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Toulouse in 1 day – Self-guided walking tour with route map

Visiting Toulouse in 1 day is a real challenge! But when you love your city and want to make people love it, you know how to be imaginative and clever!

I will share with you my way of showing people around the pink city as I show it to my family and friends. And to help you, you will find the Google Maps route to follow on foot to do my tourist circuit of Toulouse.

How to visit Toulouse in 1 day?

In general, I offer my guests a one-day itinerary (very busy) to visit most of Toulouse with the most emblematic sites.

The ideal is to be able to do everything on foot to pass through the small streets and not miss some beautiful nuggets. It is impossible to do the guided tours of the different sites on this circuit because, even if they are interesting, they would take too long and would not allow you to complete the circuit.

Thus, the great monuments: We pass there, we visit them quickly (with a good Lonely Planet guide is better), we take some photos and we continue the circuit!

Visit Toulouse in 1 day – Program of the day

Here are my two circuits which allow you to visit Toulouse on foot. These two circuits each make a loop which starts from the Capitol Square  and comes back to the Place du Capitole.

Thus, we can plan a tour in the morning and another tour in the afternoon with a lunch break around Place du Capitole.

Toulouse in 1 day – Morning walking tour

Click on "More options" in the map to follow the GPS

Start with Le Capitole and its beautiful square

From your hotel, take Metro Line A ( Capitole stop ).

This square is the emblem of Toulouse . This is where the people of Toulouse come together to celebrate their major events. On the floor of the square, you can admire the symbol of our region: the occitan cross . Raymond Moretti, a contemporary artist, designed it just like the 29 frescoes of Arcades around the Place du Capitole . Each painting evokes a great event in the history of Toulouse and its region.

La Capitol Square is full of charm because it is surrounded by buildings with pink brick facades.

The Capitol , splendid architectural building neoclassical throne in the best place. You can quickly visit, inside the Capitol, the Henri-IV court and the superb paintings in the Gervais, Henri-Martin and of the Illustrious (on the 1st floor).

Join the Saint-Sernin Basilica

Continue my tour by taking the rue du Taur to go to Basilica of Saint-Sernin . As you walk down the street you will be able to see the church Notre-Dame-du-Taur .

You will have to turn right into the rue de Perigord if you want to contemplate the Carmelite Chapel .

Then, return to the rue du Taur to join and visit the Basilica of Saint Sernin . This basilica, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is the largest Romanesque building in France. It is dedicated to Sernin (or Saturnin) who was the first bishop of Toulouse.

Walk the streets of old Toulouse

To continue my itinerary on foot, you have to take the rue du Taur , rue de l'Esquile , Then Rue des Penitents-Gris . On the right, in the Rue du College-de-Foix then turn left on Deville Street . Continue by Lakanal Street which leads directly to Jacobins (flagship of southern Gothic art).

Go see the Jacobins

Composed of several buildings (church, cloister and convent), the Jacobins were built between the XNUMXth and XNUMXth centuries to house the members of the Order of Saint Dominic, the Dominicans. The relics of Saint Thomas Aquinas are kept there.

And end the morning at the Hôtel de Bernuy

Go back to the Lakanal Street , to the right and admire, in the rue Gambetta, the grand mansion: the Bernuy hotel. It was built at the beginning of the 16th century at the time of the glory of Pastel which made the wealth and the fame of Toulouse!

Now is the time to take a lunch break… Back to the Place du Capitole!

My good restaurant plan in Toulouse

It is on the famous Capitol Square that is the  Le Bibent café-restaurant.

I advise you to go there not only for its chef Christian CONSTANT but above all for its colorful neo-baroque interior decoration (listed as a historic monument). This restaurant is a place to eat but above all a place to visit!

Toulouse in 1 day – Afternoon walking tour

Hôtel d'Assézat and the Bemberg Foundation

From the almost complete Capitol Square , take rue Gambetta, follow on rue Peyrolières, rue Sainte Ursule, rue de la Bourse and rue Jean Suau.

Thus, you will pass through charming little streets of Toulouse to reach the Assézat hotel.  This beautiful XNUMXth century mansion is located at the end of rue de l'Echarpe. The  Fondation Bemberg is housed within its walls and offers a small collection of impressionist paintings.

Trinity Square

It's one of my favorite places in Toulouse. To get there, you will have to continue on the merchants street and go to the Trinity Square.  Admire the  house of the Caryatids and its XNUMXth century fountain.

Continue the circuit by taking the rue des Tourneurs , Place Rouaix and the street Croix Baragnon which leads to the Place Saint Etienne . If you are hungry, take a break to enjoy a pastry at Conté ...

Saint Etienne cathedral

Discover and take a tour of  the Saint-Etienne cathedral.  With a mix of architectural styles, this incredible cathedral brings together mainly two Gothic styles: the massive and mighty Southern Gothic and the slender and luminous Northern Gothic.

End of the Augustins circuit

Take the rue de Metz again to reach the Augustinians.

Here is the last essential site of my circuit: the  Augustins museum and its cloister.  Originally, it was a convent, that of Augustins , built between the XNUMXth and XNUMXth centuries. Today it is the Toulouse Museum of Fine Arts.

Return to Place du Capitole

From the almost complete Metz street , going through the arts street and to the left apple street , you will follow the street of the weight of oil to come back to the Capitol Square . As you pass, you will see the Capitol from behind with its beautiful Dungeon. And there you have it, the circle is complete!

Recommended restaurant in Toulouse

For a successful evening in a cozy and warm atmosphere in the very heart of old Toulouse, I recommend number 5 Wine Bars . Indeed, this bar was elected best wine bar in the world but it is also a great restaurant . See my article: The best wine bar in the world is in Toulouse!

After this beautiful, busy day and a surely unforgettable evening, return to your hotel. And if you don't know where to stay, here is my selection of nice hotels in the center of Toulouse.

Where to stay to visit Toulouse on foot?

• Le Grand Balcon – 8-10 Rue Romiguieres, Toulouse

Very well placed in the Toulouse historic center (100 m from the Capitol), this 4-star hotel is superbly decorated in the 30s style with a blend of tradition and modernity.

Its location allows you to visit the city center of Toulouse but also all the other tourist sites of Toulouse because it is barely a 3-minute walk from the metro.

See this hotel on Booking

• Mercure Toulouse Saint-Georges hotel

Its location is also very interesting! It is ideal for visiting Toulouse and its historic center. Indeed, it is only 50 m from Place Wilson, 300 m from Place du Capitole and 100 meters from the Jean-Jaurès metro station.

The hotel which has recently been completely renovated and offers a small swimming pool which is very welcome in summer!

The circuit that I have just presented to you is perfect for discovering the essential of Toulouse but it is far from complete. A single day is not enough to discover all the riches and curiosities of my city and even less to feel its “Iberian” atmosphere and its warm and festive atmosphere. This is why I suggest you discover my circuit: Visit Toulouse in 2 days.

Perhaps you prefer to visit the surroundings of Toulouse? So why not a original road trip in Occitania from Toulouse or a circuit around the Bastides of Tarn or leave 1 hour from Toulouse for visit Albi !

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4 thoughts on “Toulouse in 1 day – Self-guided walking tour with route map”

Hello, Having to stay for a veek-end in Toulouse at the end of July, I appreciated the magnificent explanation of the highlights of the city. Everything is precise. I can see myself already! Your recommendations are very valuable. A big thank-you.

Oh I wish you a very good stay in Toulouse this summer! I hope that Toulouse will "hope" for you and that you will not have too big a "dodger" as we say at home!

ToulouseGuidedWalks offers many walking tours and visits of the city of Toulouse. The walks are all interesting, insightful and fun. TGW gives you a chance to discover the wonders, glories and secrets of the beautiful red brick city of Toulouse.

