Uncover these 7 exciting day trips from Toulouse

Nestled between France's Mediterranean and Atlantic coasts, Toulouse is in close proximity to the Pyrenees mountains and charming cities like Bordeaux, Agen, and Carcassonne.

This makes the Ville Rose an ideal starting point for a diverse range of short excursions, whether they last half a day, a full day, or longer. If your stay in Toulouse permits it, don't miss out! Plus, if you're feeling overwhelmed by the city's hustle and bustle, why not venture into the surrounding regions and uncover their hidden natural treasures?

Here are some suggestions for trips that you can enjoy with your partner, family, or friends—eight destinations perfect for fresh air, a swim in the sea, or exploring culinary and architectural heritage, along with a few surprises.

1. Wander through the enchanting medieval city of Carcassonne

Travel time: 40 minutes

Carcassonne is like Toulouse's charming little sister. This fortified medieval city, established around 1130, commands a breathtaking view over the town. Crossing the fortifications feels like a journey back in time or stepping into an episode of Game of Thrones.

Alongside guided tours of this UNESCO World Heritage site, you’ll find a variety of educational workshops exploring historical lifestyles, traditional crafts, folklore, and delightful boutiques nestled along the cobblestone streets.

A day trip to Carcassonne and its medieval city is entirely feasible. It’s a perfect spot for families eager to uncover historical secrets, as well as for couples seeking romantic dining experiences in the city’s many excellent restaurants.

Getting from Toulouse to the medieval city of Carcassonne:

Catch a train from Matabiau station. With frequent daily services, it’s no surprise—Toulouse and Carcassonne are key stops on the route between the Atlantic and Mediterranean coasts. Taking the train saves you both time and money compared to driving.

2. Explore the majestic Pyrenean mountains

Travel time: 1.5 hours

A getaway into nature for some fresh air is always a great choice during vacation. Ax-les-Thermes perfectly embodies this, surrounded by stunning Pyrenean landscapes and numerous natural parks. Whether in winter or summer, it remains a hidden gem.

There’s an abundance of activities: ski on the slopes of the Ax 3 Domaines resort, hike near the ruins of Château de Lordat, visit the Orlu wildlife park to see its magnificent resident wolves, soak in the natural hot baths and spa at Le Couloubret, or enjoy spa treatments and charming mountain restaurants.

To fully enjoy this destination, an overnight stay is recommended. However, Ax-les-Thermes is conveniently reachable in under two hours by train. It’s a favored spot for those in Toulouse who make day trips to enjoy skiing, for example.

Getting from Toulouse city center to Ax-les-Thermes:

Numerous direct trains operate daily between Toulouse and Ax-les-Thermes, with tickets ranging from 9 to 25 euros available on the SNCF website. By car, expect a journey of about an hour and a half via the A66 highway.

3. Relish the tranquil Mediterranean coastline in Narbonne

Travel time: 1.5 hours

In search of refreshing sea air just under two hours from Toulouse? Make your way to the Mediterranean town of Narbonne, known for its beaches, natural marine park, sunny terraces, and one of the largest traditional buffets in the world.

Far from the hustle of mass tourism, the quaint town of Narbonne boasts several hidden gems waiting to be explored. Visit the Narbo Via museum to learn about the town's Roman heritage, then discover the beautiful Chalets Gruissan beach, Narbonne Plage, and the Etang de Bages, along with the stunning ponds that make up the Sainte-Lucie Nature Reserve and the Parc Naturel de la Narbonnaise en Méditerranée. These accessible ‘picnic in a bag’ walks invite swimming if the weather is right—just remember your hiking boots, swimsuit, and flip-flops.

In the evening, indulge in the Grands Buffets de Narbonne—a renowned all-you-can-eat buffet celebrated internationally. Savor traditional French cuisine and exceptional service, including the world’s largest cheese platter. The restaurant serves lunch, but spending the night to enjoy dinner is a fantastic choice.

Getting from Toulouse to Narbonne:

The average train ride from Toulouse to Narbonne takes about 1.5 hours, with some journeys as short as 1 hour and 10 minutes. The direct line is quite affordable, with tickets available for as low as €1 during certain times of the year; on average, it costs around €10.

4. Bike along the Canal du Midi

Travel time: up to 4 hours of cycling

The Canal du Midi is a source of pride for Toulouse, featuring extensive trails perfect for walking and biking. I recommend renting a bike from VelÔToulouse, which is easily available and affordable throughout the pink city.

Starting from Port Saint-Sauveur in Toulouse, you can reach Avignonet-Lauragais in about four hours via a dedicated greenway. Enjoy the scenic rural landscapes, the canal, charming villages, and castles along the route. It’s a flat, accessible ride—an ideal day out with a picnic in tow to escape the city and relish time with friends and family.

How to travel from Toulouse Marengo train station to the Voie Verte at Port-Saint-Sauveur:

You can easily grab a VelÔToulouse bike from Matabiau station and ride to Port-Saint-Sauveur in just twelve minutes via boulevard Lazare Carnot to kick off your cycling adventure.

5. Experience wine tasting right at the source in these vineyards

Travel time: 40 minutes

The south of France boasts an abundance of vineyards and exquisite wines, with Toulouse and its surrounding areas serving as a prime example. Whether with family, a partner, or friends, you can embark on a delightful gastronomic journey.

One destination worth visiting is Fronton, home to the Maison des Vins et du Tourisme. This stunning facility is nestled among the vineyards of Château de Capdeville in the Fronton appellation. Here, you can enjoy tastings, tours, and purchase from a selection of over 150 wines alongside wine experts. For a more immersive experience, you can also meet local wine growers and winemakers at their estates. The surrounding seven hectares offer a lovely space for picnics or aperitifs. The Maison des Vins et du Tourisme frequently hosts meetings with winemakers, tastings, and artistic events, so be sure to check their program ahead of time.

Getting from Toulouse to Fronton

By car, it takes less than 40 minutes from downtown Toulouse via the A62 highway.

6. Embrace your inner safari adventurer

Travel time: 1 hour 50 minutes

The Sigean African Reserve is one of France's premier destinations for experiencing African wildlife up close and in a safe environment. This expansive wildlife park is home to 3,800 native African animals, including mammals, reptiles, and birds. You can explore the park on foot or by car, moving through their habitats where animals roam freely, including in the lions' and bears' sections.

While a visit can be done in a day (allow at least four hours), a car is necessary to fully enjoy the park, as there is no direct public transportation available.

Getting from Toulouse to the Réserve Africaine de Sigean:

If you're traveling by train, you'll pass through Narbonne, with a convenient and regular service. Car rentals are available in Narbonne, and the reserve is just 15 minutes from the station. If driving, take the A61 highway.

7. Get lost in the gardens and labyrinth of Merville

Travel time: between 30 minutes to 1 hour 20 minutes (by car or bike)

Merville, located just outside Toulouse in Haute-Garonne, features a unique French gem: a magnificent château surrounded by a five-hectare garden that includes a plant maze. It’s the perfect spot for couples, families, or friends to enjoy some green space with a fun twist.

It’s no wonder the 18th-century Château de Merville has received the 'Remarkable Garden' label. Dive into the rich history of France and explore this pinnacle of French garden design.

How to reach Château de Merville from Toulouse:

The best way to get to Merville is by car, as public transport options are limited and infrequent. The drive takes about 30 minutes. Alternatively, if you rent a VelÔToulouse bike from the Toulouse station, expect to spend around 1 hour and 20 minutes. The route is straightforward and flat, following the grand boulevard des Minimes and the Chemin de l'Enseigure.