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 18th-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.