The historic city of Toulouse is a must on any tourist itinerary to France. Everything the visitor could desire can be found within the city including many hundreds of years of history, a multitude of cultural attractions and a thriving fine-dining scene. The list of historic and architectural attractions is hard to beat and visitors should consider a guided walking tour of the city to get your bearings and prioritize your must-visit list. Just a few of the memorable attractions include the Museum of Saint Raymond, the Basilica of Saint Sernin and the Capitole de Toulouse. Around every corner you will find historic buildings and fascinating museums. At the end of a busy day of exploring you can surrender your taste-buds to the wonderful aromas and flavors of dozens of excellent restaurants.
Musee Saint Raymond (Museum of Saint Raymond)
The Museum of Saint Raymond is a must-see attraction for anyone interested in ancient history and archaeology. Housed in a beautiful historic building which dates back to 1523, the museum showcases a wealth of archaeological treasures which have been uncovered during various excavations in and around the city of Toulouse and the Narbonnaise region. One entire gallery is given over to sculptures and statues found at the ruins of the Roman Villa of Chiragan, while another showcases a priceless collection of Roman marble heads, with eyes which appear to eerily follow you around the room. Other highlights include remnants of Greek statues and busts, a collection of sarcophagi and an enormous lime kiln.
Musée Saint Raymond, 1 Place Saint-Sernin, 31000 Toulouse, Phone: +33-5-61-22-31-44
Basilica of Saint Sernin, Toulouse, France
Another must-view attraction on your list of places to see in Toulouse, the beautiful Basilica of Saint Sernin is dedicated to the memory of Saint Saturnin who was the first bishop of Toulouse and later became the Martyr of Toulouse. The stunning Romanesque Basilica was built in the 11th century, on the site of a former church. The classic Latin cross-shaped church is over 100m long and 64m wide and is topped by a dramatic barrel vault which is over 21m high. Visitors are very welcome to take a self-guided tour of the basilica, assisted by an audio guide which will lead you from one point of interest to the next.
Basilica of Saint Sernin, Place Saint Sernin, 31000 Toulouse, Phone: +33-5-61-21-70-18
Le Capitole de Toulouse
Located on the Place de Capitole, this impressive building is a prominent city landmark. Home to both the Town Hall and the Theatre du Capitole, this building is a wonderful example of neoclassic architecture and features a memorable brick and stone façade. The interior of the Capitole is truly breathtaking, featuring a succession of superbly appointed State Rooms which have been decorated by famous artists including Paul Gervais and Henri Martin. To fully appreciate the history of this gracious landmark you are advised to join a guided tour of the Capitole and the surrounding square – these tours are offered 7 days a week.
Le Capitole de Toulouse, Place de Capitole, 31000 Toulouse, Phone: +33-5-61-22-34-12
Musee des Augustins (Toulouse Museum of Art)
Safeguarding and showcasing a priceless collection of fine arts from the Middle Ages to the 20th century, the Musée des Augustins deserves a prominent place on your Toulouse itinerary. The wonderful art collections are house in a 13th century Monastery, which is well worth a visit in its own right. After being confiscated from the Catholic Church in 1793, during the French Revolution, the beautiful old building is now open to all and houses a diverse collection of art from Roman sculptures to paintings from several centuries. The Museum hosts several temporary exhibitions each year but is temporarily closed (end of 2020) for necessary renovations.
Toulouse Museum of Art, 21 Rue de Metz, 31000 Toulouse, Phone: +33-5-61-22-21-82
Pont Neuf
Spanning the Garonne River, the Pont Neuf is a famous bridge which was constructed over the course of several decades. It was finally completed in 1632 and established an important link between Place St-Cyprian and the Old Quarter of Toulouse. Interestingly, the 400+ year old bridge is still known as Pont Neuf, which translates as “The New Bridge”. The bridge spans a very respectable distance of 220m and is supported by 7 asymmetrical arches, the longest of which is the third one away from the right bank of the river. This seems to suggest that the architect somehow got his calculations wrong or that the width of the river changed somewhat while the 100+ year construction was under way. The bridge offers excellent views of Toulouse.
Pont Neuf, 31000, Toulouse, France
Jardin Japonaise (The Japanese Gardens)
Labeled a “Remarkable Garden”, the beautiful and tranquil Japanese Garden offers visitors the ideal place to relax and unwind, away from the hustle and bustle of Toulouse city. You will find the garden nestled within the confines of the Compans-Caffarelli Park, where it is modeled on the original Japanese Gardens in Kyoto, Japan. Containing all the essential elements you would expect to see in a Japanese Garden, visitors can enjoy a Zen-like experience as they walk under the cherry-blossom trees, cross the typical red-lacquered bridge and admire the lake, the Japanese lanterns and the beautifully sculpted plantings. The garden is free to visit and open to the public all year round.
