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If you have done the things to do in France, you’d know there are quite a few of them here in Toulouse.
Come discover the pink city that radiates warmth and charm at every turn, a city that’s a feast for the senses and offers a delightful blend of culture, cuisine and history.
From exploring the ancient landmarks to indulging in the rich gastronomy scene, there’s no shortage of exciting things to do in Toulouse.
So why not treat yourself to an all-encompassing adventure and bask in the beauty of this vibrant French city?
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in Toulouse:
1. Capitole Square
A bustling square in the heart of Toulouse, France.
What to see or do: The Capitole Square is home to the impressive Capitole Building, which houses the city hall and the Théâtre du Capitole opera house.
Take a stroll around the square and admire the beautiful 18th-century architecture, or relax at one of the many cafes and restaurants.
The square is also the site of many outdoor concerts, festivals, and markets, so there is always something going on.
Don’t miss: The Capitole Building’s grand facade is a must-see, featuring eight Corinthian columns and a bronze statue of Louis XIV.
Be sure to also check out the Salle des Illustres, a stunning room inside the building adorned with paintings, sculptures, and gilded details.
Insider travel tips: If you visit during the Christmas season, be sure to check out the festive market in the square.
Also, don’t be surprised if you see locals playing pétanque, a popular French game similar to bocce ball, on the square’s gravelly ground.
And of course, take some time to people-watch and soak up the lively atmosphere of this iconic Toulouse landmark.
2. Basilica of Saint-Sernin
The Basilica of Saint-Sernin is a Romanesque church located in Toulouse, France.
What to see or do: – Admire the impressive structure of the basilica, with its soaring towers and intricate carvings.
Don’t miss: – The iconic bell tower, which offers stunning views of the city from the top.
Insider travel tip: – Visit the basilica in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds.
3. Cité de l’Espace
Cité de l’Espace is a space-themed park and museum in Toulouse, France.
What to see or do: Explore the park’s life-size replicas of spacecraft, a planetarium, interactive exhibits, a moon walk simulator, and a 130-foot tall rocket.
Don’t miss: The full-scale model of the MIR space station, the astronaut training center, and the stunning panoramic view of Toulouse from the observation deck.
Insider travel tips: Book your tickets online to avoid waiting in long queues.
Don’t forget to catch the shows at the planetarium and bring sunscreen and water during the summer months as it can get hot!
4. Pont Neuf
Pont Neuf is a beautiful and historic bridge located in the heart of Toulouse, France.
What to see or do: Take a leisurely walk across the bridge and enjoy panoramic views of the Garonne river and the city.
Don’t miss: Make sure to stop and admire the many sculptures and carvings that adorn the bridge, including the famous mascarons.
Insider travel tips: For the best views, visit Pont Neuf at sunset or in the early morning when the light is soft and golden.
Also, be sure to check out the nearby Place Saint-Pierre for some great bars and restaurants.
5. Museum of Augustins
The Museum of Augustins is housed in a former Augustinian monastery that was converted into a museum in the 18th century.
It houses artworks and artifacts from the prehistoric era to the early modern period.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the museum’s extensive collection of paintings, sculptures, decorative arts, and archaeological objects.
The museum’s highlights include the 13th-century Maesta sculpture from Italy, Giotto di Bondone’s 13th-century Saint-John the Baptist altarpiece, and Rubens’ painting “The Miraculous Draught of Fishes.
Don’t miss: The museum’s cloister garden, which is a peaceful oasis in the heart of Toulouse. The garden features a tranquil fountain and beautiful Gothic architecture.
Insider travel tips: Make sure to check the museum’s website for special exhibitions and events.
Additionally, visitors should consider purchasing a combined ticket that includes admission to other Toulouse museums, such as the Chateau d’Eau Photography Center and the Natural History Museum.
Lastly, plan to spend at least two hours at the museum to fully appreciate its extensive collection.
6. Garonne River
The Garonne River is a major river in Southwest France and passes through the city of Toulouse.
What to see or do: Take a stroll along the waterfront and enjoy the various sights such as the Pont Neuf bridge, Saint-Pierre bridge and the colorful houses along the riverbanks.
Don’t miss: A boat tour on the Garonne river, which offers stunning views of the city buildings and architectural wonders, including the Canal du Midi and the ancient Pont Vieux bridge.
Insider travel tips: Head to Ile du Ramier park, a peaceful island in the middle of the river, for a picnic or bike ride.
The river is also a great spot for fishing and kayaking. For a unique river dining experience, book a table on one of the many barge restaurants that line the river.
7. Canal du Midi
The Canal du Midi is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is one of Europe’s oldest and most beautiful canals.
What to see or do: Take a boat ride and admire the views of the canal and the lush countryside along the way. Stop by the numerous charming towns and villages, such as Toulouse and Carcassonne, along the canal’s path.
