Toulouse

Situated in the heart of the Midi-Pyrénées, Toulouse is a culturally rich city, with a large student population, owing to a number of prestigious universities and engineering schools. The fourth-largest city in France, with the nickname La Ville Rose (the pink city), Toulouse is quintessentially Mediterranean, influenced greatly by its proximity to the border with Spain, only 60 miles away. To experience the spirit of this ancient city, head to the active centre ville, situated between the Canal du Midi and the Garonne River for a stroll through squares where the city's students come to see and be seen.

 

Most of the cities sights, hotels and restaurants are within walking distance of each other. The main square of the centre ville is Place du Capitole, with most the other key areas such as St-Sernin and Place Esquirol within easy reach. For excellent cheap eats, crêperies and ethnic cafés, avoid the pricey Place du Capitole and head to the small streets which branch out from it.

You'll find well-preserved Roman history in the centre ville, and for a closer look, visit the Musée St-Raymond, the archaeological museum of Tolouse, which houses a comprehensive collection of Roman arts and artifacts, ancient coins and jewelry. There are several fine churches and cathedrals to visit, with Basilique St-Sernin topping the list, as the largest Romanesque basilica in France. The ashes of St-Thomas Aquinas can be found in Les Jacobins, a 13th century church in the southern Gothic style.

In summer, the Toulouse d’Été music festival offers a selection of jazz, chamber music, singing and other recitals in the churches and squares of the city. Temperatures can soar at this time of year, so take a rest on the banks of the Garonne River, for excellent people-watching. Share a picnic with the resident peacocks at the Jardin des Plantes or find a bargain at the flea market outside St-Sernin on Saturdays. Outdoor fruit and vegetable markets are held at the Place St-Georges and on Place Victor.

There are a number of excellent day trips which can be made to the towns north of Tolouse, from the slow-paced Pyrénées town of Foix to the natural hot springs of Ax-les-Thermes. To eschew the tourist route, head to the eastern part of the mountain range, rather than the Pyrénées-Atlantique.