What is there to do in Toulouse?

Situated in the centre of Southern France, the city of Toulouse boasts a vast range of activities that any type of traveler will be able to find something to their liking. Whether you’re looking for beautiful architecture, excellent food and drink, or exciting things to do, Toulouse has it all.

Soaking Up the History

Toulouse is a city full of history, with traces of its past reaching all the way back to the 4th century BC. Some of the city’s oldest monuments are some of its most beautiful, including the former residence of the Counts of Toulouse, the magnificent Basilica of St. Sernin and the neoclassical Opera House. For history buffs, the city offers a plethora of museums and galleries unrivalled in Southern France. These include the Musée des Augustins, which houses an impressive collection of Romanesque and Gothic sculpture, the Musée des Beaux-Arts de Toulouse, the municipal museum with works from the Middle Ages to the twentieth century, and the Galerie des Beaux-Arts, with its collection from modern and contemporary art.

A Gastronomic Treat

Toulouse is a very gastronomic city, with a thriving food and drink scene and a wide range of restaurants serving up some of the best dishes in France. The city is renowned for its cassoulet – a rich white bean and meat stew – which is thought to have originated in Toulouse in the Middle Ages. Other local dishes include duck sausage (Toulouse sausage), wild garlic pastry and Toulouse ham. If you’re after something sweet, opt for a visit to one of the many patisseries to buy some traditional pastries and cakes. The city also offers plenty of craft breweries to sample some local beer specialties and nearby vineyards for visitors to enjoy a great selection of French wines.

Fun for All Ages

Toulouse has plenty of attractions suitable for children, such as amusement parks, ecological farms, petting zoos, water parks and small zoos. For older kids and adults, there are plenty of sports activities such as rock-climbing, mountain-biking, sailing or kayaking on one of the many canals in the area. The city is also known for its vibrant nightlife, which offers a wide range of clubs, bars and pubs. Plus, you can always join a Toulouse Pub Crawl Tour with A Guide for guaranteed fun and memories for years to come!

Festivals and Events

Toulouse is well known for its vibrant festival season that kicks off in April with the Festival des Cuivres (Festival of Brass). From May onwards, visitors can enjoy the Fazy Horse Festival, which features shows with horses and riders from around the world. In June there is the festival MUSEATOULOUSE that takes place in different locations throughout the city. July brings with it concerts ranging from classical to hip hop as well as food markets such as La Serre Market. In autumn there is the Toulouse Jazz Festival and October sees crowds gather for We Are The Future: an event dedicated to electronic music. Finally in December no visit to Toulouse would be complete without taking part in their excellent Christmas Market.

All in all, there really is something for everyone in Toulouse! Whether you’re after a relaxed getaway or an action-packed holiday full of food, fun and culture, the city has so much on offer to make sure any stay there is truly memorable. So why not get out and explore what Toulouse has to offer today?

An Insider’s Guide to Toulouse: What to Do, See, and Experience

Welcome to Toulouse, the fourth-largest city in France and the heart of the Occitanie region. This beautiful city, also known as the “Pink City” due to the pinkish hue of its buildings, is home to a rich history, culture and culinary scene. From the ancient medieval architecture, museums and art galleries to gastronomic delights and plenty of outdoor activities, Toulouse has something to offer for every traveler. In this insider’s guide, we’ll show you our favorite attractions and experiences in Toulouse.

Discover Toulouse’s Historic Sites

Toulouse has a rich history dating back over 2,000 years. Begin your journey by exploring some of its historic sites.

First on the list is the Basilica of Saint-Sernin, an impressive Romanesque church built in the 11th century and listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Take a guided tour or simply admire the architecture and intricate design of the building.

Next, visit the Capitole de Toulouse, a neoclassical building that houses the city hall and also serves as an opera house. Its majestic façade and interior are a sight to behold.

No visit to Toulouse is complete without a trip to the impressive Musée des Augustins. This former convent houses a vast collection of medieval sculptures and paintings, including works by Rubens and Toulouse-Lautrec.

Indulge in Toulouse’s Culinary Delights

Toulouse is known for its gastronomic delights, including cassoulet, a stew of duck confit, sausage, and white beans. Head to one of the many restaurants in the city and savor this delicious dish, paired with a glass of local wine.

For a more casual dining experience, visit one of the many local markets such as Marché Victor Hugo, Marché des Carmes or Marché Saint-Cyprien where you can find fresh produce, cheeses, bread, and cured meats.

Finally, end your culinary adventure with a trip to one of the many pastry shops in Toulouse such as Maison Beauhaire or La Pâtisserie des Rêves. Try a traditional Toulouse cake, a specialty pastry made with candied fruit and marzipan.

Experience the Cultural Side of Toulouse

Toulouse has a thriving arts and cultural scene. Start by visiting the Musée des Abattoirs, a contemporary art museum that hosts fascinating exhibitions throughout the year.

Head to the Les Jacobins Convent, a former 13th-century Dominican monastery, which is worth a visit for its stunning architecture and cloister.

If you’re a music lover, don’t miss the chance to catch a performance of the Orchestre National du Capitole de Toulouse. This prestigious orchestra has been performing since 1968 and is renowned for its classical repertoire.

Explore the Great Outdoors of Toulouse

Toulouse has plenty of green spaces and outdoor activities. Visit the Jardin des Plantes, a botanical garden that features over 3,000 species of plants. It’s the perfect spot for a picnic or a relaxing stroll.

For a more active adventure, head to the Canal du Midi, a UNESCO World Heritage site where you can rent a bike or take a boat ride along the canal. The river Garonne that flows through the city also offers great recreational opportunities like kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, and boating.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

If you’ve got some extra time, explore Toulouse’s hidden gems. Visit the Musée Georges Labit, a museum of Asian art and artifacts that’s housed in an Oriental-style villa.

For an unforgettable experience, take a trip to Cité de l’Espace, a space museum where you can learn about the history of space exploration, see real rockets and a replica of the International Space Station.

Finally, discover the frescoes at the Chapelle des Carmélites, a hidden gem in the city’s historic center. This 17th-century chapel is home to a breathtaking collection of paintings and artwork.

Conclusion

Toulouse is a wonderful city brimming with history, culture, outdoor spaces, and culinary delights. From exploring the historic sites and museums to indulging in local cuisine, there’s something for everyone in this beautiful city. So pack your bags, book your tickets, and get ready to discover Toulouse, the pink gem of Southern France!