Guide to Exploring Toulouse, France

Toulouse is the fourth largest city and the capital of the French Midi-Pyrénées region. Located along the Garonne River, near the Spanish border and in the foothills of the Pyrenees Mountains, this is a city with a lot to offer.

Things to Do and See in Toulouse

If you’re planning on visiting Toulouse then here are some of the attractions that you must check out:

• Cité de l’Espace: France’s version of Kennedy Space Center, this awesome attraction is sure to please science and space fanatics, boasting an impressive array of exhibitions, interactive shows and activities designed to keep the whole family entertained.
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• Basilique Saint-Sernin: This beautiful basilica is one of the largest Romanesque churches in Europe and is filled with impressive religious artwork. It’s definitely worth at least a quick visit.
• Pont Neuf: One of Toulouse’s oldest bridges, Pont Neuf was built in 1632 and is definitely worth admiring (from a distance!), with its intricate stone reliefs and statues.
• Jardin des Plantes: This large botanical garden is more than just greenery – it also features a top-notch zoo and an impressive list of activities to keep visitors entertained.
• Musée des Augustins: This museum houses an impressive collection of religious sculptures, Renaissance paintings and more, all housed in an old 13th century monastery.
• Jardin Japonais: This surprisingly techy Japanese Garden has been made with computer-designed waterways and bridges and is full of surprises, making it a great spot for a peaceful day trip.
• Place du Capitole: Situated in the heart of Toulouse, this large square is surrounded by a vast array of shops and galleries, making it a great destination for an afternoon of strolling around.

What to Eat in Toulouse

When it comes to food, Toulouse truly has something for every palate. The city boasts a number of excellent restaurants serving up classic French dishes as well as cuisines from around the world. Here are some of the local specialities that no trip to the city would be complete without:

• Cassoulet: Originating from the Southwest of France, cassoulet is a slow-cooked dish with white beans, pork, sausage and duck confit.
• Mique: Another classic from the region, mique is a type of flatbread made from beer dough, encrusted with walnuts.
• Gascon Sausages: This local delicacy is made with fresh pork and a blend of herbs such as thyme, garlic and rosemary.
• Tandoori Lamb: Locally sourced lamb is cut into cubes, skewered and cooked over coals then served with a zesty tamarind glaze.
• Tournedos Rossini: This classic French steak dish is served with truffle emulsion, foie gras and brioche croutons.
• Magret de Canard: Slow-roasted duck breast served with a speciality classic French sauces such as mustards, fruit preserves or chutneys.

Conclusion

As you can see there’s an abundance of things to do and eat in Toulouse. Whether you’re visiting for pleasure or business, this vibrant city is sure to provide you with an unforgettable experience. Don’t forget to check out some of the local markets where you can pick up fresh ingredients and local delicacies. Bon voyage!

Insider’s Guide to Exploring Toulouse, France

Welcome to Toulouse, the capital of the Occitanie region in southern France and a city renowned for its art, culture, and cuisine. From the pink-hued façades to the winding alleyways and charming cafes, Toulouse offers an immersive tourist experience that caters to multiple interests, age groups, and travel budgets. Here’s your comprehensive guide to exploring Toulouse!

Local Attractions

Toulouse’s landmarks showcase its captivating architecture, ancient history, and artistic flair. Here are some must-visit attractions:

• Space City – An interactive museum dedicated to space exploration, with life-sized models of spacecraft, a planetarium, and interactive exhibits.
• Capitol Square – The grandest square in Toulouse, home to the 18th-century Capitole building and its stunning Neo-Classical façade.
• Basilica of Saint-Sernin – A UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the finest examples of Romanesque architecture in France, this church dates back to the 11th century.
• Jardin des Plantes – A beautiful public park with numerous specimens of plants from around the world, greenhouses, and a mini-zoo.
• Pont Neuf – Toulouse’s most famous bridge spanning the River Garonne for more than 400 years, featuring stunning views of the riverbanks and the city.

Dining Spots

Toulouse proudly boasts of its gastronomic heritage, with blended regional influences and fresh, seasonal ingredients. Here are some dining spots that are a must-visit:

• Chez Emile – A quaint eatery that serves traditional Southwestern French cuisine, including cassoulet, charcuterie, and Toulouse sausage.
• Le 9 Restaurant – This establishment offers a contemporary dining experience with seasonal produce and authentic flavors.
• Le Bibent – A brasserie-style restaurant located in Toulouse’s central market, that serves exquisite seafood and market-fresh produce.
• Café Populaire – A local haunt where you can grab a coffee or a glass of wine and enjoy the convivial atmosphere, with great views of St. Pierre Square.

Cultural Experiences

Toulouse’s diverse cultural attractions add to its charm and unique character. Here are a few cultural experiences you don’t want to miss:

• Saint-Raymond Museum – This museum houses an extensive collection of Roman and Gothic artifacts, including mosaics, sculptures, and sarcophagi.
• Toulouse-Lautrec Museum – The former bishop’s palace has been turned into a museum showcasing the works of the famous painter Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec.
• Fondation Bemberg – A private art museum that displays a vast collection of European art, antique furnishings, tapestries, and rare manuscripts.
• Les Abattoirs Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art – Toulouse’s modern art museum, exhibiting works by famous artists like Picasso, Matisse, and Warhol.

Local History

Toulouse has a rich and intriguing history that dates back to Roman times. Here are some historical attractions to visit:

• The Jacobins – A former 13th-century church and monastery that holds the remains of Thomas Aquinas, where you’ll find the revered palm tree featuring a single root system.
• Rue du Taur – A charming street dating back to medieval times that hosted the Roman capital’s cattle market, and features distinctively shaped houses and intriguing bas-relief sculptures.
• Hotel d’Assezat – A 16th-century mansion that boasts a grandiose entrance, cross-vaulted ceilings, and a vast collection of 19th-century artwork.
• Chateau d’eau – A unique water tower from the 19th century made of brick and tiles, now used to host exhibitions on contemporary art and photography.

Off-the-beaten-path suggestions

For those who like to explore places less frequented by tourists, here are some off-the-beaten-path suggestions:

• Cité de l’Espace Planetarium – A must-visit for space enthusiasts, where you can take a simulated shuttle ride and learn about the planets in our solar system.
• Cycle along the Canal du Midi – Rent a bike and cycle along the picturesque Canal du Midi, with beautiful countryside views and quaint villages along the way.
• Marché Victor Hugo – A food market that offers a variety of local specialties, from snails to truffles, and an atmosphere that buzzes with energy.
• Flea markets – Explore Toulouse’s vast array of vintage art and antiques at the weekend flea markets, such as Pavillon de la Mache and Jardin des Plantes.

Toulouse promises a delightful vacation, offering everything from the quintessential French experience of art to local cuisine, history, and the great outdoors. With this comprehensive guide in hand, you’re sure to explore and experience Toulouse like an insider. Bon voyage!