Toulouse

Discover Toulouse's Wonders

Tinted in pink and lightened up by the Southern sun, Toulouse is a charming and lively city that often gets overlooked by tourists in favour of other French destinations. However, those who do visit will be treated to an enchanting experience. Toulouse boasts a rich history, modern vibrancy, and stunning architecture. The city is also an aerospace hub and takes pride in its strong culinary tradition. Its lush parks provide a peaceful escape while the Garonne River serves as a picturesque background for a delightful night stroll.

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Description

Toulouse, also known as the "Pink City" for its red-brick buildings that subtly change colour throughout the day, is one of France’s most exciting provincial cities. Once a city that inspired the medieval poets of courtly love, it has now become a trailblazer in technology and aerospace development. Despite its modern advancements, Toulouse retains a distinctly old-fashioned French soul, with its regional cuisine, traditional markets, and cosy cafes interspersed with antique shops and second-hand bookstalls. This historical city, which is over 2,000 years old, showcases the brick and tile architecture typical of the Midi-Pyrenees region's cities, villages, and farms. However, with a thriving and energetic student population, Toulouse is far from being stuck in a time warp. The city offers a cosmopolitan experience with a plethora of bars, trendy shops, cafés, and nightclubs.

Useful information

Population:

Metro area: 1 million (2023)

Currency:

Euro, €1 = 100 cents

Emergency Info:

SAMU (medical emergency): 15
Police emergency: 17
Fire Service emergency: 18
European emergency line: 112

Opening Hours:

Most shops are open between 10am–7pm from Monday to Saturday, with a lunch break usually between noon–2pm. Department stores and shopping centres have longer opening hours (until 8pm) and no lunch break. Convenience stores and supermarkets are usually open between 8:30am–8:30pm or later with no interruption.

Do & See

Animaparc

Animaparc offers a large range of activities such as trampolines, water activities, and amusement rides in a 14-ha park. It is an attraction for all ages but especially great for young children who will be able to discover over 150 animals and even dinosaur reproductions.

Basilica of Saint-Sernin

The Basilica of Saint Sernin, Europe's largest Romanesque church, is home to the tomb of Saint Sernin, a bishop and martyr who played a crucial role in the spread of Christianity in Toulouse. Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site, this magnificent basilica is a must-visit destination that boasts impressive ceilings and marble decorations that serve as a testament to its illustrious history, including its significant role as a pilgrimage site.

Canal du Midi

Take a peaceful break from the city with a walk along the canal banks pathways or an energetic bike ride on the 40km bike path stretching from Toulouse to Port Lauragais on the south bank. Don't forget to bring your camera!

Cave of Niaux

Nestled in the northern foothills of the Pyrenees, the Niaux Cave stands out as one of Europe's most remarkable Palaeolithic rock art galleries, featuring an array of awe-inspiring cave paintings. The cave extends over a vast expanse of two kilometres, comprising spacious galleries, low vaults, and underground lakes. The walls and ground of the cave bear a hundred or so animal representations and several hundred signs, showcasing the exceptional creativity and talent of our ancient ancestors.

Church of the Jacobins

Comprised of a church, a convent, and a cloister, the Convent of the Jacobins houses the remains of its patron, St Thomas Aquinas. Its stunning walls and ceiling provide a beautiful backdrop for concerts and exhibitions that are regularly hosted in the building. If you only have time to visit one church in the city, this should be it.

Cité de l'Espace — Space City

Follow the stars and discover the mysteries of the universe in this fascinating scientific discovery centre located on the outskirts of Toulouse. Top sights and activities include the Astreala planetarium, real spaceships, the weather forecast planner you can partake in and the space training for adults and children.

Garonne

Whether you decide to take a walk on the river banks or to book a cruise, which you can combine with lunch on board, the Garonne offers plenty of sights for a delightful afternoon or early evening. One company that offers cruising activities in the city is Les Bateaux Toulousains and they have three boats located at Port de la Daurade, Port de l'Embouchure and Port Saint-Sauveur.

Grotte du Mas d'Azil

The Grotte du Mas d'Azil is a significant prehistoric site, renowned globally for its importance during the Magdalenian and Azilian periods. The cave boasts impressive illumination that showcases its natural beauty, and with the help of virtual techniques, visitors can explore the inaccessible decorated galleries. The tour also includes an educational experience that covers the geological formation of the cave, the lives of prehistoric humans, the work of the first diggers, the challenging construction of the road, and many other exciting surprises.

Dining

Boca — Bar à montaditos

Boca is a small but vibrant tapas bar located in the heart of Toulouse. The moment you step inside, you'll be greeted by the tantalizing aroma of Spanish spices and the lively beat of traditional Spanish background music. The menu boasts a range of delicious tapas, as well as creative and tasty salads, and mouthwatering nachos that are perfect for sharing. But the star of the show is undoubtedly their signature Tinto de Verano — a refreshing cocktail made with red wine and lemon soda that is sure to transport you straight to the streets of Madrid.

