Carcassonne Archives - Lost in Bordeaux

The 25 Best Things to Do in Toulouse

Toulouse is one of the liveliest cities in southwest France, full of color, charm, and energy. Nicknamed the Pink City for its warm-toned stone architecture, it sits between beaches, mountains, and the scenic Dordogne Valley. If you love French food, vibrant markets, beautiful buildings, and stylish shops, you’ll feel right at home here!

There’s plenty to see and do, so I recommend spending at least a weekend here. But even with just a day, Toulouse is well worth the stop. If you’re planning a visit, don’t miss my guides on Toulouse’s best neighborhoods (must read when looking for accommodation), tours, day trips, and festivals — they’ll help you make the most of your stay.

Explore Toulouse: Top Things to See and Do in the Pink City

1. Stroll Through the Old Town

Before you dive into museums or attractions, take a stroll through Toulouse’s old town—the heart of the Pink City. The center is small and easy to cover on foot. The pinkish bricks and cobbled streets create a magical and warm atmosphere. The area boasts charming streets, beautiful houses, restaurants, bookstores, and more. Take your time to discover the Renaissance and Neoclassical architecture and the liveliness of this endearing district. You don’t really need to follow any route here, just get lost in the red/pink streets and let the city charm you.

rue Alsace Lorraine in Toulouse — rue Alsace Lorraine – by Lost in Bordeaux

Tip: The city center gets busy on weekends, so try to explore on a weekday for a more relaxed experience. Want to dive deeper? A walking or cycling tour is a fantastic way to learn the city’s hidden stories and history. Here you can check out my personal recommendations for tours or more options on Get Your Guide.

2. Place du Capitole

The beating heart of Toulouse is Place du Capitole, a beautiful square lined with lively cafés and home to the 18th-century City Hall. Inside, you’ll find ceremonial chambers decorated with stunning murals that reflect the city’s rich past. Don’t miss the painted ceilings of the Galerie des Arcades!

Salle des Illustres in- Capitole - Toulouse

Bonus tip: Climb the staircase to the Salle des Illustres, a hidden gem showcasing 19th-century Toulouse art. Floor-to-ceiling murals, sculptures, and paintings create a breathtaking tribute to the city’s artistic legacy.

3. Discover Toulouse’s Architecture and Landmarks

Toulouse’s architectural beauty extends beyond the old town. Walk along grand boulevards like Boulevard d’Alsace-Lorraine or Boulevard de Metz for a glimpse of impressive buildings that showcase the city’s elegant style.

Basilique St-Sernin in Toulouse — Basilique St-Sernin – by Lost in Bordeaux

Some highlights include:

The majestic Cloître des Jacobins (Couvent des Jacobins), a peaceful monastery with its high columns and colorful stained glass windows, will leave you in awe. Its most famous feature is the stone “palm trees” on the ceiling.
The beautiful Basilica of Saint Sernin, one of the largest Romanesque churches in Europe and a UNESCO World Heritage site.
The Hôtel d’Assézat is a beautiful 16th-century Renaissance mansion, now home to the Bemberg Foundation’s impressive art collection.

4. Explore Victor Hugo Market

Anytime I travel to a new city in France, I start my day with the main market. It’s the beating heart of the city; the gastronomic epicenter where you can discover all the local specialties and where local chefs come to get inspiration and ingredients for their daily menu. That’s exactly the case in Toulouse. For food lovers, the Victor Hugo Market is a must-visit!

A visit to the central market in Toulouse - Marche Victor Hugo — Marche Victor Hugo – by Lost in Bordeaux

On the ground floor, you’ll find locals shopping for fresh cheese, seafood, wine, and more. It’s a great place to grab some treats for a picnic or enjoy a casual drink with charcuterie.

Don’t leave without heading to the second floor—some of Toulouse’s best regional restaurants are up there, serving dishes made from market-fresh ingredients. Pro tip: Arrive before 12:15 PM, as the restaurants fill up fast.Food Tour Alert: Want a guided experience? Take a food tour with Jessica for an insider’s look (and taste!) of the market’s best.
Book the tour here

5. Visit the Japanese Garden

Need a break from city life or want to cool down in nature when it gets too hot in the streets? Head to the peaceful Japanese Garden in Compans-Caffarelli Park. This serene space offers beautifully landscaped greenery, perfect for a quiet stroll or a picnic on a sunny day.

