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Published on March 27th, 2025 by Ersilia

Having lived in Toulouse since 2018, I’ve perfected this one-day walking tour for family and friends who visit us with limited time.

This itinerary takes you through the city’s most beautiful landmarks—from the iconic orange-hued buildings of Place du Capitole to the majestic Basilique Saint-Sernin, along with hidden gems like secret chapels and gorgeous viewpoints.

We’ll explore charming streets, historic squares, peaceful parks, and vibrant markets, while I’ll share my favorite local spots for coffee, brunch, and photo opportunities along the way. Get your comfortable shoes ready—this is Toulouse in one day!

EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT TOULOUSE, IN SHORT

In a hurry? here is everything you need to know !

tried-and-tested tips for experiencing Toulouse like a local in one day

Where to stay

best for eco-solo travelling: Residhome Toulouse Ponts Jumeaux

best for couples: Mercure Toulouse Centre Saint-Georges, Mama Shelter

best for families: Aparthotel Adagio Original Toulouse Centre La Grave

best for luxury: Ibis Styles Toulouse Capitole

view that doesn’t break the bank: Hôtel St Sernin

splurge like a star: Boutique Hotel SOCLO (they have on of the best brunches in Toulouse but you have to book 2 months in advance)

Must see & hidden gem

not to miss:

Couvent des Jacobins

Quai de la Duarade

Basilique St Sernin

and the Place de Capitole, of course!

hidden gem:

Chapelle Saint-Jean-Baptiste

Best restaurants & bars

great restaurants: L’Emboucaneur, Le Bibent, Le Soulier, La Cuisine À Mémé

best cocktails: Black Lion, Triplette (near Saint-Sernin), The Hopscotch Pub & Brewery

local specialties:

Cassoulet
Saucisse de Toulouse
Violet de Toulouse – A unique crystallized candy

Best photo spot & activity

best photo spot:

One of the three bridges : Pont Neuf, Pont Saint Pierre or Pont Saint Michel (you will see them all in this itinerary)

Rue de Taur with the basilica in the background

The back of Basilique Saint-Sernin

Quais de la Dorade with the Dôme de La Grave

best activity:

Having an ice-cream in the Port of La Daurade

Is Toulouse Worth Visiting?

Is Toulouse worth your precious vacation time? Absolutely! La Ville Rose (The Pink City) has stolen my heart with its stunning architecture in warm shades of pink and orange, incredible food scene, and refreshingly laid-back atmosphere.
What I love most about Toulouse is that you can experience authentic French culture without the overwhelming crowds of Paris or Nice.

Despite being France’s fourth-largest city (after Paris, Marseille, and Lyon), it remains wonderfully under-the-radar for international tourists and makes a perfect serene escape from the bsiests french cities.
This means even during peak summer months when the rest of France is packed with visitors, you’ll find Toulouse delightfully manageable—many locals even vacation elsewhere, leaving the city pleasantly peaceful for exploring!

Is it Possible to See Toulouse in One Day?

While I’d ideally recommend two or three days to fully experience Toulouse (especially if you want to include the Airbus factory tour or La Halle de la Machine), you can absolutely hit the highlights in a single day if you enjoy walking!
The compact city center means most major attractions are within walking distance of each other.

This one-day itinerary focuses on the essential sights while building in time for those magical moments that make Toulouse special—like sipping coffee on a sun-dappled terrace or discovering a hidden courtyard behind an unassuming door.

Is Toulouse, France a walkable city?

Yes!! Toulouse is really easy to walk by, and not so big! This means you wil be able to make this itinerary in a day, although you will walk a bit. But you will also see so many things!

Who is Toulouse Perfect For?

OToulouse has a magical way of appealing to almost everyone, but it’s especially perfect if you’re:
An architecture enthusiast looking to feast your eyes on a fascinating blend of styles—from Italian-influenced squares to grand Haussmannian boulevards that rival Paris

A museum lover seeking diverse collections—from the incredible Natural History Museum to the cutting-edge modern art at Les Abattoirs

A green space enthusiast who appreciates beautiful parks and gardens for leisurely strolls and people-watching (the Japanese Garden in Compans Caffarelli is my personal favorite!)

