Toulouse

13°C

Overcast clouds

Wednesday

13°C

10°C

Thursday

14°C

9°C

Feisty and full of history, the southwestern metropolis of Toulouse is one of the most enjoyable cities in France. It draws nothing like the attention enjoyed by Paris, Marseille and Lyon (the only three French cities which are larger), but it’s not always obvious why. Known as La Ville Rose, thanks to the pinkish bricks that dominate much of its older architecture, it’s a city with medieval heritage, a world-class aerospace industry and an indelibly proud identity. This regional pride is partly rooted in the rugby team, one of the most successful in Europe, but it’s also shaped by the local cuisine and a roaring cultural scene. It has one of the most sizeable universities in the country, which helps imbue the place with a youthful feel, but the city still clings closely to its past, with bilingual street signs (the Occitan language has its roots in the area), cobbled streets and numerous merchants’ towers dating back to the era when Toulouse was made rich by woad production. Some of the buildings and public spaces around the centre are beautiful. The large Place du Capitole has a striking old town hall and theatre complex with eight columns of marble. Close by, the Saint Sernin Basilica is a soaring example of Romanesque architecture and inscribed on UNESCO’s World Heritage List. The city’s famous pink bricks, incidentally, are said to originate from the mud of the Garonne River, which flows west of the city centre. The Canal du Midi also cuts through the city. The Space Museum gives a more cutting-edge flavour to the city’s visitor attractions, as does the vast Airbus Factory. But this is still somewhere that prides itself on its traditions, and in a manner typical of the southwest, enjoying life is seen as a priority. Meals tend to be long and hearty, so be sure to sample the local cassoulet, preferably complemented by a glass or two of Cahors wine.

Toulouse History

Although the Romans arrived over 2,000 years ago, it was events around the 12th and 13th centuries that both defined and scarred the history of Toulouse. Back then, France as we know it today didn’t exist, and the area was divided into the north, where people said oui to mean yes, and the south, where people said oc. The southwest became known as ‘Langue d’Oc’ (the language of Oc) and Occitan simultaneously described the people, the language and the culture. Times were tolerant, until the Pope declared a crusade against the Cathars, a peaceful but non-Christian people living in the area. Langue d’Oc was torn apart, cities were burned, sieges went on for months and the Inquisition set up headquarters in Toulouse. In the end, the Cathar genocide established the might of the Catholic Church and the power of the north. Toulouse became annexed to France. The intervening centuries included plenty of skirmishes with the English over the nearby wine region of Bordeaux, as well as floods, pestilence and fire. But it wasn’t all bad. The discovery of woad, the only blue dye available in Europe, revived Toulouse’s fortunes. Violets, too, helped to make the area fashionable. The University of Toulouse, one of the oldest in Europe, flourished, and Toulouse became a pivotal point on the pilgrimage to Santiago de Compostela. The 20th century brought along the next big thing to give the city a boost: the aerospace industry. As the central hub of Airbus and the home of Concorde, Toulouse is flying right into the future, despite the frequent reminders about its past. Almost every building in the centre has a story that can be traced back through time. Look out for the Occitan cross in the centre of Place du Capitole and the Occitan language on the street signs, just beneath the French.

Did you know?

It is often referred to as the Pink City due to the rose-colored bricks used in the construction of most of the city’s buildings. Many of the city’s buildings and monuments are named to recall the martyrdom of a saint who died after being tied to the tail of a bull. Airbus has sold more than 15,000 aircraft and almost 9,000 jets since it was established in Toulouse.

Weather in Toulouse

Toulouse is a year-round destination with plenty of hot days in the summer and enough snow in the surrounding mountains to get the ski poles out from December to March. You can expect busy streets and strong sunshine during the from June to August, but the best time to visit is in spring and autumn when the temperatures can still reach 25°C (77°F) and only the savvy tourists remain. Music and art festivals set up shop throughout the summer with Les Siestes Electroniques and Le Printemps de Septembre attracting crowds from around the world.