6. Discover Toulouse’s Street Art Scene

Toulouse has a vibrant, growing street art scene with colorful murals tucked all around the city. Top spots include Rue Pont de Tounis (near the Centre occitan des musiques et danses traditionnelles) and Rue Gramat in the north of the city center. New works pop up often, and if you’re keen to dive deeper, you can even join a guided street art tour to uncover hidden gems.

7. Cycle Along the Canal du Midi

With the Garonne river and the canal du midi running through the city, Toulouse is a great destination for boat or cycling trips. Rent a bike and cruise along the scenic Canal du Midi, another UNESCO-listed gem. The flat paths are perfect for all cycling levels, and it’s a beautiful way to enjoy Toulouse’s natural surroundings.

Bike Rentals: CycloLibre city bikes and Evadeo Cycles.

8. Try a Guinguette in the Summer

During the warmer months, Toulouse comes alive with guinguettes, charming open-air bars and restaurants set on boats along the Garonne River and other scenic spots. These laid-back venues often have live music and a fun, relaxed atmosphere. Some of the best guinguettes to try for great views and atmosphere are: Les pêcheurs de sable, Racines, and La Centrale.

Guinguette in Toulouse in the Summer — A Guinguette in Toulouse – by Lost in Bordeaux

9. Try a Food Tour & Taste Cassoulet

Toulouse is known for its cassoulet, a hearty stew of beans, duck, and sausage originally from nearby Castelnaudary. Wondering where to try it? Check out this local foodie tour that’ll let you taste this regional specialty, among many other amazing dishes.

Cassoulet - the traditional dish of Carcassonne — Cassoulet – by Lost in Bordeaux

10. Visit Halle de la Machine

One of Toulouse’s most unique attractions, Halles des Machines is an exhibition space featuring massive mechanical creatures, including a giant Minotaur and a moving spider. It’s an incredible blend of art and engineering that will leave you in awe. La Halle de la Machine belongs to a theater group that built all the funny and ridiculous machines themselves.

At first glance, the whole place looks overwhelming, full of what seems like useless machinery. That’s why you must follow one of the guides, hear the stories behind the machines, and see how they operate. You can get tickets here.

La Halle de la Machine in Toulouse — La Halle de la Machine – by Lost in Bordeaux

11. Explore the Hip Carmes & Saint-Étienne Neighborhoods

For a taste of local life, wander through the young, hip Carmes and Saint-Étienne districts. These areas are filled with trendy boutiques, lively cafés, and picturesque streets perfect for strolling. It’s one of the coolest parts of Toulouse, with a mix of history and modern charm.

Les Carmes district in Toulouse — Les Carmes district – by Lost in Bordeaux

12. See an Art Exhibition at Les Abattoirs

Les Abattoirs, Toulouse’s contemporary art museum housed in a former slaughterhouse, hosts rotating exhibitions featuring both local and international artists. If you’re an art lover, this museum is well worth a visit. The building itself adds to the museum’s unique atmosphere. See what exhibitions are currently presented on their website.

Les Abattoirs - the contemporary art museum of Toulouse — Les Abattoirs in Toulouse – Lost in Bordeaux

13. Experience the Sunday Market at Marché de Saint Aubin

For a true local experience, visit Marché de Saint Aubin on Sunday mornings. This bustling market offers cheese from the Pyrenees, next to local honey and jam producers; a farmer selling only apples next to a huge stall of olives and spices; freshly ground coffee, local desserts, and a huge variety of saucisson; and the list goes on and on.. It’s a great way to soak up the Toulouse atmosphere while tasting some local specialties. Read more about Toulouse’s best markets in this article.