Jardin Japonaise, Jardin Compans Caffarelli, Blvd Lacrosse’s, 31000 Toulouse, Phone: +33-5-62-27-48-48
Foundation Bemberg
Another must-see Toulouse attraction for art and architecture enthusiasts, the Foundation Bemberg is housed in a beautiful mansion house where it showcases a remarkable collection of Modern Art and Decorative Arts. The Foundation was set up the Argentinean philanthropist Georges Bemberg, who made it possible to bring an outstanding collection of art to the public. A tour of the mansion will give visitors the unique chance to admire an overview of Western Art from the Middle Ages to the 20th century. On the first floor you can admire a succession of salon rooms filled with treasures from the Renaissance and XVIII century, while the second floor showcases the Impressionists and Post-Impressionist artists.
Foundation Bemberg, Hotel d’ Assezat, Place d’Assezat, 31000 Toulouse, Phone: +33-5-61-12-06-89
Theatre du Capitole
Located in one of Toulouse’s most prominent landmarks, the Theatre du Capitole brings a world-class selection of cultural programs to the city. The Theatre hosts the opera, the ballet and a wonderful variety of concerts and musicals. In addition, the theatre is home to the National Capitole Orchestra and the Capitole Choir, ensuring that there is always some kind of wonderful entertainment on offer. The original theatre was built in 1736, but the space you will be visiting now was rebuilt in 1818 and again renovated in 1923. The theatre can accommodate over 1000 visitors. Your visit to Toulouse would be incomplete without attending at least one performance.
Theatre du Capitole, Place de Capitole, 31000 Toulouse, Phone: +33-5-61-22-34-12
Convent des Jacobins
In keeping with the rules of poverty associated with the Jacobin order, the Convent des Jacobins is an austere and un-fussy building in the center of Toulouse. The exterior of the church is devoid of any decoration or statues. The entire building was constructed using bricks and was built between 1230 and 1350. The structure is considered to be a jewel of medieval architecture and is another must-see attraction for all history and architecture enthusiasts. Despite the rather drab exterior, the interior of the church is surprisingly light and benefits from Gothic-inspired tall windows and intricate vaults. Visitors are invited to step inside and join a guided tour to learn all about the fascinating history of the convent and the Jacobin order.
Convent des Jacobins, Place des Jacobins, 31000 Toulouse, Phone: +33-5-61-22-23-82
Michael Sarran
Although Michael Sarran’s restaurant is located a little out of the center of Toulouse most visitors agree that the dining experience is well worth the detour. The restaurant has been awarded 2 Michelin stars for the excellence of the cuisine and the brilliance of the chef. The interior of the restaurant is modern, elegant and un-fussy, featuring linen-clad tables and fresh flowers. There is also a lovely outdoor terrace area for alfresco dining in summer. When it comes to the food you need to make some tough choices! You can choose from a handful of set 3 course menus (with wine pairing) or choose from the limited a la carte menu. The chef will also be happy to prepare a 7-course “Surprise” menu for your table.
Michael Sarran, 21 Blvd. Armand Duportal, 31000 Toulouse, Phone: +33-5-61-12-32-32
L’Aubrac
L’Aubrac Restaurant brings a small slice to the French countryside to the heart of Toulouse City. Expect to see a variety of delicious sausages hanging to dry from the ceiling and a large cooking pot bubbling over the open wood fire, just as it would be done in the country. The restaurant offers a daily set menu comprising of an appetizer platter of charcuterie followed by your choice from 4-6 entrees and a dessert. If you prefer a lighter meal you are welcome to make your selections from the a la carte menu. To accompany your meal you can choose wine by the bottle (or half-bottle) from their cellar or opt for a beer or other aperitif.
L’Aubrac Restaurant, 7 Rue de la Colombette, 31000 Toulouse, Phone: +33-5-61-62-98-08
La Cave au Cassoulet
In a city which is considered to be the capital of the famous Languedoc region of south-western France, you can expect to find traditional Cassoulet on many restaurant menus. At La Cave au Cassoulet, this regional specialty takes pride of place. Once a simple peasant meal of beans and meat, Cassoulet has evolved into a rich and complex dish which usually contains several different meats, sausage and beans. The interior of the restaurant features a cave-like vaulted roof and subdued lighting which contributes to the warm and intimate ambiance. Aside from the Cassoulet you can choose from a good selection of other traditional French favorites.
