Travel to Toulouse

Travel to Toulouse

The university town of Toulouse is the home of the French aviation and space industry. Families, especially, will enjoy the wonderful museums and splendid entertainment attractions of this city

Transportation to Toulouse

Toulouse-Blagnac Airport, 11kms northwest of the city centre, receives both international and domestic flights. Shuttle buses leave every 20 minutes to town. From Paris, it takes about six to seven hours to drive to Toulouse. Follow the A10 south to Bordeaux and then change to the A62 to the town.

Fourteen trains arrive here from Bordeaux daily, with a journey time of roughly two hours. Nine high-speed TGV trains arrive from Paris daily, taking five hours. Buses connect Toulouse to a wide range of French and other European destinations.

What to see

Ville Rose is the historic town centre of Toulouse and contains many of the historical sights. The Capitole has been the seat of Toulouse's city government since the 12th century. Its original walls were covered by an ornate pink and white 18th century faade. The inside of the structure is equally beautiful, and you can explore the Salle des Illustres and other interesting rooms covered in late 19th century murals and some impressionist works by Henri Martin.

The gigantic fortress-like 13th century Church of the Jacobins is west of here and has an adjacent art exhibition hall. Additionally interesting is the nearby Renaissance mansion, the Htel de Bernuy. North of the Capitole, youll find Notre-Dame-du-Taur, and the largest Romanesque church in France, the Basilica of St-Sernin. Of the many museums in Toulouse, two of the finest are Muse St-Raymond and Muse des Augustins

Day trips

Toulouse is a good base from which to explore the southwest of France. Nearby Albi is spectacular, boasting a highly original cathedral and comprehensive collection of Toulouse-Lautrec paintings. Further afield is the authentic medieval town of Cordes.

To the southwest of Toulouse, Lourdes holds a scenic spot on the Gave de Pau River. The many annual visitors come here to bathe in the natural spring water that is reputed to have mystical healing properties.

The town of Auch, west of Toulouse, is a great place to enjoy fine French cuisine. Most recommended are the Armagnac brandy, foie gras, poultry and wine for which the town is famous.

Activities and leisure

The high-tech amusement park of the Cit de lEspace is a great place for the whole family to relax. The park has a fun space theme, and offers the opportunity to walk inside a mock-up of the Mir Space Station. Many of the exhibits are interactive and educational. A tour of the Aerospatiale Complex can also be arranged if you plan ahead.

Safety issues

Holidaymakers can be susceptible to dangers and annoyances. Pickpocketing is an ever present problem in large tourist areas and visitors should remain alert. Driving and water sports also place the traveller at an increased risk of injury. We recommend you take out adequate travel insurance for you and your family.