Marché de Saint Aubin in Toulouse — Marché de Saint Aubin – by Lost in Bordeaux

14. Sip Specialty Coffee in Toulouse’s Trendy Cafés

Toulouse has a buzzing specialty coffee scene—perfect for a relaxed break between sightseeing. Top picks include Allegory Coffee Bar near Place du Capitole, Le Café Cerise by the Garonne, and Kopi Café Shop in the Carmes district. Each one serves up great coffee with a cool, cozy vibe. See more chic Toulouse coffee shops in my article.

Kopi Coffee shop - one of the best coffee shops in Toulouse — Kopi Coffee shop -Lost in Bordeaux

15. Explore the Space Museum

Toulouse is home to Cité de l’Espace, one of the most impressive space museums in Europe. But in such a beautiful city, there is so much to do outdoors that I wouldn’t necessarily recommend this museum. Unless 1) You’re a space geek, 2) You have kids who like space stuff 3) You have more than 2 days to visit 4) It’s raining outside. You’ll find life-sized rockets, immersive exhibits, and even a planetarium. It’s a great experience for both kids and adults, bringing the wonders of space closer to Earth.

16. Take a Boat Tour

See Toulouse from a different perspective by taking a boat tour on the Garonne River or Canal du Midi. Companies like Bateaux Toulousains offer relaxing cruises that showcase the city’s landmarks from the water. It’s a peaceful and scenic way to experience Toulouse.

For a more scenic experience, you can take a metro to Ramonville-Saint-Agne (a town near Toulouse) and join the amazing cruises offered by Catefifi.

17. Discover Toulouse’s Love for Violets and Pastel

Toulouse is known for two unique symbols: violets and pastel (woad). You’ll find violet-scented products in local shops, from soaps to liqueurs. Pastel, a plant used historically for blue dye, has a deep connection to Toulouse’s history, and you can still find pastel-based products in specialty stores.

18. Hang Out at Halles de la Cartoucherie – Food, Art & Fun

A cool new spot in Toulouse, Halles de la Cartoucherie is a creative and cultural space featuring food stalls, exhibitions, and live performances. It’s a great place to hang out, try local food, and enjoy Toulouse’s artistic side.

19. Step Into Toulouse’s Natural History Museum

One of the largest museums of its kind in France, the Toulouse Natural History Museum is packed with fascinating exhibits on nature, science, and archaeology. It’s a perfect indoor activity for a rainy—or overly sunny—day.

Museum de Toulouse - one of the best things to do with kids in Toulouse — Museum de Toulouse – by Lost in Bordeaux

Bonus tip: After exploring the museum, take a break at Le Moaï, the on-site café and restaurant. Its leafy terrace, nestled among centuries-old trees and wandering peacocks, is a hidden gem. The food is fresh, local, and full of creative flair—ideal for a relaxed lunch or just a coffee in a unique setting.

20. Visit the Aeroscopia Museum

A must-see for aviation enthusiasts, Aeroscopia showcases Toulouse’s deep connection to the aerospace industry. Explore legendary aircraft like the Concorde and learn about the city’s aviation heritage. It’s fun for both older kids and adults.

21. Play an Urban Game

For something different and a fun outing with older kids, try an urban escape game in Toulouse! Companies like Granhòta Games offer interactive city adventures where you solve puzzles and uncover secrets around the city. It’s a fun way to explore Toulouse’s streets while engaging in a unique activity.

Beyond Toulouse: Great Day Trips and Nearby Gems to Discover

22. Take a Day Trip to Albi

Just an hour’s drive from Toulouse, Albi is a charming town like no other. With stunning red-brick architecture and the breathtaking Sainte-Cécile Cathedral, it’s home to centuries of history and art. The town’s medieval streets and picturesque riverside make it a fantastic day trip. Here’s my full guide on what to see and do in Albi.

How to get there: You can take a train or a guided tour from Toulouse – you can choose between a small group or a private tour.

Must see monuments to visit in Albi — Albi – by Lost in Bordeaux

23. Take a Day Trip to Carcassonne

Toulouse is really central and a great base for day trips if you’re staying for a longer period of time. Just an hour away, Carcassonne is a medieval fortress city straight out of a fairy tale. The UNESCO-listed citadel offers breathtaking views, cobblestone streets, and plenty of spots to enjoy a traditional lunch.

