| Activity | Description |
|---|---|
| Wander the Brick Buildings of Place du Capitole | Explore 18th-century buildings and vibrant cafés at the city’s central square. |
| Explore the Churches of Basilique Saint-Sernin | Visit one of Europe’s finest Romanesque churches with impressive architecture. |
| Discover Airbus Headquarters and Aerospace Museum | Experience aviation history and interactive exhibits at Aeroscopia Museum. |
| Take a Canal Cruise Through the City | Enjoy scenic views of Toulouse via Canal du Midi cruises. |
| Tour Historic Mansions on Rue Gambetta | See Renaissance-era mansions and architectural details. |
| Explore Victor Hugo’s House Museum | Visit the museum dedicated to the life and works of Victor Hugo. |
| Wander Through Les Abattoirs Museum | Explore modern and contemporary art in a unique setting. |
| Admire Saint Sernin Basilica | Marvel at one of Europe’s largest Romanesque churches. |
| See a Show at the Halle aux Grains Concert Hall | Experience music performances in a modern concert hall. |
| Sample Cassoulet at Les Halles Victor Hugo | Enjoy regional cuisine at a local food market. |
| Relax at the Jardin Royal Garden | Find tranquility in this peaceful garden established in 1755. |
| Take a Day Trip to Albi | Discover medieval architecture and art in a nearby town. |
| See a Rugby Match at Stadium Ernest Wallon | Experience the local rugby culture and matches. |
| Dine at Place St Georges | Enjoy dining al fresco at this lively square. |
| Conclusion | Toulouse offers a blend of history, culture, and modern experiences. |
Wander the Brick Buildings of Place du Capitole
Name and Location: Place du Capitole, Toulouse, France
History and Significance: The Place du Capitole is the main square of Toulouse, located in the heart of the city. It is named after the Capitole, the city hall located on the square. The Place du Capitole has been the center of civic life in Toulouse since the Middle Ages. Historic buildings, cafés, and shops surround the square.
What to Expect: The Place du Capitole is a lively public square full of cafés, restaurants, and shops. Visitors can admire the architectural beauty of the surrounding buildings, like the Capitole and the Théâtre du Capitole opera house. Street performers and musicians frequently entertain on the square. The Place du Capitole also hosts public events and festivals throughout the year.
Visitor Information: The Place du Capitole is free and open to the public. It can be reached on foot, by public transportation, or taxi. The square is busiest during the daytime and early evenings, when cafés and shops are open. Visitors should beware of pickpockets in crowded areas. The Tourist Information Center is located on the square, providing guidance about attractions and activities in Toulouse.
The centerpiece of Toulouse, the grand Place du Capitole is lined with vibrant 18th-century buildings in Toulouse’s iconic pink brick. Intricate facades frame lively cafés full of locals chatting over coffee or enjoying an aperitif. The 130-meter long square also holds the Capitole, the city hall topped by a stately dome. Don’t miss the entry’s eight pink marble columns.
Explore the Churches of Basilique Saint-Sernin
Name and Location: Basilique Saint-Sernin, Place Saint-Sernin, Toulouse, France
History and Significance: The Basilica of Saint-Sernin is an 11th century Romanesque church and UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is one of the most well-preserved Romanesque structures in Europe and an important landmark in Toulouse. Saint Saturnin was Toulouse’s first bishop and the basilica was built to house his remains. It is an iconic example of Pilgrimage architecture.
What to Expect: Visitors can admire the basilica’s soaring nave, beautiful frescoes, intricate marble columns, and crypt. The basilica also has a treasury with religious artifacts. Guests can take guided tours to learn about the history and architecture. It is still an active Catholic church with daily services.
Visitor Information: The Basilica Saint-Sernin is open daily from 8:30am-6pm and admission is free. Guided tours are available for a fee. There is no dress code but guests are asked to be respectful as it is still an active place of worship. The basilica is located in central Toulouse and can be reached by metro, bus, foot or taxi.