Burger'N'co

Burger'N'co has become a staple in the Toulouse fast food scene. So, if you’re a burger lover, you can’t miss this place. In addition to their delicious burgers, Burger'N'co also offers a selection of draft beers to complement your meal.

Chez Emile

Don't miss out on the culinary adventure that Chez Emile, a Michelin-starred restaurant in Toulouse, has to offer. Located in the picturesque Place St. Georges, the restaurant provides outdoor seating, allowing you to soak up the charming ambience of the square while enjoying your meal. The menu features a range of creatively crafted regional specialities, including fish and meat dishes, as well as classic desserts, all perfectly complemented by a selection of fine wines. Their cassoulet is particularly noteworthy — rich, tasty, and justifiably famous. And be sure to save room for dessert - their mouth-watering soufflé is not to be missed. With such care and precision put into every dish, your dining experience at Chez Emile is sure to be deliciously memorable.

Le Bibent

Le Bibent, which translates to 'drink good' in Occitane, is a culinary masterpiece created by celebrity chef Christian Constant. Located in the heart of Place du Capitole, this historic brasserie offers both opulent indoor seating and charming outdoor seating options. The decor is a stunning collision of styles from the 1890s and the era of Art Deco, creating a unique atmosphere that is both luxurious and inviting. But it's not just the ambience that sets Le Bibent apart; it's the high-end fare that they serve. From delectable entrees to sumptuous desserts, the menu offers a range of options to suit all tastes.

Le Bistrot des Carmes

For a truly authentic French cuisine experience in Toulouse, Le Bistrot des Carmes is a must-visit. The portions are generous and the food is excellent, with the meat specials being particularly noteworthy. Served with flavorful sides of potatoes and vegetables, the Pork Abanico and Duck Magret are not to be missed.

Le J’Go

For those who love meat, this is the perfect place to indulge in fresh, locally sourced meat in a relaxed and casual atmosphere. The quality of both the meals and drinks is top-notch, making a visit to this spot well worth it. And if you have a sweet tooth, be sure not to miss out on the desserts at J'Go — their French toasts are particularly delectable.

Les Jardins de l'Opéra

Les Jardins de l'Opéra is a Michelin-starred restaurant located in the Grand Hôtel de l'Opéra, right in the heart of Toulouse. It specializes in organic, local, and seasonal cuisine, with an emphasis on fresh ingredients and sustainability. From the delectable lobster cassoulet to the refreshing basil ice cream and the hay-smoked aubergine, the menu of Les Jardins de l'Opéra is full of taste sensations that are sure to impress. Its interior is modern and chic, creating a sophisticated atmosphere that perfectly complements the exceptional cuisine.

Les P'tits Fayots

Les P'tits Fayots is an acclaimed gourmet restaurant that serves modern and creative dishes featuring organic produce, especially vegetables from the Gers region. The restaurant offers a unique experience as its kitchen is open to the dining area. This allows patrons to watch the chef prepare their beautiful and exquisite dishes and enjoy the choreography of the kitchen staff while savouring your tasty meal.

Cafes

Bapz

Indulge in a variety of freshly baked pastries at Bapz, a charming British-inspired tea and coffee shop. Whether you're in the mood for a satisfying brunch or a relaxing afternoon tea, Bapz has got you covered. Their menu also includes classic cakes, savoury pies, and a daily English brunch, all served in a quirky and vintage atmosphere.

Cafe Den

Located in the heart of downtown Toulouse, Cafe Den is a classic coffee shop that offers a vast selection of drinks, including Bubble Tea. The menu boasts a variety of American pastries, including the colourful rainbow cake, and for those who crave something more substantial, there are also tasty sandwiches and salads.

Dip's Tea

Dip's Tea offers over 80 tea varieties for you to choose from, plus a tasty selection of homemade pastries and cakes to accompany them. Get cosy in this English-inspired atmosphere for an inexpensive tea break, lunch, or its all-day Sunday brunch.

Florian's Coffee

Not only does this charming bike-pulled mobile café offer the unique experience of enjoying your coffee on the street, but it also provides a range of scrumptious specialty coffees made with passion and precision by a highly skilled barista. From coffees to frappes, lattes of all kinds, and delectable chocolates, you can indulge in a variety of delightful beverages and even choose from different types of milk.

Flower's Café

This shop is so popular you might have to queue to get it, but be assured the hot chocolates, teas and pastries are well worth the wait. Or try out the sweet and salty tarts that are served in a French way or just have a healthy salad. If the weather permits, enjoy your drink and food on the lovely terrace while people watching.