The Classic Tour (our most popular one) takes you to see our most famous monuments and allows you to discover why the St Sernin church, the Jacobins monastery, the fabulous Renaissance bridge, the Pont Neuf, and the medieval Renaissance mansions are so famous.

But ToulouseGuidedWalks also offers you a wide choice of other subjects and themes for your visit.

From Roman times to the Resistance during WW II; from the history of its gardens to the fabulous story of the Garonne River, you have pick from any one of the Walks to learn more about Toulouse. They are all fascinating and different.

There are a few out of town tours in the region which are available on demand.  Check out these podcasts for some ideas.   Contact TGW and tell us what you would like to see.

Whether you are interested in history, architecture, design, food and drink, or just old buildings and atmosphere, ToulouseGuidedWalks offers a tour for you!

Whether you are just passing through Toulouse, or are here for a longer time; whether a first time visitor or a return traveler, you can find a walk or visit that suits you!

All of the walks are on demand, for small intimate groups. You have just to choose one, and contact Elyse to schedule your visit.

“I have taken many walks with Elyse and each one is more fascinating and agreable than the last. Her enthousiasm and knowledge are without equals. It is a marvelous way to discover the beauty of this city” — Arabella

“What is different about her tours is that she manages to draw her listeners into the lives of the people who lived and worked in the Middle Ages and over the centuries since then” — F D

9 Best Day Trips from Toulouse

Article written by Elisa - Travel Writer & Local in France This article may contain compensated links. Please read disclaimer for more info.

Best Places to Visit Near Toulouse

Toulouse is a beautiful city to discover, but if you have extra time during your holiday and would love to explore more of the Occitanie region , a Toulouse day trip is a good idea.

Toulouse’s strategic location will allow you to visit medieval towns, hilltop villages surrounded by the Pyrénées Mountains, important pilgrimage sites, and rolling vineyards with wine-producing châteaux.

Here’s our list of the nine best places to visit near Toulouse: top day trips from Toulouse by train, car, or guided tour with something for every traveler.

Best Toulouse Day Trips

Toulouse day trips in a nutshell.

Best day trips from Toulouse by train: Albi, Foix, Carcassonne.

Book your train tickets with Omio.com or Trainline.com

Best day trips from Toulouse by car: Gaillac Wine Route, Rieux-Volvestre.

Rent a car in Toulouse with DiscoverCars.com . Click here for our best tips for renting a car in France .

Best day tours from Toulouse: Carcassonne and Albi + Cordes-sur-Ciel

Lying along the Tarn River and located 75km northeast of Toulouse, Albi is a gorgeous UNESCO medieval town. Nicknamed “Albi la Rouge,” the whole town is characterized by red-brick architecture that makes strolling around the center a never-ending photo opportunity.

Its most striking feature is the Cathédrale Sainte-Cecile , an impressive fortress-like Gothic Cathedral you can see anywhere in the city. This religious building is pretty unique as it is the largest brick cathedral in the world.

Albi has many historic landmarks, such as the Pont Vieux, the old bridge dating back to the 11th century, the Romanesque Church of Saint-Salvy, and the Palais de la Berbie with idyllic gardens. The Palais de la Berbie hosts the Toulouse-Lautrec Museum , a must-see place for fans of this famous painter.

Visiting Albi is one of the best day trips from Toulouse for history lovers and photography geeks! Albi is super easy to reach by train – the train journey from Toulouse to Albi only takes one hour. To get the most out of your day, book this guided tour that visits Albi and the oh-so-pretty medieval town of Cordes-sur-Ciel.

2. Cité de Carcassonne

At a distance of 95 km southeast of Toulouse is the magnificent Cité de Carcassonne . This UNESCO-listed medieval Citadel will blow your mind if you are passionate about history and architecture.

Cité de Carcassonne is one of the best places to visit from Toulouse and one of the unmissable French landmarks with its impressive 52 watchtowers and the Château Comtal. The Castle sits on a hilltop, and it gives visitors fairytale vibes. Built in the 12th century, inside, you can still see what’s left of the Counts’ private chapel. The Castle also houses a museum with an interesting collection about the Cathars in Carcassonne and Southern France.

Finally, don’t miss visiting the Basilique Saint Nazaire, displaying a blend of Romanesque and Gothic styles, and walking the Citadel ramparts.

A Toulouse to Carcassonne day trip is very easy to organize by train – Click here to buy your train tickets to Carcassonne . Some people, however, prefer the comfort of a minibus and the explanations of an expert guide on this Carcassonne day tour .

3. Gaillac Wine Route

The charming town of Gaillac is 50 km northeast of Toulouse and lies on the Tarn River. Easily reachable by train, the town holds historical monuments like the Abbatiale Saint Michel, a 10th-century Benedictine abbey, and the Maison des Vins, ideal if you want to learn more about wine and do some tastings.

Gaillac is one of the best places near Toulouse to visit for wine lovers. The Gaillac vineyard extends over both banks of the Tarn River to the northeast of Toulouse and is a delight for lovers of wines with a tasty character. If the Romans had already noticed that the terroir of Gaillac was extraordinary, it was the monks who shaped the Gaillac vineyard from the 10th century.

The best way to explore the Gaillac wine route is by car, during which you can admire the panorama. Stop by beautiful wine-producing châteaux, like Château Lastours and Cave de Labastide , to visit the properties and sample their wines (advance booking is necessary). If you can’t resist the allure of a château and a glass of good wine, this day trip from Toulouse is for you!

4. Rieux-Volvestre

South of Toulouse, at a distance of 45 km, is the lovely village of Rieux-Volvestre . With a prestigious heritage, the village is nestled on the edge of the small Arize River.

Strolling around the historic medieval streets, you can admire traditional timber-framed houses, a covered market hall, and a fortified brick-built cathedral. The Cathédrale Sainte-Marie et Trésor Episcopal is in Gothic style and features an octagonal bell tower. On the inside, the church displays Episcopal treasures.

A great Toulouse day trip if you are fond of the past and relaxing walks, Rieux-Volvestre also has the Papogay Festival on the first Sunday of May, during which medieval-like archers shoot a wooden parrot off a 45-meter-high pole. You will surely love this historical reenactment!

Although there are direct bus connections Toulouse – Rieux (1 hr one way), it is much easier to visit by car.

5. Cité de l’Espace

Cité de l’Espace is 5.5 km south of Toulouse, at a short 20-minute drive, and is among the top places to visit near Toulouse. This Cité de l’Espace is actually a theme park dedicated to space, so step inside to discover the history of space exploration.

Ideal if you are traveling with kids or want to have a fun-filled day, the Cité de l’Espace is divided into several thematic areas where you will find a planetarium, a real spacecraft, an IMAX cinema, and a space flight simulation area, among the others.

The Cité de l’Espace is also a meeting venue for astronomy and science enthusiasts and regularly hosts temporary exhibitions, conferences, and workshops.

The Cité de l’Espace is an easy half-day or day trip from Toulouse. From central Toulouse, you can get to La Cité de l’Espace by bus. Take line 1 and stop at Collège Vernant + 15 min of walking or use the Cité de l’Espace stop on line 37. You can catch bus line 37 by taking metro line A to Jolimont or metro line B to Ramonville, then bus line 37, Cité de l’Espace stop.

A pilgrimage site 72 km north of Toulouse, Moissac is well-known for the wonderful Abbaye Saint-Pierre . This UNESCO-listed religious building was built between the 12th and the 15th century, and it features an ornamental Romanesque architecture epitomized by the magnificent façade and the richly decorated interior.

The Abbey has been part of the Camino de Santiago (Chemin de Saint-Jacques) since the Middle Ages, making Moissac an interesting place for history geeks.

But this riverside town is surrounded by vineyards and orchards, creating a romantic and bucolic atmosphere perfect for everyone looking for a relaxing day trip. During the summer, Moissac hosts many cultural events, such as the Festival of the Voice (in July) and classical music concerts.

There are many direct trains from Toulouse to Moissac. You can reach Moissac in less than one hour (one way).

