Toulouse 3 Day Itinerary
Toulouse Travel Itinerary (3 Days)
Day 1: Explore the City Center
Morning
- Start at the Basilique Saint-Sernin, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the largest Romanesque churches in Europe.
- Walk to the nearby Place du Capitole, the heart of Toulouse’s historic center, surrounded by beautiful buildings, cafes, and shops.
Afternoon
- Visit the Musée des Augustins, a fine arts museum housed in a 14th-century convent, featuring an impressive collection of art from the Middle Ages to the 20th century.
- Stroll along the Garonne River and enjoy the city’s picturesque views.
Evening
- Dine at Le Grand Hôtel de l’Opéra, a beautifully restored 18th-century hotel with a Michelin-starred restaurant serving contemporary French cuisine.
- Enjoy a drink at Bar la Bourse, a trendy spot in the heart of the city.
Accommodation
- Hotel des Beaux Arts: A stylish, budget-friendly option located in the historic center.
- Le Grand Hôtel de l’Opéra: Treat yourself to luxury and elegance in this 18th-century hotel.
Transportation
- Toulouse-Blagnac Airport (TLS): Take a taxi or shuttle bus to the city center (approximately 20 minutes, €25).
- Public Transportation: Use the Tisseo network of buses, trams, and metro lines to get around the city.
Tips
- Be prepared for cobblestone streets and uneven pavement in the historic center.
- Take advantage of the city’s bike-sharing system, VélôToulouse.
Day 2: Discover Toulouse’s Aviation History and Canals
Morning
- Visit the Musée de l’Air et de l’Espace, dedicated to the history of aviation and space exploration.
- Explore the Cité de l’Espace, a theme park with interactive exhibits and a planetarium.
Afternoon
- Take a canal boat tour along the Canal du Midi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most beautiful canals in France.
- Walk along the Quai de la Daurade, offering picturesque views of the Garonne River and the city.
Evening
- Enjoy dinner at Le Comptoir des Lices, serving traditional French cuisine with a focus on local ingredients.
- Visit the Marché aux Puces, a bustling flea market with a lively atmosphere.
Things to Know
- Toulouse is known as “La Ville Rose” (The Pink City) due to its distinctive red-brick architecture.
- The city has a rich history in aviation and aerospace, earning it the nickname “La Cité de l’Espace”.
Day 3: Visit Nearby Attractions
Morning
- Take a day trip to Carcassonne, a medieval fortified city and UNESCO World Heritage Site (approximately 1 hour by car or train).
- Explore the Château de Peyrepertuse, a Cathar castle with stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
Afternoon
- Return to Toulouse and visit the Jardin des Plantes, a beautiful botanical garden with a peaceful atmosphere.
- Browse the shops and cafes along the Rue Saint-Rome, a charming pedestrian street in the historic center.
Evening
- Enjoy a farewell dinner at Le Py-r, serving innovative, farm-to-table cuisine.
- Relax at Bar le Fizz, a cozy spot with a wide selection of craft beers.
Other Things to Do
- Take a cooking class to learn about Toulousian cuisine and wine pairing.
- Visit the Basilique Notre-Dame du Haut-Carmel, a beautiful Catholic church with stunning views of the city.
I hope you enjoy your trip to Toulouse!