La Fiancée

La Fiancée is a trendy brunch destination, which also has an on-site bakery, located near Couvent des Jacobins. Here, you can enjoy a range of breakfast staples, including pancakes and eggs, alongside coffee-based drinks.

Le Bol Bu

Nestled in the heart of Old Toulouse, Le Bol Bu has been the go-to destination for tea and crêpes in Toulouse since 1975, making it the city's oldest tea room and crêperie. The principles of authenticity and simplicity have been at the heart of this charming establishment since its inception. Its menu features a range of savoury and sweet crêpes, as well as over 60 different types of tea, ranging from classic to flavoured options.

Le Salon d'Eugénie

Tea lovers will delight in this tea party extravaganza! In addition to an array of tea options, indulge in a selection of homemade desserts and sweets. Be sure to sample the delicious Banoffee pie, lemon pie, or Eugénie pie, which are sure to impress your taste buds.

Bars & Nightlife

Café des Artistes

This café, with its traditional façade, is located between a music school and an art school. Although it may seem like a spot for the artsy crowd, don't worry - anyone can enjoy unwinding here with a Belgian beer while watching a game of football or taking in the stunning view of La Garonne.

Café Populaire

Café Populaire is a vibrant bar located in the heart of Toulouse, known for its cheap drinks and relaxed atmosphere, making it a popular spot among students. Upstairs, there's a room perfect for dancing, which adds to the liveliness of the bar. Whether you're a seasoned dancer or just looking to let loose, the upbeat music and energizing ambience make it an excellent place to get your groove on.

La Couleur de la Culotte

La Couleur de la Culotte, situated in the heart of Place Saint-Pierre, is an iconic establishment that is known for its lively atmosphere and is a popular destination among party-goers. During the day, you can relax and sip cocktails while enjoying platters of sausage in the shade of the trees, with a stunning view of the Garonne. But as night falls, La Couleur de la Culotte transforms into a party haven, and it's a favourite among Toulouse's student population.

Le 5 Wine Bar

Le 5 is widely recognized as the top wine bar in Toulouse, with an impressive collection of over 16,000 bottles and 2,300 references. The manager, a former oenology teacher, is more than happy to share his expertise in the field, and you should definitely take advantage of his knowledge when visiting. Additionally, Le 5 serves typical French tapas paired with wines, which are available in tasting menus. The ambiance is sophisticated, making for a truly memorable experience.

Le Breughel

Dark décor, loud music, Mojitos and a wide choice of beers to order from make this a great place for a party and a night of dancing. Famous among students and young professionals for its free snacks and warm service, Le Breughel also regularly hosts live music.

Moloko

The Moloko Bar, a Toulouse nightlife staple, is situated in the dynamic Carmes neighbourhood. With an impressive collection of both classic and inventive cocktails, skillfully crafted by the Moloko team, this bar is a must-visit. Furthermore, you can unwind in their cosy lounge while sipping your cocktail, or head down to the cellar to enjoy live music from DJs and concerts. Don't forget to take advantage of their Happy Hours specials as well.

The Dispensary

Great choice when it comes to evening drinks in Toulouse, The Dispensary, a British-inspired pub, entices with its ambience, drink selection, and food choices ranging from fish and chips to burgers. Join them for quiz night every Tuesday or Sunday brunch. And, don't miss their Happy Hour specials, available every day.

The Dry Dock

Feel like a pirate in this pirate-themed bar, complete with decor and objects straight out of a Captain Flint story. Take your pick from a diverse selection of rums and rum-based cocktails, but be careful not to end the night with a wooden leg!

Shopping

Artisans du Monde Toulouse

For ethical shopping, make sure to check out this fair-trade store, where you can find a wide range of products sourced from over 44 countries and the surrounding region of Toulouse. From food to craft items, everything is priced reasonably and produced with the assurance that the suppliers have been paid fairly. The staff, who are all volunteers, are incredibly welcoming and eager to assist you in making a selection.

Galeries Lafayette

The Galeries Lafayette, France's most famous and prestigious department store, contains an extensive selection of various brands, mainly clothing and cosmetics. Bonus in Toulouse, the top floor offers what is possibly the best view in the city. Even if you're not there to shop, you can simply head upstairs and admire the view.

La Cave Spirituelle

At La Cave Spirituelle, Toulouse's top wine cellar, you'll find a wide selection of wines from regions such as Bordeaux, Burgundy, Rhône, and Loire, as well as from all over the world. They also stock a range of champagnes and spirits, catering to all tastes and budgets. Whether you're a wine connoisseur or simply looking for a great bottle, this cellar is sure to have something for you.