An engineering or aviation buff—Toulouse is France’s aeronautical capital with fascinating exhibitions about aircraft manufacturing (the Airbus factory tour is mind-blowing if you have an extra day)

A fan of unique attractions—don’t miss La Halle de la Machine, where enormous mechanical creatures like the minotaur come to life in spectacular demonstrations

A pilgrim on the Santiago de Compostela route—Toulouse serves as a significant stop with historic churches and special pilgrim accommodations

After five years of living here and countless visits from friends and family, I’ve discovered that Toulouse’s charm works on pretty much everyone who visits!

How to get around Toulouse for a one day visit?

This itinerary starts at Pont Saint Michel and then continues only on foot. You will only need to use the tram/metro or car to get there. There’s convenient free parking by the restaurant “Le Rowing” if you’re driving, or you can arrive via the tram stop “Pont Saint Michel” or metro stop “Saint Michel.”

Here is the itinerary that I advice. You can save this Google Maps for your day in Nice and just follow along.

Also, you can click on each image, it will take you to the exact Google maps location. You can have the entire photo map itinerary with top things to see and do in Toulouse saved on your phone !

things to know before reading

Before starting, keep in mind that while this entire itinerary is possible to be made in one day, you won’t have enough time to sit at every café or visit every interior sight that I mention. This itinerary covers places that are beautiful inside AND outside, and with one day in Toulouse, you will have to choose which one to visit inside.

Starting Point: Pont Saint Michel

Take a few extra steps to walk across the bridge for a stunning panoramic view of Toulouse. It’s worth the slight detour to get this perfect first impression of the city! You will see the the oldest bridge in Toulouse, which wierdly is called “Pont Neuf” (which actually means “new bridge” in french), the famous Dôme de La Grave (you will stop by later, don’t worry) and the quais over the Garonne River, both on the left and the right side!

Allée Jules Guesde and the Museum

From the bridge, stroll down Allée Jules Guesde where you’ll pass the impressive Palais de Justice with its grand architecture, then the Black Lion pub – a favorite spot for locals and expats alike. Soon you’ll discover a charming Italian-style square with the beautiful Fontaine Ariège et Garonne sculpture. This little plaza always reminds me of Italy with its intimate atmosphere and ornate details.

If morning hunger strikes, pop into the local boulangerie for a “chocolatine” – and yes, that’s what we call them here in Toulouse, not pain au chocolat! This naming difference sparks passionate debates between regions in France. When friends visit from Paris, I always tease them about using the “wrong” name for this delicious chocolate-filled pastry!

On weekends, you might spot antique book stalls along this boulevard. Take time to appreciate the magnificent buildings with their fascinating interior courtyards. Continue walking until you reach the Natural History Museum of Toulouse, which is particularly wonderful if you’re traveling with children. Kids love the dinosaur exhibits and the impressive butterfly collection that features specimens from around the world.

For adults, I recommend checking out their temporary exhibitions (usually around €5 extra on top of the regular admission). They choose fascinating themes – past exhibitions have covered everything from endangered species to the rather surprising sex lives of animals! The museum also offers interactive workshops where children can engage in drawing and other hands-on activities, making science come alive for young visitors.

Place du Parlement

Colorful historic buildings with traditional shutters and half-timbered architecture in Toulouse city center

Next, head to Place du Parlement, a picturesque square surrounded by those iconic orange buildings that Toulouse is famous for.

Venture down Rue Pharaon, which is lined with lovely coffee shops, restaurants, and boutiques selling local specialties. For breakfast or brunch, I recommend Kopi Coffee Shop – grab a table on the terrace for perfect people-watching.

Meat lovers should note L’Emboucaneur, famous for its “fumoir de bois” and foie gras. It’s worth popping in to book a table for dinner later if you’re staying into the evening.

Place des Carmes

Ornate Beaux-Arts building with domed roof and clock in downtown Toulouse

Continue to Place des Carmes, one of the most beloved neighborhoods in Toulouse. Check out the Marché des Carmes and wander the surrounding streets to admire the diverse architectural styles.

Take a quick sneak-peack into the covered market of Carmes, where locals do their weekly groceries.

If you haven’t eaten yet, Sunside Café Toulouse serves an excellent brunch at a great price. Definitely choose outdoor seating on their terrace for the best experience!

Here is a great place to buy some chocolate or macaroons from one of the most appreciated places in Toulouse, called “Maison Pillon”. You will also fin them in Place de Capitole, later on if you wish.