How to get there: You can take a train or a guided tour from Toulouse – you can choose between a small group or a private tour.

Carcassonne is the best day trips from Toulouse — Carcassonne – Lost in Bordeaux

15. Wine Tasting in Gaillac

If you love wine, you’re in luck! Toulouse is located just next to one of the oldest wine regions in the world, Gaillac. The city itself has a beautiful center with restaurants, cute houses, and stunning architecture, and it is very pleasant for strolling around.

It’s located an hour’s drive or a 45-minute train ride from Toulouse, and this region is known for its historic vineyards and unique grape varieties. You can do a tasting at many of the wineries, and some even have scenic picnic areas where you can enjoy a bottle with a view. One that I really enjoyed on one of my last visits was Chateau Lastours.

wine tasting in Gaillac Château Lastours — Château Lastours in Gaillac – Lost in Bordeaux

25. Dine or Attend an Event at Château de la Garrigue

For a more refined experience, consider visiting Château de la Garrigue, a stunning estate offering fine dining, concerts, and special events. Whether you go for a meal or just to admire the grounds, it’s a unique place to experience near Toulouse.

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*Note – Some of the links in this article include affiliate links for which I earn a small commission. It adds absolutely nothing to your cost and helps me continue writing about this amazing region. Don’t worry, I’m not getting rich here, I’ll never recommend anything I don’t believe in 🙂

In Occitanie

Carcassonne Travel Guide: Top Things to Do in a Fairytale City

Carcassonne looks like it was plucked straight from a medieval fairy tale. This UNESCO World Heritage Site, a magical hilltop city in the southwest of France, is one of the most visited destinations in France. It’s also a place where history, legend, and fantastical architecture blend seamlessly. Famous for its medieval citadel, known as La Cité de Carcassonne, the cobbled streets, towering ramparts, and breathtaking views transport you back in time from your first steps into the city.

But Carcassonne isn’t only about old castles. The city has two distinct parts: the medieval upper city and the charming lower town, also known as Bastide Saint-Louis. In this guide, I’ll cover the best things to do in both, from historical landmarks to local food, outdoor adventures, and hidden gems.

The Best Things to Do in Carcassonne

1. Explore the Medieval City of Carcassonne

Let’s be honest—you’re probably here for the medieval city, and for good reason! Strolling through La Cité de Carcassonne feels like stepping into a history book.

Your adventure starts at the Narbonnaise Gate, the grand entrance with two imposing towers welcoming visitors into the fortified medieval city. Before you begin, grab a map from the tourist office, conveniently located near the entrance. This will help you navigate the maze of narrow streets and hidden alleys. Trust me, you’ll need it!

1. Explore the Medieval City of Carcassonne — The Medieval City of Carcassonne – by Lost in Bordeaux

My top tip is to walk between the interior and exterior walls (known as the ramparts) and admire the Lists, the area where knights once practiced jousting. While wandering on your own is magical, guided tours can help bring the city’s rich history to life.

If you like private tours, this is a great one to help you uncover the history of Arcachon. However, if you enjoy self-guided tours, I recommend the VoiceMap tour, which shares fascinating stories and historical highlights along the medieval walls. It’ll help you feel a little less overwhelmed as you discover this exciting historical city.

Traveling with kids? Go get a treasure hunt box from the tourist office and give them an interactive, family-friendly way to explore the city.

Must-see spots inside La Cité:

The Big Well—an ancient water source steeped in legend
The magnificent Saint-Nazaire Basilica with its stunning stained glass windows
The Aude Gate, where you can see panoramic views of the surrounding countryside

Tip: During the high season, hop on a horse-drawn carriage tour to circle the ramparts in style!

horse-drawn carriage tour to circle the ramparts in Carcassonne — A horse-drawn carriage tour in **Carcassonne**

2. Visit the Royal Castle (Château Comtal)

At the heart of La Cité de Carcassonne lies Château Comtal, the 12th-century fortress that once housed the powerful Trencavel family. This castle within the citadel offers a deep dive into medieval history, from its strategic role during the Cathar Crusade to its stunning restoration by Viollet-le-Duc in the 19th century.

