Toulouse, known as the “Pink City” due to its stunning rose-colored brick architecture, is the capital of the Occitanie region in southwestern France. This vibrant and bustling city has a rich history dating back to the Roman times and offers an array of activities for travelers of all interests. Whether you’re a foodie, a history buff or an art enthusiast, Toulouse certainly won’t disappoint. Join us as we explore the best attractions and things to do in this charming French city.

The 3 Best City Walking Tours in Toulouse

1. Lourdes Visit from Toulouse
2. Toulouse Private Guided Walking Tour
3. Toulouse Self Guided Smartphone Scavenger Hunt

The 3 Best City Walking Tours in Toulouse

1. Lourdes Visit from Toulouse

Discover the sanctuaries of Lourdes on a private 8-hour tour from Toulouse. With all-inclusive transportation, you can sit back and relax as you make your way to this top Catholic pilgrimage site. Meet your English-speaking driver at the pickup point and enjoy the convenience of hotel pickup, if possible. Your personalized tour experience includes visits to numerous locations, where Bernadette Soubirous is said to have had visions of the Virgin Mary. With the option to choose from four different languages, you’ll have an immersive tour experience. Spend a quiet day away from the hustle and bustle of Toulouse and explore one of the world’s most important Catholic pilgrimage sites. Admission fees to monuments, museums, and attractions are included in the tour, as well as your personal insurance and expenses. Meals and drinks, however, are not included. Book your Lourdes Visit from Toulouse now and discover the unforgettable sanctuaries of Lourdes.

2. Toulouse Private Guided Walking Tour

Explore the history and cultural heritage of Toulouse on a 2-hour private walking tour led by an expert local guide. Walk through the city’s Old Town and admire some of its beautiful neo-Classical architecture, such as the Basilica of Our Lady of the Daurade located in the Old Town. Outside the district, you’ll find the Basilica of Saint Sernin, a UNESCO World Heritage Site notable for its well-preserved Romanesque architecture. During the tour, you’ll learn more about the Occitan culture as you stroll through the city. The tour includes the guide and any admission fees. Transportation, food and beverages, and gratuities are not included.

3. Toulouse Self Guided Smartphone Scavenger Hunt

Get to know Toulouse at your own pace on this interactive scavenger hunt walking tour played on your phone. Decipher riddles, interact with the most important attractions of the city, and unlock interesting facts and legends. This tour is an ideal outdoor activity for first-time visitors, couples, groups, families, and children. It can also be used as a great team-building activity. The tour includes a mobile app and login credentials for a self-guided scavenger hunt tour with navigation. Enjoy the tour while still practicing social distancing. Entrance fees and transportation are not included. Please note that this tour is not suitable for people with mobility impairments. Discover Toulouse solving riddles and puzzles, learn about the city and find hidden gems, and get plenty of time to take beautiful photos.

Top 10 Frequently Asked Questions about Toulouse

Are you planning a trip to Toulouse and do you have questions about the city? Do not worry. This article should answer all the frequently asked questions visitors have about Toulouse.

1. Where is Toulouse located?

Toulouse is located in the South-West of France, in the Occitanie region. It is the fourth largest city in France.

2. What is the best time to visit Toulouse?

The best time to travel to Toulouse is between April and June or from September to November. These periods are known for their pleasant weather, and there are fewer tourists. The high season in Toulouse is during July and August, when it can get very hot and crowded.

3. How do I get to Toulouse?

Toulouse has an international airport, which has direct flights to many European cities. You can also travel to Toulouse by train from other French and European cities. If you are driving, Toulouse is connected to many highways.

4. What are the must-see attractions in Toulouse?

Toulouse is a beautiful city with many attractions. The most famous ones are:

• The Capitole de Toulouse
• The Basilica of Saint Sernin
• The Cité de l’espace, a space theme park
• The Musée des Augustins, an art museum
• The Canal du Midi

5. What are some local specialties in Toulouse?

Toulouse is known for its delicious cuisine. The best-known specialties are:

• Cassoulet, a dish made of white beans and various meats
• Foie gras, a delicacy made from the liver of fattened ducks or geese
• Toulouse sausage, a pork sausage spiced with garlic and red wine
• Croustade, a flaky pastry filled with apples, prunes or other fruit

6. What is the currency used in Toulouse?

France is part of the European Union, and the currency used in Toulouse is the Euro.

7. What language is spoken in Toulouse?

The official language of Toulouse is French. However, many locals also speak Occitan, a regional language.

