If you’re planning a trip to France, Toulouse is an amazing city to explore. I spent a week here solo and loved it. I share my tips and recommendations for Toulouse below.
If you don’t have time to read the whole article and are wondering “Is Toulouse worth visiting?” Yes! It’s safe, it’s walkable and it’s incredibly pretty (especially if you like the colour pink!)
Is Toulouse Worth Visiting?
Toulouse is a great city to visit for a weekend break so you’d want to stay for at least 3 nights. This gives you enough time to wander around the old town, visit some museums and take in all of the stunning pink architecture. I stayed here for 5 nights but I was also working online during the week here.
is Toulouse Safe?
Toulouse has been ranked as the second safest city in France by the website Numbeo, and the general consensus from expats is that it’s a safe city. As with anywhere, you should always take precautions such as walking alone at night (including by the canal) and avoiding any dark alleyways but overall Toulouse is a very safe place to visit.
About The City of Toulouse
Toulouse, with its rich history spanning over 2,000 years, is a French city of heritage, art, and culture. Renowned for its stunning architecture, world-class museums, and culinary scene, Toulouse is the fourth largest city in France and is affectionately known as “La Ville Rose” (The Pink City) due to its pink-coloured buildings and facades.
Located in the south of France on the banks of the Garonne, the well-preserved city centre is a blend of modern and Renaissance influences. Toulouse also boasts a lively nightlife, making it an ideal destination for a long weekend. If you love art, history, food or just want to see some architecture that’s pink, Toulouse is definitely worth visiting and here’s why.
Must-See Sites and Attractions in Toulouse
From incredible architecture and world-class museums, to delicious food and lively nightlife, here are some of my recommended things to do in this charming city.
Tip – Like most other cities, Toulouse does have a city card. It gives free entrance to museums and 10 trips on local transport. It’s valid for 3 days from when you first use it. * Check Toulouse city card
Capitole Building
The majestic Capitole building is the heartbeat of Toulouse and one of its biggest tourist attractions. Originally constructed in 1190 and significantly renovated in the 18th century, the building features a neoclassical architectural style. The beautiful Cour Henri IV, the opulent Salle des Illustres, and the grand staircase will take your breath away. The Capitole building also houses the Town Hall and the Théâtre du Capitole, where you can watch an opera or ballet performance.
Basilique Saint-Sernin
Just a quick walk from the busy Capitole, you’ll discover the peaceful Basilique Saint-Sernin, built in the 11th century. This medieval church is famous for its tall tower that you can see from different parts of the city and is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Inside, it might look simple, but the high ceilings and decorated pillars are really impressive examples of Roman-style architecture. It’s definitely worth visiting if you’re exploring Toulouse.
Couvent des Jacobins
The Couvent des Jacobins, originally a 13th-century monastery, has been transformed into a multifaceted complex. It now includes a church, museum, refectory, bell tower, and lush gardens. Inside, it is simple yet peaceful, with cloisters featuring colonnaded arcades and stained glass windows that shouldn’t be missed. Concerts also take place here occasionally. While the church is free to enter, you’ll need tickets for the museum and other areas.
Aeroscopia
If you love aviation, Toulouse has a rich aviation history. Toulouse has spearheaded the development of aviation in the whole of France and they have set up two full fledged museums dedicated to it. One of these is Aeroscopia, spread across a large 7,000 square meter area. Inside, you can learn all about how planes and their engines are made. They’ve got a mix of old and new airplane models to check out, and there’s lots of interesting info on the walls to read too.
L’Envol des Pionniers
The second museum is L’Envol des Pionniers. Similar to the Aeroscopia museum, it offers insights into the history of Toulouse’s airmail. L’Envol des Pionniers boasts a rich collection of historical artifacts, photos, posters, as well as planes and their engines.
The Bemberg Foundation
The Bemberg Foundation is a well-known museum in Toulouse, France. It has a large collection of art that includes paintings by famous artists like Monet, Boudin, and Matisse. Besides paintings, you can see beautiful old furniture, books, ornaments, and more. The museum is housed in a stunning 16th-century building called Hotel d’Assezat, which is a sight worth seeing on its own.
Les Abbatoirs Museum
The Les Abbatoirs Museum in Toulouse is all about modern and contemporary art. It used to be a slaughterhouse but was changed into a place for art. Inside, you’ll find cool new artworks and installations spread out over four floors. The art here is very modern, but it still connects to Toulouse’s culture and history. You can also check out their bookstore and library, and grab a bite to eat at their restaurant, which is open until 6 pm. Outside, there’s a nice courtyard and gardens where you can relax after exploring the museum.
Musée des Augustins
This museum is dedicated to fine arts and sculptures and is a wonderful place for art lovers with beautiful paintings and sculptures. The museum is in an old building that adds to its charm. It’s definitely worth a visit if you’re interested in art.
