Toulouse 5 Day Itinerary

5 Day Itinerary: Exploring the Pink City of Toulouse

This itinerary focuses on showcasing the best of Toulouse’s historical sites, cultural experiences, and culinary delights. It can be adjusted based on your interests and pace.

Where to Stay:

  • Hotel recommendation: The Pullman Toulouse Centre Ramblas Hotel offers a convenient location in the heart of the city, modern amenities, and stylish accommodations.

Day 1: Historical Heartbeat

  • Morning: Explore the charming historical center of Toulouse. Wander through the Place du Capitole, admire the architecture of the Basilica of Saint-Sernin (a UNESCO World Heritage site), and visit the Capitoline Museums for a glimpse into the region’s rich history.
  • Afternoon: Stroll along the Canal du Midi, a marvel of 17th-century engineering also listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Consider taking a boat tour or renting a bike to explore its picturesque canals and charming bridges.
  • Evening: Dine at Le Bistrot d’Antoine, a cozy restaurant with traditional Toulouse cuisine. Enjoy classics like cassoulet (a hearty bean stew) or duck confit for an authentic “Toulouse experience” in a beautiful setting.

Day 2: Aerospace Adventures

  • Morning: Immerse yourself in the world of aerospace at Cité de l’espace, a unique theme park dedicated to space exploration.
  • Afternoon: Discover the history of Airbus and aviation at the Musée Aeroscopia. Explore aircraft from different eras and marvel at the engineering prowess behind these marvels of flight. Enjoy the interactive exhibits and learn about the fascinating innovations in the field.
  • Evening: Dine at a restaurant with a view! Try Chez le Gaulois, which offers delicious French fare alongside panoramic views of the city.

Day 3: History & Culture Immersion

  • Morning: Visit the magnificent Basilique Saint-Sernin, a stunning example of Romanesque architecture. Explore its intricate details and soak in the beauty of the stained glass windows and ancient sculptures.
  • Afternoon: Wander through the charming narrow streets of the historic center, stopping at quaint cafes and boutiques along the way.

Day 4: Art & Architecture Day

  • Morning: Immerse yourself in the world of art at the Musée des Augustins. This museum showcases a diverse collection of medieval and Renaissance artwork.
  • Afternoon: Explore the vibrant street art scene in the Carmelite district, where colorful murals adorn the walls.

Day 5: A Taste of Toulouse History (and a Bite to Eat!)

  • Morning: Take a final stroll through the Place du Capitole, enjoying its bustling atmosphere and historical architecture.
  • Afternoon: Explore the history of the region at the Museum of the Augustins, marveling at the intricate details of the Romanesque architecture.
  • Evening: Celebrate your trip with a farewell dinner at La Table de la Haute-Garonne, known for its traditional dishes and charming ambiance.

Things to Know:

  • Transportation: Toulouse has a good public transportation system, including buses, trams, and a metro. The city center is easily walkable or accessible by bike, but consider getting a transport pass for convenient travel.
  • Language: While French is the official language, many locals in Toulouse speak English, especially in tourist areas and restaurants.

Other things to do:

  • Visit the Basilique Saint-Sernin at night: The church’s stunning architecture is illuminated after dark, creating a truly magical experience.
  • Explore the Quartier des Carmes: This historic district boasts charming cafes, boutiques, and restaurants.

Tips:

  • Eat Cassoulet: Toulouse is renowned for its cassoulet, a hearty dish of slow-cooked beans, meat (typically duck confit), and vegetables. Try it at least once during your visit!

  • Visit the Capitole: This beautiful building serves as the city hall and a cultural center. It’s worth checking out the events calendar to see if there are any concerts or performances happening while you’re in town.

  • Explore the Jardin des Plantes: Stroll through this botanical garden, home to exotic plants, greenhouses, and a zoo.

  • Enjoy the nightlife: Toulouse has a lively nightlife scene, with many bars and restaurants offering live music and entertainment late into the night.

Things to consider:

  • Weather: Check the weather forecast for Toulouse and pack accordingly.

  • Time of year: Toulouse is known as the “Pink City” due to its beautiful brick buildings. The weather can be quite pleasant in the spring and fall, but summers can be hot and humid.

  • Budget: Consider your budget when planning your trip. There are plenty of free or cheap things to do in Toulouse, such as visiting the parks or exploring the historic architecture on foot.