Start your visit by exploring the castle courtyards and archaeological museum, where you’ll uncover artifacts from Carcassonne’s long history. Climb the Bishop’s Tower, the only structure that spans both city walls, for a unique perspective on the fortifications. Don’t miss the Salle Pierre Embry, featuring a rare 15th-century window with three intricately carved polychrome alabaster statues. One of the highlights is walking along the medieval western ramparts, now open to visitors for breathtaking views of the Aude Valley and the Pyrenees.

Visit the Royal Castle (Château Comtal) — The Royal Castle of Carcassonne – Lost in Bordeaux

I won’t say that visiting the château is a must—La Cité is so spectacular that you’ll have an incredible time even without stepping inside. But if you’re a history lover or simply want the best panoramic views, I highly recommend it! You can buy your tickets here.

Tip: The tour is self-guided, but you can rent an audio guide on-site for a deeper dive into the castle’s secrets.

3. Taste Traditional Cassoulet

No trip to Carcassonne is complete without tasting cassoulet, the region’s most iconic dish. This hearty stew consists of white beans, duck confit, and sausage. It originated in Castelnaudary, just 30 minutes away, but you’ll find some of the best versions right here in the medieval city.

My top pick: La Demeure du Cassoulet—A cozy restaurant with a pleasant terrace and a gourmet shop where you can buy local specialties to take home. It’s the perfect place for foodies to indulge after a long day of walking the ramparts, and bring a taste of Carcassonne home.

4. Visit the Haunted House

If you’re traveling to Carcassonne with teens and want to spice up the visit to the cité, check out la Maison Hantée. This haunted house offers a quirky, fun, spooky experience where you walk through dark, eerie rooms filled with special effects, creepy sounds, and actors ready to give you a good scare.

5. Explore the Lower Town (Bastide Saint-Louis)

While most tourists stick to the medieval city, take the path less traveled and visit Bastide Saint-Louis. This neighborhood offers a glimpse into Carcassonne’s more modern side. Built in the 13th century, this area is known for its elegant boulevards and charming Art Deco architecture.

Highlights:

Place Carnot: The bustling main square is perfect for people-watching and enjoying a coffee break.
Self-Guided Art Deco Tour: If you speak French, this tour unveils the beauty of the district’s architecture.
Start the tour

Place Carnot at Bastide Saint-Louis in Carcassonne — *Place Carnot at Bastide Saint-Louis – by Lost in Bordeaux*

Shopping Tip: Don’t miss La Ferme, a lovely shop where you’ll find a fantastic selection of high-quality local products. It’s the perfect spot to stock up on regional specialties and gourmet treats from the southwest of France.

Photo Spot: Take a walk on the Old Bridge connecting the two parts of the city, and you’ll get the best view of the medieval citadel—especially beautiful at sunset.

6. Play the Carcassonne Board Game

Did you know that Carcassonne inspired a wildly popular board game? The Carcassonne game is a popular tile-placement game where players build medieval landscapes, including cities, roads, and fields, while competing to claim the most points. Inspired by the real-life city of Carcassonne, it’s a fun strategy game that’s easy to learn and great for all ages.

You can buy a copy to take home at the tourist office or play it at Comptoir Ludique, a lively games bar in town.

7. Stroll Along the Canal du Midi

Another UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Canal du Midi is a masterpiece of engineering from the 17th century. It’s a 240 km-long canal that links Toulouse with the Mediterranean Sea, and it passes through Carcassonne. A short walk from Place Carnot brings you to Port du Canal.

Canal du Midi in Carcassonne — Canal du Midi – by Lost in Bordeaux

Two of the favorite things to do there are a boat cruise (book it here) or cycling along the scenic canal paths. You can rent bikes from Evadeo Cycles or try Carcassone’s city bikes called CycloLibre.

