Are you wondering what to do in Toulouse during your stay? Are you looking for a French city rich in colors, with a beautiful heritage and unusual little corners? Toulouse has everything to seduce you. Nicknamed the “pink city” because of its famous red bricks, it is a very pleasant city to visit and where you will find plenty to keep you occupied. You will have plenty of opportunities to soak up culture, thanks to its rich and varied heritage, not to mention its must-see natural sites and numerous panoramic viewpoints. Set out to discover one of the most beautiful cities in France.
1. Place du Capitole
Place du Capitole is the heart of Toulouse. An emblematic place, it is a landmark for all Toulousains, but also the seat of municipal power for over eight centuries. It is a monument worth visiting, a true architectural treasure housing the town hall, a theater, and also a dungeon dating back to the 16th century. How about strolling through the Arcades of the Capitole while looking up to admire a plethora of artworks? Or would you like to know what it feels like to walk on the 20 tons of bronze that make up the Occitan Cross?
2. Basilica of Saint-Sernin
The Basilica of Saint-Sernin is one of the largest Romanesque churches preserved in Europe. This building is a must-see for anyone visiting Toulouse. Inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List, the basilica holds precious relics of the apostle it is named after. You will find fragments of the Holy Crown, holy objects, and a crypt full of mystery. If you love monuments steeped in history, the Basilica of Saint-Sernin holds an impressive number!
Address: 13 Place Saint-Sernin, 31000 Toulouse
3. Victor Hugo Market
If there is one covered market to visit in Toulouse, it is the Victor Hugo Market. The market is open every day except Monday from 7 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. You will find an unlimited selection of fresh and local products. Over two centuries old, the market allows more than 80 artisans to showcase their specialties to the most curious. It is also an excellent place to taste local products around a table.
Address: Place Victor Hugo, 31400 Toulouse
4. The Banks of the Garonne
If you visit Toulouse, take time to contemplate the fourth largest river in France, around which the city was built. The Garonne originates in Spain, crosses the city of Toulouse, and offers an idyllic setting for anyone who loves nature. Walk along the river to discover the Prairie of Filters or the very popular banks of La Daurade among the Toulousains. You can also admire the view from the Pont-Neuf or the Saint-Pierre bridge.
5. The Canal du Midi
Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site, the Canal du Midi is also one of the oldest functioning canals in Europe. Built during the Reign of Louis XIV, it connects the Mediterranean to the Atlantic via the Garonne, hence its name “canal of the two seas.” You can rent a bike or walk along the greenways of the Canal du Midi. For those who like to live at the water’s pace, cruises are also available at certain times of the year.
6. The Cité de l’Espace
Are you passionate about spacecraft? Toulouse is the European capital of Aeronautics and Space. If you want to go exploring space and discover the mysteries of the universe, the Cité de l’Espace offers 4,000 square meters of exhibitions, an Imax cinema, a planetarium, and 4 hectares of garden.
Address: Avenue Jean Gonord – BP 25855, 31506 Toulouse Cedex 5
7. La Halle de la Machine
In the Montaudran district of Toulouse, come meet the Minotaur. An extraordinary and gigantic machine that carries the bravest on its back for a unique journey on the “Giant’s Track” adjacent to the museum. La Halle de la Machine houses the incredible works of great machinists, which you can admire through various shows and tales of stories and legends.
Address: 3 Avenue de l’Aérodrome de Montaudran, 31400 Toulouse
Beyond Cassoulet and pink bricks, the city of Toulouse offers a rich history and a colorful heritage. It is also renowned for its vibrant student life. Combine unusual visits with great classics to make your time in the city of Toulouse an unforgettable moment.