Les Carmes

Located in the historical district of Toulouse, Les Carmes is arguably the most vibrant neighbourhood in Toulouse and is predominantly recognized for its numerous restaurants. During the daytime, it transforms into a haven for antique shops and a bohemian atmosphere. Come and experience it for yourself.

Les Puces d'Oc

Closer to a bazaar than a boutique, Les Puces d'Oc is a joyful mess of... everything! From antique furniture pieces to random objects, the only thing they have in common is that they have nothing in common. For sure you will find a special item to bring back home.

Rue de Rome

Rue de Rome is renowned as Toulouse's premier shopping street, where you can find a wide array of shoe stores and clothing retailers, as well as a few designer shops, second-hand gems, and some quirky and intriguing little boutiques.

The Cristal Market

Marché Cristal is a bustling outdoor market featuring a wide variety of farm-fresh goods including fruits, vegetables, cheese, bread, and delicious rotisserie chicken. You'll find plenty of locals shopping here for their daily or weekly needs. The market is open every day except for Mondays.

Victor Hugo Market

With over 80 stalls offering premium fish, meats, cheeses, and other fresh regional products, Marché Victor Hugo is a true food lover's paradise. The abundance, variety, and vivid colours of the goods on offer are simply staggering, with endless rows of items to tantalize the senses. It's the perfect place to sample a few local specialities.

Tourist Information

Passport/Visa

France can be visited visa-free for up to 90 days by citizens of Australia, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea, Taiwan, Malaysia, Israel, UAE and most countries in America. If you are unsure whether or not you need to apply for a visa, we recommend contacting the embassy or consulate in your country. International (non-Schengen) travellers need a passport that is valid for at least 3 months after the end of their intended trip in order to enter the Schengen zone. Citizens of Schengen countries can travel without a passport but must have a valid ID with them during their stay.

Toulouse–Blagnac Airport (TLS)

The Toulouse-Blagnac International Airport is approximately 8 km northwest of the city centre. Transports to and from the airport: An airport shuttle connects the Airport to the city in about 20 minutes depending on the traffic, every day (except the 1st of May): Airport > Toulouse: between 5:30 am and 0:15 am; Toulouse > Airport: between 5:00 am and 9:20 pm; Tickets can be purchased at the bus station or from any TISSEO agency. Other buses: Number 30: Fenouillet Centre Commercial — Toulouse–Blagnac Airport; Number 88: Grenade, Ondes, Merville, Seilh, Beauzelle, Blagnac, Toulouse. Tram: Line T2 – Airport Station every 15 minutes. Taxis are available on the ground floor of the airport.

Public Transport

Toulouse boasts a strong bus network, supplemented by two metro lines (A and B) and two trams (T1 and T2). The metros operate daily from 5:15 am until midnight on Sundays through Wednesdays, and until 3 am on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays. Further details can be found on the Tisseo Agency website. Nonetheless, in downtown Toulouse, you can easily walk from one point to another.

Taxi

Toulouse has numerous taxi stands, including those located at Wilson square, Capitole, Esquirol, Saint-Cyprien, Carmes, Jeanne d'Arc, Boulevard de Strasbourg, and Compans. Two reputable taxi companies are The Taxi Toulouse Service (+33 6 03 46 03 54) and Taxi Toulouse (+33 6 52 48 26 22). In addition to traditional taxis, Uber is also another option to get around in Toulouse.

Electricity

230 V / 50Hz

Pharmacy

Pharmacies are widely dispersed throughout the city. To find an "on duty" pharmacy outside Toulouse, you can consult the website 3237.fr or call 3237.

Post

There are several post offices in the city and you can buy stamps in vending machines inside these outlets or over-counter. Tobacco shops also sell stamps. The main post office is located near the Place du Capitole.

Telephone

Country code +33 Area code: 05

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the top things to do in Toulouse?

Toulouse offers a rich mix of sightseeing, guided tours, and local activities. On Keytours you can browse the most popular tours and experiences in Toulouse and book them instantly.

What is the best time to visit Toulouse?

The ideal time to visit Toulouse depends on the experience you're after. Check the current weather and seasonal information on this page to plan your trip around the best conditions.

How do I get around Toulouse?

You can arrange private airport transfers and local transport for Toulouse directly through Keytours, ensuring a comfortable arrival and easy travel throughout your stay.

Where should I stay in Toulouse?

Toulouse has accommodation for every style, from boutique city stays to seaside resorts. Explore our handpicked hotels in Toulouse to find the right base for your trip.

Can I book tours, hotels, and transfers together for Toulouse?

Yes. With Keytours you can combine tours, activities, hotels, and transfers for Toulouse in a single booking, making it easy to plan your entire trip in one place.

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Simply choose your preferred tours, hotels, or activities in Toulouse on this page, select your dates, and complete your secure booking online. Our team is available to help at any step.

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