Toulouse Hotels

Toulouse is a city in southwestern France, located on the banks of the Garonne River. Referred to as the "Pink City," Toulouse is famous for the characteristic pink hue of its brick buildings. The city, which boasts a rich historical heritage dating from ancient times to the present day, is notable for its narrow streets from the Middle Ages, historical monuments, and spacious squares. Capitole Square offers visitors a pleasant atmosphere with its stunning Capitole building and city hall, along with various cafes and shopping opportunities. The Augustins Museum hosts many works of art dating from the Middle Ages to the 20th century.

Whether you are a foodie or a history and culture enthusiast, Toulouse will enchant you with its rich culinary offerings, deep-rooted history, and magnificent architecture.

Things To Know Before Going To Toulouse

• Ancient History: Founded by the Romans in the 2nd century BC, Toulouse is over 2,000 years old. Its location by the Garonne River made it a key trade hub.
• The Pink City: Known as the “Pink City” due to its pale-colored brick buildings, which change hues from warm orange to deep magenta throughout the day.
• Artistic Heritage: Visit Les Abattoirs, a former slaughterhouse turned modern art museum, featuring over 2,300 artworks.
• Canal du Midi: Commissioned by Louis XIV in 1667, this 240-kilometer canal is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a marvel of 17th-century engineering.
• Transport Links: Home of Airbus, Toulouse boasts excellent transport options with two metro lines (a third coming in 2028), pedestrian-friendly streets, and easy biking and bus routes.

Toulouse Tips From Locals

• Top Museums: Visit the Natural History Museum, Cité de l'Espace, and Quai des Savoirs for science-oriented exhibits. For photography, check out the Château d'Eau gallery.
• Dining: Opt for small, local restaurants over big, fancy ones for the best culinary experiences.
• International Community: With a significant student population and many Airbus employees, you'll find a decent international presence, making it easier to meet English speakers.
• Hiking: Enjoy mountainous landscapes along the Toulouse - Latour-de-Carol train line, which offers many hiking trails.
• Winery Visits: Tasting is often free, but it's customary to buy at least one bottle per person as part of the experience.

Where To Stay In Toulouse?

Here’s a quick table of which areas in Toulouse are great for tourists:

Best Hotels in Toulouse  

Book your perfect stay with Toulouse hotelshere!

Places To Visit In Toulouse

Here’s the list of some top Toulouse attractions you shouldn’t miss during your visit:

• The Basilica of Saint-Sernin: A UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Europe's largest Romanesque churches, renowned for its impressive architecture and religious significance.
• Capitole de Toulouse: The city hall of Toulouse, known for its neoclassical architecture, the Salle des Illustres adorned with stunning paintings, and the city's opera house.
• Cité de l'Espace: A space-themed park and museum that offers interactive exhibits, spacecraft replicas, and an IMAX theater, making it perfect for space enthusiasts.
• Pont Neuf: Toulouse's oldest bridge, spanning the Garonne River. It offers picturesque views and provides a peaceful spot for a leisurely stroll.
• Musée des Augustins: Housed in a former convent, this fine arts museum showcases sculptures and paintings from the Middle Ages to the early 20th century, including works by renowned artists.
• Canal du Midi: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this historic canal offers scenic views, boat cruises, and charming villages along its route, making it perfect for relaxation and exploration.
• Jardin des Plantes: A botanical garden that offers a tranquil escape with diverse plant collections, ponds, and fountains, ideal for nature lovers.
• Les Abattoirs: A contemporary art museum situated in a former slaughterhouse. It showcases modern and contemporary artworks by renowned artists.
• Chapelle des Carmélites: A Baroque-style chapel renowned for its exquisite interior, featuring intricate woodwork, marble columns, and frescoes, offering a glimpse into Toulouse's architectural beauty.
• Saint-Pierre Bridge: Another historic bridge that offers panoramic views of the Garonne River and the city's skyline. It is a popular spot for photography and relaxation.

Where is Toulouse?

