Toulouse on a Budget: 4-Day Fun Adventure

Toulouse on a shoestring: soaking in the charm of the Ville Rose without breaking the bank.

21 June 2023

Explore the charming city of Toulouse on a budget-friendly trip that won't break the bank. Visit the striking Basilica of St. Sernin or take a leisurely walk along the tree-lined Canal du Midi. Enjoy delicious French cuisine from small local eateries and discover the city's history and culture through its museums and galleries.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Bonjour, Toulouse!

  • Check into Hotel des Beaux Arts, a quaint hotel with vintage decorations and friendly staff.
  • Take a stroll through the historical center of Toulouse, admiring the stunning red brick buildings and charming streets.
  • Visit the Basilique Saint-Sernin, a UNESCO World Heritage site and a stunning example of Romanesque architecture.
  • Wander around the bustling Victor Hugo Market, taste some local delicacies and choose your picnic ingredients for later.
  • Relax by the Garonne river, watching boats pass by and the sunset colors reflect on the water.
Day 2

Art & Culture Galore

  • Start with a freshly baked croissant at Le Salon de The, a cozy café with a French charm.
  • Visit the Musée des Augustins, a former 14th century monastery turned art museum, showcasing sculptures and paintings from the Middle Ages to the 20th century.
  • Check out the contemporary art hub of Les Abattoirs, where you can witness thought-provoking exhibitions and installations.
  • Take a break at the Jardin des Plantes, a peaceful park with beautiful botanical displays.
  • End the day at Le Bibent, a chic brasserie that combines traditional and modern gastronomy.
Day 3

Aerospace Adventures

  • Satisfy your caffeine cravings at Café Bibent, serving some of the best coffee in town.
  • Discover the secrets of flight at the Cité de l'Espace, a space-themed park with interactive exhibits, planetarium shows, and even a rocket garden.
  • Stroll around the Canal du Midi, a picturesque waterway that connects the Atlantic Ocean to the Mediterranean Sea.
  • Indulge in some authentic cassoulet at Chez Emile, a local institution known for its hearty and savory stew.
  • Satisfy your sweet tooth with some macarons from the colorful and charming La Maison de la Violette.
Day 4

Exploring the Surroundings

  • Start the day with a tasty breakfast at Le Marchand de Sable, a trendy café with a bohemian vibe.
  • Take a day trip to the medieval city of Carcassonne, a fortified town with a rich history and well-preserved architecture.
  • Enjoy a wine tasting session at one of the nearby vineyards, such as Château La Reyne, and savor the delicious local wines.
  • Wander around the charming village of Albi, home to the splendid Cathédrale Sainte-Cécile and the Toulouse-Lautrec Museum.
  • Have a final dinner at Le Bon Vivant, a cozy bistro serving classic French dishes with a twist.
  • Au Revoir, Toulouse!

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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