15 Things to Do in Toulon, France, in 2024

History and Significance: The French Naval Museum in Toulon, France was founded in 1814 and is one of the most important maritime museums in Europe. Located in the heart of Toulon’s naval port, the museum highlights the rich history of the French Navy and naval engineering. Exhibits span naval warfare, ship technology, artillery, navigation, and more.

What to Expect: Visitors can explore several museum ships moored at the quays, including antique galleases and a WWII-era submarine. The museum itself contains intricate ship models, naval instruments, uniforms, paintings, armaments, and interactive exhibits bringing French naval history to life. A “Wall of Commanders” pays tribute to historic French admirals.

Visitor Information: The Naval Museum is open Wednesday-Monday 10am-6pm, closed Tuesdays. Entry is 6 EUR for adults. Guided tours in English available by request. Photography allowed without flash. The museum contains some stairs/ladders to access ships; limited accessibility. Nearby parking available.

As home of the French navy’s Mediterranean fleet, Toulon has an immense naval history showcased at this waterside museum. Wander between former royal sailing ships to modern nuclear submarines learning about key conflicts and advances in naval engineering. Climb aboard the massive aircraft carrier Foch, which transported planes worldwide until its recent retirement. The views across the harbor steal the show.

Ride the Cable Car Up Mont Faron

Name and Location: Mont Faron Cable Car, Toulon, France

History and Significance: The Mont Faron cable car located in Toulon, France is an iconic way to reach the summit of Mont Faron, the 584m hill that overlooks the city and harbor. Opened in 1959, the cable car travels over 1km and ascends 400m up the limestone massif. It provides sweeping views and access to trails.

What to Expect: The 8-10 minute smooth cable car ride transports visitors from the city center up to the military memorials and hiking trails of Mont Faron. Panoramic views unfold of Toulon, the Mediterranean coastline, port, and surrounding mountains. The upper station has a cafe and small museum about the cable car.

Visitor Information: The cable car operates daily from 10am to dusk, running every 15 minutes. Roundtrip fare is 8 EUR for adults. The upper station area closes at 7pm. Last descent is 45 minutes before closing. Wheelchair accessible cabins available. Dogs allowed if carried. Consider moderate fitness for hiking trails.

For spectacular panoramas encompassing Toulon’s surrounding bays and mountains, take a five-minute cable car ride to the peak of Mont Faron. At 584 meters elevation, scenic views stretch from the red-roofed Old Town district to the ocean anchored military ships and cruise liners in the sparkling blue Mediterranean harbor below. Hiking trails lead to a memorial and zoo.

Explore the Old Town (Vieux Toulon)

Name and Location: Vieux Toulon (Old Town), Toulon, France

History and Significance: Vieux Toulon refers to the historic Old Town of Toulon located on the Mediterranean coast of France. It developed in the 16th-18th centuries with a mix of private mansions, public buildings, and military architecture. Its winding pedestrian streets evoke Toulon’s past as an important naval port and military center.

What to Expect: Visitors can stroll atmospheric narrow lanes lined with old stone facades in shades of ochre. Cafes, boutiques, and small museums beckon within historic squares. The Marché Provençal market sells local produce and goods. Military and naval history abounds through sites like the Arsenal Quarter.

Visitor Information: Vieux Toulon has limited vehicle access making it ideal to explore on foot. Guided walking tours available. The area borders the main port so maritime ambiance infuses the streets. Have small change ready to tip street musicians. Stop for a drink at a quintessential French cafe.

With quiet cobblestone lanes weaving between vibrant small squares and old stone buildings in shades of ochre, orange and red clay tile, the Old Town of Toulon transports visitors back to 16th century Provence. Grab an outdoor cafe table along Place Puget, hear church bells ring from Cathédrale Sainte-Marie-Majeure and admire views of the harbor framed by hillside fortresses.

Relax at Aups Beach

Name and Location: Aups Beach, Hyères, France

History and Significance: Aups Beach is located in the town of Hyères on the French Riviera. Nestled between the Giens Peninsula and Porquerolles Island, its sandy strand has been a popular seaside destination since the 19th century. Beloved by locals, it provides a coastal oasis near Hyères’ historic center.

What to Expect: Punctuated by its landmark white and blue striped bathing huts, Aups Beach offers gentle waves, views across Hyères Bay, and a laidback vibe. Activities include sunbathing, swimming, sandcastle building, beach yoga, and seaside dining at beach restaurants. It gets lively in summer.