The magnificent Basilique Saint-Sernin is one of the best remaining examples of Romanesque architecture in Europe. Started in 1080 the grand church has imposing brick walls and soaring arches inside. Wander through the echoing nave and ambulatories to admire the careful details, mosaics and relics. Climb the bell tower for views across Toulouse’s rooftops to the Pyrenees mountains.
Discover Airbus Headquarters and Aerospace Museum
Name and Location: Aerospace Museum, 10 Rue Roche, 31700 Blagnac, France
History and Significance: The Aerospace Museum opened in 2003 next to the Airbus factory and headquarters. It celebrates Toulouse’s long history in the aeronautics industry with Airbus being the largest employer in the region today. The museum displays significant aircraft models that highlight advancements in commercial aviation over the decades.
What to Expect: Guests can view retired commercial planes both inside the museum and outdoors. Exhibits showcase Toulouse’s contributions to aerospace innovations. Interactive displays let visitors try pilot simulations and design their own aircraft. A giant screen shows aviation films in a 3D cinema. Knowledgeable guides provide insights into exhibits.
Visitor Information: The Aerospace Museum is open Tuesday-Sunday 10am-6pm, closed Mondays. Ticket prices are: Adults – €11, Children (5-17) – €8. Book tickets online in advance. The museum is accessible by shuttle bus from Toulouse city center, by car, or Toulouse metro line B to Ramassiers station.
As the center for Europe’s aerospace industry, Toulouse has a rich aviation history showcased at the Aeroscopia Museum near the airport. See legendary planes like the supersonic Concorde and massive Airbus A380 up-close. Interactive exhibits let you try piloting and flight simulators. You may even glimpse actual Airbus planes outside being assembled for new airline clients.
Take a Canal Cruise Through the City
Name and Location: Canal du Midi, runs through Toulouse, France
History and Significance: The Canal du Midi is a 240 km long canal connecting Toulouse to the Mediterranean Sea. Built in the 17th century, it was an engineering marvel at the time. The canal opened trade routes and brought prosperity to southern France. It is the oldest functioning canal in Europe and was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1996.
What to Expect: In Toulouse, visitors can take canal cruise tours to admire the city from the water. Cruises pass through locks and under charming bridges while guides share history and fun facts. Several companies offer day and evening cruise options ranging from 1-5 hours. The canal banks are also popular walking and cycling paths.
Visitor Information: Cruise tickets can be purchased directly at the boat dock, online, or through travel agencies. Prices range €10-25 per person depending on cruise duration. The main docks are located downtown near Pont Neuf and Pont de Pierre bridges. The canal can also be accessed from the Port de l’Embouchure metro.
A relaxing perspective on Toulouse comes from cruising the Canal du Midi which threads through the city. Pass through locks and under charming little stone bridges as you admire Toulouse’s brick facade homes and waterside cafés. Several companies operate short afternoon tours or sunset dinner cruises perfect for soaking up vistas drifting slowly by. Spring and fall avoid summer crowds.
Tour Historic Mansions on Rue Gambetta
Name and Location: Hôtel d’Assézat, Rue de Metz, 31000 Toulouse, France
History and Significance: The Hôtel d’Assézat is a Renaissance mansion built in 1555 for merchant Pierre d’ Assézat. It is renowned for its ornate courtyard and facade featuring sculptures, medallions and mosaics. In 1946, the mansion became home to the Fondation Bemberg museum. The Hôtel d’Assézat is considered one of the finest examples of Renaissance architecture in Toulouse.
What to Expect: Visitors can admire the mansion’s architecture and decor. The Fondation Bemberg museum inside features a collection of European paintings, artifacts and sculptures. The indoor galleries overlook the mansion’s central courtyard. Guided tours provide insight into the history, architecture and art collections. There is also a cafe and gift shop on site.