Getting around Toulouse

Public transport

The buses and metro in Toulouse are very easy to use and are operated by Tisséo Telephone: +33 5 6141 7070 Website: www.tisseo.fr You can buy one-, two- and three-day passes or books of 10 tickets. Taxis You can find taxis at the airport, the railway station and at the central place du Capitole, but it can be difficult to flag one down in the street. As with most things in Toulouse, tipping is not expected. Capitole Taxi Telephone: +33 5 3425 0250 Taxi Radio Toulousains Telephone: +33 5 6142 3838

Driving

Both driving and parking can be tricky in Toulouse. In fact, if you’re only visiting the city then it’s much easier to walk or use public transport. You’ll find plenty of car parks in Toulouse – but at a price, unless you park out of town at the following metro stations: Jolimont, Basso-Cambo, Arènes, Argoulets and Balma Gramont.

Bicycle hire

Toulouse has plenty of cycle lanes, plus a bikeshare system across the city called VélôToulouse Telephone: 0800 112 205 Website: www.velo.toulouse.fr For longer bicycle rentals, visit Maison du Vélo Toulouse. 12 boulevard Bonrepos Telephone: +33 5 3440 6472 Website: www.maisonduvelotoulouse.com

Car hire

Benefit from Travoley’s great deals available all year round for a seamless car hire experience in Toulouse. Travel your way by choosing from our collection of brand new cars. Whether you are looking for car rental in Toulouse as part of a vacation, or renting a car for a special event, you will be sure to find a car to suit your needs from our wide range of economy and luxury models. In order to hire a car, drivers must be at least 21 years old, depending on company policy. All drivers without an EU licence must carry an International Driving Permit. Our simple booking system makes it easy to reserve online before you go, offering flexible short- and long-term rental, all at great prices with no hidden charges, so when you arrive all that’s left is to discover the best of this exciting city.

Things to see in Toulouse

Attractions

Couvent des Jacobins

This former Dominican monastery is a splendid example of southern Gothic style from the 13th century, and also houses the relics of St Thomas Aquinas. Look up to see the giant ribbed vault aptly nicknamed the palm tree. There’s also a tranquil cloister and a chapel filled with 14th-century art. Address: Rue Lakanal, Toulouse. Telephone: +33 5 61 22 23 82 Opening times: Tue-Sun 10:00-18:00. Website: www.jacobins.toulouse.fr Admission Fees: No, except for the convent. Disabled Access: No UNESCO: No

Le Musée des Augustins

The architecture of this museum really steals the show, housed as it is in a beautifully restored Gothic monastery. You’ll find a superb collection of paintings and sculptures from the Middle Ages to the early 20th century. The Romanesque and southern Gothic sculptures are probably the most impressive, and don’t miss the cloisters. Address: 21 rue de Metz, Toulouse. Telephone: +33 5 612 2 21 82 Opening times: Thurs-Tues 10:00-18:00, Wed 10:00-21:00. Website: www.augustins.org Admission Fees: Yes Disabled Access: Yes UNESCO: No

Basilique St-Sernin

The sheer size and beauty of this Romanesque basilica will win you over. In keeping with medieval Toulouse, it’s made from soft pink bricks and stone, which give a gentle edge to its majestic dimensions. Its importance on the pilgrimage route to Santiago de Compostela puts it on the UNESCO list of World Heritage sites. Address: Place Saint-Sernin, Toulouse. Telephone: +33 5 61 21 70 18 Opening times: Mon-Sun 08:30-19:00. Website: www.basilique-saint-sernin.fr Admission Fees: No, except for the crypt and ambulatory. Disabled Access: Yes UNESCO: Yes

Le Capitole

If there’s one building in Toulouse that doesn’t do understatement, this is it. With eight marble columns and an elegant pink façade that stretches across the entire length of the central square, the Capitole isn’t subtle. It combines the town hall with the Théâtre du Capitole and the elaborately painted Salle des Illustres. Address: Place du Capitole, Toulouse. Telephone: +33 5 61 22 34 12 Opening times: Mon-Sat 08:30-19:00, Sun 10:00-19:00. Admission Fees: No Disabled Access: No UNESCO: No

Fondation Bemberg

A rich collection of Renaissance and Impressionist paintings fills the rooms and corridors of this 16th-century mansion – in a setting that’s just as enticing as the objects within. With pink-brick arches, a tranquil courtyard and sumptuous Venetian furnishings, it offers a glimpse into Toulouse’s golden age. Address: Place d’Assézat, Toulouse. Telephone: +33 5 61 12 06 89 Opening times: Tues-Sun 10:00-18:00 (Thurs until 20:30). Website: www.fondation-bemberg.fr Admission Fees: Yes Disabled Access: Yes UNESCO: No