Visitor Information: Aups Beach is located a 15 minute walk from downtown Hyères. Public parking nearby. Lifeguards on duty in summer. Shower facilities available. note swim only in supervised areas due to boats. Beach wheelchair provided. Dogs prohibited during summer.

Just a 30-minute drive east from Toulon city center uncovers this enticing hidden cove serving as the local’s secret seaside escape. Nestled between pine tree forests and surrounding cliffs, Aups beach features calmly lapping crystalline blue-green waters and a strip of small pebbles and gray sand perfect for lounging in the Mediterranean sun. Arrive early in summer for uncrowded paradise.

Walk the Coast at Cap Brun Peninsula

Name and Location: Cap Brun Peninsula, Toulon, France

History and Significance: The Cap Brun peninsula juts out between the harbors east of Toulon, France. Designated a maritime conservation area, its wild coastline has exceptional ecological richness. The area has been inhabited since prehistoric times and has historic coastal defense works. It’s popular for walks and ocean vistas.

What to Expect: Hiking trails let visitors take in Mediterranean seascapes, seabird colonies, diverse coastal vegetation, and small secluded coves for swimming. The peninsula’s scenic cliffs and coastal battery add drama. Paths range from easy to moderate difficulty. It feels a world away from bustling Toulon.

Visitor Information: Trails are accessible year-round and free to the public. Avoid hazardous cliff edges. Bring water and sun protection for hikes. The peninsula is a 30 minute drive east from central Toulon. Parking at trailheads near St. Mandrier-sur-Mer. Visit early to beat crowds.

For isolated rocky coves and quiet trails skirting the sea, take a day to explore the rugged Cap Brun peninsula just 20 minutes from downtown Toulon by car or bus. Follow winding footpaths across arid maquis-covered hills while enjoying sea views for a peaceful perspective of life by the water as fishing boats glide in and out of the harbor mouth.

See Opera Shows at the Opera Toulon Provence

Name and Location: Opera Toulon Provence, Toulon, France

History and Significance: The Opera Toulon Provence is the opera house of Toulon located on Place Victor Hugo. Constructed in 1862, it hosted performances by famous 19th century singers like Nellie Melba. After a long period of decline, the opera house was restored to its former glory in 2003. It anchors Toulon’s thriving cultural scene.

What to Expect: This historical theater provides an elegant setting to enjoy world-class opera, ballet, orchestra, and choral performances. The intimate, ornate auditorium seats 800 people. If not attending a show, visitors can appreciate the grand foyer and admire the exterior architecture with Corinthian columns.

Visitor Information: The opera season runs September to June. Tickets can be purchased online, by phone, or at the box office. Prices vary by show. Occasional building tours available. Located downtown near the harbor, with parking garages nearby. Appropriate dress requested.

Music lovers will rejoice at the varied programming of concerts, musicals and operas at this modern performance hall build in 2011 along Toulon’s main seaside thoroughfare. The Opera Toulon Provence hosts acclaimed international artists while still making culture accessible to all through cheaper ticket pricing available even last-minute. Arrive early to grab dinner with a view at the Opera’s sleek waterfront cafe.

Sample Fresh Seafood

Name and Location: Fresh Seafood of Toulon Region, France

History and Significance: The Mediterranean coast around Toulon has a rich culinary heritage of cooking fresh local seafood. Fishermen have supplied the region’s legendary markets for centuries. Specialties include fried sardines, bouillabaisse stew, stuffed squid, and sea bass baked in salt crust. Simple preparations allow the seafood’s flavors to shine.

What to Expect: Dishes that celebrate the daily catch – think simmering pots of mussels, briny oysters shucked to order,whole grilled fish drizzled with olive oil, or shrimp sautéed with peppers and tomatoes. Focus is on freshness, using herbs like fennel and ingredients like garlic, tomatoes and olives to complement, not overpower, the seafood.

Visitor Information: For the best quality and value, dine at restaurants near fishing ports or markets. Chat with your waiter to find out where the catch was sourced. Reservations recommended at popular spots. If you have access to a kitchen, visit a market yourself to pick seafood to cook.

