Car Hire Toulouse Airport

Perched in the scenic south of France, Toulouse is situated in an idyllic spot on the banks of the Garronne River. The Pyrenees Mountains are within driving distance, as are the delights of Bordeaux to the west and the French Riviera to the east.

Toulouse Airport is just a 20 to 30-minute drive from the city, following the A621.

In Toulouse itself, the compact city centre can be explored on foot. Parking is affordable, with both designated car parks and on-street parking available. Charges vary but parking is free on Sundays and the first two weeks of August in marked areas.

Having a hire car enables you to visit the amazing surrounding towns and attractions too. To visit the famous market town of Lourdes, at the foot of the Pyrenees Mountains, take the A64 south-west. Be prepared to encounter toll roads along the way. Stick within the speed limits, which are usually 130km/h on French motorways but lower elsewhere (typically 50km/h in more built-up areas). Speed limits can vary, so always ensure you keep an eye on signs for the route that you are on.

Discover the famous wine regions of France also, with both the Dordogne valley and the Languedoc region nearby. Both are accessible off the A62 to the north-west of Toulouse Airport. Or you can head north on the A20 to visit Cahors – famed for its stunning porcelain.

The peripherique (ring road), which is 32km long, runs around Toulouse, making accessing attractions further afield a breeze. By joining this road you can access the A620, A62 and the A61 routes.

With its warm hospitality, friendly atmosphere and wealth of attractions, Toulouse is becoming ever-more popular with holidaymakers – and those seeking adventure outside of France’s capital city. The gorgeous blend of old and new, stunning location and thriving food scene leave visitors longing to come back for more.

See the Canal du Midi

At the core of the city, the Canal du Midi winds through Toulouse and is something of the star of the show. This picturesque waterway provides a perfect socialising hotspot for those looking to cycle, run or share a romantic picnic along its banks. Enjoy the serene beauty and sense of peace, also, when you take a boat trip along it.

Connecting the Mediterranean Sea to the Atlantic as part of a wider network, the now popular holiday hotspot was once a once a major trade route. Those wishing to follow it further down can see much more of the past and heritage of medieval France, heading towards Carcassonne, Narbonne and Béziers.

Head to the Old Quarter 

Elegant, grand and incredibly stylish, Toulouse’s Old Quarter is reminiscent of opulent times gone-by. Lined with stunning buildings, the architecture here is distinctly lavish. Be sure to visit the Place du Capitole, the main square in the centre of the city – lit up at night it looks at its most impressive. Here you’ll also find the stunning 18^th-century city hall, and the opera house.

Toulouse is also home to the biggest remaining Romanesque building in Europe, the Basilique Saint-Sernin. It features incredible stained-glass windows and one of the most spectacular pipe organs in the world, while its iconic and awe-inspiring tower looms over the city.

Become a high flyer

Toulouse has strong links with the French aerospace industry, and the extraordinary Cite de L’Espace museum offers out of this world excitement – including a thrilling shuttle flight simulator and a replica of the Ariane 5 Space Rocket.

Aviation enthusiasts meanwhile can take a guided tour of the factory area of the Airbus company headquarters, which are situated on the edge of city.

Toulouse is also home to three very prestigious universities and 40,000 students, helping the city come to life with vibrant bars and trendy neighbourhoods.  

Pay a visit to the Pyrenees

An hour and half’s drive away from the city centre you can arrive at the foothills of the sensational Pyrenees mountains. Ideal for hiking in the summer and skiing in the winter, the range stretches for almost 500km and forms a border between France and Spain, with an abundance of picturesque villages and towns to discover.

Whatever your passion, from rambling to paragliding, you’ll be able to satisfy it in the Pyrenees. There are many activities for all kinds of tastes, from adrenaline junkies to those simply looking to soak up the scenery and admire the stunning views. Be sure to take your camera and capture the incredible sights.

With car hire at Toulouse Airport, all the amazing adventures in and around the city are well within reach. Explore this amazing region and enjoy an unforgettable experience.