Toulouse

Ochre rooftops and blushing brick churches earned Toulouse the nickname ‘La Ville Rose’ (The Pink City). Its enchanting Vieux Quartier (Old Quarter) is a dreamy jumble of coral-coloured shopfronts and churches. Beyond the old town, Toulouse sprawls into France’s fourth-largest metropolis. It’s an animated, hectic place, but Toulouse – nestled between a bend in the Garonne River and the mighty Canal du Midi – is invigorated by its waterways.

Church of the Jacobins aerial panoramic view, a Roman Catholic church located in Toulouse city, France
1226073534
des, couvent

© saiko3p / Getty Images

Latest Stories
Book
App
Lonely Planet App on a phone
Brand New!

Get the Lonely Planet App

Holafly advertisement
Trusted Partner

Stay connected in Toulouse

Holafly eSIM provides unlimited mobile data with no hidden fees, giving you peace of mind wherever you travel. Stay connected even after your plan ends with Always On. Use code LONELYPLANET for an exclusive discount.

Take your France trip with Lonely Planet Journeys

Time to book that trip to France

Lonely Planet Journeys takes you there with fully customizable trips to top destinations – all crafted by our local experts.

Top places to visit in Toulouse

Discover the best attractions in Toulouse from must-see sights to unexpected hidden gems.

Travel Guides

Toulouse travel tips from Lonely Planet experts

Find practical guidance from our team of contributors around the world who bring their decades of first-hand travel experience to your next trip.

Best Things to Do

Exciting art venues, leisurely boat trips, urban beaches and eating exceedingly well are fundamental for any visit to this dynamic student city.


Read full article

Best Time to Visit

There’s always something fabulous to discover in this gem of Southwest France. Here’s when to plan your visit.


Read full article

Free Things to Do

France's Pink City, Toulouse, features peach-tiled rooftops, marvelous river views and fascinating historical sites. Here are the best free things.


Read full article

Day Trips

From walking in the Pyrenees to a day on the Mediterranean coast as well as cycling, winery and safari tours, Toulouse is a great base for a day trip.


Read full article

Get a book. Get inspired. Get exploring.

in partnership with getyourguide

Book popular activities in Toulouse