Unsurprisingly, Toulon’s seaside location means visitors will discover outstanding seafood whether dining along the old port watching fishing boats unload the daily catch or trying beachfront restaurants on the peninsulas east of downtown. Look for regional specialties like bourride, a creamy slow-cooked fish stew, or hearty bouillabaisse brimming with assorted shellfish, monkfish and sometimes orange safron rouille sauce for dipping bread.

Visit Salins d’Hyères Saltworks

Name and Location: Salins d’Hyères Saltworks, Hyères, France

History and Significance: The Salins d’Hyères is an artisanal saltworks located on the Giens Peninsula near Hyères, France. Salt has been harvested from the marshes there since the 15th century. Still operating today, the salt ponds produce high quality solar sea salt using traditional techniques little changed over the centuries. The site celebrates this heritage.

What to Expect: Visitors can tour the salt ponds and learn about salt production through the seasons. Displays explain the harvesting process and uses of “Fleur de Sel” finishing salt. The diverse wildlife living in the saline environment can be observed, especially flamingos. The onsite boutique sells various salts, soaps, and products.

Visitor Information: The saltworks offers 1-2 hour guided tours in English daily at 10am from mid-March to mid-November, and weekends only offseason. Entry costs 6-9 EUR for adults. Advance booking recommended. Wear comfortable walking shoes and sun protection. Located 20 minutes from Hyères by car.

Just a quick drive east from Toulon in nearby Hyères town lies this carefully restored historic salt production site still harvested using only sun and wind. Tour the Salins d’Hyères to learn traditional techniques developed by local monks in the 10th century transformed into a thriving commercial industry exporting salt globally by the 15th century. The shallow salt ponds tint vivid pink in summer when production peaks.

See a Rugby Match

Name and Location: Rugby in Toulon, France

History and Significance: Rugby union has long been popular in Toulon, with the city’s team RC Toulonnais being one of France’s strongest. Toulon has nurtured many champions and has passionately followed the sport since 1900. Home games are community events drawing thousands of spirited fans. Rugby is intertwined with the city’s identity.

What to Expect: If you’re lucky enough to score tickets, attending a RC Toulonnais match promises thrilling rugby action and electric crowds. Fans fill the 20,000+ seat Stade Mayol stadium and sing the club anthem “Allez Toulon” before kickoff and tries. The club colors of red and black dominate the energized scene.

Visitor Information: The rugby season runs September-June. Tickets can be purchased online or at the stadium ticket office on game days. Prices 40-80 EUR. Stade Mayol stadium is located east of downtown. Wear closed toe shoes and prepare to stand and cheer for hours! Arrive early to enjoy the pre-match atmosphere.

As a significant Mediterranean port city, Toulon residents share Marseilles’ passion for rugby as a second religion beyond soccer. At home games, raucous fans fill the stadium cheering every point scored by hometown heroes RCT Toulonnais who just clinched European championships three years running until recently. absorb rugby culture and bond with red and black wearing locals over beers and grilled sausage sandwiches.

Explore Les Gorges d’Ollioules Gorges

Name and Location: Les Gorges d’Ollioules, France

History and Significance:

The Les Gorges d’Ollioules are a spectacular river canyon cutting through the Massif de la Sainte-Baume mountains near Toulon. Formed by the Reppe river, the narrow gorge drops over 300 meters and extends nearly 5km in length. Its trails attract hikers seeking beautiful vistas and refreshing swimming holes.

What to Expect:

Hiking through Les Gorges d’Ollioules allows visitors to experience the sheer vertical cliffs, cascading waterfalls, swimming spots, and bridges spanning the gorge. Trails range from easy to difficult. Vantage points offer panoramas over olive groves and orchards in the valley below. The river and lakes provide welcome respite on hot days.

Visitor Information:

The gorges are located northeast of Toulon, around 40 minutes by car. They are free to access year-round. Come prepared with hiking shoes and water. Avoid during heavy rains due to flash flooding. Trails range from 1 hour loops to full day hikes. Arrive early on summer weekends when crowds peak. Be respectful of local privacy and property.

Just minutes from downtown yet feeling worlds away, these stunning river-carved limestone cliffs plunge 150 meters creating sheer natural wonders for exploring along hiking trails on both sides. Take the pathway from nearby village Evenos to wander between the dramatic ** formations witnessing the force of water eating slowly through the porous rock walls to forge this landscape over the millenium.