Visitor Information: The Hôtel d’Assézat is located in central Toulouse. It is open Tuesday-Sunday 10am-12:30pm and 2pm-6pm. Admission is €8 for adults, free on Sundays. The mansion can be reached by foot, taxi or metro stop Esquirol. Guided tours should be booked in advance online.
For a taste of aristocratic life in the Renaissance, stroll down Rue Gambetta just northeast of the Capitole. Here ornate 16th century façades hide elegant mansion homes built for wealthy parliamentary members. Spot spiral staircases, carved wooden doors and decorative wrought iron balconies. Don’t miss the Hôtel Bernuy and Hôtel d’Assézat’s extravagant courtyard.
Explore Victor Hugo’s House Museum
Name and Location: Maison Natale de Victor Hugo, 140 Grande Rue Villeneuve, 31000 Toulouse, France
History and Significance: This is the birthplace and childhood home of famous French author Victor Hugo, built in the 18th century. Hugo lived here until age 9 and the house reflects a typical upper-class family home during the late 1700s period. It hosts exhibits about Hugo’s family life and literary career. The home is an important Toulouse site connected to one of France’s most influential writers.
What to Expect: Visitors can tour the historic house and see exhibits of furnishings, portraits, and artifacts from Hugo’s childhood. French guides provide insights about Hugo’s upbringing and literary inspirations. There is also a garden on site. The house provides an immersive look into the writer’s early years.
Visitor Information: The Maison Natale de Victor Hugo is open Tuesday-Sunday 10am-6pm. Admission is €5, free on Sundays. The house can be reached by metro line A to Esquirol or bus. Entry tickets should be purchased at the site. Guided tours are offered in French or English.
One of Toulouse’s most celebrated sons was author Victor Hugo, who wrote Les Misérables while in political exile in nearby towns. His grand former home in Place Victor Hugo now displays a museum about his life and literary legacy. See where he wrote by night, admire antiques he collected and walk through ornately-carved salons. Temporary exhibits showcase other artistic legends.
Wander Through Les Abattoirs Museum
Name and Location: Les Abattoirs, 76 Allées Charles de Fitte, 31300 Toulouse, France
History and Significance: Les Abattoirs is Toulouse’s contemporary art museum, housed in a converted 19th century slaughterhouse. It opened in 2000 to showcase modern and contemporary artworks. The striking brick and iron architecture of the original slaughterhouse buildings have been preserved. Les Abattoirs is now an important cultural institution in Toulouse.
What to Expect: Les Abattoirs’ permanent and temporary exhibits feature avant-garde works of painting, sculpture, video, photography and more. The museum also hosts concerts, film screenings, lectures, and other events. The unusual architecture provides an eclectic setting for the modern art. An onsite restaurant and gift shop are also available.
Visitor Information: Les Abattoirs is open Wednesday-Sunday 12pm-6pm, closed Monday-Tuesday. Admission is €7-9 for adults depending on exhibits. The museum is located near the Garonne river and can be reached by bus, metro line A, walking, or taxi. Guided tours and audio guides are available to enrich the visit.
For fine art in a striking setting, Les Abattoirs is France’s first national center dedicated to modern and contemporary art. Housed in a former slaughterhouse, stark brick and iron contrasts with exhibits of works by Matisse, Chagall, Picabia and Bourgeois. Don’t miss the Mediterranean garden with soaring palm trees beside a stark Gothic cathedral spire relocated here.
Admire Saint Sernin Basilica
With its soaring bell towers and chevron-patterned arches, the elegant Saint-Sernin Basilica is one of Europe’s largest surviving Romanesque churches and a jewel of Toulouse architecture. The 12th century church honors Toulouse’s first bishop, Saturnin, killed in 250 AD. His elaborate gold reliquary still sits inside the echoing marble interior marked by five ships and stunning pierre-de-taille stonework.
