The pink city!
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Toulouse, the fourth-largest city in France, is often referred to as the "Ville Rose" or "Pink City" due to the distinctive terracotta-coloured bricks used in its construction. Situated along the banks of the beautiful Garonne River, this city boasts a rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning architecture. From its medieval squares to its modern aerospace industry, Toulouse offers something for everyone.
There's so much to do and see in Toulouse, including looking back into the history of the city. Toulouse's history dates back to Roman times, and its streets are lined with reminders of its past. For example, the Capitole de Toulouse is a majestic 18th-century building that serves as the city's town hall. It's sure to impress, home to a theatre and state rooms, as well as the town hall. It's situated in the beautiful square: Place du Capitole, which is lined with bars and restaurants, and even holds a daily market.
Another must-see, this time for a glimpse into the city's religious heritage, visit the Basilica of Saint-Sernin. This Romanesque basilica is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and we think it's one of the most impressive churches in Europe. Its towering bell tower and intricate carvings are truly awe-inspiring. And as a bonus, it's also free to enter, so you can explore the interior too even if you're on a tight budget!
For a unique perspective of the city, you can also take a boat ride along the Garonne River. You'll see some of Toulouse's most iconic landmarks from a new perspective, and you can also enjoy the beautiful scenery.
Toulouse is a city that embraces its culture, and there are plenty of ways to experience it first hand. For art lovers, the Musée des Augustins is a must-visit. This former convent houses a vast collection of medieval and Renaissance art, including sculptures, paintings, and tapestries.
If art isn't really your thing, or you're more interested in the city's huge presence in the aerospace industry, take a tour of the Airbus factory. Here you can get a behind-the-scenes look at how these massive planes are made, from their design all the way to the assembly process.
Beyond the main tourist attractions, Toulouse is also home to a number of hidden gems. For example, you could head to Jardin Japonais, located in the middle of the Compans-Caffarelli park in the city centre. It's a tranquil oasis offering a taste of Japanese culture and a break from the usual bustle of the city.
Similarly to lots of other French cities, Toulouse is a paradise for foodies, offering a wide variety of traditional and international cuisine. No trip to Toulouse would be complete without trying cassoulet - a hearty bean and meat stew that is a local specialty.
For a taste of fresh, local produce, visit one of Toulouse's many markets. The Marché Victor Hugo is a particularly popular spot, where you can find everything from fresh fruits and vegetables to artisanal cheese and charcuterie.
Toulouse is a city that has something to offer everyone, from history buffs to art enthusiasts to foodies. It's a walkable city, so you can easily explore on food, but the public transport system is also great and includes metros, buses and trams. Just be aware that Toulouse is a relatively expensive city, so you may want to budget a little extra, especially if you want to try out lots of different bars and restaurants. However you decide to spend your time in Toulouse, we have no doubt that it's a city that will leave you wanting more!
Additional information:
How do I get to Toulouse?
Toulouse is easily accessible by air, as the closest airport is Toulouse-Blagnac which has direct flights from many major cities around the UK. It's a 40 minute drive from the city, but you can also take Tram. The flight time from the UK varies, but is normally within the region of 2 hours.
Where should I stay in Toulouse?
There are plenty of accommodation options for Toulose. Have a look for something that will suit your group size and budget on booking.com.
Do I need a visa to visit Toulouse?
Citizens of most countries do not need a visa to visit France for a stay of up to 90 days. Read our Schengen Agreement post to find out more details about this rule.
What's the currency in Toulouse?
The currency of France is the Euro. You can change money when you arrive or withdraw from ATMs, but be aware of high conversion fees! Some ATMs may charge you to withdraw money, even if your bank doesn't. It's always best to pay in local currency when you can. We had no issues paying by card in Toulouse.
What languages are spoken in Toulouse?
The official language of France is French, but English is widely spoken in Toulouse as it is a major tourist destination. It's always polite to learn a few phrases, though!
What's the time zone in Toulouse?
France is in the Central European Time Zone. The time is usually the same as most of mainland Europe, but an hour ahead of the UK.
What's the weather like in Toulouse?
What are the best things to do in Toulouse?
We always try and give you a few great recommendations of things to do on our Sightseekr Inspiration posts. If you're looking to fill your itinerary, have a look for the best activities, excursions and other things to do in Toulouse on GetYourGuide.
- Search for a hotel in Toulouse on Expedia or Booking.com
- Find tours, experiences and things to do in Toulouse on GetYourGuide here