8. Cool Off at Cavayère Lake

Just a 10-minute drive from Carcassonne, Cavayère Lake is the perfect spot to swim, sunbathe, and enjoy outdoor activities. When summer heat hits, this lakeside beach is a refreshing escape—whether you’re visiting with kids, friends, or on your own.

The beach is located about an 8-minute drive from the center of Carcassonne, and swimming is allowed from mid-June to early September. In summer, you can also relax at a bar-restaurant overlooking the lake.

9. Discover Nearby Villages

Southwest France is full of charming villages, and the area around Carcassonne is no exception. Why not extend your trip with a visit to these beautiful spots:

Lastours is home to four impressive medieval castles, dramatically perched on a rocky ridge and offering incredible views and hiking opportunities.
Montolieu, also called the “Village of Books,” is a paradise for book lovers, with dozens of secondhand bookshops and regular literary events.
Limoux is famous for creating Blanquette de Limoux, the world’s oldest sparkling wine, and has a lively local market and cozy cafés to enjoy it.
Minerve is a breathtaking medieval village sitting high above a gorge, known for its natural beauty and fascinating Cathar history.

Where to Eat in Carcassonne

There are plenty of great restaurants in this foodie paradise. Here are my top picks from both sides of the city:

Agapé – A modern bistro offering creative French cuisine
Le Réservoir – Casual dining with live music events
La Barbacane – A Michelin-starred restaurant inside Hôtel de la Cité
La Table de Franck Putelat – A luxurious two-star Michelin experience

Where to Stay in Carcassonne

Carcassonne isn’t too big, so no matter where you stay, you’ll have easy access to both the medieval city and Bastide Saint-Louis. Here are a few recommended hotels:

Face Cité – Chambres D’Hôtes – A cozy guesthouse with stunning views of the medieval city, perfect for a romantic getaway.

Carcassonne Bed and Breakfast du Palais – A charming and affordable stay in a quiet spot, just a short walk from the Bastide.

Hotel Du Pont Vieux – Budget-friendly, centrally located, and with a lovely terrace to enjoy breakfast with a view.

Hôtel de la Cité & Spa MGallery – For a luxury experience right inside the medieval walls, complete with a spa, pool, and fine dining.

How to Get to Carcassonne

By plane: The city has its own airport with flights from major European cities.
By train: A direct train from Toulouse takes about an hour- you can get your tickets online.
By car: Rent a car for flexibility, especially if you plan to explore nearby villages. Carcassonne is an hour’s drive from Toulouse and 3.5 hours from Bordeaux.

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You can also get plenty of tips on things to do in the Southwest of France via lost in Bordeaux’s social media accounts and email list, check them out here:

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In Occitanie Toulouse

Day trips from Toulouse by train

Toulouse, the capital of Occitanie, is one of the liveliest destinations in the Southwest of France. I’ve got a detailed guide to a weekend in this wonderful city that you can’t miss if you’re visiting – check it out here!

But if you have more than a weekend to spend in the pink city, take the opportunity to discover the extraordinary heritage of Occitanie, a region nestled between the Mediterranean Sea and the Pyrenées mountains near the Spanish border. I can go on and on about places to visit around Toulouse but I’m sure many of you will visit the city without a car, so I decided to create a list of the best day trips from Toulouse to do by train.

A map of all the trains from Toulouse — Credit *SNCF*

Where can I go by train from Toulouse, you ask?

Here are my top 10 ideas for day trips from Toulouse reachable by public transport.

Carcassonne – A stunning medieval town

A train journey from Toulouse: between 45 minutes and 1 hour – See tickets here.

The medieval town of Carcassonne is one of France’s magical gems that one can’t ignore when visiting the Southwest. This old citadel is located on the right bank of the Aude River. Early signs of civilizations date back 2500 years, it’s said to be one of the best-preserved medieval towns in the world.

