Top things to do in Toulouse

Best places to visit in Toulouse

If what you are looking for on this trip is to have the main transport connections to move around the city, we recommend staying at one of our hotels in Toulouse, such as the NH Toulouse Airport, which is a great option where you will also have stunning views of the Pyrenees. 

Although there is the option of hopping on the nearby tram, which will have you amid the city’s gems in no time, we’ll start this trip by taking a cab along the south bank of the scenic River Garonne, with a drop off at the Pont Neuf, the Old Bridge. 

Before you cross the bridge, you will see Le Château d’Eau, an old water tower that now acts as a gallery for photography exhibitions. Take in the view as you walk over the water and once on the other side, follow the road to Place de la Trinité. With a fountain adorning its center, this is a nice stop-off point for a beverage.

A little further along the street we come to the Cathédral Saint-Étienne, a mandatory stop among the things to do in Toulouse. It’s a mixed gothic styled building where Riquet, the famous designer of the Canal du Midi, is buried. As well as marveling at the various architectural contrasts, make sure you catch a glimpse of the oldest organ cabinet in the city, amazingly suspended in mid air. 

Working your way back slightly but with a northerly direction in mind, you have a chance to pop into the Musée des Augustins. Wander through the medieval cloister, admire the local architecture in what is one of France’s oldest museums, and then soak up the history from the artwork that dates back to the Middle Ages. 

Strolling up the rue des Arts you may be tempted into various shops or cafés, and if time is on your side then why not indulge those cravings, ahead of what is the centerpiece of this city: the Place du Capitole, the most important visit within this guide on what to do in Toulouse. 

This magnificent square, which has a huge Occitan cross depicting the zodiac signs on the ground, is where you will find Le Capitole, home to the Théâtre du Capitole and the town hall. Take a moment to enjoy the building and, if possible, step inside for some impressive décor. 

From the main square, take rue du Taur to continue completing the list of things to do in Toulouse and you will see Notre-Dame du Taur on your right. More ochre stone greets you and then inside there is a more somber feel, which gives you a sense of the church’s history. Check out the fresco above the altar. 

The road continues north until it reaches the magnificent Basilique Saint-Sernin de Toulouse. This huge Romanesque building dates back to the XI century and has to be seen to be believed. See some of the relics of the saints by accessing the crypts and the main bell tower that is octagonal in shape, and be sure to take note of the finer details of the architecture. The nearby Chapelle des Carmélites is also worth a visit.

‘Must see’ in Toulouse

These are our recommendations on what to do in Toulouse in a mandatory way to know the best kept secrets of this city. 

Sometimes you’ll feel the urge to step away from streets and buildings so why not check out one of the green spaces on offer. Two in particular are exquisite mini-escapes: Jardin des Plantes and Jardin Japonais, both of which provide their own version of tranquility through the use of water and impeccably manicured gardens. 

If among the things to do in Toulouse you also want to go shopping, whether to source out some local delicacy or just to witness the residents going about their daily life, Marché Victor Hugo is the place for you. Multiple stalls selling their wares and above them a number of restaurants putting them to good use. 

To get a sense of your bearings, head up onto the rooftop terrace of the Galeries Lafayette for a superb panoramic view of the city. If you haven’t already, you’ll see where its rose-tinted nickname came from. 

Although we touched on a few in the tour, there are a number of other museums and exhibitions worth checking out while you’re in town. Musée St-Raymond shows off a selection of remnants from the 4th and 5th centuries, with remarkable statues and sarcophagi gracing the various floors. 

Famed for its aeronautics, Toulouse’s Cité de l’Espace brings you an interactive collection of exhibits including a planetarium, space travel rotating pod, and replicas of various rockets. If you have even a passing interest about what goes on outside Earth’s atmosphere then you’ll not regret a visit.

Where to eat in Toulouse

Dining in France is always a pleasure and is the best excuse to choose a good place and satisfy your appetite during your trip. So among the things to do in Toulouse, there also has to be room to enjoy its amazing gastronomic options. Here are some of our suggestions: 

Best place to have breakfast 

If you’re looking to hit the streets early then get yourself along to Bapz Bakery and Tea Room. Savory and sweet morning preferences are taking into account and not only are the homemade selections delicious, they’re also wonderfully presented on your plate as if a work of art. 

Best spot for lunch 

Locally produced ingredients make up the menu of the delightful Le Vélo Sentimental on Boulevard Bonrepos, and you’ll be pleasantly surprised at the prices as you pick a healthy option to keep energy levels high. 

Best dinner restaurants 

You’re in France so some traditional cuisine is surely going to be of interest. We recommend you go to Le Genty Magre for some of the best local dishes you’re likely to find. The house stew – known as cassoulet – will give you a warm, homely feeling, perfectly matched by the décor of your surroundings. 

Toulouse has a number of 'special' restaurants and one of our favorites has to be Michel Sarran, named after the two-Michelin-starred chef. Each plate or bowl that arrives will have some creative cuisine to surprise you, with the only concern being that you take the phrase ‘it looks too good to eat’ quite literally. This is one occasion where you’ll be excused for using your cell phone at the table – to take some visual reminder snaps! If dining here is on your list of things to do in Toulouse, remember to book a table as soon as you can.

Toulouse nightlife

Whether you like a quiet plan or want to really let your hair down and forget about it, Toulouse has options galore. 

The Vieux Quartier (Old Quarter) that we have already visited is a great area to wander around after the sun has set. Check out the bars and cafés and explore any that have the vibe you’re looking for. Alternatively, the banks of the river near St-Pierre can also be very inviting as is the area of rue Gabriel Péri and rue des 7 Troubadours. You’ll not be short of alternatives. 

The Nº5 is a wine bar situated on rue de la Bourse and has a grape-infused selection to make the mind boggle. This is why there are experts on hand to guide you to the right tipple depending on your tastes and mood, and potentially to match your tapas choice. 

If among the things to do in Toulouse, you are looking for something a little livelier, head along to rue Joutx Aigues and check out the scene in Moloko. Pick your favorite cocktail and either sit back and soak up the musical atmosphere. The Downtown Factory is another venue to let yourself free, while a much more chilled music experience can be found at Le Taquin on rue des Amidonniers. 

As France’s fourth largest city, it’s not surprising that Toulouse provides such a wealth of opportunity for wonderful experiences to build into your trip. Take advantage of every spare minute and witness the joie de vivre in the Ville Rose.