Ultimate Guide to Exploring Toulouse

Steeped in history, yet hip and lively, enchanting Toulouse is one of France’s most beautiful cities. Known as the Ville Rose (the ‘Red City’), the capital of western Languedoc-Roussillon is an attractive place to visit. Moreover, with wonderful shopping options and exceptional cuisine that is among France’s most memorable, Toulouse is a great destination that shouldn’t be missed.

The city’s Capitole building, adorned with the characteristic pink stone of Toulouse’s buildings, along with the capital square, serves as a bustling hub of activity. Cafés and shops line the perimeter, and a massive market takes place here every Wednesday, adding to the vibrant atmosphere. Consequently, Toulouse is recognized as France’s fifth-largest city and is considered one of the best places to live in the country.

Some of France’s finest cities and attractions are only a short distance away from Toulouse, making it a central point between the Mediterranean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean. The Pyrenees, as well as Spain and Andorra, are in close proximity.

Toulouse Tourist Office
Square Charles de Gaulle
Tel.: 00 33 (0)5 61 11 02 22
Website

Getting There

Toulouse is served by Aéroport Toulouse Blagnac. Unfortunately, there are no direct flights from the USA; however, many travelers will need to transit through Paris or Madrid. Additionally, several European airlines, including Air France, British Airways, and Lufthansa, connect to Toulouse through their respective home countries.

If preferred, travelers can also fly into a major European city like Paris and then take a train to Toulouse, which can be a convenient option.

Getting Around

Toulouse and its surrounding areas are well served by an efficient public Metro transportation system. This system makes it easy to reach or get close to virtually any destination within the city. Furthermore, Toulouse is an ideal city to explore on foot, offering opportunities for leisurely strolls while soaking in the local ambiance.

Top Toulouse Attractions

• The Capitole: Undoubtedly, this is the city’s main attraction, characterized by impressive architecture and a striking pink facade.
• La Cathédrale Saint-Etienne: This cathedral presents an intriguing blend of architectural styles spanning five centuries.
• La Cité de l’Espace: An homage to Toulouse’s significance as a major aerospace center in Europe, this attraction is essential for science and space enthusiasts.
• Experience the city from a different perspective with Toulouse Croisières, offering tourist boat trips along the picturesque Garonne River.

Day Trips from Toulouse

The day trip options from Toulouse are diverse, and each destination is worthy of exploration. Here are a few suggestions:

• Bordeaux: A lively city that features shops and significant historic attractions, approximately two hours away by train and nestled in wine country.
• Carcassonne: Known for its entirely fortified medieval city, La Cité, this destination is just 45 minutes away by train.
• Montségur: A locale beloved by Cathar history enthusiasts and hikers, Montségur is reachable by car in about one and a half hours.
• To the northeast lies Albi: Home to a remarkable episcopal center, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and known as the hometown of the notorious painter, Toulouse-Lautrec.

Where to Stay in Toulouse

• The Crowne Plaza: Situated at a prestigious Place du Capitole address, this centrally located hotel offers excellent amenities, including high-speed Internet access.
• Grand Hotel de l’Opéra: A converted 17th-century convent, this hotel boasts amazing rooms and a delightful restaurant. The central address at 1, Place du Capitole makes it ideal for guests.

Edited by Mary Anne Evans