7. Canal du Midi by Bike

The Canal du Midi passes through the very heart of Toulouse, stretching for 240 km from the Atlantic coast all the way south to the Mediterranean Sea. This artificial Canal is considered one of the greatest construction works of the 17th century.

The Canal’s main purpose was to transport merchandise across the area; nowadays, it is a tourist spot where you can have fun walking, biking, or navigating along. If you are looking for a fun day trip for the whole family or a sporty one, hop on a bike and embark on a 40 km cycling adventure that connects Toulouse to the municipality of Avignonet-Lauragais via the Voie Verte du Canal de Midi .

While in Toulouse, head to Le Petit Cyclo shop to rent your bike and get ready to discover the UNESCO-listed Canal du Midi.

Lourdes is 175 km southwest of Toulouse and is Europe’s most important Catholic pilgrimage site. The Sanctuaire de Notre-Dame de Lourdes is the main reason visitors come into town and includes several religious buildings and monuments around the Grotto of Massabielle . This Grotto is the very place where the apparitions occurred. It is said that the Virgin Mary appeared to a local girl named Bernadette 18 times!

Lourdes is among the places to visit near Toulouse for religious tourism. If you are not into that, a Toulouse to Lourdes day trip is also interesting: Lourdes’ Cathedral is stunning in its own right, and the town boasts another fantastic sight, the Château Fort. Reach it by riding the Pic du Jer funicular to marvel at the views of the forested mountains of the Pyrénées – Click here to buy your train tickets from Toulouse to Lourdes

Among the best day trips from Toulouse is the one to Foix , a must-stop along the Cathar Route . Foix is located 87 km south of Toulouse and lies close to the borders with Catalunya and Andorra.

The town is famous for its medieval castle – Château de Foix – featuring three well-preserved machicolated towers and high walls. This imposing fortress now hosts the Ariège Departmental Museum, where you can learn the town’s past through themed exhibitions and a permanent collection of medieval everyday objects and weapons.

Château de Foix boasts stunning views over the roofs of the old town, the Ariège Valley, and the surrounding mountains. Besides being a perfect spot for history lovers, Foix will delight those looking for a relaxing one-day-long getaway.

Foix is an easy day trip from Toulouse by train. If you visit by car, don’t miss to explore the underground River Labouiche . Located 6 km from Foix, you will navigate 60 m below the ground!

And there you have it, the best day trips from Toulouse, France. Which Toulouse day trips tempt you most?

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Toulouse 1-day itinerary: exactly how to spend 1 day in toulouse, france.

Are you heading to South West France soon and wondering how to spend 1 day in Toulouse? You’ve come to the right place!

Toulouse is one of the most beautiful cities in France and I’ve been lucky enough to call it home for many years.

It’s packed with historical landmarks, restaurants, bars and parks but the most important aspect of Toulouse is the atmosphere that reigns here.

Toulouse is a relaxed city and even though it’s one of the largest in the city, it feels like a small town!

The city centre is pretty small and compact which means it’s easy to explore on foot and 24 hours is enough to see the main sights.

This Toulouse 1-day itinerary will take you on a journey through all the best that this city has to offer.

From its stunning architecture and historical landmarks to its vibrant culture and delicious food, here is exactly what you’ll be able to do in Toulouse in 1 day!

So put on your comfy shoes and get ready to explore!

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning I get a commission if you decide to make a purchase through my links, at no extra cost for you!

Table of Contents

How to plan your trip to Toulouse – Practical Information

Before we get started with this Toulouse day itinerary, here is some info to help you plan your trip.

How to get to Toulouse

Toulouse is well connected by plane, train and bus.

The airport is about 15 minutes from the city centre and all the main airlines (including low-cost ones) fly there.

Click here to see the best fares to Toulouse.

There also are many trains (including TGV) connecting Toulouse with other major French cities such as Paris, Marseille, Lyon and Bordeaux.

The main station in Toulouse is called Matabiau and is only 5 minutes walk to the city centre.

Click here to see the trains to Toulouse

Finally, you will also find loads of buses from the main French cities abut also neighbouring countries such as Spain, Italy or Portugal.

Click here to see the buses to Toulouse

How to get around Toulouse

Once you actually get to Toulouse, you have three options: walking, taking the metro or renting a bike.

The city centre of Toulouse is very small and easy to walk around. Most of the streets are pedestrian in the ‘hyper’ centre so walking is definitely the way forward.

If you want to venture further afield, you can easily take the metro. There are only two lines in Toulouse (A and B) and it’s super easy!

Finally, you can also opt to rent a bike for a day (VelôToulouse). This is one of the best ways to explore the city and I can’t recommend it enough however, since you only have 24 hours, walking or opting for the e-bike tour will be a better option.

READ MORE: Toulouse Travel Tips: 10 Things you need to know before visiting Toulouse, France

Best tours in Toulouse (when you only have one day)

Toulouse is the perfect city to wander around.

You will enjoy strolling along the narrow and pink streets however since you only have 24 hours in the city, you will need to optimise your time.

For this reason, I highly recommend taking a guided tour. That way, you get to discover the best spots in the city and learn about the local culture.

Tours are usually about 2 hours long which means that you can do that in the morning and then enjoy a relaxing afternoon in town.

Here are the best tours in Toulouse when only have one day:

• Walking tour. This walking tour of Toulouse is ideal for first timers. You’ll discover all the main sights and learn plenty about the history of the city. You can also ask the guide for some tips! See prices.
• E-bike tour. This one is perfect for people who want to see as much as possible in a day. It lasts 3 hours and since you will be on an electric bike, it’s actually very relaxing. Literally everything you need to see in Toulouse is on this tour. It’s also excellent value for money. See prices here.
• Bicycle tour. This one is essentially the same thing except that it’s a normal bike. It’s good fun! See prices.
• Food tour. If you are a foodie and want to taste typical dishes from Toulouse as well as discover our best markets, this one is for you! See prices.
• Photo tour. If you are into photography or would like to get some awesome photos for your Instagram, this tour is for you! You will be with a professional photographer who will take you to the best photo spots and take stunning pictures of you! See prices.
• Mini City bus. This one lasts just over 1 hour and is ideal for people who don’t want to walk too much. You’ll see the main sights as well as the Canal du Midi and the river Garonne. See prices.

Where to stay in Toulouse

While I appreciate that if you are only in Toulouse for a day you may not stay here for a night but in case do, here are some recommendations of places to stay!

Staying in the city centre is the best thing you can do. Anything outside of the centre might be a tiny bit cheaper but by the time you bought your metro ticket and spent time in the transport, you’ll have lost whatever money you saved.

Here are the best places to stay:

• Grand Hotel de l’Opera in Capitole. This is as central as it gets and while it might be a bit more expensive, it’s definitely the ultimate location.
• Mercure Toulouse Centre Wilson in Jean Jaures. Still a great location and between the Capitole and Matabiau station. This is the perfect choice if you are taking the bus or train.
• Hôtel Le Père Léon in Esquirol. Ideal for people who want to enjoy the nightlife in Toulouse.

Toulouse 1-Day itinerary

So, now that you know everything you need to plan your trip, let’s discover exactly how to spend one day in Toulouse.

Please note that this is a self-guided itinerary for Toulouse and you can do everything on your own. If you choose to book one of the tours mentioned before, you will get to see most of these sights during the tour, especially the morning ones.

So feel free to remodel a bit this itinerary to make it fit with the tour.

So, let’s get started!

Morning: Famous landmarks in Toulouse

Stop 1: capitole.

You will start your day at the Place du Capitole. This is the main square in Toulouse and it’s home to the Capitole which is the city hall.

The building is iconic and will start giving you an idea of why Toulouse is called the Pink City (La Ville Rose).

It was built in the 12th century and is pretty famous for its staterooms. Inside, if you head to the Salle des Illustres, you’ll discover absolutely stunning paintings on the walls and ceilings (yes, that’s kind of our take on the Sistine Chapel!).