Access to the citadel is free and you can take the whole day to stroll the narrow medieval streets (see my Carcassonne guide). It’s considered one of the best day trips from Toulouse for both adults and kids. You can also take a guided tour to discover Carcassonne in a fun way. Led by a guide in a medieval costume, the tour is a living story of Carcassonne in the 13th century. The tour is for adults and kids over 5yo. See all the details here.

the citadel of Carcassonne — *Carcassonne – Lost in Bordeaux*

You do need to purchase tickets if you want to visit the castle and the ramparts, you can buy them online. The place tends to get busy in the summer so be sure to book the tickets ahead. If you’re coming as a group, consider taking a guided tour to make things easier!

If you don’t want the hassle of going there by train, you can also take an organized tour from the center of Toulouse. The price also includes an entry ticket to the chateau so really worth the price. Book your trip here.

Albi – Visit the biggest brick cathedral in the world

A train journey from Toulouse: 1 hour – buy train tickets here.

Another must-see town on a day trip from Toulouse is the city of Albi, home to a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2010. Nicknamed “La RougeI” or “The Red” because of the red bricks used in much of Albi’s architecture, it’s the perfect distance for a quick day trip from Toulouse by train.

You can’t miss the Cathédrale Sainte-Cécile as part of the cité épiscopale d’Albi, the very well-preserved UNESCO World Heritage Site dating back to the 13th century. Famous artist Toulouse Lautrec was born here and the city has the biggest collection of his works in the Toulouse Lautrec museum, another must-see stop on your visit to Albi.

Day trip from Bordeaux to Albi — *Albi – Lost in Bordeaux*

Talking the train from Toulouse to Albi is fairly easy but even easier is joining the CityTour Toulouse day trip. The bus takes you from the center of Toulouse to the center of Albi for the whole day. You can book your visit here. If you don’t have a car you can also take a private tour from Toulouse that includes both Albi and the stunning Cordes Sur Ciel, one of the most beautiful villages in France.

Personal recommendation: if you have the option, come here for a weekend and not only a day trip. It’s a chic city with plenty to see and great restaurants for foodies! Here’s my article about the best things to do in Albi.

Castres

Train journey from Toulouse: 1 hour and 15 minutes – book train tickets he r e.

Castres, a city in Tarn to the east of Toulouse, is a hidden gem free from crowds. The architecture here is very different from the medieval towns mentioned above. Don’t miss the beautiful, colorful houses that look like they’re almost hanging over the Agout River.

Castres is home to two very interesting and famous museums. The Goya Museum, with its rich collection of Spanish artists including a few works of Goya himself, and the Centre National et Musée Jean-Jaurès, is dedicated to the life of important French politician Jean Jaurès, who was born in Castres.

Wine tasting in Gaillac

Train journey from Toulouse: 45 minutes – see train tickets here.

Now onto the wine! If you have a car, make sure you book a visit to Château Lastours, a family-owned stunning estate that produces red, white, rose, and bubbly wines. However, even if you don’t have a car you can still enjoy fabulous Gaillac wines. Head to the chic Maison des Vins de Gaillac located in the Abbaye Saint-Michel in the center of the city. Here you’ll learn about the history of winemaking in the region and get to taste local wines.

Auch – the capital of Gers

Train journey from Toulouse: 1 hour and 30 minutes – Book your train tickets.

The town of Auch is the capital of Gers, a lesser-known part of the Southwest that totally deserves some attention. Auch used to be the historic capital of Gascony; it’s a very vibrant town full of history and great food!

Auch was the birthplace of the musketeer D’Artagnan. If you’re a fan of the famous Three Musketeers, you can see his statue on the Grand Escaliers.

During your outing to Auch, be sure to visit the Cathedrale Sainte-Marie, the impressive staircase called l’Escalier Monumental with its view over the valley, Rue Dessoles, and try to catch the great market they have on Thursdays and Saturdays.

Cahors – the elegant town of deep red wine

Train journey from Toulouse: 1 hour and 10 minutes- see train tickets here.

The capital of the the Lot department, Cahors is located within an hour’s drive from famous destinations in the region like Sarlat and Rocamadour. The town is known for its regional food delicacies, such as truffles and foie gras. The best place to taste them is the market taking place every Wednesday and Saturday at Place de la Cathédrale.

