Guide de Toulouse
Place du Capitole
Place du Capitole is the beating heart of Toulouse and an absolute must-see. At one end stands the grand Capitole building which serves as home to both the city hall and the opera house. The square itself is always alive with cafés, shops, and cultural events. It’s a perfect spot to sip a coffee, watch the world go by, or wander through the open-air markets that set up just behind the square.
Victor Hugo Market
The oldest covered market in France, this area is filled with butchers, bakers, cheesemongers, wine stalls, and more. Upstairs, you’ll find casual restaurants cooking up whatever’s fresh downstairs.
Fat Cat Cocktail Lounge
Regularly ranked among Toulouse’s top cocktail bars, Fat Cat pairs an intimate setting with inventive, seasonal drinks and expertly made standards. Great for a dedicated cocktail stop.
Turbine Bazacle
Just a short walk from the city center, Turbine Bazacle offers stunning river views and a sunny terrace perfect for sipping cocktails and spotting birds along the Garonne. This historic site (part hydro plant, part museum) captures Toulouse’s easy blend of nature, culture, and waterfront charm.
Basilique Saint-Sernin
One of the largest Romanesque churches in Europe. Its architecture, sculpted details and importance as a pilgrimage site make it a key stop.
Couvent des Jacobins
A beautiful example of Southern Gothic, with its signature “palm tree” vaulting and serene cloisters. It provides a contrast to the busy centre.
Musée des Augustins
Set in a former Augustinian monastery, this fine arts museum spans works from the Romanesque through the 19th century. You’ll see a grand collection of sculptures as well as paintings, all within gothic arches, cloisters, and atmospheric spaces.
Basilique Notre-Dame de la Daurade
Overlooking the Garonne River, this basilica sits on one of Toulouse’s oldest sacred sites, originally a Roman temple, then early Christian church. Rebuilt mostly in the 18th–19th centuries in neoclassical style, it is more colorful and ornate than many of the other churches and boasts a serene riverside presence.
La Halle de la Machine
These towering mechanical installations are reminiscent of Burning Man art. While a 15 min drive out of the town square, the 2 - 3 story kinetic sculptures are a beautiful blend of engineering, music, and imagination.
Les Abattoirs
Housed in a repurposed 19th-century slaughterhouse, this contemporary art museum showcases 20th and 21st century installations by both French and international artists.
Alex's Recommendations
From wine bars to patisseries, our wedding planner has shared his favorite spots around Toulouse. Discover his top picks for dining, cocktails, sweet treats, and places to stay.