Back to Allée Jules Guesde

Return to Allée Jules Guesde and continue along this grand boulevard. On weekends, you might spot antique book stalls. The real treasures here are the magnificent buildings and their interior courtyards.

Walk until you reach the Museum of Toulouse. It’s especially wonderful if you’re traveling with children, with its dinosaur exhibits and impressive butterfly collection. For adults, the temporary exhibitions (usually around €5 extra) are fascinating – past themes have included endangered species and even the sex lives of animals!

Grand Rond and Jardins des Plantes

After the museum, head to Jardins des Plantes, Toulouse’s largest park. Take the first right toward “The Grand Rond” park, crossing a charming bridge that offers a beautiful elevated view of the fountain below.

This is a popular picnic spot for locals. I prefer grabbing a coffee at the park café where you can relax under the shade of large trees while enjoying the views – a perfect midday break!

Allée François Verdier

Continue to Allée François Verdier, which I personally like to call “the Champs-Elysées of Toulouse” (though locals might disagree with me!). This avenue features beautiful Haussmannian-style buildings that might make you think you’ve been transported to Paris.

At the end, you’ll see the Monument of the Combatants of Haute-Garonne, resembling a mini Arc de Triomphe. Interestingly, this entire monument was moved a few meters in 2024 to accommodate metro construction!

Historic François Verdier monument being transported on specialized heavy equipment through Toulouse streets — Photo of the monument while on move (credit : ActuToulouse)

Cathédrale Saint-Étienne

Turn right after the monument to discover Cathédrale Saint-Étienne. I recommend taking the small street directly from the monument to appreciate the splendor of the cathedral’s rear façade before circling around to the main entrance.

Step inside to marvel at the impressive interior, then take time to admire the beautiful buildings surrounding Place Saint-Étienne with their colorful shutters. Don’t miss Rue Croix Barion with its upscale shops like Dior and Guess.

Esquirol and the Museum of Augustins

Courtyard café at Musée des Augustins in Toulouse with pink brick architecture and rose window — The interior courtyard of Toulouse’s Musée des Augustins. There is a coffee place there, open even if the Museum is closed

Esquirol serves as a hub connecting the Carmes district with the area leading to Place du Capitole.

Here you’ll find the Musée des Augustins, Toulouse’s fine arts museum housed in a stunning historical building with an incredible cloister. This is a remarcable neo-medieval architecture ! Note: At the time I am wrtiting this article, march 2025, the museum is closed for renovations but should reopen later this year. I will update the post when it does!

Rue Alsace Lorraine

Turn onto Rue Alsace Lorraine, the true “Champs-Élysées of Toulouse” according to locals. This broad pedestrian street is lined with shops for various budgets, from Zara and H&M to French brands like Maison 123 (my personal favorite for quality French-style clothing).

Nearby, you’ll find Galeries Lafayette, though it’s usually crowded. If you do visit, head to the rooftop bar La Biche sur le Toit for amazing views (but be prepared to pay around €5 for a coffee).

The best hidden gem here is Chapelle Saint-Jean-Baptiste de Toulouse! Look for a simple door at this address: Chapelle Saint-Jean-Baptiste. Step through and you’ll discover a vaulted church behind an unassuming entrance – a real-life secret passage that feels straight out of Alice in Wonderland!

Square Charles de Gaulle & Capitole

The opulent Salle des Illustres inside Toulouse’s Capitole

At the end of Alsace Lorraine, you’ll reach Toulouse’s most famous landmark – the Capitole. You can view it from behind in Square Charles de Gaulle or from the front in Place du Capitole. (I actually prefer the back view!)

Interior visits are free but only available on Sundays and holidays. On Saturdays, as it’s the city hall, it’s booked for weddings, and you’ll often see brides queuing at the entrance.

If you can’t go inside, look up at the ceiling murals visible from the first level – they’re incredible, with baroque inspiration reminiscent of the Sistine Chapel or Versailles! The walls depict major moments in Toulouse’s history from the Cathar period to the creation of the Floral Games.

In Place du Capitole, you’ll find many cafés, though most cater to tourists with higher prices. I recommend walking under the arched facades opposite the Capitole and looking up – they’re all decorated with beautiful paintings!

For a sweet break, try gelato at Amorino (expect lines on sunny days) or if you’re feeling fancy, have coffee or cake at “Le Bibent,” one of Toulouse’s most famous establishments with beautiful ceiling paintings rivaling those in the Capitole itself.