Pont Valentre in Cahors - a perfect day trip from Toulouse — *Pont Valentre in Cahors – Lost in Bordeaux*

I highly recommend a visit to the Pont Valentre which is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Another attraction in Cahors is its small secret gardens which are a gem to visit during the warmer seasons. The best way to discover the city is to follow the secret garden map!

Many people may have never visited Cahors but definitely heard of its wonderful wines. Some of Cahors wineries are located just a few minute’s drive from the city center, so be sure to leave some time for a tour and wine tasting. Here are two great wineries to visit in Cahors: Domaine Le Passelys (recommended with kids) and Domaine Rességuier. If you’re traveling by public transport, you’ll have to take a taxi to get there.

Bordeaux – the wine capital of France (and maybe even the world!)

Train journey from Toulouse: 2 hours and 15 minutes – book your tickets to Bordeaux here.

A short train trip will take Bordeaux, a beautiful, historic, lively city full of history, fun events, food, and – of course – wine. In my opinion, Bordeaux is one of the most elegant and fun cities in all of France – and not just because I live there!

As someone who lives and writes about Bordeaux, I think you need at least a weekend to discover Bordeaux and its surrounding sights. But if all you have is one day, then a day trip to the capital of the southwest is definitely worth it!

The beautiful town of Bordeaux — *The center of Bordeaux – Lost in Bordeaux*

In a day you can check out the famous indoor Capucins market, taste some delicious cannelés (local traditional pastries), cool off at the Miroir d’Eau, check out one of the state-of-the-art museums, and eat great food at one of the countless restaurants the city has to offer.

With only a day or two in Bordeaux, I’ve summed up the things you can’t miss in this article. And if you have more time, here are my top 50 things to do in Bordeaux.

Moissac and Montauban

Train journey from Toulouse: 50 minutes and 30 minutes, respectively, located on the same train line

Moissac and Montauban are two towns very close to each other situated along the Tarn River.

Moissac is a recommended spot to visit if you are interested in history, as it’s an important stop along the famous Santiago de Compostela pilgrim route. The famous, historic abbey and cloisters in the center of the town date back to the 12th century and are renowned as some of the most beautiful in the world.

Place Nationale in Montauban - a great stop between Bordeaux and Toulosue — *Place Nationale in Montauban – Lost in Bordeaux*

The lively, pleasant town of Montauban is another day trip from Toulouse I really enjoyed. Head to the Place Nationale with its beautiful arches and Place Roosevelt where cute cafés, shops, and people-watching will keep you busy. Montauban is one of the oldest bastide towns in France, founded as early as the 12th century.

Najac and its chateau

Train journey from Toulouse: 1 hour and 20 minutes – Book your tickets.

The stunning village of Najac is surrounded by lush greenery, making for a very picturesque little place when combined with the old stone architecture. In fact, Najac is on the official list of France’s most beautiful villages.

Be sure to visit the Château Royal de Najac, built in the mid-13th century. The castle is home to the tallest dungeon in all of France, measuring almost 7 meters. From the top, you can stop and take in the magnificent view of the Aveyron River and the surrounding valley.

Castelnaudary

Train journey from Toulouse: 45 minutes

Last but certainly not least is the town of Castelnaudary, known as the birthplace of cassoulet – a famous French dish in the form of a rich, slow-cooked stew with beans and various meats. It’s also an important location on the Canal du Midi – a waterway of over 240 km connecting the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea.

Castelnaudary is a very famous tourist route for boat trips and many French and foreigners barge down the canal each year, many of them stopping in Castelnaudary.

Take a walk along the pretty port or harbor and see the famous canal, then stop for a drink on the Place de Verdun.

A very easy day or half-day trip from Toulouse, I highly recommend Castelnaudary!

Is it your first time in Toulouse?

Use my Toulouse guides to prepare for your trip:
A guide to a weekend in Toulouse
Where to stay in Toulouse
Toulouse with kids
Events in Toulouse

You can also get plenty of tips on things to do in the Southwest of France via lost in Bordeaux’s social media accounts and email list, check them out here:

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