Don’t miss: Visit the impressive 17th-century Malpas Tunnel, which was dug through solid rock and is considered one of the canal’s engineering wonders.
Insider travel tips: Take a picnic and enjoy a leisurely lunch along the canal or rent a bike and cycle along the towpaths for a scenic adventure.
8. Victor Hugo Market
Victor Hugo Market is a bustling covered food market in the heart of Toulouse.
What to see or do: Take in the sights and smells as you wander through the market’s aisles, stocked with fresh produce, meats, cheeses, and other gourmet delights.
Stop by the colorful stalls selling spices and handmade chocolates.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the seafood vendors, offering a wide variety of freshly caught fish and shellfish. The market’s bakery stands are also worth a visit, with their tempting array of pastries and breads.
Insider travel tips: – Plan to visit in the morning when the market is at its liveliest.
9. Jardin des Plantes
Jardin des Plantes is a beautiful public garden located in the center of Toulouse, France.
What to see or do: Take a relaxing walk while enjoying the stunning variety of botanical collections, ranging from medicinal plants to palm trees to an impressive greenhouse.
You can also explore the ponds, aviaries, and sculptures scattered throughout the gardens.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the Museum of Natural History, located within the park, showcasing a diverse range of taxidermized animals and exhibits on the history of life on earth.
Insider travel tips: Visit during the summer months when the gardens are in full bloom and the weather is sunny. Pack a picnic and find a quiet spot to enjoy the scenic views.
Entrance to the park is free, but a small fee is required to visit the Museum of Natural History.
10. Saint Etienne Cathedral
Saint Etienne Cathedral is a Gothic architectural masterpiece located in the heart of Toulouse, France. It is considered as one of the most prominent landmarks of the city.
What to see or do: The stunning cathedral features magnificent stained glass windows and an impressive organ that is renowned for its acoustics. Visitors can also walk around the intricate carvings and sculptures that adorn the inside and outside of the cathedral.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the chance to climb to the top of the bell tower for breathtaking views of the city and the Garonne River.
Insider travel tips: Arrive early to avoid the crowds and to take advantage of a quieter atmosphere for self-reflection. Dress appropriately (no shorts or exposed shoulders) as it is a place of worship.
Keep in mind that the bell tower climb is a bit of a workout, so comfortable shoes are recommended.
11. Musée de la Médecine
Musée de la Médecine is a medical museum located in Toulouse, France that showcases the development of medicine from ancient times to modern-day.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the various collections and exhibits, including antique surgical instruments, anatomical models, medical books, and scientific apparatus. There are also interactive displays and multimedia presentations that offer an immersive and educational experience.
Don’t miss: One of the most popular attractions is the collection of historical pharmacy jars and bottles, some of which date back to the 17th century.
The museum also has a recreated pharmacy from the 19th century, complete with original furniture and equipment.
Insider travel tips: – The museum is free to enter, but reservations are required due to limited capacity.
12. Les Abattoirs (Modern Art Museum)
Les Abattoirs is a modern art museum located in Toulouse, France. It is housed in a former slaughterhouse and has a vast collection of art from the 20th and 21st centuries.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the museum’s permanent collection, which includes works by artists such as Pablo Picasso, Andy Warhol, and Mark Rothko.
There are also temporary exhibitions that feature contemporary artists and themes. The museum also offers educational workshops, guided tours, and events that cater to all ages.
Don’t miss: One must-see exhibit at Les Abattoirs is the “Chapelle,” a space dedicated to contemporary art installations that are site-specific to the museum.
The museum’s collection of minimalist and abstract art is also worth checking out.
Insider travel tips: – The museum is closed on Mondays and on some public holidays, so be sure to check the museum’s website to see if it is open before planning your visit.
13. Halle aux Grains (Concert Hall)
Concert hall located in Toulouse, France.
What to see or do: Attend a variety of musical performances including classical, opera, jazz, and contemporary.
Don’t miss: The beautiful interior architecture and acoustics, as well as the famous Toulouse-Lautrec painting that adorns the ceiling of the main hall.
Insider travel tips: Check the schedule in advance and book your tickets early as the venue can sell out quickly. Arrive early to have time to admire the interior before the show starts.
14. Japanese Garden of Toulouse
A beautifully crafted Japanese garden in Toulouse, France.
What to see or do: Marvel at the winding paths, calming waterfalls, and vibrant flora and fauna. Take a moment to soak in the serene atmosphere and appreciate the attention to detail in the design.
Don’t miss: The traditional tea house, where you can enjoy a cup of green tea and a sweet treat while taking in views of the garden.
Keep an eye out for koi fish swimming in the ponds.
Insider travel tips: Visit in the autumn, when the leaves of the Japanese maples turn brilliant shades of red and orange.
Be sure to wear comfortable shoes for wandering the paths, and bring a camera to capture the beauty of the garden.