The square is also very beautiful. Firstly, if you look on the ground, you’ll see that right in the middle is the Occitan Cross, the symbol of Toulouse and its Occitan heritage.

Fun fact: If you take the metro, you’ll notice that the names of the stations are said in both French and Occitan.

The Place du Capitole is also an important gathering place. That’s where most events happen including the Christmas markets in December.

You will also find some galleries around the square with luxury restaurants and hotels.

PRO TIP: Make sure to walk under the galleries (so between the restaurants’ entrance doors and terraces). There are beautiful paintings on the ceiling. They are a bit of a hidden gem but they truly make the place!

Once you are done with the Capitole, head to the Jacobins Covent through Gambetta street.

Fancy a French breakfast? You will find a few amazing boulangeries in the Rue Gambetta so if you fancy getting pastry and start your day like the French do, go to Les Frères Chapelier Boulangerie or the Boulangerie Marguerite.

You’ll find all sorts of viennoiseries and patisseries here but I highly recommend to get a Chocolatine.

Fun fact: A chocolatine is the South West equivalent of Pain au Chocolat. In effect, it’s the same thing, we just call it differently and I would advise you to use our word 😉

There is no such thing as Pain au Chocolat in Toulouse!

(Yes, we are very passionate about our chocolatines!)

Stop 2: Couvent des Jacobins

The Couvent des Jacobins is a Dominican convent that was built in the 13th century.

It’s one of the biggest religious sites in the city and one of the most surprising places in Toulouse.

As you get there, you might feel a bit underwhelmed by the aspect of the convent.

If I’m honest, it doesn’t look that impressive from the outside but don’t let that stop you and make your way to the entrance.

The Jacobins convent is famous for incredible gothic architecture which is rather rare in the South.

It’s home to some of the most beautiful ceilings and vaults you will ever see!

But if you want to truly get to see the best part, you will have to go to the cloister. There is an entrance fee for this art but it’s only a few euros and is included in your Toulouse City card.

Once you step into the cloister, you’ll really have a hard time believing that you are in a city. It’s so peaceful, lush and calm.

The Jacobins convent is one of the most visited attractions in Toulouse and rightfully. It’s something everyone should see.

PRO TIP: If you don’t want to pay for the cloisters, it’s alright but I’d still recommend you to go and walk around the church since this part is free and you get to see the palm trees created by the arches as well as beautiful stained windows.

Stop 3: La Daurade

After visiting the Jacobins, it’s time to discover the most beautiful spot in Toulouse (especially in summer!), La Daurade.

La Daurade is actually the name of the basilica located by the River Garonne but most locals don’t even know that.

When they say La Daurade, they are referring to the port of La Daurade which is located on the banks of the Garonne.

It used to be important since it was used to connect the Canal du Midi with the Garonne but it’s now more of an entertainment district.

Here you can walk, have a coffee in one of the lovely local cafes, a drink but also a picnic!

It’s such a beautiful and pleasant place to discover. It feels peaceful and the views over the Pont Neuf, Pont St-Pierre and the cupola of La Grave are absolutely stunning.

That having been said, if you were tempted to do a river cruise, it would be here. The Bateaux Toulousains start from La Daurade and go on the Garonne and to the Canal de Brienne and Canal du Midi.

PRO TIP: If you are visiting in summer it’s worth coming back here in the evening with drinks and watching the sunset. It’s absolutely beautiful!

Fancy a brunch? The Café Cerise is an excellent place to go to if you want to get a healthy brekkie or brunch and it’s very close to La Daurade.

Fun fact: As you walk down to the Daurade, you will see that there is a little summer bar on the left. It’s called Pêcheur des sables. It’s quite a nice place to get a cheese platter and glass of wine in the evening but its history is a bit different. It used to be a morgue for people who drowned in the river.

You can then make your way on the quays towards the bridge Saint-Pierre

Stop 4: Saint Pierre Bridge and Square

Once you reach the bridge, you should be able to see the cupola of the hospital de La Grave much better. This is one of the most iconic locations in Toulouse.

If you’ve seen photos of the city before, chances are that you’ve seen photos of La Grave. If you came by plane, you might also have seen it before landing.

PHOTO TIP: The bridge is a great place to take photos however, if you want to get the best shots (and be sure that nobody will be on it, make sure to cross the road and go on the other side of the bridge, near the bars.

The square Saint-Pierre also deserves a mention since it’s one of the most popular spots in the evening.

It’s known for its numerous bars with funny names. These have been here for decades and are truly part of the history of Toulouse.

For example you will find ‘Chez Tonton” (At my uncle) and ‘La Couleur de la Culotte’ (The colour of the panties).

This is a popular spot for students as well and it can be very busy on Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights.

Once you are done, take the Rue Valade, it will lead you to the Saint-Sernin Basilica.

Stop 5: St Sernin Basilica

The Saint-Sernin Basilica is a Romanesque basilica located in the heart of Toulouse.

It’s one of the largest Romanesque church in Europe and was added to the UNESCO World Heritage Sites in 1998.

The basilica is named after Saint Saturnin, the first bishop of Toulouse, and has become one of the most popular stops on the Camino de Santiago.

Many pilgrims stop there every year but it’s also a great place to visit even if you are not religious.

It’s a beautiful church with an imposing bell tower, stunning medieval frescoes, high vaults and a large rose window.

It’s free to enter and it’s open every day from 08:30 to 18:00 (19:30 on Sundays).

When you are done, you can keep making your way towards Jean Jaurès and we will stop at the Victor Hugo market for lunch.

Stop 6: Victor Hugo Market

The Victor Hugo Market is a covered market located in the centre, near Jean Jaurès. Not only is it the largest market in the city but this is the ultimate place to visit in Toulouse for foodies!

It was built at the end of the 19th century and named after Victor Hugo who won a poet contest in Toulouse ( Jeux Floraux) .

The market is home to a large variety of stalls, from fresh fruits and vegetables to meat, poultry and fish.

You will find over 80 stalls here so needless to say there will be more than enough.

There’s also a bakery, a cheese shop, a charcuterie and a few other stalls that sell things like olives, honey and spices.

But that’s not all! Victor Hugo market is also known to be home to some of the best restaurants in the city!

They are all located upstairs and you can have lunch in one of them if you’d like.

PRO TIP: Make sure to book for lunch because it’s very popular and can be full very quickly.

This covered market is not one of these places that were overtaken by tourists. This is truly where the Toulousains and the local restaurants come to buy fresh products.

Everyone loves the Victor Hugo market!

It’s open every day except Monday from 07:00 to 14:00.

PRO TIP: If you truly want to enjoy the market, you should join the food tour of Victor Hugo . It’s run by Jessica, a local and native-English speaker. She will tell you everything you need to know about the market and food in Toulouse.

Food and wine are included and it’s a great opportunity to learn more about the local delicacies.

Click here to see the prices.

Afternoon: Shopping and beautiful neighbourhoods in Toulouse

The afternoon will be a bit less about the history and a bit more about wandering around and enjoying the Toulouse life!

Stop 7: Jean Jaurès – Wilson

From Victor Hugo, it will only take you a couple of minutes to get to Jean Jaurès and the place Wilson.

Jean Jaurès is a large square in the centre of Toulouse and it’s home to a few landmarks.

It’s also where you will find a lot of shops, restaurants and cafes. It’s the perfect place to have a quick wander.

Stop 8: St Georges

You can then take the Rue Saint Antoine du Taur to head to St Georges Square.

PRO TIP: This street is home to some super cute local boutiques. If you like unique jewellery and want to bring back a souvenir from Toulouse, make sure to stop at Nach.

It’s a local shop that was founded by two sisters who inherited their dad’s gift for ceramic. They make stunning pieces of jewellery and you can’t find these anywhere else in the world!