Toulouse is located in southern France, specifically in the Haute-Garonne department and the Occitanie region. It lies on the banks of the River Garonne, approximately 150 kilometers from the Mediterranean Sea, 230 kilometers from the Atlantic Ocean, and about 680 kilometers from Paris.

Is Toulouse Safe?

Toulouse is generally considered a safe city to visit. While it is advisable to keep a close eye on belongings and surroundings, the overall risk level in Toulouse is moderate. It is recommended to exercise caution, especially at night, and avoid poorly lit or deserted areas.

Is Toulouse Expensive To Visit?

Toulouse is generally considered to be more affordable compared to other major cities in France like Paris. On average, a one-week trip to Toulouse can cost around $955 for one person and $1,909 for two people, including accommodation and other expenses. The average cost of a 7-day trip to Toulouse is $1,164 for a solo traveler, $2,091 for a couple, and $3,919 for a family of four. This cost includes accommodation, food, transportation, and activities.

Toulouse Currency

In Toulouse, France, as in much of Europe, the Euro (€) serves as the official currency. While card payments are widely accepted in many shops and restaurants, it is advisable to carry some cash, especially in small towns or areas away from tourist spots where card acceptance may be limited.

Toulouse Language

The predominant language of Toulouse is French, the official language. However, Occitan, a traditional language of southern France, is also spoken. While French is the predominant language used in Toulouse, Occitan, though not widely spoken, is still present in the region and is reflected in bilingual street signs in the city.

How Many Days To Visit Toulouse?

At least 2 days will be enough for a quick exploration of Toulouse's main attractions. If you want to explore the city in depth, it is advisable to stay in Toulouse for 4 or 5 days.

What To Do in Toulouse?

• Explore Place du Capitole: Visit the main square, highlighting the best of Toulouse.
• Immerse in cultural treasures and religious structures: Discover the city's architectural wonders and historical landmarks.
• Journey through aerospace: Visit La Cité de l'Espace and Aeroscopia for a deep dive into space and aircraft.
• Head to the Garonne River or Canal du Midi: Enjoy a stroll along the riverbanks or a bike ride along the canal.
• Discover museums and historic sites: Visit museums like Muséum de Toulouse, Les Abattoirs, and Fondation Bemberg.
• Step off the beaten path: Explore local activities like play mölky, sunset at Quai de la Daurade, and rugby matches.
• Embark on a gastronomic adventure: Taste local cuisine, wine, and cheese, and take a food tour.
• Spend some relaxing time: Enjoy parks like Jardin des Plantes, Jardin Japonais, and Jardin Royal.
• Attend events and festivals: Participate in La Fête de la Musique, Toulouse les Orgues, and Les Marchés de Noël.
• Take day trips: Visit Albi, Cordes-sur-Ciel, and Carcassonne for a glimpse into medieval heritage.
• Try out VR and escape games: Experience virtual reality at Dream Away Toulouse and escape games at various centers.
• Create your own plant ball and cocktail: Attend workshops for Kokedama and mixology.
• Spend the day at Animapark: Enjoy thrill rides and water attractions.
• Visit the Cité de l’Espace: Explore the wonders of the universe with a trip to this fantastic space museum.

When Is The Best Time To Stay In Toulouse?

The best time to visit Toulouse is during the shoulder seasons of September to October or from mid-March to April when you can take advantage of sunny weather, fewer crowds, and lower room rates.

• Winter (December - February): Experience the holiday season with traditional Christmas markets and cozy wine taverns. Despite the colder weather, the festive atmosphere is enchanting. January and February provide a quieter visit after the holiday rush.
• Spring (March - May): Enjoy mild temperatures and blooming flowers such as magnolias, cherry blossoms, and wisterias. It's a great time for enjoying the festivals such as the Flamenco Festival in March, Forum de l'Image, and Inox Festival.
•  Summer (June - August): Expect larger crowds, hot weather, and high humidity, but also enjoy a variety of festivals such as Rio Loco Festival, The Marathon des Mots, The Electronic Siestes, and Toulouse Summer. Summer is perfect for outdoor activities and exploration.
• Fall (September - November): Ideal for wine enthusiasts, Toulous in the fall offers vineyard tours, the harvest season, and events like the Piano aux Jacobins, Cinespaña, and Antiques Fair in November. The changing colors of autumn and mild temperatures create a pleasant environment for sightseeing.