La Cinémathèque
La Cinémathèque is the perfect place to know more about French Cinema. They have exhibitions now and then. Plus they have a library and educational materials for the visitors to explore. Language can be a bit of an issue but if you have some knowledge of French or maybe want to know more about French Cinema, this place is recommended. * Check out their full programming here
Japanese Gardens
Who says Toulouse is all French? Experience some Japanese culture in Toulouse at the Japanese gardens or as the French call it: Le Jardin Japonais. Located inside Compans-Caffarelli park, it is a beautiful garden, complete with a tranquil koi pond with fishes and exotic plants. Also you will come across a cute little red arched bridge. Besides that there is a stone garden and tea pavilion. If you happen to be in Toulouse in the months of March to April, you might spot some beautiful cherry blossoms too.
Visit the Saint Cyprien district
Just across the Garonne River is the beautiful boho Saint Cyprien district. The main attraction here is the Les Abbatoirs Museum. Besides that there is the Church of Saint-Nicholas, the Church of the Sacred Heart, Garonne theatre and the Rapas cemetery which is the oldest cemetery in Toulouse. Saint Cyprien is a lively atmosphere with trendy boutiques, African supermarkets, and street artists selling their artwork. It’s ideal if you’re seeking a blend of art, history, and local charm.
Or immerse yourself in 18th century Toulouse on a guided tour with a local guide. Explore the refined and elegant Saint Etienne district, discover secret squares, learn about 18th-century fashion, and hear intriguing stories of Toulouse high society. Highlights include Saint Etienne Cathedral, the former archiepiscopal palace, and Mage Square. * Check rates & availability for 18th century Toulouse tour
Walk Along The Canal
If you’re looking for a relaxing way to spend an afternoon, then why not take a stroll along Canal du Midi? The canal’s length is 240 kms and that entire length is a UNESCO protected area. The banks are lined with trees and there’s plenty of places to sit and relax. You can also hire boats to take you on a journey down the canal, or if you’re feeling adventurous you can try your hand at one of the many water sports that are available.
Go Shopping
Toulouse is a great place to shop with its mix of fancy boutiques and charming local stores. You can pick up affordable paintings from street artists and try delicious violet-flavored sweets, a local specialty. Don’t miss the lively food markets, especially the organic produce at Place Saint-Aubin on Sundays. On Fridays, head to Place du Ravelin for a car boot sale where you might discover unique antiques at good prices.
Try Toulouse Cuisine
Toulouse cuisine has something for everyone, whether you are non-vegetarian or vegetarian but Toulouse cuisine is definitely not light on the stomach. Some of the dishes you can try are Duck confit, French Cassoulet, Toulouse sausage, and Poulet à la Toulousaine. In the sweet category, there’s fénétra, a cake dating back to the Roman Empire. Try the local cuisine on a Toulouse food tour.
For the wine lovers, make sure to try La Négrette, a specialty of the region around Toulouse. It has notes of spices, blackberries, and violet. And because it’s a red wine, you can find some grilled meats or soft cheese to pair it with too. Or take a wine tour to learn more about the wines in the region.
Toulouse Tours
Get Your Guide is a great platform that uses local tour companies in Toulouse. You can choose from a Toulouse bus or tuk tuk tour, experience the food and history on a tour or see the area of Cite De L’espace. Some of the tours require a minimum of 2 people but there are plenty to book as a solo including day trips and it’s really simple to use. Just check the reviews, price and availability then book online. * Check rates and availability for all Toulouse tours
Experience Toulouse at Night
Although it is an old city, Toulouse comes alive after dark, with plenty of bars, restaurants and nightclubs to choose from. If you’re looking for a more cultural experience then spend an evening in the theatre or cinema instead. There are also some great pubs and clubs which offer live music on weekends, so don’t forget your dancing shoes!
The Fat Cat is a well-known cocktail bar in Toulouse with good reviews. Or head to The Four Monkeys, another cocktail bar known for its creative drinks. Moloka is another bar in Toulouse that is popular for its ambiance. For the beer lovers there is ‘Frog and Rosbif’, a microbrewery serving fresh beer, or Les Breughel, which is known for its Belgian beer selection.
If you love clubbing you can dance the night away at La Dynamo, a nightclub with two bars, a dance floor and live bands. La Dynamo is a big crowd puller and ambience is terrific for lively women, but it can get a bit too much sometimes if it gets overcrowded.
Best Areas To Stay in Toulouse
You’ll find loads of studios and one-bedroom apartments in Toulouse, perfect if you fancy cooking your own meals. If you’re on a budget, there are hostels too, along with hotels and guest houses.
If you’re unsure where to stay in Toulouse, Place Wilson is an area buzzing with life. Shops, restaurants, and cafés are everywhere, and it’s in the centre, so getting around is easy. Or Place du Capitole which is the heart of Toulouse. You’ll be right by major attractions like the Capitole de Toulouse, with its stunning architecture and lively square.