Artisan ice cream topped with macaron in Place du Capitole, Toulouse

Basilique Saint-Sernin

Narrow street in Toulouse's historic center with Saint-Sernin tower visible in distance — Rue du Taur

Head to Basilique Saint-Sernin via Rue de Taur, arguably the most beautiful street in Toulouse. This street appears in most Toulouse souvenir paintings, and you’ll understand why as the basilica’s tower gradually reveals itself while you walk along the colorful facades. This is my favourite street in Toulouse ! Definitely stop for photos here!

If you’re hungry, try L’Antidot Burger (serving burgers made with local farm ingredients) or Bagel Corner for something quick but good.

At the end of this street, you will find Saint-Sernin, one of the best-preserved and perhaps the largest Romanesque churches in the world. Once at Saint-Sernin, visit the basilica to admire its enormous interior designed to accommodate pilgrims on their way to Santiago de Compostela in Spain. The five vaulted naves converge toward the choir and the gilded wooden and marble baldachin.

Don’t miss the back of the church – it’s possibly the most spectacular spot in all of Toulouse! I often come here just to grab a coffee, sit on a bench, and take in the view.

For a terrace seat, try “Café La Fiancée” or “Café Triplette” – both serve excellent brunches with outdoor tables facing the view.

The Jacobins Church with its Gothic Cloister

After Saint-Sernin, head back through Place du Capitole to reach Quai de la Daurade, but make a stop to see the Eglise de Jacobins, another impressive church with beautiful stained glass windows that let the light pass with beautiful colors.

Here you can also visit a beautiful gothic cloister (that’s a covered walkway with arched openings that surrounds a peaceful garden courtyard within a church complex, where monks or clergy could walk, pray, and meditate in medieval times). While the church is free to visit, there is a fee to enter the cloister (around 11 euros per person).

Quai de la Daurade

Panoramic view of Garonne riverfront in Toulouse with labeled landmarks including Couvent des Jacobins

Quai de la Daurade is a beloved local and popular spot where people gather to sit by the water. The upper side features local artists displaying their work, while the waterside area includes a park with children’s play equipment.

The best part is simply sitting on the grass enjoying the view or walking along the quays. This is where you’ll see the famous Dôme de La Grave featured on almost every Toulouse postcard – and the perfect spot to capture your own version!

Place Saint-Pierre

Continue walking along the quays to Place Saint-Pierre, watching how the scenery transforms with each step. This vibrant area is known for great bars (I love Le Bar Basque with its amazing garden) and the famous steps with benches leading down to the water.

Pont Saint-Pierre

Next to Place Saint-Pierre, you’ll find Pont Saint-Pierre, another perfect photo spot. Cross this bridge, which has been transformed into a colorful promenade – it’s a lovely walk as long as it’s not too hot, as there’s no shade!

Continue your walk vith views over the famous neo-classical Dome of Toulouse, through the quartier of Saint-Cyprien until you reach Prairies des Filtres.

Prairies des Filtres

Riverside park view of Toulouse cityscape with people relaxing under trees — Prairie de Filtres

This park hosts local music festivals in summer and is popular for picnics and children’s playgrounds. For me, the highlight is the unparalleled view of the facades on the opposite riverbank – you can’t see them from anywhere else in the city!

Enjoy this final walk as it leads you back to where you started your journey at Pont Saint Michel.

Where to Eat Like a Local

quick summary

L’Emboucaneur (Rue Pharaon) for dinner specializing in smoked meats

Kopi Coffee Shop (Rue Pharaon) for breakfast or brunch

Sunside Café (Place des Carmes) for great-value brunch

L’Antidot Burger (Rue de Taur) for local farm-to-table burgers

Le Bibent (Place du Capitole) for a fancy coffee and cake experience

Café La Fiancée or Café Triplette (near Saint-Sernin) for brunch with a view

Best Photo Spots

picture-perfect locations

Prairies des Filtres for views of the historic facades across the river

Pont Saint-Michel for panoramic city views

Rue de Taur with the basilica in the background

The back of Basilique Saint-Sernin

Quais de la Dorade with the Dôme de La Grave

Pont Saint-Pierre for iconic river views

Conclusion

Toulouse may not be as famous as Paris or Nice, but after spending a day exploring its orange-hued streets, magnificent churches, and vibrant squares, you might just find yourself planning a return visit to discover more of what La Ville Rose has to offer!