With its terracotta rooftops, sun-drenched squares, and laid-back southern charm, Toulouse — nicknamed La Ville Rose (The Pink City) — is a dreamy stop in southwest France. If you’ve only got 12 hours to explore, don’t worry. We’ve got the perfect plan to soak up the best of Toulouse — and find a few treasures to take home.
1. Bonjour from Place du Capitole ☕
Time: 8:30 AM
Where: Café Le Florida or Le Bibent
Start your morning in the heart of Toulouse — the Place du Capitole. Grab a coffee at a classic terrace café and admire the grand 18th-century Capitole building. It’s the perfect spot to people-watch while you wake up French-style.
Souvenir Tip: Head into the Capitole’s gift shop for art prints or Toulouse-themed bookmarks featuring the city’s pink façades and Occitan cross.
2. Explore the Old Town’s rosy glow 🌸
Time: 9:30 AM
Where: Around Rue du Taur and Rue Saint-Rome
Wander through Toulouse’s maze of narrow streets. The buildings are a gorgeous mix of red brick and pastel shutters, giving the whole town a warm, romantic glow. Don’t miss the Basilique Saint-Sernin — one of the largest Romanesque churches in Europe.
Souvenir Tip: Stop by a local boutique and pick up handmade Occitan crosses, lavender sachets, or soaps made with violet — a local favorite scent and flavor.
3. Snack on a chocolatine (not a pain au chocolat!) 🥐
Time: 10:30 AM
Where: Any artisan boulangerie
This is southern France, so don’t call it a pain au chocolat! Here, it’s a chocolatine, and it’s delicious. Grab one fresh from a bakery and stroll over to the Garonne River.
4. Riverside walk and Pont Neuf views 🌉
Time: 11:00 AM
Where: Along the Garonne
Take a relaxing walk along the Quai de la Daurade. The view from the Pont Neuf (Toulouse’s oldest bridge) is a perfect photo op. If the sun’s out, locals will be chilling along the riverbanks with guitars, wine, and good vibes.
5. Browse the Victor Hugo Market 🧀
Time: 12:00 PM
Where: Marché Victor Hugo
Hungry yet? Head to the bustling Victor Hugo covered market. It’s packed with cheese stalls, fresh produce, charcuterie, and tiny wine bars tucked into corners.
Souvenir Tip: Pick up some vacuum-packed duck confit, cassoulet in a jar (Toulouse’s signature dish), or local cheeses like Rocamadour or Tomme des Pyrénées.
6. Lunch like a Toulousain 🍷
Time: 1:00 PM
Where: One of the restaurants above the market
Several casual restaurants above Victor Hugo market serve hearty local dishes at great prices. Order cassoulet if you’re brave (and hungry), or go for duck breast with a glass of Gaillac red.
7. Visit the Jacobins Convent 🌿
Time: 2:15 PM
Where: Couvent des Jacobins
A peaceful retreat in the city, this 13th-century monastery has a palm-tree-shaped Gothic ceiling that’s pure magic. The cloisters are a quiet spot to walk off your lunch.
8. Violet everything 🌺
Time: 3:00 PM
Where: La Maison de la Violette (on a barge!)
Violets are the floral symbol of Toulouse, and they’re in everything from candy to liqueur to perfumes. This floating shop on the Canal du Midi is charming and packed with violet-scented souvenirs.
Souvenir Tip: Violet liqueur, violet-infused sugar, or little soaps and candles make sweet gifts — or treats for yourself.
9. Golden hour at Prairie des Filtres 🌅
Time: 4:00 PM
Where: Prairie des Filtres park
End your whirlwind tour with a relaxing walk through this leafy park along the Garonne. If you’re lucky, a local band might be playing — or at least someone will be juggling.
What to Take Home from Toulouse 🛍️
If you’re souvenir hunting before you leave, check our top 10 Toulouse Souvenirs, here are some ideas:
- Violet-scented soaps, candles, or candy
- A jar of cassoulet or duck confit
- Occitan cross jewelry or décor
- Regional wines (Gaillac or Fronton)
- Toulouse-themed art prints or postcards
Final Thoughts
Twelve hours in Toulouse might fly by, but it’s more than enough time to fall in love with the pink glow, warm food, and easygoing charm of the south. Whether you’re in town for a day trip or a layover, Toulouse leaves a big impression — and you’ll definitely want to come back for seconds.
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