Muséum de Toulouse

More than two million objects piece together the natural history of the region in this sprawling, airy space near the Jardin des Plantes in the southern part of the city. There are plenty of interactive exhibits to bring the natural world alive to visitors of all ages. Address: 35 allées Jules-Guesde, Toulouse. Telephone: +33 5 67 73 84 84 Opening times: Tue-Sun 10:00-18:00. Website: www.museum.toulouse.fr Admission Fees: Yes Disabled Access: Yes UNESCO: No

Musée Saint-Raymond

This fascinating museum showcases life in Tolosa (as Toulouse was known) under the Roman Empire. There is an exceptional collection of marble sculptures, with the most important series of Roman busts ever discovered in France, as well as archaeological remains excavated on site, sarcophaguses and a necropolis from the fourth century. Address: Place Saint-Sernin, Toulouse. Telephone: +33 5 61 22 31 44 Opening times: Tue-Sun 10:00-18:00. Website: www.saintraymond.toulouse Admission Fees: Yes Disabled Access: Yes UNESCO: No

Les Abattoirs

What used to be Toulouse’s abattoirs is now a large, airy and decidedly quirky museum of modern art. The exhibitions inside vary throughout the year but look out for the permanent feature outside: a giant pink squiggle that resembles intestines. Take a break in the café and check out the garden’s bizarre sculptures. Address: 76 allées Charles-de-Fitte, Toulouse. Telephone: +33 5 34 51 10 60 Opening times: Wed-Sun 12:00-18:00 (till 20:00 Thu except during school holidays). Website: www.lesabattoirs.org Admission Fees: Yes (free first Sun of the month). Disabled Access: Yes UNESCO: No

Cité de l’Espace

Combining fun and education, this theme park is dedicated to the exploration of space. Climb aboard a Soyuz spacecraft and see a replica of the MIR space station and a launch rocket. There’s also an IMAX cinema and a planetarium as well as a space gym, where you can attempt to defy gravity. Address: Avenue Jean Gonord, Toulouse. Telephone: + 33 5 67 22 23 24 Opening times: Tue-Sun 10:00-18:00. Website: www.cite-espace.com Admission Fees: Yes Disabled Access: Yes UNESCO: No

Musée Aeroscopia

Explore the history of aviation and Toulouse’s major role in developing this industry. Step inside Concorde or an Airbus A300B as well as the Super Guppy, the massive aircraft that transports other segments of planes. Fun, interactive exhibits show everything from how to fly a plane to how to put one together. Address: Blagnac, Allée André-Turcat, Toulouse. Telephone: +33 5 34 39 42 00 Opening times: Daily 09:30-18:00. Website:www.aeroscopia.fr Admission Fees: Yes Disabled Access: Yes UNESCO: No

Tourist Offices

Office de Tourisme Toulouse

Address: Donjon du Capitole, place Charles de Gaulle, Toulouse. Telephone: +33 5 40 13 15 31 Opening times: Daily 09:00-18:00. Website: www.toulouse-tourisme.com

Tourist passes

The Toulouse Pass

Tourisme is valid for one to three days and gives you free public transport and admission to most museums, along with reductions on other attractions, services and shops. With a premium pass you also get a boat trip on the Garonne or the Canal du Midi and a ride on the tourist train. Available at the tourist office or online.

Things to do in Toulouse

Cross the border for a spot of snowboarding

Head into the Pyrenees for some snow action. The nearest French resorts like Saint-Lary Soulan Website: www.saintlary.com are small and stylish. Over the border is the vast and modern but, ahem, less elegant Grand Valira Resort Website: www.grandvalira.com in Andorra. Once there, it is easy to hire equipment and buy short-term lift passes.

Gently stroll along the Canal du Midi

The Canal du Midi, a UNESCO recognised route, runs for over 240km (150 miles) from Toulouse to the shores of the Med. Flat and straight, it’s a footpath that makes a great walking trail. Once out of town you’ll pass through fields of sunflowers and sleepy French hamlets beneath an arching tree canopy.

