Renowned as the Pink City, Toulouse captivates visitors with its Renaissance palaces, winding streets, and secluded courtyards. While it may lack iconic landmarks, the city brims with delightful experiences and unexpected discoveries. In this article, we explore the reasons why Toulouse is worth visiting and what you can savour in this charming city.
Why is Toulouse worth visiting?
Toulouse, often celebrated as a historical tapestry, offers a captivating glimpse into the past through its vibrant streets. This city, pivotal during the Renaissance, prospered from the pastel dye trade, which funded the construction of distinctive circular brick towers adorning the palaces of that era.
Furthermore, Toulouse played a significant role in early aviation history, serving as both the official and temporary base for Aeropostale pilots who navigated air mail routes between Europe and America around the early 20th century. It also became a crucial haven during the Spanish exile.
However, Toulouse is not merely a relic of the past. It thrives as a youthful and energetic city, with a fifth of its population comprised of students. This demographic contributes to a lively, fun-loving atmosphere, enriching the city with continuous dynamism. This blend of historical depth and youthful vigour makes Toulouse a city well worth visiting.
If you’re visiting Toulouse, we highly recommend the Grand Hotel de l’Opera, which is located in a beautifully restored former convent from the 17th century. This charming character hotel provides exclusive accommodations and fine dining in a unique and elegant atmosphere.
What to see in Toulouse?
Now that we’ve explored why Toulouse is worth visiting, let’s delve into the must-see attractions in this charming Pink City.
The old town
The old town stretches along the right bank of the Garonne. It is a perfect place to stroll through pedestrian streets lined with attractive old houses with cream-coloured facades that contribute to Toulouse’s reputation as a “pink city”. This area is not only home to some of Toulouse’s most renowned monuments but is also considered one of the best places to stay.
Place du Capitole
Secondly, to understand why Toulouse is worth visiting, consider the Place du Capitole. Originating in the 12th century and covering nearly two hectares, this square is not only the Town Hall square but also the ideal starting point for exploring the Old Town. It is renowned for its first-class restaurants and cafés.
The City of Space
We previously highlighted Toulouse’s youthful and academic vibe. To the west of the city centre lies the Cité de l’Espace. This venue offers a gateway to 250 interactive exhibitions that delve into the fascinating aspects of the universe. It’s a captivating theme park that both children and adults will find enthralling.
The next accommodation we recommend in Toulouse is Hotel le Père Léon, situated in the heart of Toulouse. It occupies a property that was originally founded in 1905 and has since been completely rebuilt and modernized. This charming family-owned and operated hotel provides comfortable accommodations and fine cuisine in a warm, welcoming environment.
River Garonne
The Garonne is a river originating in northern Spain, extending over 600 kilometres before reaching Toulouse and flowing into the Atlantic Ocean near Bordeaux. The optimal way to explore this scenic route is aboard a tourist boat. These cruises typically navigate through the historic parts of the city and along the Canal du Midi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Saint-Cyprien Quarter
Another reason Toulouse is worth visiting is the Saint-Cyprien quarter. Situated along the banks of the Garonne River, this sophisticated neighbourhood blends modern charm with an unpretentious vibe. It is distinguished by its array of small exotic food shops and restaurants offering authentic cuisine from various countries around the world.
The Stade Toulousain
Continuing with Toulouse’s must-see attractions, the Stade Toulousain stands out as the city’s premier rugby team. The best time to visit is during the championship season, when you can experience one of Europe’s top rugby teams in action. The games are known for their lively and festive atmosphere, making it a memorable experience for any visitor.
Basilica of San Sernin
Dating back to the 11th century, the Basilica of Saint-Sernin stands as one of the most iconic religious buildings and another reason why Toulouse is worth visiting. This architectural gem has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is situated along the French route of the Way of St. James. Additionally, it’s conveniently located just 400 meters from the Place du Capitole.
Finally, we also recommend Le Grand Balcon Hotel, a 4-star establishment echoing the charm of the 1930s, complete with a 24-hour reception. The rooms are soundproofed and impeccably equipped for comfort. The hotel features a contemporary bar and offers a buffet breakfast daily.
Are you considering alternative destinations for your next holiday and seeking a truly enchanting experience? Toulouse, the Pink City, could be your ideal choice. As we have explored, it is a city brimming with wonders and beauty. In summary, Toulouse is worth visiting.