La Cave au Cassoulet, 54 Rue Peyrolleres, 31000 Toulouse, Phone: +33-5-61-13-60-30
La Faim des Haricots
At La Faim des Haricots, the humble vegetable is king. Here vegetarians can celebrate the most delicious flavor combinations and pairings as they dig into a variety of wonderful veggie dishes which are offered in the form of a buffet. You can expect to find at least 10-12 mouth-watering salads, followed by a choice of 3 savory tarts and a daily-specialty hot entrée. In winter the offering is increased by the addition of a delicious vegetable soup, served with home-made croutons. Everything on the buffet is home-made on site using the freshest locally sourced ingredients. Of course your meal would be incomplete without saving some space for one of their delectable desserts.
La Faim des Haricots, 2 Rue du Puits Vert, 31000 Toulouse, Phone: +33-5-61-22-49-25
Le Colombier
Offering traditional regional Languedoc cuisine, Le Colombier Restaurant is a firm favorite with both locals and visitors to Toulouse. The restaurant has been pleasing local palates since 1873, and has absolutely no desire to follow the modern culinary trends which come and go. The warm brick interior of the restaurant sets the scene for a traditional French dining experience. Guests are invited to select one of the daily set menus, most of which include 3 courses. If you wish to try their legendary Cassoulet, you can choose the 2-course “Regional” set menu – a generous portion of Cassoulet with Goose Confit, followed by a dessert. There is also an extensive a la carte menu if you prefer. Their cellar boasts a large selection of regional and national wines as well as Armagnac and Cognacs.
Le Colombier, 14 Rue de Bayard, 31000 Toulouse, Phone: +33-5-61-62-40-05
Le Grenier de Pepe - (Grandpa’s Attic)
Le Grenier de Pepe is a charming little crêperie where you can enjoy a wide variety of delicious savory and sweet pancakes (crêpes) or a wonderfully fragrant fondue. The walls of the little restaurant are almost completely covered with a collection of antique bits and pieces, lending it a fun and quirky atmosphere. You can expect friendly service and a very tasty meal at a very modest price. There are several wonderful savory combinations to try including the classic Ham, Cheese and Egg and a delicious combination of Mushrooms, Artichokes, Peppers and Cheese. If you enjoy fondue you will find a selection of choices for both meat lovers and vegetarians.
Le Grenier de Pepe, 1 Rue Denfert Rochereau, 31000 Toulouse, Phone: +33-5-61-20-07-45
Sept (Seven)
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Sept Restaurant is the brain-child of Michelin-starred chef Guillaume Momboisse, who brings his own exceptional style and innovation to each and every dish. Guests are warmly welcomed to the beautiful modern interior of the restaurant which is housed in an historic building very close to the steps of Toulouse’s splendid St. Sernin Basilica. To fully demonstrate his culinary talents, the chef offers guests a seasonal tasting menu of several courses, with or without wine pairing. The ingredients are locally sourced where possible and brought to your table at the peak of their freshness. You will notice distinct Mediterranean influences and many dishes include fresh seafood and crustaceans.
Sept, 7 Place Saint-Sernin, 31000 Toulouse, Phone: +33-5-62-30-05-30
Les Caves de la Marechale
This charming and popular restaurant is located in a wonderfully atmospheric cellar in what was formerly a Saint-Romain priory, dating back to 1229. A vaulted brick ceiling and baroque décor await you in the cellar, while in summer you may choose to dine alfresco on their terrace. The food is refined and beautifully presented to excite the taste-buds. At lunchtime you can indulge in the daily-changing Set Menu – choose one, two or three courses at a very reasonable fixed price. At night you can also opt for the Dinner Menu which offers a choice of starter, main and dessert for a set price or choose your favorite dishes from the a la carte menu.
Les Caves de la Marechale, 3 Rue Jules Chalande, 31000 Toulouse, Phone: +33-5-61-23-89-88
Les Jardins de l’Opera - The Opera Gardens
The Opera Gardens Restaurant is beautifully located in an interior courtyard with a glass roof – the perfect setting to enjoy an exciting Michelin-starred dining experience in Toulouse. At the helm, Chef Stephane Tournie brings his very own style and his magical (and often unexpected), flavor combinations to your table. The restaurant serves both tradition French cuisine and modern fusion flavors – it all depends on the availability of fresh organic produce and on what the Chef wishes to highlight on the day. You can choose a couple of dishes from the a la carte menu or settle down to enjoy an explosion of favors as you navigate a multi-course Tasting Menu.