8. Is it easy to get around in Toulouse?

Toulouse has an extensive public transportation system that includes buses, trams, and metro. Taxis are also available. If you prefer to walk, Toulouse is a very walkable city, and you will be able to explore most of the city’s attractions on foot.

9. What is the weather like in Toulouse?

Toulouse has a Mediterranean climate, which means mild winters and hot summers. The average temperature during winter is around 10°C, while during summer, it can reach 30°C.

10. What are some off-the-beaten-path attractions in Toulouse?

If you have already visited Toulouse and are looking for some less well-known attractions, we recommend:

• The Musée Georges-Labit, an Asian art museum
• The Jardin des Plantes, a botanical garden
• The Musée du Vieux Toulouse, a museum of Toulouse’s history
• The Garonne River, which offers beautiful views of the city

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Toulouse

Toulouse, also known as the Pink City, is a destination that attracts tourists all year round. Whether you are a first-time visitor or a frequent traveler, this city in southern France has something for everyone. From its rich history and culture to its delicious food and wine, Toulouse has it all. In this guide, we will walk you through how to spend your time as a tourist in Toulouse.

1. Discover the City’s History and Culture

Toulouse has a rich history and culture that dates back to Roman times. To get a glimpse of the city’s past and its fascinating architecture, you can visit its many historic buildings and monuments, such as:

a. The Capitole

Located in the heart of Toulouse, the Capitole is a stunning building that houses the city hall and the Opera House. It is a beautiful example of Neoclassical architecture and boasts an impressive façade, adorned with eight pink marble columns.

b. The Saint Sernin Basilica

The Saint Sernin Basilica is one of the largest Romanesque churches in Europe and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is an impressive building with a magnificent bell tower and beautiful stained glass windows. The basilica also houses some of the finest examples of Romanesque sculpture in Europe.

c. The Jacobins Cloister

The Jacobins Cloister is one of the most beautiful examples of southern Gothic architecture in Europe. The highlight of the cloister is its palm tree-shaped columns, which are carved from pink marble.

2. Experience the Local Cuisine

French cuisine is renowned all over the world, and Toulouse is no exception. If you are a foodie, you will love the hearty dishes that are typical of the region. Here are some must-try dishes and places to eat when in Toulouse:

a. Cassoulet

Cassoulet is a hearty meal made with white beans, pork, sausage, and duck or goose confit. It is a Toulouse specialty and can be found in almost every restaurant in the city.

b. Les Jardins de l’Opéra

Les Jardins de l’Opéra is a charming restaurant in the city center that serves traditional Toulouse cuisine. The restaurant is known for its cassoulet, foie gras, and other local specialties.

c. La Maison de la Violette

La Maison de la Violette is a tea room that serves delicious violet-flavored treats. The violet is a symbol of Toulouse, and this tea room pays homage to the flower by using it in cakes, pastries, and even macarons.

3. Go Shopping

Toulouse is a shopper’s paradise, with a wide variety of stores and markets catering to all tastes and budgets. Here are some of the best places to shop in Toulouse:

a. Victor Hugo Market

Victor Hugo Market is a covered market that sells fresh produce, meat, cheese, and seafood. It is open every day except Monday, and is a great place to stock up on supplies for a picnic or a home-cooked meal.

b. Rue Saint-Rome

Rue Saint-Rome is a pedestrian street in the city center that is lined with shops and boutiques. It is a great place to find clothing, accessories, and souvenirs.

c. Galeries Lafayette

Galeries Lafayette is a high-end department store that sells designer clothing, cosmetics, and accessories. It is the perfect place to indulge in a little luxury shopping.

4. Enjoy the Nightlife

Toulouse comes alive at night, with a vibrant nightlife scene that caters to all tastes. Here are some of the best places to enjoy the city’s nightlife:

a. Le Bikini

Le Bikini is a concert venue that hosts a wide variety of live music acts, from rock and pop to hip hop and electronic. It is a great place to dance the night away and discover new artists.

b. Bar l’heure du Singe

Bar l’heure du Singe is a cozy bar that serves delicious cocktails and wine. It has a relaxed atmosphere and is a great place to unwind after a long day of sightseeing.

c. Le Ravelin

Le Ravelin is a nightclub that plays a mix of electronic and pop music. It has a spacious dance floor and a lively crowd, making it the perfect place to party until the early hours of the morning.

Book Your Tour Now

Toulouse is a fascinating city with a rich history and culture, delicious food and wine, great shopping, and a vibrant nightlife scene. With this guide, you now know how to spend your time as a tourist in Toulouse, and you are ready to explore everything the Pink City has to offer.