Are you looking for a detailed guide to a weekend in Toulouse? Then look no further. I’ve curated a list of the absolute top things to do in Toulouse this year.
The best things to do in Toulouse, France:
- Toulouse Free Walking Tour With Harry
- Promenade the Garonne River and Canal de Brienne
- Do a Food Tour of Victor Hugo Market
- Fondation Bemberg Art Museum
- Eat at the Best Restaurants in Toulouse
- Take a Day Trip to Carcassonne
- Join a Wine Tasting Tour
- Discover the Japanese Garden
- Galeries Lafayette Rooftop Bar
1. Toulouse Walking Tour with Harry
When I arrived in Toulouse, I wasn’t expecting a pale Scottish man to hand me the keys to the city. But that’s exactly what happened.
Wondering what to do in Toulouse in one day? You absolutely need to book onto Harry’s Free Tour. You’ll learn so much about this incredible city as you walk around the beautiful streets for 2.5 hours.
From the Roman times to today, you’ll go on an epic journey of Toulouse with Harry, discovering the good, the bad and the ugly.
You’ll find out which local restaurants you need to try, which museums are the best and which places to avoid like the plague. Harry’s tour also covers all of the must-see attractions in Toulouse, including Place du Capitole, Rue Saint Rome, Pont Neuf and La Basilica St Sernin.
Harry’s passion for Toulouse radiates through his story-telling and by the end I was completely hooked on this city.
The walking tours are tip-based, so you book a space for free on his website and then pay-as-you-feel at the end.
Don’t like walking? You can actually do a tour of Toulouse by bike (and it has amazing reviews). You can book it here.
2. Promenade the Garonne River and Canal de Brienne
A stroll along the banks of the Garenne is one of the best free things to do in Toulouse, allowing you to explore one of the most beautiful areas of the city without spending a penny.
The best way to explore Toulouse’s riverfront is on the Promenade Henri-Martin footpath, which starts in the Carmes neighbourhood and finishes at the entrance to the Canal de Brienne.
This footpath takes you past the two most famous bridges in the city, Pont Neuf and Pont Saint-Pierre.
At the end of the footpath, you’ll arrive at the entrance to Canal de Brienne. This historic canal dates back to the 18th century and is lined with beautiful trees.
3. Do a Food Tour of Victor Hugo Market
So what is Toulouse famous for? Gastronomy!
If, like me, you basically travel for food experiences, then you simply must book this incredible Food Tour of Victor Hugo Market.
Victor Hugo Market is a renowned indoor food market in Toulouse, established in 1892. It features over 80 stalls offering fresh produce, meats, seafood, cheese, and local delicacies.
On this guided food tour you’ll learn all about Toulouse’s local food products (with lots of samples). You’ll meet the friendly food vendors and understand the cultural significance of their artisan delicacies.
This tour includes a lot of food and drink. You’ll try local cheese, cured meats, paté, freshly baked breads, fresh fruits and sweet pastries too. The incredible food is accompanied by a couple of glasses of French wine and you definitely won’t leave hungry.
You can book the Victor Hugo Market Food Tour here.
4. Fondation Bemberg Art Museum
The Fondation Bemberg is a prestigious art museum housed in the Hôtel d’Assézat, a 16th-century mansion in Toulouse.
It features an impressive collection of European paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts, spanning the Renaissance to the 20th century.
Many people consider this gallery to be the best in France outside of Paris and notable artists include Pierre Bonnard, Tintoretto, and Cranach.
The foundation was established by art collector Georges Bemberg, who donated his personal collection to create this cultural landmark.
The mansion has been beautifully restored and offers a peaceful retreat for art enthusiasts in the centre of the bustling city.
5. Eat at the Best Restaurants in Toulouse
Toulouse is a culinary melting pot and I can guarantee you’ll eat some AMAZING food on this trip.
Best Breakfast in Toulouse
Café La Fiancée is the best breakfast and brunch spot in Toulouse.
Specialising in pancakes, eggs, loaded toast and excellent coffee, there’s no better way to start your day.
There are two cafés – one in Capitole and one in Saint Sernin. I personally love the Saint Sernin location as the outdoor terrace overlooks the Basilique.
Best Lunch in Toulouse
Bistroquet à la Une is the best lunch spot in Toulouse.
Offering an incredible menu of traditional French dishes along with European and South-East Asian influences, there’s something for every appetite.
From Croque Monsieur to Thai style mussels, the flavours are bold and the prices are reasonable.
Best Place for Dinner in Toulouse
For a special dinner in this magical city, I highly recommend Le Restaurant.
Le Restaurant is located in the heart of ‘La Ville Rose’ and offers creative dishes made with fresh seasonal produce.
The menu is small but perfectly formed, brought to your table on a chalkboard for you to peruse from.
From meat to fish dishes and excellent traditional desserts with a twist, you won’t regret a visit to Le Restaurant.
6. Take a Day Trip to Carcassonne
Carcassonne, in southern France, is a historic fortified city known for its medieval architecture. It features a stunning double-walled citadel with towers and a drawbridge. A UNESCO World Heritage site, it draws visitors for its cobblestone streets, scenic views, and rich cultural heritage.
With a train journey time of just 45 minutes, it’s so easy to take a day trip to Carcassonne from Toulouse.
Wondering what to do when you’re there? You can read my blog post about the best things to do in Carcassonne here.
7. Join a Wine Tasting Tour
If you’re visiting the South of France for your holidays, then there’s a small chance you like wine.
If so, I highly recommend you join a small-group wine tasting tour to explore Toulouse’s wine bars with a local guide.
You’ll visit several cosy spots and sample lesser-known wines from southwest France, paired with local charcuterie and cheeses.
You’ll also learn wine tasting techniques, discover new grape varieties, and gain confidence in ordering wine in France and beyond.
You can book the highly rated wine tasting tour here.
8. Discover The Japanese Garden (Best Free Thing to Do in Toulouse)
If you’re searching for unusual things to do in Toulouse, then you may wish to visit the Japanese Garden.
If you have the luxury of exploring Toulouse in 2 days or more, then you’ll have time to head just outside of the city centre to this unique attraction.
The Jardin Japonais is a serene, traditional-style garden located in the Compans-Caffarelli Park.
Created in 1981, it features classic Japanese elements such as a koi pond, red bridges, a tea pavilion, and a zen garden with rock arrangements.
It is inspired by Kyoto’s gardens and you really do feel like you’ve been transported to Japan when you visit this place.
Even better, the Japanese Garden is free to visit.
9. Galeries Lafayette Rooftop Bar
You may have heard of Galeries Lafayette in Paris, but did you know there’s one in Toulouse too?
Galeries Lafayette in Toulouse continues the tradition of offering an epic rooftop spot to enjoy the views whilst sipping on something cold and French.
Take the elevator to the top floor and marvel at the views over the ‘Pink City’.
We ordered the Provence Rosé and it didn’t disappoint. I have heard that the food reviews aren’t great, so I would just grab a drink here and head to dinner elsewhere!
I hope you enjoyed my guide to the best things to do in Toulouse. Follow me on Instagram for more travel tips!