What To Pack For Your Visit To Toulouse?

When you visit Toulouse, you should consider the weather conditions according to the seasons. In Toulouse, you can experience four seasons depending on the time of year you choose to visit. Here is the packing list for Toulouse depending on the season you plan to visit the city:

Summer (June to August):

• Lightweight outfits are suitable for warm weather.
• Comfortable walking shoes for exploring the city.
• Sunglasses and a hat to protect from the sun.
• Casual and chic clothing items for daytime and evening outings.
• Sandals for beach visits or casual outings.
• A water bottle and hand sanitizer for convenience.
• A power bank for charging devices on the go.

Autumn (September to November):

• Layered clothing for varying temperatures.
• Scarves and a jacket for cooler evenings.
• Comfortable shoes for walking and exploring.
• An umbrella for occasional rain.
• A mix of clothing suitable for outdoor activities and vineyard visits.

Winter (December to February):

• Warm clothing like sweaters, coats, and scarves.
• Waterproof and windproof jacket for rainy days.
• Boots or closed-toe shoes for colder weather.
• Gloves and a hat to stay warm.
• Layered clothing for indoor and outdoor activities.

Spring (March to May):

• Light layers for changing temperatures.
• Rain jacket or umbrella for occasional showers.
• Comfortable walking shoes for exploring.
• Sunglasses and a hat for sunny days.
• Casual and versatile clothing items for various activities.

Toulouse Food

Toulouse offers a rich culinary experience with a variety of traditional dishes and foods to try. Some of the must-try foods in Toulouse include:

• Toulouse Sausage: This pork coarse sausage, about 3 cm in diameter and sometimes sold in a swirl, is very popular in Toulouse as well as all around France.
• Cassoulet: You should try cassoulet, which is one of the most iconic dishes. Cassoulet is a varied dish, but the typical ingredients include white meaty beans, pork meat, duck confit, lamb neck, breast, and Toulouse sausage. All ingredients are cooked slowly and served hot in a bowl.
• Poulet à la Toulousaine: It is a roasted chicken dish known for its incorporation of flavorful Toulouse sausage. The chicken is stuffed with a mixture of Toulouse sausage, olives, garlic, and herbs.
• Foie gras d'oie: Made from the liver of a specialty-fattened goose. It serves as a starter, accompanied by a slice of gingerbread and fig jam or onion chutney.
• Brique du Capitole: Brick-shaped bonbons made with traditional ingredients such as sugar, almonds, hazelnuts, and vanilla.

Toulouse Nightlife

The nightlife of Toulouse is vibrant and colorful with many bars and cafes. As Toulouse is one of the main tourist attractions in France, visitors can have fun during their Toulouse trip. Here are some of the best nightlife spots in Toulouse:

• Le Purple: Trendy nightclub with a vibrant atmosphere, eclectic music, and themed nights.
• LE LOFT: Sophisticated lounge with chic ambiance, craft cocktails, and a relaxed setting.
• La Dynamo: Dynamic event space for concerts, parties, and cultural events. Industrial-chic décor.
• Blackout Discothèque: High-energy nightclub with top DJs, flashy lights, and a pulsating dance floor.
• Le Saint des Seins: Cozy neighborhood bar with bohemian vibe, craft beers, cocktails, and live music.
• Fat Cat: Laid-back lounge with comfortable seating, a friendly atmosphere, and an extensive drink menu.
• I Bar: Sleek cocktail bar specializing in innovative mixology and curated drinks.
• The Dispensary: Retro-themed bar with a quirky atmosphere, creative cocktails, and nostalgic bites.
• Limelight: Versatile event space for corporate functions, and private parties, with customizable amenities.