A beginner's guide to Toulouse

With a population of half a million and a vibrant university atmosphere, you'll fall in love with the charming, intimate center of the city known as La Ville Rose (the pink city) – a name inspired by the rosy-orange bricks that characterize Toulouse's architecture.

Toulouse truly shines during the spring and summer sunsets, when both the sky and the city glow in soft pink-orange hues. The best way to savor this beauty is with a glass of wine on a terrace, or by enjoying the local aperitif: Pastis.

Toulouse is a delightful student city, thoughtfully designed with students in mind, making it a fantastic budget-friendly destination. Just take a leisurely stroll along the Garonne River on a spring afternoon to experience spontaneous concerts and lively group dance sessions outdoors.

Is navigating Toulouse straightforward?

Toulouse boasts excellent transportation options, fitting for the birthplace of Airbus! The city features two metro lines (with a third set to launch in 2028) that connect all neighborhoods and attractions. Additionally, much of the city center is pedestrian-friendly, making it enjoyable to explore by bike or bus, particularly for sightseeing.

It's also conveniently located near the Atlantic and Mediterranean beaches, as well as the ski slopes in the nearby Pyrenees.

The ideal time to visit Toulouse

The ideal times to visit Toulouse are in spring and autumn, when you can relish stunning views of the Garonne River, sip cocktails on terraces, enjoy mild temperatures, and experience extended daylight. Perfect for those who love capturing the golden hour and vibrant photos!

These seasons are particularly rich in cultural festivals, including the Rio Loco Festival, Toulouse à table Festival, Rose Festival, and Le Week-End des Curiosités, among others.

To fully appreciate the city, it’s best to steer clear of mid-summer, as the heat can be quite intense and the city center often feels deserted.

Must-see attractions in Toulouse for a day visit

An ideal one-day itinerary for exploring the pink city center.

You can experience the essence of Toulouse in just one day; while the metro is enjoyable and convenient, cycling is also a fantastic way to appreciate the charming pink architecture.

Start your day on a tranquil note by unwinding on a bench in the Pierre-Baudis Japanese Garden at Compans-Caffarelli. The historic Université du Capitole and its gardens, renowned for law studies in France, are free to explore.

Next, head to Place du Capitole and the City Hall, the vibrant center of the Ville Rose, and wander through the nearby narrow streets, perfect for discovering local thrift shops.

Pause at the Couvent des Jacobins, where you’ll find a tranquil retreat filled with palm trees and stunning medieval architecture. Afterwards, you're ready to explore the charming Carmes district, known for its boutiques, starting from the Jardin des Plantes.

Later in the day, for the most vibrant light and colors in the city, we highly recommend strolling along the Garonne quays via the Pont St-Pierre. Before crossing, don't miss the iconic 12th-century Hôpital de La Grave and its domed Chapelle Saint-Joseph, a striking symbol of Toulouse. For the finest unfiltered sunset photos, make a stop at the Espace EDF Bazacle for a breathtaking view.

The pink city is famous for its excellent restaurants and bars. Rue Pargaminières and Port de la Daurade are prime spots for value dining and terraces—beer enthusiasts will love the bar La Tireuse. Also, don't overlook the popular guinguette Pêcheurs de sable, known for its affordable shareable plates.

Adjacent to this area is Place St-Pierre, one of France's most celebrated squares, buzzing with lively bars and vibrant nights. This is a great chance to sample the local aperitif, Pastis, for just one euro during happy hour at Chez Tonton bar.

Local tip: How should you enjoy a Pastis? Always dilute it with water, and make sure to add exactly two ice cubes. Not one. Not three. Don’t let the waiter trick you!

Discover the finest museums in Toulouse – along with their mechanical marvels.

Toulouse boasts a vibrant cultural and musical scene. A must-visit is the Halle de la Machine and its Piste des Géants, where you can encounter gigantic bio-mechanical creatures like minotaurs and spiders that truly move and breathe. These extraordinary creations, weighing several tons, are designed by a Nantes-based company and reside in Toulouse when not touring the globe.

Immerse yourself in an enchanting experience with captivating stories and narratives that unfold in a fantastical tale, delighting both adults and children. The machinists are eager to animate these colossal figures right before your eyes.

La Halle is conveniently located near downtown Toulouse. While biking along the scenic Canal du Midi is recommended, the venue is also accessible via bus or metro. Ticket prices range from €8 to €18.

The aeronautics capital of Europe

Toulouse stands as a European hub for aeronautics, hosting the Airbus Group and Latécoère. You can dedicate a day to exploring the Cité de l'Espace (starting at €23), a true treasure trove of knowledge for both children and adults.

Another must-see in Toulouse is the Airbus headquarters and aircraft assembly facility (starting at €16), offering a unique glimpse into the world of aviation.

Adjacent to this is the Aeroscopia Museum, featuring a genuine Concorde aircraft (entry from €15).

What’s the budget for a trip to Toulouse?

Toulouse shines as a tourist hotspot during spring and summer, but it doesn’t feel as crowded as some coastal towns or Paris. The city offers a variety of quality hotels catering to different budgets, and during peak season, many students and locals go on holiday, making short-term rentals appealing.

Here are some typical prices you can expect during the high season:

• Four-star hotel room for two: €150

• Dormitory in a youth hostel: €40

• Self-catering apartment: €100

• Car rental: starting at €45 per day

• Coffee: €2

• Pint of beer: €6 (€2.50 during happy hour)

• Metro ticket: €6.60 for an unlimited day pass

• Fast-food meal: starting from €8