St Georges square has been one of the most important places in the city since medieval times.

The square itself isn’t very big but it’s home to a few lovely buildings as well as the Jean Calas Square.

St Georges used to be where executions would take place. Amongst the most famous ones, there was Jean Calas.

This is what led to the Calas affair during the 18th century.

Jean Calas was wrongfully accused of murder. Even though his family always claimed his innocence, nobody ever listened until Voltaire, one of France’s most famous authors and philosophers, took that case to heart and started his own investigation.

It’s also a great place for a coffee or lunch break! There are many restaurants and cafes with terraces here and it’s such a pleasant place to grab something to drink, especially in spring and summer.

Stop 9: Rue Alsace Lorraine

Calling all shopping lovers for that one!

From St Georges square, you can take one of the narrow streets to the Rue Alsace Lorraine.

You will find loads of local and cute boutiques in this area.

Where you will get to the main street though, there will be a bit of a change of pace.

The Rue Alsace Lorraine is the only street in Toulouse that features a Haussmannian style. Basically, it’s the most Parisian of all Toulousaine streets.

Here you won’t find many bricks but will get to see beautiful examples of Haussmannian balconies.

It is also home to some of the biggest and most popular brands in the world, hence being so popular for shopping.

You will find Zara, Monoprix, H&M, Calzedonia and many more!

This street is definitely worth a stroll if you’re looking for a good shopping spree.

Stop 10: Carmes

You will be ending your afternoon in the Carmes neighbourhood.

This is a beautiful area known for all its hôtels particuliers which are city mansions as well as stunning parks.

Here are a few things you can check out:

• The Place Sainte Scarbes. An absolutely stunning square with loads of colours and surrounded with hôtels particuliers.
• Luxury shops. Carmes is home to some of the most famous brands of French designers including Chanel, Dior and YSL.

• The Rue Neuve. This is one of Toulouse’s best-kept secrets. It looks like a street you would find in Montmartre, Paris.
• The Carmes Market. This neighbourhood is also home to a beautiful covered market however, it’s only open in the morning.
• Jardin Royal and Jardin des Plantes. Located a bit further south, these beautiful gardens are a great place to check out if you want to get away from the crowds.

Evening: Experiencing the nightlife

Well done! You made it to the end of your day in Toulouse!

After this rather full-on day, I’m sure you will be a bit tired but here is one last stop you can add to your Toulouse itinerary if you want to get dinner out and maybe enjoy the nightlife.

Stop 11: Esquirol

Esquirol is the neighbourhood located between Carmes and Capitole. It’s very easy to get there on foot from Les Carmes.

This is a great place to go for a drink, some food and also dancing.

Here you will find loads of fun bars with an amazing atmosphere. It’s always so much fun!

While you can get a sit-down meal here, the most popular thing to do is to sit at a terrace, drink cocktails or wine and share platters of charcuterie or tapas.

Esquirol is also a great place to go dancing. The nightclubs are more located towards Jean Jaurès so that’s not exactly what you are going to get here but there are a few Latino dancing bars that are so much fun!

Make sure to check out the Borriquito Loco, l’Eldorado and La Tantina de Burgos.

This last one is an excellent tapas bar. Once everyone is done with their food, they take everything off the table and people start dancing on the tables. It’s so much fun!

I hope this 1-day itinerary in Toulouse was a helpful guide for how to spend 24 hours in Toulouse.

It included tips on where to eat, what sites to see and which attractions are worth checking out during your time here.

You may also be interested in:

• Toulouse Travel Tips: 10 Things you need to know before visiting Toulouse, France
• 13 Prettiest Villages near Toulouse, France
• 21 Best Day Trips from Toulouse, France

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7 Best Toulouse Tours to Check Out in 2023

One of the best ways to explore the charming city of Toulouse is with a knowledgeable guide. From exploring its vibrant culture and beautiful architecture to sampling locally produced goods, there are so many awesome Toulouse tours worth checking out.

To help you easily find the experience that suits you best, I’ve compiled a list of what I believe are the 7 best Toulouse tours. And along with detailed information regarding each tour, I’ve also included extra tips about visiting the city so you’ll be able to maximize your time!

🍷 Short on Time? Here’s the Best Toulouse Tour

Marché Victor Hugo Small-Group Food Tour — Embark on a gastronomic journey full of food and wine through the city’s largest food market on this 3.5-hour tour with a passionate guide!

Table of Contents

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Below you’ll find the best tours in Toulouse, ranging from food and wine tours to sightseeing and day tours that take you to small towns outside of Toulouse!

🇳🇴 PRO TIP: I know we’re all super busy people, so if you’re short on time and would rather get a quick overview of the tours I’ll talk about, click here . It will take you to a little table I made that summarizes the 7 best Toulouse tours.

food tour toulouse

1. marché victor hugo small-group food tour.

⭐️  RATING : 5 out of 5 – 110+ 5-star reviews! | ⏳  LENGTH OF TOUR:  3.5 hours

The  Marché Victor Hugo Food Tour includes:

• Exploring Victor Hugo Market with English speaking guide
• Learning the background and origins of several local products
• Sampling the local foods & enjoy a couple of wine tastings
• Chatting with the local market vendors
• Small group tour limited to 8 guests

🥖 Love familiarizing yourself with a city by way of food? This super popular food tour takes you through the Victor Hugo Market, which is Toulouse’s largest food market! Over 3.5 hours, you’ll get to explore the various stalls and learn about and sample the local cuisine, such as wine, cheese, and French bread! And to ensure you remember everything and can share a bit of the experience with your loved ones back home, you’ll also receive a personalized email recap of the tour! So, if you want to gain a genuine insight into the local culinary scene of Toulouse and sample some tasty food, this Toulouse food tour is a lovely choice!

“Our tour guide was very knowledgeable and fun. I loved learning about food sourcing and relationship of the food to the land and the growing seasons” – Sharon J. ( See More Reviews )

wine tours from Toulouse

2. explore toulouse wine bars with a local wine expert.

⭐️  RATING : 5 out 5 – only 5-star reviews! | ⏳  LENGTH OF TOUR:  2.5 hours

The  Toulouse Wine Bars Tour includes:

• Visiting 2 – 3 of the best wine bars in Toulouse’s city center
• Enjoying several wine tastings while snacking on local foods
• Learning proper French wine-tasting techniques
• Trying new grape varietals

🍷 Eager to try the famous French wine? Make the most of your limited time in the city with this highly-rated wine tour from Toulouse! During the 2.5-hour experience, you’ll walk along the winding streets of Toulouse, visiting several intimate wine bars and learning about the wines of the southwest France region. And to complement your wine-tasting experience, you’ll snack on some fresh charcuterie and cheese, which is the perfect accompaniment to any French wine. Thus, if you’re interested in a lovely night out, sipping on regional wines, and immersing yourself in the local nightlife, this is a tour to consider!

“Jessica is a well informed wine guide who is happy to answer questions. This tour is a good way not only to understand more about French wines, but also to understand the very French culture surrounding food and wine. Recommended 100%” – Tour Guest ( See More Reviews )

Toulouse sightseeing tours

3. the essential of toulouse by bike.

⭐️  RATING : 5 out of 5 – 90+ 5-star reviews! | ⏳  LENGTH OF TOUR:  3 hours

The  Essential of Toulouse Bike Tour includes:

• Biking along the banks of the Garonne & Toulouse’s oldest bridge
• Visiting some of the historic squares within downtown Toulouse
• Seeing the Saint-Etienne cathedral, an architectural marvel
• Learning the story behind the iconic Le Capitole building
• Stopping at 2 UNESCO world heritage sites
• Can accommodate up to 6 guests

🚴‍♀️ Keen on exploring Toulouse without tens of thousands of steps? Discover the many historical landmarks, gorgeous architecture, and history of the famed pink city by way of bike on this 3-hour Toulouse sightseeing tour! You’ll get to comfortably cycle around the city with a professional guide, passing by crowd-favorite attractions such as the Place du Capitole and Basilique Saint-Sernin, France’s largest Romanesque church! So, if you’re ready for an immersive experience while learning about the rich history and cultural importance behind Toulouse many famous sites, don’t miss out on this fantastic bike tour.