See a Show at the Halle aux Grains Concert Hall
Name and Location: Halle aux Grains, Place Dupuy, 31000 Toulouse, France
History and Significance: The Halle aux Grains concert hall opened in 1862 and has been hosting musical performances in Toulouse for over 150 years. The iconic building has an ornate façade and grand interior with excellent acoustics. Home to the Orchestre National du Capitole, Halle aux Grains presents classical, opera, ballet, and other musical shows.
What to Expect: Visitors can attend orchestral concerts, operas, ballets, recitals and more in this beautiful venue. The schedule includes performances by the Orchestre National du Capitole and touring shows. The interior features a domed ceiling, chandeliers, ornate balconies and seating for over 1800. There are bars offering drinks during intermission.
Visitor Information: The Halle aux Grains box office is open Tues-Sat 12pm-7pm for tickets. Prices vary by show. Self-guided tours are also available on some days. The venue is located in central Toulouse near the Capitole metro station. Show attendees should dress formally and arrive early.
Music lovers will adore the Halle aux Grains concert hall located just behind the Capitole. The striking modern glass structure designed by architect Jean-Pierre Buffi hosts world-class orchestras and opera singers alongside local Toulouse musicians. Enjoy an intimate musical experience in the main hall holding just 1800 people. The acoustics are meant to amplify sound ideal for any performance.
Sample Cassoulet at Les Halles Victor Hugo
Name and Location: Les Halles Victor Hugo, 8-10 Place Victor Hugo, 31000 Toulouse, France
History and Significance: Les Halles Victor Hugo is a large indoor market in central Toulouse. It opened in 1832 and has been the bustling heart of commerce and daily life in Toulouse for generations. Over 100 stalls sell regional produce, meat, fish, cheese, bread and more. Traditional bistros and cafés serve local specialties.
What to Expect: Visitors will find rows of stalls selling high-quality fresh local food and regional specialties. Dining options include oyster bars, traditional French bistros, wine bars, and cafés. The lively atmosphere evokes the essence of Toulouse life. Shopping, drinking, dining and people-watching are all popular activities.
Visitor Information: Les Halles Victor Hugo is open daily from 7am-1pm. Entry is free. The market accepts cash only. It is located downtown Toulouse, close to the Jean-Jaures metro station. The area gets crowded on weekends. Visitors should be aware of pickpockets in the bustling crowds.
For authentic Toulousain dining try the Les Halles Victor Hugo covered market and food hall. Stalls sell regional produce like garlic sausages and duck confit to showcase in local speciality cassoulet (a slow-cooked white bean casserole with meat). Grab crepes, cheese and charcuterie to picnic or snag a table at a tiny restaurant stall to try Toulouse violet liqueurs and wines.
Relax at the Jardin Royal Garden
Name and Location: Jardin Royal, Rue de la Pomme, 31000 Toulouse, France
History and Significance: The Jardin Royal is a public garden in Toulouse, originally created in 1754 as part of the grounds of the bishop’s palace. After the French Revolution, the gardens were expanded and opened to the public in 1797. Today the Jardin Royal offers flower beds, fountains, tree-lined paths, sculptures, and historic monuments in a peaceful urban oasis.
What to Expect: Visitors can stroll through the garden’s paths, enjoying scenic lawns, rose gardens, and shady trees. Historic points of interest include a Roman column and sundial from the 4th century. There are benches for resting and a pond with ducks. The Jardin Royal is a favorite spot for locals to read, picnic, or simply relax.
Visitor Information: The Jardin Royal is located in central Toulouse, open daily from dawn to dusk. Admission is free. The garden can be reached via Carmes metro station or a short walk from the Capitole. Wheelchair accessible paths and restrooms make it accessible to all visitors. Visitors should avoid picking flowers or feeding birds.
Adjacent to the Capitole, the small but peaceful Jardin Royal offers a perfect spot to rest weary feet after sightseeing. Established in 1755 this secret garden sits behind a gate guarded by classical statues. Follow winding paths under shady lime and Mediterranean oak trees past trickling fountains. Grab a bench and watch locals play pétanque by the Orangerie building.