Les Jardins de l’Opera, 1 Place du Capitole, 31000 Toulouse, Phone: +33-5-61-23-07-76
Xavier Fromagerie
No visit to France would be complete without enjoying some of the country’s amazing cheeses. When you are in Toulouse, Xavier is the place to go. Here you will find a remarkable selection of over 300 cheeses, all produced from the best quality raw milk obtained from sheep, cow and goat herds all over the country. If you are a cheese novice, the best way to seduce and educate your taste buds would be to join a tasting in their beautiful old cellar. Here you will learn about the origins and “terroir” of some of their most popular cheeses and find out how to utilize them in your cooking.
Xavier, 6 Place Victor Hugo, 31000 Toulouse, Phone: +33-5-34-45-59-45
Le Bapz
You may not expect to find a traditional English Tea House in the heart of Toulouse, but that is exactly what you will find at Le Bapz. If you are a little tired of eating a Continental Breakfast you can make you way to Le Bapz to enjoy a traditional English Brunch, served daily. At lunch time the restaurant serves a daily special (usually a pie of some description served with a side salad. However, it is the wonderful choice of teas, coffees and cakes that bring clients back time after time. You will have a difficult time selecting your sweet treat from a table groaning under the weight of many decadent delights.
Le Bapz, 13 Rue de la Bourse, 31000 Toulouse, Phone: +33-5-61-23-06-63
Le Moderni'the Cafe
Set in an old cellar with an atmospheric brick-domed ceiling, this popular Toulouse meeting place serves delicious brunches and light meals daily. You will find a good variety of dishes on the menu including healthier options like yoghurt, muesli and fresh fruit. However, if you feel like something a little more substantial you can enjoy traditional Bacon and Eggs, Fruit Juice, Sweet Treats like pancakes and your choice from their selection of teas and coffees. There are several tasty vegetarian options as well as gluten free options. They also serve an excellent selection of cakes and tarts and are known for their friendly service.
Le Moderni’the Café, 2 Rue du Coq D’Inde, 31000 Toulouse, Phone: +33-5-00-00-00-00
O The Divin
O Thé Divin is an interesting combination of Tea House and Diner where you can enjoy a quick meal or a snack while you take a break from exploring the historic city of Toulouse. The eatery has pleasant outdoor seating area for sunny days or an air-conditioned indoor dining room where you can escape the heat in summer. The menu features an eclectic assortment of interesting dishes. These include salads, savory cheesecakes, real English scones served in a variety of ways and an appetizing selection of filled bagels. In addition, there is a daily special hot dish and there are always mouth-watering sweet treats to round off your meal.
O Thé Divin, 6 Rue Baour Lormian, 31000 Toulouse, Phone: +33-5-34-44-96-30
South West Bistro
Promising to offer an authentic, gourmet, “bistronomic” dining experience, the South West Bistro is headed up by an enthusiastic team of knowledgeable chefs who take great pride in serving delicious food. The raw products are all sourced from the finest local merchants and seasonal availability dictates what you will find on your plate. For a light lunch the bistro offers a Tartine of the Day (quiche) with a side salad. The regular menu includes a selection of appetizers, entrees and sides followed by dessert or fine regional cheeses. You are welcome to order one or two dishes from the a la carte menu or take advantage of a daily 3-course menu option.
South West Bistro, 84 Allees Jean Jaures, 31000 Toulouse, Phone: +33-5-61-10-23-40
Maison Bleu Canard (The Blue Duck House)
Located in a very special garden setting not far from the heart of the city, Maison Bleu Canard is very popular for their wonderful Sunday brunches and their Friday Evening Open-Air Café. Much of the fresh organic produce which makes its way to your plate will have been freshly harvested from the garden or locally sourced. On Friday nights the restaurant serves a variety of small plates, depending entirely on what produce is seasonally available. To stay with the natural theme, you can wash down your meal with organic wines, beers and ciders including alcohol-free options. You may order your Sunday Brunch to take away (in biodegradable and compostable packaging, of course) to enjoy as a picnic if you wish.
Maison Bleu Canard, 2 Impasse des Beetres, 31400 Toulouse, Phone: +33-6-87-19-44-60
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