Famous for its terracotta brick facades, its relaxed lifestyle and its gastronomy, Toulouse is a city bustling with life. Rich with a thousand and one opportunities, this metropolis offers visitors a weekend that is simply unforgettable.
Scalled Ville Rose, Capitale Occitane or City of Violets, Toulouse evokes the sun, the singing accent and the joy of living. City of culture, art and innovation, the fifth largest city in France has wonderfully managed to preserve its soul over the centuries. Celebrated in the texts of Claude Nougaro, the pink City always appeals to young and old. Thanks to its dynamism, its heritage and its pleasant climate, it is an emblematic destination in the south of France. In any season, Toulouse offers its guests memorable moments between tradition and eternal youth.
Toulouse and its city center
First and foremost, a walk in the city center of Toulouse is essential for any newcomer. The quays of the Garonne, historical monuments, old buildings delight visitors. The charming alleys, welcoming shops, and the many cafes and bistros are also a perpetual invitation to discovery and relaxation. Also admire the sumptuous Saint-Sernin Basilica, a true masterpiece of Romanesque architecture. But do not leave Toulouse without having stepped on the cobblestones of the majestic Place du Capitole. And finally, don't forget the traditional photo on the Garonne docks. You will take away a magnificent shot with the iconic dome of the Saint-Joseph de la Grave chapel as a backdrop. This monument is none other than the most photographed in Toulouse.
Toulouse for museums and gardens
Downtown, Beaux-arts museum housed in the former Augustinian convent, houses sculptures and paintings from all periods. Its gardens and cloister are a haven of peace in the heart of the city. On the Canal du Midi, the Cité des violettes is a barge dedicated to the Toulouse violet, its history and all its variations. For budding scientists, the Muséum d'Histoire Naturelle situated in Garden plants is the home of a collection of over two million pieces. The permanent exhibitions are very successful. Young audiences favor the themes linked to biodiversity or the power of the Earth.
To conclude by taking the height, visit the assembly lines of the French aeronautical flagship Airbus. Treat yourself to a family day out at the City of Space. Permanent and temporary exhibitions, screenings in the iMax room and workshops for children, will take you meet the stars.
Toulouse, city of sport and discovery
With its rugby, football or rowing clubs the Toulouse metropolis is focused on sport. Events such as the Cosatrail, the Festibike, where the marathon and triathlon are highlights of Toulouse life. Quality sports facilities and multiple green spaces dot the city. They thus allow everyone to indulge in their favorite sport. In the space of a weekend, we can only recommend a bike ride along the canal du midi or on the banks of the Garonne. And if you finally decide to extend your stay, the welcoming Ariège Pyrenees are very close. They offer many outdoor activities such as hiking, mountain biking and white water sports.
Toulouse and its gastronomy
When we talk about Toulouse cuisine, the first thoughts go to the sausage, duck confit and cassoulet. Many traditional restaurants in the city center will be able to make you taste these delicious specialties. But at Toulouse, multiple possibilities are available to your taste buds. From brasseries to restaurants dedicated to world cuisines, from bistros in the Carmelites district to prestigious starred restaurants like that of the media Michel Sarran, there really are some. for all tastes and for all budgets.
Toulouse is an exceptional city! You will come back from your enchanting weekend in the heart of the Pink City, happy and perfectly rested.
Editorial image credit: Shutterstock-CC/ Sharon wildie