Explore Toulouse, France

Discover the pink city’s heritage, cuisine and vibrant culture.

explore
wb_sunny

24°C / 75°F

Sunny in Toulouse

trending_up

Peak Season

High visitor demand

Toulouse at a glance

Toulouse, often called the "Pink City" for its terracotta brick architecture, stands out as a centre of aerospace innovation and historic charm in southwestern France. With a population of roughly 470,000, the city blends a lively university atmosphere with centuries‑old landmarks such as the Basilica of Saint‑Sernin and the Capitole, offering visitors a rich cultural experience.

palette Culture & Art
restaurant_menu Culinary Heritage
Toulouse View
Toulouse Landmark
Toulouse Street

Things to Do in Toulouse

Curated experiences led by local experts.

View All Activities arrow_forward

Map View

Explore Toulouse on the map

open_in_new Open in Google Maps
place

Toulouse

The map is centred on Toulouse.

43.605, 1.444

Why travel to Toulouse?

The city is ideal for cultural explorers, food enthusiasts and families seeking interactive attractions. Its temperate climate makes late spring and early autumn especially pleasant, while the mix of museums, riverside walks along the Garonne, and renowned regional dishes like cassoulet cater to a wide range of travel styles, from leisurely sightseeing to active discovery.

palette Culture & Art
restaurant_menu Culinary Heritage
Toulouse View
Toulouse Landmark
Toulouse Street

Toulouse travel blogs

Stories and guides connected to Toulouse and the surrounding destination.

More in France

Browse more city pages across France.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit Toulouse?

expand_more
Late spring (May‑June) and early autumn (September‑October) provide comfortable temperatures and fewer crowds, making these months the most favourable for exploring outdoor sites, museums and local markets in Toulouse.

What is the climate like throughout the year in Toulouse?

expand_more
Toulouse experiences a temperate oceanic climate with warm summers averaging 25‑30 °C, mild winters around 5‑10 °C, and moderate rainfall spread across the year. The weather is generally pleasant for walking and outdoor activities, especially in spring and autumn.

How many people live in Toulouse?

expand_more
The city of Toulouse has an estimated population of about 470,000 residents, making it one of the larger urban centres in the Occitanie region of France.

What currency is used in Toulouse?

expand_more
Toulouse, like the rest of France, uses the Euro (EUR) as its official currency. Credit cards are widely accepted, and ATMs are readily available throughout the city.

Do I need a visa to travel to Toulouse?

expand_more
Visitors from European Union countries do not need a visa for short stays. Travelers from countries outside the EU should check whether they require a Schengen short‑stay visa, which permits up to 90 days of tourism or business travel in the area.

What historic sites should I see in Toulouse?

expand_more
Key historic sites include the Basilica of Saint‑Sernin, a UNESCO‑listed Romanesque church; the Capitole, the city hall with an ornate façade; and the Church of the Jacobins, known for its unique southern French Gothic architecture. These landmarks showcase Toulouse’s medieval and Renaissance heritage.

Which museums are popular with visitors to Toulouse?

expand_more
Popular museums are the Musée des Augustins, featuring fine art from the Middle Ages to the early 20th century; the Cité de l'Espace, an interactive space‑science centre; and Les Abattoirs, which focuses on modern and contemporary art. Each offers distinct cultural experiences.

Are there notable parks or rivers to explore in Toulouse?

expand_more
The Garonne River runs through the city, providing scenic riverside promenades and boat tours. Nearby green spaces include the Jardin des Plantes botanical garden and the historic Canal du Midi, a UNESCO‑listed waterway ideal for walking or cycling along its banks.

What local dishes should I try while in Toulouse?

expand_more
Signature dishes include cassoulet, a slow‑cooked white‑bean stew with duck, pork and sausage; foie gras, often served as a pâté; and duck confit, a traditional preparation of duck leg. These foods reflect the rich culinary heritage of the region.

Where can I find traditional markets in Toulouse?

expand_more
Traditional markets such as Marché Victor Hugo, known for fresh produce, seafood and cheese, and Marché des Carmes, offering a variety of local specialties, are located in the city centre. Both markets operate several days a week and provide an authentic shopping experience.