“It was very easy to cover a lot of ground – much better than walking. I learned so much about the city from my guide, and his enthusiasm for history and architecture was infectious.” – Catherine M. ( See More Reviews )

Toulouse Walking Tour

4. unusual guided tour toulouse in the age of enlightenment.

⭐️  RATING : 5 out 5 – only 5-star reviews! | ⏳  LENGTH OF TOUR:  1.5 hours

The  Toulouse in the Age of Enlightenment Tour includes:

• Learn the fascinating history of Toulouse’s wealthy Saint Etienne district
• Hear stories & gossip of Toulouse’s aristocrats during the 18th century
• Walking inside the Saint Etienne cathedral
• Wander through Place Saint-Etienne
• Tour guide dressed in period costume
• NOTE: This tour is only offered in French!! (I speak a bit of French, so I figured I’d include it for any fellow French-speaking people!)

📜 Are you a French-speaking history buff? During this 1.5-hour Toulouse walking tour, you’ll make your way through the Saint-Etienne district, which is filled with several of the city’s most historic landmarks. For example, you’ll have the opportunity to see the Saint-Etienne cathedral up close and admire its unique mix of architectural styles. You’ll also visit Griffoul fountain, which is the oldest fountain in Toulouse, and pass by hôtel particuliers, which were mansions built for the aristocrats back in the day. And of course, to enhance the experience, your guide will be dressed in a fun period costume! Therefore, if you’re looking for a unique walking tour of Toulouse and understand French, this is definitely one to check out.

“Original concept, fascinating and passionate guide. You don’t see the time passing and you learn a lot of things, whatever your age.” – Tour Guest ( See More Reviews )

day tours from Toulouse

5. toulouse: carcassonne day trip.

⭐️  RATING : 4.5 out 5 – taken by 80+ guests! | ⏳  LENGTH OF TOUR:  1 day

The  Toulouse: Carcassonne Day Trip includes:

• Round-trip Transportation from Toulouse via Coach
• Departing Toulouse at 9:30 AM for 10:30 AM arrival in Carcassonne
• Exploring the Cité de Carcassonne
• Entrance ticket to Château Comtal
• Depart Carcassonne at 4:30 AM, 5:30 PM arrival in Toulouse
• ❌ guided tour of Carcassonne

🏰 Looking for a nice day trip to see lesser-known areas of France? This is one of the most affordable and popular day tours from Toulouse! During this excursion, you’ll be transported back to medieval times as you wander through the historic Cité de Carcassonne. Although there is no actual guided tour portion, you’ll have the opportunity to take a self-guided tour of the castle grounds, courtyards, museums, & beautifully preserved ramparts. Afterward, you’ll have time to taste the local food (not included in the price) and explore other sites outside the Cité de Carcassonne at your leisure. So, if you want to visit one of the most well-preserved medieval fortifications in the world, this is a fun tour to do!

“It was a very pleasant visit to Carcassonne, I definitely recommend it. The tour leaves on time, and the meeting place is very convenient to those close to the center of Toulouse” – Tour Guest ( See More Reviews )

6. Lourdes Day Tour From Toulouse

⭐️  RATING : 4.9 out 5 | ⏳  LENGTH OF TOUR: 8 hours

The  Lourdes Day Tour From Toulouse includes:

• Discovering the second most famous Catholic pilgrimage site in the world
• Exploring the many sanctuaries of Lourdes at your own pace
• Round-trip transportation in a comfortable minivan
• Direct pickup & drop off from your hotel
• Personalized private tour

NOTE: Price is per group and requires at least 2 guests to operate, so this is better if you’re traveling with others

⛪️ Want to visit France’s most famous pilgrimage site? Another possible day tour from Toulouse is to Lourdes. This famous Catholic pilgrimage site is located 2 hours away from Toulouse, in the foothills of the Pyrenees mountains near the border of Spain . Here, you’ll be able to travel along the same path that Bernadette Soubirous is said to have had 18 visions of the Virgin Mary, which were confirmed by the Vatican. Other sites you’ll be able to witness include the Rosary Esplanade, the Crypt and the Immaculate Conception Basilica (where the Virgin Mary is said to have appeared), and the underground Saint Pius X Basilica, which can accommodate 25,000 people. Thus, if you’re looking for an easy way to immerse yourself in the spiritual atmosphere that surrounds this important religious French town , this is a day tour from Toulouse to look into.

“Our guide Pierrick was really nice and punctual. Lourdes was magical, I recommend it. The travel was easy going, the vehicle clean and good maintenance, everything worked well.” – Maria Andrea ( See More Reviews )

7. Albi, Cordes and Gaillac Day Tour From Toulouse

⭐️  RATING : 4.9 out 5 | ⏳  LENGTH OF TOUR:  8 hours

The  Albi, Cordes, and Gaillac Day Tour includes:

• Visiting 3 idyllic small towns and villages in Southwestern France
• A guided walk through Albi’s old town & time to explore on your own
• Enjoying a guided walk to the medieval hilltop village of Cordes sur Ciel
• Stopping by a local winery in Gaillac
• Round-trip transportation from your hotel in Toulouse

NOTE: Price is per group and requires at least 2 guests to operate, so this is better if you’re traveling with others. Also, the cost of entrance to attractions and wine tastings is not included.

💐 Want to see some of France’s most picturesque towns & villages? On this full-day tour from Toulouse, you’ll have the opportunity to escape the commotion of the city and delve deep into France’s history and culture. For the first stop, you’ll visit Albi, where you’ll be able to explore the red-brick Sainte-Cécile Cathedral, Toulouse Lautrec museum, and the grounds of Berbie Palace! Afterward, you’ll make your way to Cordes sur Ciel, where you’ll be able to take in the old Market Place, many Renaissance houses, and spectacular views. To cap the day off, your guide will drive to one of the wineries in Gaillac, where you’ll partake in a wine-tasting session!

“Very beautiful villages of Albi and Cordes sur Ciel! It’s really beautiful, a breathtaking view you absolutely have to do it if you come to this area.” – Tour Guest ( See More Reviews )

Need a quick recap? Me too 😅 Here’s a handy little chart I made to help you recall the highlights of each tour.

PRO-TIP: If you’re viewing it on your phone, try turning your phone sideways so you’re reading across the long way. This should increase the readability!

As you would expect, the cost of the tour depends on which tour you select. Some of the tours cost as little as $23 USD per person, whereas the more expensive day tours cost $805 USD. Keep in mind that pricey group tours are the cost for an entire group and that you can go with up to 8 guests. Thus, going even with a group of 4 would bring the cost down to ~$200 USD, which is around the average price of most full day tours.

To ensure you have a wonderful time exploring Toulouse and the surrounding region, here are some things to keep in mind while planning your tour.

• ✅ Book in advance: Tours can fill up quickly, especially during peak summer and winter travel season, so try to plan ahead to get the most out of your vacation!
• 📆 Schedule tours early: A great way to gain local knowledge and recommendations that you can use for the rest of your visit is by booking a tour early in your trip! I try to schedule one the second day I’m in a city so I can wine and dine at the best spots and explore the true local hidden gems 🙂
• 🌞 Check the weather: Be sure to dress appropriately for whatever activities you have planned. For example, you may need to bring a raincoat, sun hat, sunscreen, sunglasses, etc.
• 🍎 Bring your own food and drinks: Bringing a reusable water bottle and snacks will save you money since most of the tours (minus the food tour and wine tour) don’t include food in the tour price. Plus, you never know when hunger might strike!
• 🚗 Check departure points and times: Make sure to double-check the meeting point for your tour and take into account the time it’ll take you to get there from your housing accommodations.
• 📸 Bring your Camera: Capture the experience and take plenty of pictures so you can share your story with friends and family back home!
• 🤠 Enjoy the experience: Above all else, make sure to relax, have fun, and immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of the Occitanie region!