I stayed in the Marengo Jolimont area, in an Airbnb, just a 15-minute walk across the bridge. Other great areas to consider are: Pont Neuf Bridge and the Garonne River. This historic bridge is a lovely spot. Nearby areas like Saint-Cyprien and Les Amidonniers offer a homey feel but are still close to the city centre. Staying near the river gives you beautiful views and a quieter atmosphere
Below are my recommendations on where to stay in Toulouse depending on your budget. For all other accommodation, click on the link and read the reviews to help you to decide. * Check rates & availability for all Toulouse accommodation
Eklo Toulouse – $
If you’re looking for a budget option, Eklo Toulouse is a good hostel with a bar, restaurant, shared kitchen and space to work on your laptop. The beds have curtains and a plug to charge your phone and they have a female-only room too. It is quite far from the centre so expect to take a 20 minute tram ride to get there. * Check rates & availability: Eklo Toulouse
La Galerie – $$
This guest house is only a few stops on the metro. Each room has lots of light and a balcony or terrace. There’s an outdoor swimming pool, a coffee machine in your room and breakfast included. Plus, the staff are really friendly. * Check rates & availability: La Galerie
L’elegant – Coeur de Toulouse – $$$
For a one-bedroom apartment, L’elegant – Coeur de Toulouse is just 100 metres away from the city centre. This apartment is really quiet and comes with a private check in and check out. Plus there’s security all day too. There’s a mini market nearby too. * Check rates & availability: L’elegant
Getting Around Toulouse
On Foot: Wander through narrow, cobbled streets lined with rosy-hued buildings. Enjoy cosy cafés, bustling markets, and stunning architecture. Don’t miss strolling along the Garonne River at sunset.
Public Transport: Toulouse’s public transport system is excellent. The metro’s two main lines (A and B) zip you around quickly. Trams and buses connect even the far corners. Get a Tisséo travel card for unlimited rides.
Cycling: Toulouse is bike-friendly with many cycle paths and bike rental stations. VélÔToulouse, the city’s bike-sharing scheme, is fantastic. Pedal through parks, squares, and historic sites.
You don’t need to hire a car here as it’s easy to get around Toulouse either on foot or with public transport. There are electric scooters here so you can download the Lime or Bird app, then just scan, unlock, and go. If you do hire a car for a day trip, there are park-and-ride options at metro stations to help you avoid the traffic in the city centres.
Day Trips from Toulouse
Day trip to Albi – Albi is a beautiful town just an hour’s drive from Toulouse. Its main attractions include the impressive Sainte-Cécile Cathedral, known for its stunning architecture inside and out. Nearby, you can enjoy scenic views of the Tarn River from Les Jardins de la Berbie. Don’t miss the Palais de la Berbie, where you can explore the Toulouse-Lautrec Museum, dedicated to the famous painter. There’s also the Laperouse Museum and the Museum de la Mode to discover. * Check rates & availability for Albi day tour
Day trip to Carcassonne – Carcassonne, just an hour’s drive or 30 minutes by train from Toulouse, is an ancient city renowned for its 13th-century fortress. Here you can see Chateau Comtal, the Church of Saint Nazaire, and the impressive fortress itself. There’s also Cavayere Lake nearby too. As well as its historical charm, Carcassonne is vibrant at night with numerous bars and restaurants open late into the evening, making it perfect to enjoy a wine before heading back to Toulouse. * Check rates & availability for Carcassone day tour
Languedoc – Languedoc’s vineyards are located approximately 2.5 hours away by road from Toulouse. This region is renowned for its diverse reds, whites, rosés, and sparkling wines. You can delve into the state-of-the-art techniques in wine production on guided tours through the expansive 270-acre vineyards. Don’t miss the chance to indulge in the quintessential Languedoc experience with a wine tasting session when you’re there! * Check rates & availability for Languedoc tour
Getting To Toulouse
To and from the airport – Toulouse Airport (TLS) is well connected to the city. To reach the main city, there is the option of taking either a taxis, shuttle buse, or tram. Whatever transportation option you take, you will generally reach the main city within 20-40 minutes. But you could be waiting up to 20 minutes, especially during off-peak hours. The tram doesn’t operate 24/7 either. Rome2Rio is a great resource for planning your journey.
When To Visit Toulouse
Toulouse has a Mediterranean climate, making spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October) ideal weather-wise. These seasons have mild temperatures and fewer crowds compared to the peak summer months of July and August. Spring and autumn also coincide with various cultural events such as the Toulouse International Art Festival in May and the Rio Loco Festival in June.
Is you’re still wondering “Is Toulouse worth visiting?” I hope that this article has made you see that it definitely is. It’s one of my favourite places in France and is definitely worth a visit. If you’re planning on travelling onwards afterwards, these guides below can help.
More reading on France
- Solo Travel in France
- Solo Travel in Paris
- Ardeche Adventure
- Uzes, France
- Things To Do in France in The Winter