Get wild and wet on a wakeboard

A wakeboard is kind of like a snowboard on watr, and it’s just as tricky to get the hang of. Yet with warm weather and the right equipment plunging into the water just doesn’t seem so bad. For those after a taste of adrenalin. TNS Website: www.teleskitoulouse.com will help you take the plunge.

Power your way through the Pyrenees on a bike

Bike-friendly Toulouse Website: www.maisonduvelotoulouse.com has cycle paths strewn all over the city, plus a lovely flat path running along the Canal du Midi that stretches out to Carcassonne and beyond to the Med. An hour and half away, the Pyrenees, a Tour de France favourite, is literally breathtaking and ideal for some serious cycling.

Strap on some blades and skate the city

See Toulouse on wheels by joining in with: Roulez Rose Website: www.roulezrose.com The name means pink wheels, and this is a full speed tour along the city’s tarmac roads that takes place every week. For beginners, there are lessons, whilst stewards in fluorescent jackets ensure ‘health and safety’.

Toulouse tours and excursions

Toulouse tours

Walking tours

Toulouse has a pretty gruesome history, some stunning buildings and the largest market in southwest France (Roquefort and Gaillac wine anyone?), so there are plenty of gastro tours, history tours and heritage tours available through the tourist office, with details varying daily. Telephone: +33 5 40 13 15 31 Website: www.toulouse-tourisme.com

Boat tours

Les Bateaux Toulousains organise cruises on the Garonne River and on the Canal du Midi on board a converted barge throughout the year. Toulouse Croisières offers a similar service on board a bateau-mouche. Both are great ways to soak up the pink-brick skyline that gives Toulouse its nickname La Ville Rose (Pink City). Les Bateaux Toulousains Telephone: +33 5 61 80 2 226 Website: www.bateaux-toulousains.com Toulouse Croisières Telephone: +33 5 61 25 72 57 Website: www.toulouse-croisieres.com

Toulouse excursions

Carcassonne

The turrets and walled-in city of Carcassonne make it not only a UNESCO World Heritage site but also a spectacular backdrop for the fireworks on 14 July. Only 70km (44 miles) from Toulouse, this rocky outcrop can reached by bike along the Canal du Midi – and you can always take the train back.

Carcassonne Tourist Office

Address: 28 rue de Verdun, Carcassonne. Telephone: +33 4 68 10 24 30 Website: www.france-voyage.com

Albi

This lovely red-brick UNESCO-listed town has a half-timbered city centre and an imposing fortress-like cathedral. It showcases more 1,000 paintings, lithographs, drawings and posters by its illustrious native son, Henri de ToulouseLautrec, as well as some of his personal belongings. One of the largest carnivals in southwest France takes place here every February. Telephone: +33 5 63 36 36 00 Website: www.albi-tourisme.fr

Shopping in Toulouse

Toulouse loves to shop for food: jars of cassoulet, tins of foie gras and plenty of wine. After that, traditional products include violet-flavoured sweets and clothes dyed using a blue plant called pastel. As a university town, Toulouse has plenty of edgy fashion shops and as a guardian of French culture, it also has many boutiques.

Key areas

The main shopping street in Toulouse is rue Saint Rome. You can find chic boutiques and exclusive labels on rue de la Pomme, while more alternative fashion is on offer on the rue du Taur.

Markets

If there’s one thing Toulousains love, it’s a market. Place du Capitole has open-air markets with themes that range from organic vegetables to getting kitted out with the latest indie-grunge look. Victor Hugo Market, Place Victor Hugo, is the largest covered food market in southwest France. Taste local delicacies such as saucisse de Toulouse (Toulouse sausage), cassoulet, foie gras, magret de canard (duck breast) and confit de canard (duck stored in its own fat). The cheese counters stock hundreds of varieties of delicious local cheese.

Shopping centres

Almost an institution in France, you’ll find the Galeries Lafayette shopping centre at 77 rue Alsace Lorraine.

Opening hours

Standard shopping hours in Toulouse are Monday to Saturday 09:00-18:00, although many smaller shops close on Mondays, Wednesday afternoons and between 12:00 and 14:00 for lunch.

Tax information

If you are not an EU resident, you may be able to reclaim VAT if you jump through enough hoops.