If you’re visiting from out of town, you’re going to need housing accommodations. Here are a few places I recommend checking out based on where I’ve stayed as well as my own outside research! All of these hotels are centrally located within Toulouse and are within a 25-minute walk from the Toulouse Train Station.

Low-Cost Stay

• La Petite Auberge de Saint-Sernin — hostel I stayed at & loved! | ⭐️ 8.3 / 10
• Hôtel Héliot — 3-star hotel with airport shuttle | ⭐️ 8.6 / 10

Mid-Range Stay

• Hotel Mercure Toulouse — 4-star hotel w/ breakfast, bar, & pool | ⭐️ 8.0 / 10
• Hotel Toulouse Centre Albert 1er — 3-star hotel w/ restaurant | ⭐️ 8.6 / 10

Fancy Stays

• La Cour des Consuls Hôtel & Spa — luxurious 5-star hotel | ⭐️ 8.4 / 10
• Hotel SOCLO Toulouse — 4-star hotel w/ outdoor pool & restaurant | ⭐️ 9.5 / 10

Want to see additional housing options? Feel free to use the buttons below to head to your favorite booking platform!

You can also use the interactive map below to find housing. The prices shown reflect current prices. However, you can enter your travel dates and the number of guests to see more accurate prices.

The best tours for avoiding crowds within Toulouse are the Toulouse Wine Bars Tour and the Essential of Toulouse Tour by Bike . And for day tours from Toulouse, these two private tours are best for avoiding crowds: Lourdes Day Tour and Albi, Cordes, and Gaillac Day Tour .

This is subjective, but the Marché Victor Hugo Food Tour , Essential of Toulouse Tour by Bike , and Toulouse: Carcassonne Day Trip are the most popular tours in Toulouse.

Personally, I spent 3 days in Toulouse and loved it! It was the perfect amount of time to explore the city as well as fit in a day trip!

Toulouse is best known for being the capital of France’s Occitanie region. Many people refer to it as “The Pink City,” because you’ll notice many of the buildings have a distinct pink color. This is due to them being constructed out of terra-cotta bricks. In addition to this, Toulouse is known for being home to UNESCO World Heritage Site, Basilique Saint-Sernin de Toulouse. It is also the largest Romanesque Church in France and is quite the architectural beauty!

Yes! I found Toulouse to be extremely walkable as the city is almost completely flat. Literally, the only elevation you’ll find is walking across the bridges and going up and down steps to reach the riverbank…

All in all, a tour of Toulouse is the perfect way to gain an authentic insight into life in the Occitanie region of France. From admiring the timeless beauty of the Basilique Saint-Sernin as you bike through the winding streets to indulging in the local food and regional wines, these tours provide you with so much more insight into the history and culture of the city than you would otherwise receive.

Plus, if you’re like me and looking to see what lies beyond Toulouse, there are some fantastic day trip options. So, be sure to enhance your experience in the pink city by joining one of the fabulous Toulouse Tours!

Read More About France

• Visiting Paris? One of my favorite things to do that I highly recommend everyone do at least once is visit Giverny, a nearby small town in the countryside & see the Paris Opera House .
• Headed to the dreamy French Riviera ? Here’s my ultimate guide for spending a day in the seaside town of Nice ! You’ll get to indulge in the local Niçose delights as well as sip on the regional wines!
• If you want to travel off the beaten path of France and to a more affordable destination than Nice or Paris, consider exploring Biarritz ! It’s a charming town on the western side of France that’s famous for being the surf capital of France

How to Easily Do a Nice to Monaco Day Trip + All to Know

Monaco is famous for being one of the world’s most affluent countries, having beautiful marinas, and colorful buildings. In this post, I’ll explain the best ways to visit get from Nice to Monaco, must-visit spots, and how you can make the most of your limited time there.

5 Best Lyon Wine Tours – All You Need to Know

Surrounded by some of the best vineyards in all of France, Lyon and the surrounding region are known as one of the premier destinations for wine lovers. Thus, anyone looking to truly immerse themselves in the region’s amazing flavors and vibrant culture should do a Lyon wine tour!

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Kristin is the founder of Global Travel Escapades, a blog dedicated to helping travelers explore beautiful destinations and planning their wildest travel dreams. She has explored 30 countries and is on a mission to visit 50 by age 30. Along the way, she has lived in places like sunny San Diego and the vibrant French capital! Ultimately, Kristin hopes her passion for adventure, delicious food, and all things F1 & tennis inspires others to plan their next travel escapade!

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• The 5 Best Day Trips...

Where To Take A Day Trip From Toulouse

Located in Southern France, between the Mediterranean and Atlantic, Toulouse is enriched with a wealth of culture. Nicknamed ‘La Villa Rosa’, it’s a popular stop off for tourists traveling France, intriguing guests with its charming cobbled streets and inviting ambiance. However, it’s not just the city that’s worth seeing. We pick 5 day trips that make visiting Toulouse even more worthwhile.

1. Musée des Augustins: Fine Arts Museum

Albi, France

Toulouse is the perfect starting point to take a day trip to one of the quaint villages that nestle along the southern French border. 80 kilometers away, Albi is a remarkable UNESCO World Heritage City. It is rich in tradition and authenticity, and particularly worth seeing is St Cecilia’s cathedral, a remarkable gothic structure that is the largest brick-made cathedral in the world.

Canal Du Midi

241 km in length, the Canal du Midi runs from the city of Toulouse to the Mediterranean, and acts as an ideal scenic route for taking advantage of the beautiful scenery of the region. Enjoy on foot, by bike or make a day out of it by voyaging down the calm, relaxing waters by boat. The guided cruise is an excellent way to peacefully view the impressive cities and surroundings that line the banks of this iconic UNESCO-protected waterway.

A Day Trip to Montauban

Montauban is an elegant and impressive commune in the South of France. Standing right on the bank of the Tarn River it is largely constructed using the attractive pink stone found in the region, like its great southern cousin Toulouse. Dating from the 15th century, it is the second oldest bastide in southern France and has plenty to keep visitors occupied. The pink stone Pont Vieux, connecting the suburb of Villebourbon to the rest of the town is a remarkable piece of ancient engineering, while the Musée Ingres , on the site of a castle that previously belonged to the Counts of Toulouse, demonstrates the beautiful architecture of the town.

Fronton Wine Tasting Trip from Toulouse

France is known for its vineyards and close to Toulouse is one of France’s oldest wine regions, with vineyards dating back to the Romans. It’s know for the Négrette grape (also known as Pinot St-George in the US), a thin-skinned variety that produces low-acidic, low-tannin wines with a fruity, spicy flavor. There are plenty of private tours of the vineyards, or you can head out on your own and stop off for a walk around the vines and the production facilities before a taste-test.

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Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.

Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

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Home » Travel Guides » France » 15 Best Day Trips from Toulouse

15 Best Day Trips from Toulouse

Toulouse is located in the southwestern part of France. It is the fourth largest and one of the richest cities in the country. Toulouse sits halfway between the Mediterranean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean. This city that radiates enchanting warmth with an inviting ambience is also referred to as France’s “Ville Rose.”

It’s a popular destination for tourists thanks to its rich historical past, the balmy temperatures, the dust-pink medieval architecture, and violets which are used to make wine and bonbons. If you are in Toulouse and would like to venture outside the city for a day trip experience, we have highlighted 15 magical destinations that you can visit:

The approximate distance from Toulouse to Castres in a straight line is 64km; the city is also 36km from Albi. Castres is located in the Midi-Pyrenees Region in the south of France.

