Things To Do In Toulouse

Toulouse has managed to preserve much of its medieval architecture, which gives the city a wonderful ambiance and lots of places to explore. The city is home to some of the most impressive churches in Europe as well as a grand plaza, museums and art galleries. A respectable number of streets have been restored and zoned as ‘pedestrian’, adding a sense of calm and quiet right in the heart of this metropolis.

Water is also an important element in Toulouse. The Garonne River and the many smaller canals that crisscross the town give this city a special feeling and provide an excellent alternative way of sightseeing.

Musee des Augustins

This 14th century monastery, which displays the city’s largest collection of medieval sculptures and paintings, is one of the most important buildings in Toulouse. The museum itself was established in 1793, shortly after the French Revolution. Its collection includes Dutch, Italian and Flemish masterpieces from artists such as Rubens and Manet.

The museum’s 14th century cloisters are home to the most valuable collection of Romanesque sculptures in the world. Besides the amazing artwork, simply strolling through this monastery gives one the awe-inspiring sensation of being back in medieval times.

Basilique St Sernin

Toulouse’s principal monument is the largest and most impressive Romanesque church in Europe. First consecrated in 1096, this church has some stunning 11th and 12th century sculptures, bas-reliefs and tombs. Be sure to visit the crypt, which contains the relics of 128 saints as well as a thorn purposed to be from Christ’s Crown of Thorns. It’s best to avoid the church during Sunday morning Mass, when it becomes flooded with worshippers.

Basilique Notre-Dame La Daurade

This charming little church from the 18th century gets its name from the Baroque gilding that covers its exterior. What really makes it special is the statue of the Black Virgin, which some claim possesses mystical powers. It’s one of the more interesting churches in the city for this reason.

Bemberg Foundation

Though only recently opened in 1995, this museum has quickly established itself as one of the most important galleries in Toulouse. Housed in the sublime 15th century Hotel Assezat, this museum exhibits European artwork from the last five centuries including many famous paintings from the Renaissance through the 19th century. The beautiful building and the collection of art complement each other.

Chateau de Launaguet

One of the most picturesque chateaux in France, this ancient home has all the charm of a fairytale castle. Its stained glass windows, pepperpot towers and balustrade will transport you into a Grimm Brothers story. The interior has most of its original 19th century decoration and opens into a lovely park at the back.

The City of Space

If you have any interest in outer space and its exploration, then you must visit this fantastic museum on the outskirts of the city. The interactive exhibits explore the technological advances made in space travel, while also acting as a learning tool. You can program a satellite’s launch, walk through the Mir orbital station and marvel at the photographs of our solar system taken by satellites. The museum’s highlight is the planetarium, which is world-class.

The Capitole

This massive plaza in the heart of the city is one of the strongest symbols of Toulouse. Built in 1753 using Baroque-style architecture, the stunning buildings here include the Hotel de Ville (City Hall) and the Theatre National du Capitole, which still presents the city’s concerts, ballets and operas. The complex is open Monday through Saturday from 09:00 until 18:00 and is a wonderful place to stroll around and admire the views.

Canal du Midi

This truly enchanting waterway is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Originally constructed by Louis XIV as a link between the Mediterranean and the Atlantic, today the canal offers 40kms of biking and walking trails, which stretch from Toulouse to Port Lauragais. Whether cruising on the famous 3-hour boat tour or simply wandering along the canal, this waterway is an essential component of the character of Toulouse.