Restaurants in Toulouse

As a university town and a regional capital, Toulouse has a wide range of prices but quality remains high. Regional products are widespread, and there’s an infusion of tastes from North Africa, as well as the almost inevitable arrival of American fast-food chains. Bear in mind that many restaurants in France are closed on Sundays and Mondays and that lunch is often only served between 1200 and 1330. The Toulouse restaurants below have been grouped into three pricing categories: Expensive (over €65) Moderate (€35 to €65) Cheap (up to €35) These Toulouse restaurant prices are for a three-course meal for one with half a bottle of wine or equivalent (where available). They include the mandatory 15 per cent service charge that appears on all French bills.

Expensive

Le Bibent

Cuisine: French Christian Constant’s classy brasserie right on Place du Capitole has an interior that’s as dazzling as the cooking. The ceiling is a riot of rococo frescoes and swirling gilt, while on the plate are succulent, slow-cooked beef cheeks, langoustine ravioli or a perfectly turned-out turbot. Address: 5 place du Capitole, Toulouse. Telephone: +33 6 48 71 73 65 Website: www.bibent.fr

Les Jardins de l’Opera

Cuisine: French Expertly executed dishes, professional service, an extensive wine list and a lovely courtyard setting right on the main square make this one of the best restaurants in Toulouse. Chef Stéphane Tournié dares to mix global influences with local, traditional dishes and has been rewarded with a Michelin star. Address: 1 place du Capitole, Toulouse. Telephone: +33 5 61 23 07 76 Website: www.lesjardinsdelopera.com

Michel Sarran

Cuisine: French At this two-Michelin-starred restaurant, dinner is supposed to be like eating at home. A rather grand home with an Italian terrace and a flamboyant menu, but Michel Sarran does provide an intimate and welcoming atmosphere. Local delicacies such as foie gras, violet and lavender influence his exquisite menu. Address: 21 boulevard Armand Duportal, Toulouse. Telephone: +33 5 61 12 32 32 Website: www.michel-sarran.com

Moderate

La Mare aux Canards

Cuisine: French Canard (duck) features prominently in Toulouse, and La Mare aux Canards gives you the Toulousain dining experience with lashings of tradition. Its rustic décor adds a hearty atmosphere to local specialities such as cassoulet and foie gras, but the place made its name with its delicious magret de canard (duck breast). Address: 14 rue des Gestes, Toulouse. Telephone: +33 5 61 23 81 58

Le Colombier

Cuisine: French Cassoulet is the region’s signature dish and, since 1874, Le Colombier has been the one of the best places to find it in Toulouse. This cosy brick-walled restaurant run by a charming husband-and-wife team specialises in this wonderfully rich stew of Toulouse sausage, white haricot beans, goose confit and pork slices. Address: 14 rue Bayard, Toulouse. Telephone: +33 5 61 62 40 05 Website: www.restaurant-lecolombier.com

Restaurant Emile

Cuisine: French This cosy restaurant is in a prime spot in leafy Place Saint-George, which becomes colonised by tables in good weather. The cuisine is solidly south-west French, with plenty of duck, foie gras and excellent cassoulet. If you want something lighter, the creative fish and seafood dishes won’t disappoint. Address: 13 place Saint-Georges, Toulouse. Telephone: +33 5 61 21 05 56 Website: www.restaurant-emile.com

Cheap

Le Bistrot des Carmes

Cuisine: French Nicely rustic and decorated with vintage French café paraphernalia, this jolly little bistro in the buzzing Quartier des Carmes keeps it simple but delivers on quality at a very good price. Portions are generous in everything from the huge salads to the large plates of grilled giant prawns flambéed in pastis. Address: 1 rue des Filatiers, Toulouse. Telephone: +33 5 62 17 70 14

Le Louchebem

Cuisine: French Upstairs at the superb Marché Victor Hugo is a row of great restaurants that serve food straight from the market. Lively Le Louchebem specialises in the fresh meat it picks up from its butchers down below. It’s lunchtime only, and you can’t make reservations; be prepared to be squeezed into long communal tables. Address: 3 place Victor Hugo, Toulouse. Telephone: +33 5 34 67 05 17 Website: www.maisonlouchebem.fr