Shop Local at Cours Lafayette Market

Name and Location: Cours Lafayette Market, Toulon, France

History and Significance:

The Cours Lafayette market in Toulon is a renowned open-air market located off the main pedestrian thoroughfare. Operating since the 18th century, it remains a central gathering place to buy fresh local produce, goods, and street food. The vibrant market reflects Toulon’s Provençal identity and tradition of fine Mediterranean cuisine.

What to Expect:

Sprawling over multiple plazas, the market stalls overflow with colorful fruits and vegetables, freshly caught seafood, regional meat and cheeses, fragrant herbs and flowers, artisanal olive oils, soaps, crafts, and more. Musicians and cafes welcome visitors to enjoy the convivial atmosphere.

Visitor Information:

The market runs Tuesday – Sunday mornings until around 1pm, with Tuesday, Friday, and Saturday being the largest. Go early for the best selection. Located just off Cours Lafayette, Toulon’s main pedestrian street. Wear comfortable shoes, bring small bills and bags for purchases. Street parking available nearby.

For charming slice of Provençal life, join bustling crowds shopping fresh regional produce, seasonal plants and gourmet food products at the open-air market sprawling across Cours Lafayette each Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday mornings. Sample candied fruits and tangy olive tapenades while soaking in lively sights and sounds that seem unchanged for generations around this beloved local ritual.

Visit Fort Saint-Louis on Mont Faron

Name and Location: Fort Saint-Louis, Toulon, France

History and Significance:

Perched atop Mont Faron outside Toulon, Fort Saint-Louis is a 17th century mountainside fortress built by Vauban to defend Toulon and its naval port. Strategically located over 600 feet above sea level, it provided surveillance of both the city and Mediterranean coast. It was later used as a military barracks.

What to Expect:

Visitors can walk the ramparts of this star-shaped fort for spectacular views. Displays inside explain its military history and strategic role protecting Toulon. Some areas are unfortunately closed due to disrepair. The challenging ascent rewards with panoramas from the ramparts overlooking the harbor.

Visitor Information:

The fort is accessible via the Mont Faron cable car and hiking trails. Entry is 3 EUR. Open June-September 10am-6pm, offseason 10am-5pm, closed Tuesdays. Allow several hours to fully explore. Wear hiking shoes and bring water. A cafe is located at the cable car upper station.

Perched atop Toulon’s iconic Mont Faron mountain, this 17th century star-shaped fortress affords bird’s eye views across the whole historic harbor area and port installations. Weaving tunnels lead to former barracks areas, now holding exhibits recounting military and port history. Panels detail key developments in naval engineering and changing fort defense systems against invasions through the centuries of Toulon’s military prominence.

Relax at La Rode Beach

Name and Location: La Rode Beach, Toulon, France

History and Significance:

La Rode beach is located east of Toulon’s city center, situated between the harbor and Cap Brun peninsula. Being one of the closest beaches to downtown, it has been popular with Toulon residents since the early 20th century. Its calm, shallow waters make it an ideal family beach.

What to Expect:

A family-friendly sandy beach bustling with activities in summer. Swimming, stand up paddleboarding, beach tennis, and lounging in the sun are all popular. The beach is lined with restaurants, cafes, shops, play areas, and volleyball courts, creating a lively seaside atmosphere.

Visitor Information:

La Rode Beach is located adjacent to Parking Pompidou. Amenities include lifeguards, showers, accessible facilities, and rental lockers. Beachside restaurants offer shade. Pets not allowed June-September. Avoid weekends if seeking a quieter experience. Reachable by local bus or 20-minute walk from downtown.

Favored by vacationing Parisians but still off most tourist maps, this pristine crescent cove offers heavenly escape just 15 minutes south of city crowds yet feels remote tucked between green rolling hills. Rent a lounge chair and relax under straw umbrellas as kids build sandcastles nearby. Beachside restaurants serve Mediterranean cuisine featuring ultra-fresh seafood on shady terraces facing crystalline turquoise waves.

Conclusion

Shaped by commanding harbor views and an openness towards the sea mirrored in vibrant port culture, Toulon seduces visitors seeking tranquility, compelling history and celebration of sunny Mediterranean life. In 2024 lose yourself in quiet winding lanes unchanged for centuries, connect with sailors and naval legacies then wander lavender-scented coves scattered along the coast for reviving escapism pure as the azure waves and skies.