Toulon is a port city that lies 45 miles southeast of Marseille, on the border of Provence and the French Riviera. Although it's a coastal town, it has more of an industrial feel than the up-market neighbouring resorts, due to the presence of a major French naval base in the city. Toulon is surrounded on all sides by hills, the highest of which is the imposing Mount Faron, which towers 1,600 feet above the city.
The main artery through town is the busy boulevard de Strasbourg, and in the centre ville, you'll find the vielle ville (historic old town), with most of the city's major sights lining its cobbled streets. Café tables line the vibrant place Victor Hugo, which make it a perfect place to stop for a coffee. Venture to quai Stalingrad at the old port for a selection of restaurants that, although slightly touristy, offer good local fare.
Because Toulon is not generally considered a resort town, it has lower prices for hotels and restaurants than other areas, and can thus make an excellent base for the budget traveller. Despite its lack of resort status, the city abounds with hidden gems. Keep you eyes peeled for intricate street art, sculptures and trompe-l'oeil throughout the centre ville.
Also surprising, is that there is an excellent beach right in the heart of town. Plage du Mourillon has a calm, sandy beach, surrounded by manicured gardens, and the Mourillon district offers a collection of bars and restaurants where you can find authentic Provençal cuisine.
Take the Téléphérique de Toulon up Mount Faron for panoramic views of the city and the sea. The Musée Mémorial du Débarquement (Allied Landings Museum) is at the summit, and there you will find documents and displays commemorating the liberation of the area by Allied forces in 1944. The Toulon zoo is nearby.
For an excellent excursion from Toulon, take a boat to one of the coastal islands that lie just east of the city. The largest of the islands, Porquerolles, is the easiest of the group to access from Toulon, and there you will find fine sandy beaches and an old-world atmosphere, far off the beaten tourist path.