L’Aubrac

Cuisine: French If you’ve fallen in love with the regional cuisine, then head to L’Aubrac for an all-you-can-eat foie gras menu as well as all the classical dishes of Toulouse. The interior design is a bit of a hotchpotch, but that just adds to the quirky sense of occasion. Great value for money. Address: 7 bis rue de la Colombette, Toulouse. Telephone: +33 5 61 62 98 08 Website: www.restaurant-laubrac.fr

Toulouse Nightlife

The city’s student population puts the life into nightlife in Toulouse, even if glamour gets less of a look-in. Toulouse’s world-leading aerospace industry adds a cosmopolitan feel to the general Frenchness. You can find up-to-date listings about cultural events in Toulouse online at: Website: www.box.fr or on the tourist office, Website: www.toulouse-tourisme.com

Bars in Toulouse

Fat Cat

You’re only steps away from Place du Capitole in this classy little spot with a cosy ambience. There’s a bit of a Twenties vibe in this cocktail bar where bartenders have come up with some creative concoctions to go with classic drinks. Occasionally you’ll have a live jazz piano soundtrack to your evening. Address: 4 Rue Charles de Rémusat, Toulouse.

Le Carbet d’Oc

This animated bar along rue des Filatiers adds to the general buzz you can feel in the Quartier des Carmes. There’s some excellent tapas and charcuterie to go with its enormous selection of rums, as well as a lively terrace that’s busy even when the weather is chilly. Address: 4 Rue des Filatiers, Toulouse. Telephone: +33 9 54 60 32 57

No5 Wine Bar

Wine connoisseurs – and anyone else who wants to learn a little more about wine – have been flocking to this intimate little vaulted bar to taste some of the 2,200 wines on offer. They’re all available via a clever machine that allows you to have a glass while the wine stays fresh for ages. Address: 5 Rue de la Bourse, Toulouse. Telephone: +33 5 61 38 44 51 Website: www.n5winebar.com

Clubs in Toulouse

ICE CLUB

Labelling itself as the club for those in the 25-30 age range, Ice club hosts themed after-work parties as well as nights for enterrement de vie, which literally translates as “burial of life” but actually describes stag and hen dos. Tapas and early evening menus are available. Address: 11 Rue des Gestes, Toulouse. Telephone: +33 5 61 38 72 20 Website: www.ice-club-toulouse.com

Puerto Habana

Soak up the Cuban vibe in this gorgeous colonial-style space with a huge parquet floor that’s perfect to dance the salsa and bachata. On some nights of the week, you can join the dance classes, whatever your level. Enter into the spirit with the fabulous cocktails and delicious tapas. Address: 12 Port Saint-Étienne, Toulouse. Telephone: +33 5 61 54 45 61 Website: www.puertohabana.fr

O Club By Charleston

Tucked away down a alley off Rte d’Agde is this lively nightspot that doesn’t open till midnight. But at least it keeps banging on till 7am from Wednesday till Saturday in a tight space that pulses with electro, funk and house from its resident DJ. And there’s free entry. Address: 101 Rte d’Agde, Toulouse. Telephone: +33 5 61 26 44 93 Website: www.oclub-toulouse.com

Live music in Toulouse

Connexion Live

This central club near the Jean-Jaurès metro station has something for everyone in its large space. Catch live music from mainly French rock, pop and funk artists on the main stage, or head to the separate bar – and its outdoor terrace – for a cocktail and some tapas. Address: 8 rue Gabriel Peri, Toulouse. Telephone: +33 5 34 41 62 88 Website: www.connexionlive.fr

Le Bikini

Follow the Canal du Midi south of Toulouse and you eventually reach Le Bikini, one of the city’s most celebrated venues for live music. It’s had an eclectic roster of performers since it first opened in another location in 1983, and has featured everyone from Elvis Costello to Sum 41. Address: Parc Technologique du Canal, Ramonville-Saint-Agne. Telephone: +33 5 62 24 09 50 Website: www.lebikini.com

Le Cri de la Mouette

For live music in Toulouse in a small and intimate atmosphere – and on a barge – then visit Le Cri de la Mouette. An ever-changing programme of pop, rock, hip-hop, reggae and funk keeps things fresh. You can find a full calendar of events on its website. Address: 78 allée de Barcelone, Toulouse. Telephone: +33 5 62 30 05 28 Website: www.lecridelamouette.com

