Commonly known as Toulouse Blagnac Airport and only a short drive from the city centre, picking up a hire car at the airport is the perfect way to start your holiday in the Midi-Pyrénées.
It is nicknamed La Ville Rose or 'The Pink City' for its many red brick buildings which line the streets. Unearth all the attractions on offer before hitting the road in search of the many wonderful attractions that lie outside the city limits.
What is There to See and Do in Toulouse?
Visit Basilique Saint Sernin, a fascinating church which dates from the 11th Century. Its beauty is evident by its inclusion on the UNESCO World Heritage list and the examples of Romanesque art will be sure to impress.
Inject a healthy dose of culture into your trip to Toulouse by visiting its excellent art museums. Les Augustins, an old monastery church, is now a thriving gallery with a collection ranging from the 20th century all the way back to the Middle Ages. Home to over 4,000 works, it's an essential visit. Alternatively, Les Abattoirs museum is a must-see for fans of Modern & Contemporary Art.
Toulouse has a strong association with the aviation industry and for anyone with a minor interest, Toulouse's 'Space City' is a must. Home to a small planetarium, interactive exhibits, and replica spacecraft this will be a hit with visitors of all ages.
After all this, nothing beats a simple stroll with no definitive direction; just enjoy having a wander, taking in the sights and sounds while you search for a restaurant to enjoy a perfect evening meal.
Day Trips From Toulouse
Kissing the border of both France and Spain, the Pyrenees National Park is a 2 hour drive away and with the wealth of activities on offer, you might be best to schedule a few days here. Ski here during the winter months and embrace the fantastic facilities. The summer months are a good time to embrace the hiking opportunities among the forested slopes.
The city of Beziers is well worth a visit and, nestled close to the southern coast, is less than two hours away. With a vast array of churches to peruse, fill your visit with a trip to the Saint-Nazaire Cathedral and relax in the breathtaking Plateau des Poètes. You won't find many other tourists here, so embrace a slice of local France.
Alternatively, why not head to Carcassonne and amble through the fortified city. Views surrounding this area at night are stunning and worth the 1 hour car journey alone. There are a plethora of ancient sights to explore once you are here and this should keep you busy for many hours. The castle is one not to be missed; reminiscent of a fairytale it is said to have been the inspiration for Walt Disney's Sleeping Beauty and even appeared in Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves! Uncover the history that drips from this city and enjoy some fun entertainment too with daily jousting displays.