For quite a long time, the main economic activity in Castres was the textiles industry. There is a large number of homes here that once belonged to weavers, tanners, and dryers. The homes to these professionals that brought the prosperity and glory to Castres are perched on the banks of the Agout. These houses are painted in bright colors and create beautiful reflections on the river’s waters.

Albi is located 75km to the northeastern end of Toulouse. The city is graced with a magnificent fortress-like cathedral that is the largest brick cathedral in the world. The impressive Cathedrale Sainte-Cecile is a magnificent Gothic Cathedral that towers over the town. Its foundation was laid in 1282 and construction went on for over 2 centuries, ending in 1480.

Apart from the cathedral, tourists also come to this remarkable UNESCO World Heritage City which lies on the Tarn River, to see the Palais de la Berbie. This is a former archbishop’s palace that is surrounded by exquisite gardens. Today, the palace is home to the Musee Toulouse-Lautrec.

Another delightful landmark in this Episcopal City is the Saint-Salvi church and the Pont Vieux, its cloister.

Najac is the most beautiful village in France, amongst 140 other villages. It is located in the Aveyron department which is found at the center of a triangle formed by Toulouse, Montpellier, and Clermont- Ferrand cities. The inhabitants of this department are referred to as Aveyronnais.

Najac is known for its historic buildings and its medieval character and its economy is dependent mainly on tourism and agriculture. The village is towered by the Najac fortress and has only one main street that runs along the top of a ridge. From the fortress, you are able to enjoy some fine views of the countryside.

On your day trip, ensure that you visit the partly ruined chateau which was built by the villagers in 1253. If you have extra time on your hands, you should also tour the Eglise Saint-Jean which overlooks the lower village; it was built in the 13th century by the villagers.

Small as it is, Najac is a lovely village to explore.

The journey by train from Toulouse to Andorra takes approximately 3.5 hours. This mountainous country is located between France to the north and Spain to the south. In the past, between 1278 and 1994, Andorra was ruled by the French Chief of State and the Spanish Bishop of Urgell.

This country gained significant prosperity after the 2nd World War, thanks to its tourism industry. The country’s thriving economy attracted hundreds of migrant workers.

The Arinsal village in Andorra is an old village that is located in the valley. Arinsal is quite popular among tourists, especially during the ski season.

5. Marseille

This city is a great destination for history lovers. The city is the second most populated in the country and one of the oldest.

Marseille was founded as a port city in 600BC by the Phocaeans, who came from Ionia in ancient Greece. This city has a complex and vibrant history. It is a melting pot of different cultures, with people of varying ethnic backgrounds having made their homes here over the centures. During WWII, a lot of Spaniards and Italians immigrated into the area.

If you are looking to discover a place with amazing people, you definitely need to go on this day trip. Marseille has a lot to offer, from its colorful markets, the fjords, and the Vieux-Port.

Marseille has had some of its rough edges polished in the bid to make a comeback.

This is a city in the Midi-Pyrenees region that is famous for its vineyards, its black wine, and its Malbec grapes. The black wine dates back to the Middle Ages.

Make a trip to Cahors to drink wine at its historical source. Vineyards were first planted near Cahors in the first century by the Romans. On your trip to this medieval located in the heart of the French wine country, you will see some of the city’s rich history that came to life in the famous 14th century.

The neighboring regions are teeming with vineyards which offer their wine at much lower prices than you would find commercially.

Most of the structures here date back to the 20th century.

7. Saint Girons

This pleasant town with beautiful gardens is located 101km away from Toulouse. Saint-Girons sits on the banks of the Salat. The town is located at crossroads, between the Salat valley, the mountain, and the plains.

On your day trip to Saint-Girons, take a walk on the Pont Vieux Bridge and enjoy the magnificent views. If you make your trip on a Saturday, you can visit the colorful market that opens on Saturday mornings on the Champ de Mars, under the plane trees.

Moissac is located approximately 71km from Toulouse. The city sits on a canal of the Tarn and Garonne rivers, in a breathtaking landscape of vine-covered hills and orchards.

During the Middle Ages, the city was an important stop for pilgrims who came to visit the Abbaye Saint-Pierre. The church was built between the 12th and the 15th century, with a magnificent façade. Abbaye Saint-Pierre is renowned for the exemplary ornamental Romanesque architecture and the richly decorated interior.

If you have more time on your hands, you can take a stroll around the town to soak up its pleasant ambience.

9. Montauban

This city is located a mere stone’s throw away from Moissac, and only 54km from Toulouse. This beautiful town features Roman fortifications and attractive pink brick houses.

Montauban has a rich cultural heritage and is the perfect place to explore on a day trip from Toulouse thanks to the picturesque setting offered by River Tarn.

If you are looking for a dose of the local culture, some important landmarks that you should visit include the famed Place National, the mosaic-clad 13th century St Jean Cathedral, the baroque-style 18th-century Cathedral of Notre Dame, and the Museum Ingres.

This elegant and impressive commune in the South of France has plenty to keep visitors occupied.

10. Gaillac

This stunning little town is located one hour away, northeast from Toulouse, on the Tarn River. The market town is located between Albi and Montauban. This historic wine-producing city was established during Roman times.

Gaillac started as a river port where the Gauls used to export wine into Gallia Narbonensis. Gaillac is renowned for its richly colored, spice-scented red wines. The whites come in a wide array of sweet and dry styles.

The area also has several historical monuments and animated local markets. You can see all this in a single day as you take a leisurely stroll across the city center. An important site is the Abbey of St Michel, which was built in the 10th century and reconstructed in both the 13th and 16th century.

11. Bordeaux

This flat city is perched on the banks of the Garonne River. Bordeaux’s old town and the magnificent neo-classical riverfront are designated UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Bordeaux is known for its wine, so expect to be raising your glass several times whenever you come visiting.

The former port is lined with 18th-century buildings that stretch for 3km. Other important city sites such as the railway station and the Quai des Chartrons are also located within this area. It is here that you will find the Botanic Gardens, a relaxed haven for nature lovers.

12. Canal du Midi

The canal is 242km long and runs from Toulouse to the Mediterranean. The name translates to “Canal of the two seas.”

This scenic route was built to serve as a shortcut between the Mediterranean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean. The canal was designed in1667 and took 12,000 workers a decade to complete the construction. In 1996, the Canal was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

On a trip down the calm water by boat, you will get to enjoy the beautiful scenery of the surrounding region on the banks of the canal.

13. Cordes-sur-Ciel

This picturesque village is perched on a hilltop about 25km away from Albi. Cordes-sur-Ciel translates to “Cordes in the sky.” The village got its name due to its elevated position. It was established in 1222 by the Count of Toulouse.

This tiny-walled town is characterized by cobbled streets, buildings from the 13th and 14th centuries, towers, and a medieval market hall. Cordes-sur-Ciel is also famous for its specialty crunchy cookies that are made with grilled almonds.

On a day trip to this town which boasts a gorgeous setting and many architectural treasures, you will get the chance to visit art galleries and artisan craft workshops.

14. Carcassonne

This perfectly preserved fortified city in southwest France is located at the crossing of the route from Spain to France and that from the Atlantic to the Mediterranean Sea.

Carcassonne can be visited comfortably on a day trip from Toulouse; the journey by train takes 45 minutes and about 1 hour by road. This beautiful and diverse region is well known for its walled city that is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Carcassonne is home to a unique cultural and historical past making it the most popular tourist destination in Southern France.

To add to the hospitality of the locals, the local cuisine here is delicious. Your trip will be a memorable one.

This commune is within 4km of Toulouse. It’s situated in southwest France in the Haute-Garonne area. The city was founded in 1279 as a fief of the bishopric of Toulouse.

Most visitors come to Balma in July. During this time, the price of flights is usually higher.

The best time to visit is in December when fewer people are visiting.

15 Best Day Trips from Toulouse:

• Saint Girons
• Canal du Midi
• Cordes-sur-Ciel
• Carcassonne