Toulouse Food And Drink

10 Best Local Dishes In Toulouse

The best local dishes from Toulouse reflect the history of the region and its gastronomy. The capital of the Occitan region pleases you with a variety of poultry-based dishes, cold meats, stews, and of course, there’s the famous foie gras from local farms. The city has many specialities distinguished by the subtle and sweet fragrance of the violet flower. You’ll find it as an ingredient in sweets, honey, chocolates, wines, liquors, and desserts. Read on to learn more about the must-try French dishes locals love to eat in Toulouse.

Toulouse sausage Simple but irresistible

As the name suggests, la saucisse de Toulouse (Toulouse sausage) is the speciality that originated from the city. This pork coarse sausage, about 3 cm in diameter and sometimes sold in a swirl, is very popular in Toulouse and all-around France. It is commonly served as part of cassoulet, but also on its own – grilled on a barbecue or fried on a pan. You can find excellent Toulouse sausage in local markets and supermarkets. Select the Red Label product to enjoy a better quality. Note that this sausage does not require any sauce, as it is naturally flavoured with pepper, salt, and garlic.

Cassoulet An iconic dish of Toulouse

When you stay in Toulouse, you should try cassoulet, among the region’s most iconic dishes. The recipes vary but the usual ingredients include white meaty beans, pork meat, duck confit, pork belly, lamb neck, breast, and of course, Toulouse sausage. All are cooked slowly and served hot in a bowl. Cassoulet is a peasant dish, with a history that probably goes back to the Middle Ages. Its name is derived from cassole, a red clay pot in which traditionally it was cooked. Today it is part of the menu of many restaurants in Toulouse and neighbouring towns. Once you try cassoulet, don’t forget to select a glass of red wine to perfectly match this nourishing dish.

Poulet à la Toulousaine An unusual version of baked chicken

Poulet à la Toulousaine is a roasted chicken that’s special for its use of flavoursome Toulouse sausage that can be found in many local dishes. The chicken is stuffed with mixed Toulouse sausage – sometimes also with other types of meat – olives, garlic, and herbs. It is then drizzled with oil and cognac and baked in the oven. You can try these juicy cuts of chicken in many restaurants in Toulouse – it is a perfect change from the classical chicken recipe. We recommend complementing your meal with some red wine.

Foie gras d’oie A luxurious delicacy

Foie gras d’oie is a regional gourmet speciality. Made from the liver of a specially-fattened goose, foie gras d’oie has an exquisite taste. It is smooth, buttery, and rich. Traditionally, it is eaten for special occasions such as Christmas, but you can treat yourself to good-quality foie gras d’oie in local restaurants all year round. You’ll discover plenty of varieties, such as salty, peppered, or truffled foie gras d’oie. Usually, it is served as a starter, accompanied with slices of gingerbread and fig jam, or onion chutney. It can also be pan-seared and eaten hot with a well-browned crisp on top.

Brique du Capitole Brick-shaped bonbons

The history of Brique du Capitole started in 1951 when the Nougalet chocolate and confectionery factory created lovely praline brick-shaped candies. They were to remind us of the history of the city made of red bricks. The traditional ingredients include sugar, almonds, hazelnuts, and vanilla. You can also find varieties with the violet flavour. The bonbons are a bit hard to bite but give you some time and you’ll enjoy the crispy texture. Local shops sell Brique du Capitole from different producers in a variety of packaging, including the original cardboard boxes. Don’t forget to buy some extra ‘’bricks’’ – they’re excellent gifts for families and friends.

Garbure A soup to boost your energy

If you like soups, garbure will please your taste buds. It is a speciality typical of the Pyrenees highlands where peasants combined different vegetables and meats to create a nourishing dish. The popular local meal features green cabbage, potatoes, duck confit, dried pork, onion, and other ingredients. The rich taste of the soup is the result of the slow simmering of its components. The dish is served hot whatever the season, and it can be accompanied with slices of grilled pain de campagne (a white round loaf of country bread).

