Visit Toulouse
Known as the Pink City, Toulouse stands out with sunlit brick buildings that seem to glow. The Garonne River winds through the city. Bridges arch over the water and squares open onto cafés and terraces. Cyclists ride along river paths and locals sip coffee under plane trees.
The historic centre is full of narrow streets and hidden squares. Renaissance façades and carved doorways line the lanes. Markets are filled with fresh produce, cheeses and charcuterie. Street performers and musicians add energy without overwhelming the calm charm.
Capitole de Toulouse dominates the main square with its grand façade. Behind it, streets lead to small churches, artisan shops and quiet courtyards. The scent of violet sweets (a local specialty) drifts from patisseries.
From the riverfront to hidden lanes, from lively markets to quiet squares, Toulouse is a unique mix historic culture and student life. . For road trippers, Toulouse is a city to explore slowly and feel its unique character.
Top sights to visit
- Place du Capitole This majestic square is the heart of Toulouse. It is dominated by the Capitole de Toulouse, the magnificent pink-hued building that houses both the City Hall and the Théâtre du Capitole. Pro tip: Step inside the Capitole (when open) to admire the beautifully frescoed Salle des Illustres.
- Basilique Saint-Sernin One of the largest and best-preserved Romanesque churches in Europe. Its magnificent octagonal bell tower is a defining feature of the Toulouse skyline. The Basilica was a major stop on the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage route.
- Couvent des Jacobins This beautiful Dominican convent features an architectural masterpiece known as the "Palmier" (Palm Tree). A Gothic ribbed vault supported by a single, slender column that fans out across the ceiling. It is a striking example of Southern French Gothic style and holds the tomb of Saint Thomas Aquinas.
- Canal du Midi A waterway linking Toulouse to the Mediterranean Sea. Walking, cycling or taking a boat cruise along its shaded banks reveals charming bridges and countryside views. It’s a peaceful way to enjoy the region’s natural beauty.
- The Garonne River and Pont Neuf Walk along the banks of the Garonne River, particularly during sunset when the terracotta buildings glow intensely. The Pont Neuf (New Bridge) is ironically the oldest bridge in Toulouse. It has the best views of the river and the iconic dome of the La Grave Hospital.
- Saint-Cyprien District A great neighborhood with lively markets, cultural centers and riverside charm. Explore its narrow streets, street art and traditional cafés. The area gives you a glimpse of local life away from the main tourist spots.
- Cité de l’Espace Toulouse is the aerospace capital of Europe (home to Airbus). This interactive space-themed park and museum is a must-see for science fans, featuring full-scale replicas of the Ariane 5 rocket, the Mir Space Station, and engaging exhibits on astronomy and space travel.
- The Hôtel d'Assézat & Bemberg Foundation Toulouse is famous for its Renaissance Hôtels Particuliers (private mansions). The Hôtel d'Assézat is one of the most beautiful. While the courtyard is accessible, the real gem is the Bemberg Foundation inside. It houses a superb collection of fine art and including works by Impressionist masters within the mansion's opulent rooms.
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History of Toulouse
Toulouse is one of France’s oldest cities. It began as a settlement of the Celtic tribe called Volcae Tectosages. The Romans conquered it in the 2nd century BC and named it Tolosa.
During the Middle Ages, Toulouse became the capital of the County of Toulouse. Its location on the Garonne made it a centre of trade and culture. The city prospered from woad, a plant used to make blue dye. Wealthy merchants built grand mansions, many of which still line the old streets.
Toulouse was also a centre of religion and learning. The University of Toulouse was founded in 1229. Churches and monasteries spread across the city, leaving behind Gothic and Romanesque architecture visible today in Saint-Sernin and the Jacobins Convent.
The Renaissance brought new buildings and plazas. Toulouse became a hub for art and printing in southern France. In the 19th century, the city expanded with canals, railways and factories. Aviation and aerospace (Airbus is headquartered here) later transformed Toulouse into an industrial and scientific centre.
Pink brick façades, medieval streets, and university life mix with aerospace hubs. For road trippers like you, Toulouse is a city where every square and monument tells the story of its rich past.