Paris is a timeless beauty. Paris will never fail to shine. She is lined in charcoal black, from the Tour Eiffel and Le Marais, but somehow always set in black-and-white. It is a great reason to leave Paris and find refuge in Toulouse, despite the romantic appeal of an afternoon espresso to escape the Parisian rain.
Toulouse’s streets are alive with the spirit of France. As the country sinks into Spain’s border, its exquisite elegance blends with its rugged passion. La Ville Rose is a rare architectural gem in France. It was built in rose brick and has blue-grey undertones. The city lights up with fiery reds and oranges as the sun sets on the Garonne river. Toulouse is able to offer all the things Paris cannot. History, culture, geography, fashion and multiculturalism are all available in Toulouse. There are also fields and vineyards just minutes away that provide fresh produce, wine, cheese, and other dairy products. These are just a few of the many reasons you should skip the Champs Elysees. Instead, head to the southwest.
Basilique Saint-Sernin de Toulouse
Sightseeing is a top priority when visiting a new place. When you’re looking for sightseeing in Toulouse, the Basilique Saint-Sernin de Toulouse is your best bet. The iconic spire is a landmark in Toulouse, with its unique Toulousain design and terracotta colours. This basilica, which was dedicated in 1180, is the largest Romanesque structure remaining in Europe and possibly the world.
Majestic Place du Capitole
This beautiful piece of architecture is centuries-old and is one of the most popular places in Toulouse.
Place du Capitole is a very grand place, with its pink brick façade that defines the city. It is also home to a large, lively square, which is filled with restaurants, cafes, and a flea marketplace where souvenirs can be bought for your trip.
Musée des Augustins
A visit to one of the many museums in Toulouse is another great thing. The Musee des Augustins is one of the most renowned museums in Toulouse. It houses a wonderful collection of artworks and sculptures that dates back to the Middle Ages.
This museum is a must-see for art lovers. It also houses a collection of fantastic artworks and sculptures in a former Gothic convent. History buffs will find the Musee des Augustins a fascinating place to visit.
Pont-Neuf
Crossing the Pont Neuf, a classic Toulousain activity, takes you across the Garonne from the city centre to another part. Pont Neuf, which means “New Bridge”, was built in 1632 and provides beautiful views of Toulouse. Although most landmarks are located on one side, Pont Neuf offers a way to see new areas of the city. You can also find traditional bars and restaurants far from the bustle of the centre.
Travelling in France is easier this year. Since starting next year, there will be some new regulations.
La Cité de l’Espace
Have you ever wondered what it was like to walk on the moon? Visit this museum to see how it feels. La Cite de l’Espace allows you to feel like an astronaut on the moon by using virtual reality simulators.
La Cite de l’Espace offers more than just walking on the moon. Replicas of the Ariane 5 Rocket and the MIR space station, which orbited the earth between 1986 and 2001, are also available at the attraction.
Visit La Cite de l’Espace if you love space exploration.
Pierre Baudis Japanese Garden
The Pierre Baudis Japanese Garden is the perfect place to find tranquillity in Toulouse. Although it’s a little outside the city centre, the metro system in Toulouse makes it easy to reach.
It is worth the trip. You can find out more about the reason d’etre and its creator here. Or just stroll through the manicured grounds to find a place to read, picnic or enjoy the zen of your surroundings.
See Saint-Etienne Square and Cathedral
It is just outside Saint-Etienne Cathedral. Both are well worth a visit. You can enter the Cathedral for free and see its medieval architecture and Gothic architectural style. Because of the many changes and constructions that have taken place over the years, it is known as the unfinished church.
On Saturdays, there’s a book market around the square. It’s a great place to relax and enjoy the nice weather while people watch.