L’alicuit de canardA flavoursome duck speciality

L’alicuit de canard means ‘’wings and necks’’ in the Gascon dialect. It was a traditional peasant stew made of duck wings and necks simmered for a long time. Since then, the dish has passed into the restaurants’ kitchens. The fact that the stew is made of low cuts of poultry does not make it less tasty. It is commonly prepared with the rest of the duck, including necks, wings, offal, and gizzards. All are browned on a pan, bound with flour, moistened with white wine, and then simmered in broth with carrots, olives. The dish is often served topped with chopped parsley, with slices of toasted bread rubbed with garlic, and boiled potatoes.

Croustade aux pommes Crispy apple pie

Croustade aux pommes is part of the culinary landscape of Toulouse. This is a multi-layer, round-shaped apple pie that is difficult to resist. The lower part of the cake is puff pastry, covered with a sweet compote and caramelized big apple quarters. The apples are flambéed with Armagnac, and another layer of puff pastry comes on the top. The whole thing then goes into the oven. Even if the traditional Croustade aux pommes includes apples only, some newer versions might include prunes interspersed with apples. The pie is often served with vanilla ice cream.

Bougnette Flavoursome meatballs

Although often associated with the nearby Tarn and Aveyron departments, the bougnette can be also found in Toulouse restaurants. These are large meatballs, around 10–15 cm in diameter, based on pork throat and belly mixed with eggs and breadcrumbs. They have a firm, crispy, and soft texture. You can enjoy bougnette as a cold appetizer, served hot slightly sautéed in the pan or on the plancha, or baked in the oven. Bougnette can be eaten with a salad, steamed potatoes, or poached in a soup.

Fénétra tart An ancient dessert from Toulouse

Le fénétra (Fénétra tart) is a traditional dessert from the Toulouse region. Its ancient origins go back to Romain times, and the recipe is passed from generation to generation. The tart is made of shortbread pastry, apricot jam filling, cubes of candied lemons, and a dacquoise (almond-based biscuit). The refreshing flavours of the Fénétra cake make it a great option for a summer dessert. You can also buy it as a gift to your friends because the tart can be stored for several days at room temperature, and it’s easy to carry around.

Drink In Toulouse

Wines & Beers & Spirits

The name ‘Toulouse wines’ describes produce from the towns of Lavilledieu, Saint Sardos and Côtes du Frontonnais. The grapes used are the Négrette, Syrah, Gamay, Tannat and Cabernet Franc. Toulouse wines are consequently soft and subtle. Saint Sardos red wines are soft and refined as well as fruity. Beyond its scenic and cultural attractions, Toulon serves as a gateway to the famed wine regions of Provence. While the city itself is not a wine-producing area, its proximity to some of the best vineyards in the country makes it a popular starting point for wine enthusiasts.

Nicknamed ‘La Ville Rose’, Toulouse is a famously beautiful city of pink-tinged brick buildings. Split into two parts by the Garonne River and fringed by the Canal du Midi, this sophisticated hub is the centre of the Haute-Garonne region. Toulouse is also the gateway to many of the smaller towns and villages of the nearby Lot and Dordogne. A wealth of accommodation options reflect Toulouse’s long-standing appeal, with simple B&Bs as well as glamorous design hotels aplenty. Book a room at one of the best places to stay in Toulouse and head out to explore! The imposing Place du Capitole is widely regarded as the heart of the pink city. Admire heritage churches, municipal buildings, halls and theatres on foot or by bicycle; take a guided tour to really delve into the city’s past. The plethora of cultural highlights include the 17th-century Carmelite Chapel, the Basilica St. Sernin and the Cathédrale St. Etienne. The Jacobins Monastery and Wilson Square are also lovely. Art aficionados can wander the halls of the Musée des Augustins and the more modern Les Abattoirs, before contemplating the city’s role as an aerospace centre at La Cité de l’Espace. Amble along Rue Emile Cartailhac towards the river, lose yourself in winding cobbled lanes or take a boat tour to see the city from the water. The second-hand shops around Rue Peyrolières yield excellent finds, as do the monthly Brocante des Allées François Verdier and the food and book markets on Place Arnaud-Bernard. You’re in one of France’s foodie hotspots, famous for foie gras, duck confit, truffles and tapenade. Speak to the teams at the best places to stay in Toulouse for restaurant recommendations and delight in eating your way around the city.

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