Two Days in Toulouse: A Pink City Adventure

Experience the charm of Toulouse without breaking the bank.

21 June 2023

Toulouse, located in the south of France, offers plenty of affordable options for budget travelers. Visitors can explore the city's rich culture and history through its many museums and architectural landmarks, such as the Gothic-style Basilique Saint-Sernin. Additionally, for those looking for a delicious meal without breaking the bank, Toulouse's local markets and cafés offer a wide variety of French cuisine.

Travel plan

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Day 1

Discovering the Pink City

  • Start the day with a visit to the Basilique Saint-Sernin, one of the largest Romanesque churches in Europe.
  • Wander along the Canal du Midi, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and admire the beautiful views of the waterfront.
  • Stop by the Marché Victor Hugo, a bustling market filled with vendors selling fresh produce, flowers, meats, and pastries.
  • Enjoy a picnic at the Jardins du Grand Rond, a lovely park with a large pond and plenty of benches to relax on.
  • Take a scenic stroll through the historic streets of Toulouse, admiring the brick buildings and colorful facades.
  • End the day with a glass of wine and some traditional French cuisine at La Belle Equipe, a cozy and affordable restaurant near the river.
  • Hotel recommendation: Hôtel Croix Baragnon, a charming and budget-friendly hotel located in the heart of Toulouse's historic district.
Day 2

Art and Culture

  • Start the day with a visit to the Musée des Augustins, a beautiful Gothic church turned art museum featuring works from the Middle Ages to the 20th century.
  • Take a guided tour of the Cité de l'Espace, a space-themed attraction with interactive exhibits and a planetarium.
  • Enjoy a leisurely lunch at Chez Emile, a popular bistro known for its tasty French cuisine and casual atmosphere.
  • Visit the Musée du Vieux-Toulouse, a small but charming museum dedicated to the city's history and culture.
  • Attend a concert or performance at the Théâtre du Capitole, a stunning opera house with a rich history and beautiful architecture.
  • End the day with a nightcap at Les Yeux Dans Les Verts, a cozy bar with delicious cocktails and a relaxed atmosphere.
  • With its mix of history, culture, and gastronomy, a 2-day trip to Toulouse is the perfect way to experience the best of Southern France without breaking the bank.

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Toulouse by plane is to fly into Toulouse-Blagnac Airport, which is the main international airport serving the city. There are direct flights available from major European cities such as London, Paris, and Madrid.

Car

The best way to get to Toulouse by car is to take the A61 motorway if you are driving from Paris, or the A62 if you are driving from Bordeaux. The journey takes around 6 hours from Paris, and around 2 hours from Bordeaux.

Train

The best way to get to Toulouse by train is to take the TGV from Paris to Toulouse. The journey takes around 5 hours and the train stops at Toulouse-Matabiau Station in the city centre.

Boat

There are no direct boat routes to Toulouse, as it is an inland city. However, you can take a boat tour down the Canal du Midi from other cities in the south of France, which will take you to Toulouse. The journey time and departure points will vary depending on your starting location.

Bus

The best way to get to Toulouse by bus is to take the Eurolines bus from major European cities such as Paris, Madrid or Barcelona. The bus stops at Toulouse Bus Station, located near the city centre.

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