion of the immigrant population.
Individuals originating from countries south of the Sahara Desert, representing a diverse range of ethnicities.
Residents from other European countries, including Spain, Portugal, Italy, and Eastern European nations.
A growing demographic group comprising people from various Asian countries, including Vietnam, China, and India.
Individuals from the Caribbean, including those from French overseas territories.
Various other minorities and expatriate communities living in Toulouse.
The Soul of Toulouse
Discover the essence of Toulouse through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Rugby is one of the most popular sports in Toulouse, with the city being home to the Toulouse Olympique and Stade Toulousain, both of which have a rich history and a strong following.
Football enjoys significant popularity in Toulouse, with Toulouse FC being the main professional team representing the city in Ligue 1.
Basketball is also quite popular in Toulouse, with the city hosting the professional team, Toulouse MĂ©tropole Basket, and various local clubs.
Tennis is favored by many residents of Toulouse, supported by numerous clubs and facilities throughout the city.
Cycling is a popular activity given the picturesque surroundings and a number of routes available for recreational and competitive cycling.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Toulouse.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants and cafes in Toulouse offer a diverse selection of vegetarian and vegan dishes. Le Bon Vivre, Flavour Kitchen, and Copper Branch are among the establishments known for their delectable plant-based offerings.
Visitors with gluten intolerance can relish a range of gluten-free delicacies at dedicated venues in Toulouse. Lou Calel, La Plantxa, and Yaai Thai are acclaimed for their scrumptious gluten-free options.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Toulouse with these cultural adventures.