Take a Day Trip to Albi
Name and Location: Albi, France (day trip from Toulouse)
History and Significance: Albi is a historic town located about 75 km northeast of Toulouse, known for its UNESCO-listed brick Gothic cathedral and quaint medieval cobblestone streets. Once a center of the Cathar heresy, Albi has well-preserved architecture and a unique culture influenced by centuries of religious strife. It makes an excellent day trip from Toulouse.
What to Expect: Top attractions include the 13th century Sainte-Cécile Cathedral, the Toulouse-Lautrec Museum, and the historic Berbie Palace with gorgeous river views. The charming old town is wonderful for wandering, shopping, and dining at cozy bistros. Boat tours on the Tarn River and museums tell more of Albi’s stories.
Visitor Information: Albi is about 75 minutes from Toulouse by train. Visitors can explore the compact old town on foot or join a guided tour. Entry fees vary for attractions. The Tourist Information Center provides maps and tips for visiting. Albi is very walkable but preparation helps maximize the day trip.
For superb medieval architecture and to explore gorgeous countryside, take a quick train ride 65km northeast to Albi on the Tarn River. Here the immense red brick Cathédrale Sainte-Cécile towers above crowded half-timbered houses along twisting lanes. Masterful paintings by Toulouse-Lautrec fill the Palais de la Berbie, linked to the cathedral by a stone fortified bridge.
See a Rugby Match at Stadium Ernest Wallon Stadium
Name and Location: Stadium Ernest Wallon, 114 Rue des Troènes, 31200 Toulouse, France
History and Significance: Stadium Ernest Wallon is a rugby stadium opened in 1980 as the home of Stade Toulousain, one of Europe’s top rugby clubs. It was renamed for a former Stade Toulousain player in 2000. The stadium has a capacity of 19,500 and lively atmosphere on match days. Rugby has a huge following in Toulouse.
What to Expect: Attending a rugby match at Ernest Wallon allows visitors to experience the exciting local sports culture. Matches feature raucous fans, cheering, and energetic play on the pitch. Tickets often sell out so booking well in advance is recommended. The area around the stadium also hosts fan gatherings.
Visitor Information: The rugby season runs September-June. Ticket prices start around €20. The stadium is located northwest of downtown Toulouse, accessible via metro line B. Food, drinks and rugby merchandise are sold onsite. Visitors should be prepared for big crowds and high energy during matches.
Rugby is practically a second religion here so witnessing a match of hometown heroes Stade Toulousain play is a thrilling local experience. The Stadium Ernest Wallon arena shakes with chanting fans spurring players towards victory. Leaning about rugby culture in Toulouse also means enjoying fan camaraderie over beer and sausage at the stadium bar or local pubs screening away games on TVs.
Dine at Place St Georges
Name and Location: Place Saint-Georges, 31000 Toulouse, France
History and Significance: Place Saint-Georges is a picturesque public square located in central Toulouse. It is home to many historic buildings like the 16th century Saint-Georges Church and the Renaissance-style Hôtel Saint-Georges façade. Surrounded by restaurants and cafés with outdoor seating, it is one of Toulouse’s most popular dining spots.
What to Expect: Visitors can enjoy excellent people watching, architecture and dining options at Place Saint-Georges.
The Place St Georges square comes alive every evening as locals gather to meet friends and enjoy a meal al fresco under strings of tiny lights. Tables spill out from crowded restaurants and tapas bars hidden in old brick buildings with sagging wooden rafters overhead. For excellent budget-friendly dining try Barbazul, Bon Vivant or Le Rendez-Vous for classic French and regional cuisine.
Conclusion
With its rich history, iconic pink brick architecture and lively cultural scene centered around music, food and rugby, Toulouse delivers an authentic taste of southern French joie de vivre. In 2024 step back to the Middle Ages while exploring winding streets and monumental churches before admiring Space Age engineering at massive manufacturing plants. From quaint hidden gardens to crowded bars, engage all your senses in vibrant Toulouse.