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Why should tourists visit Toulouse?
- The historic city of Toulouse is a must on any tourist itinerary to France. It offers hundreds of years of history, a multitude of cultural attractions, and a thriving fine-dining scene.
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What historic and architectural attractions can visitors see in Toulouse?
- The list of historic and architectural attractions is hard to beat. Visitors should consider a guided walking tour to get their bearings and prioritize their must-visit sites.
- Some of the most memorable attractions include the Museum of Saint Raymond, the Basilica of Saint Sernin, and the Capitole de Toulouse.
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What can visitors expect while exploring Toulouse?
- Around every corner, visitors will find historic buildings and fascinating museums, making it a paradise for history and architecture lovers.
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What is Toulouse’s food scene like?
- At the end of a busy day of exploring, visitors can indulge in the wonderful aromas and flavors of dozens of excellent restaurants.
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1. 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
2. Basilica of Saint Sernin
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
3. 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
4. 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 Musee 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
5. 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
6. 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
7. 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
8. 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
9. 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
Best Time to Visit
Medium-Priced Places to Stay
Tips for Exploring
Spring (March-May) – Pleasant temperatures and blooming gardens.
Hôtel des Arts – A charming boutique hotel in the historic center.
Stroll along the Garonne River – Enjoy the beautiful spring weather and waterfront views.
Summer (June-August) – Warm weather, ideal for outdoor dining and festivals.
Mercure Toulouse Centre Wilson – Modern and centrally located.
Visit Place du Capitole – The heart of Toulouse with lively cafés and cultural landmarks.
Fall (September-November) – Mild weather, fewer tourists, and autumn colors.
Hôtel Le Grand Balcon – Stylish Art Deco hotel with great amenities.
Explore the Basilica of Saint-Sernin – One of the best-preserved Romanesque churches in Europe.
Winter (December-February) – Cozy city ambiance and festive holiday lights.
Novotel Toulouse Centre Compans Caffarelli – Comfortable stay near a beautiful park.
Visit Toulouse’s Christmas Market – Enjoy festive decorations, mulled wine, and local delicacies.
Plan Your Trip
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