City Guide: Toulouse

Toulouse, built alongside the Garonne River, is located in the southwestern part of France. Being city with the largest metropolitan area in France, Toulouse is also the third wealthiest city in the country. The location of the city marks the central point between the Haute-Garonne and Midi-Pyrénées regions. As a result of the developments in the past 20 years, Toulouse has become a center for the aerospace industry. The assembly processes of world-renowned Airbus are completed in Toulouse, making it one of the most important locations for the European aerospace industry. One of the surprising qualities of the city to be admired and followed as an example is how well the historical and natural texture of the city were preserved throughout all the changes. Upon first look at the streets, it may seem like the city has a very large young population. The bulk of the city’s young population is made up of those who come to the city to study, as Toulouse is a very attractive city in terms of higher education. Toulouse stands out among other European cities with its culorful nature and daily life as well as its historical and cultural wealth.

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• Tourist Attractions

  Toulouse is known as “Ville Rose”, which can be translated to English as “the Pink City”. The reason for this name is the brick buildings seen almost everywhere in the city. The main square of Toulouse is the best place to start your tour, as this square hosts not only monumental structures but also many events.
  
  The part of the city that stretches toward the Garonne River is,in fact, an early Roman settlement. That is the reason why Roman architecture dominates many structures made of red bricks and the small streets in this part of Toulouse. Garonne River and its banks constitute a beauty to be explored in and of itself. This part of the river connecting France to the Atlantic Ocean is full of 18th century structures. 
  
  Many places to visit are within walking distance. Subway and bus lines are among public transportation options to nearly everywhere in the city. Cruise boats known as “Toulouse Croisieres” give you the opportunity to explore city city along Garonne River. 
  
  
  Basacle is the place where the first bridge was built on Gronne River. The hydroelectric power plant built in 1890 to supply power to the city is also located here. The power plant, which is still in operating condition today, was transformed into a point of attraction open to the public.

• Culture & Entertainment

  Henri Gaussen Botanical Garden (Jardin Botanique Henri Gaussen) is a public garden, open on weekdays and especially when the temperature is high. There are more than 5 thousand kinds of plants in the garden. They are separated into three categories; which are edible, industrial, and medicinal. The garden is operated by Paul Sabatier University as a part of the Toulouse Natural History Museum.
  
  Capitole de Toulouse, the municipal seat of administration, is a must-see architectural example. It dates back to the 12th century. “Capitole” is a work of art from its architecture woven with graceful pillars to its theater and public square inside and in front of it respectively. 
  
  The over fifty years old Saint-Etienne Cathedral, Basilique Saint Sernin (Basilica of Saint Sernin) , Musée des Augustins (Les Augustins Museum), and the Georges Labit Museum are among other places to visit.

• Food & Drink

  Toulouse, just like other French cities, is full various filling items in terms of its cuisine. Duck is the specialty dish of the area, also its essential. Dishes with duck are readily available at almost any restaurant.
  
  There are very nice restaurants located at the center of the city, especially in the western part. Restaurants of Toulouse also give you many options to get a taste of the North African cuisine.

• Shopping

  Many stores are located in the old city, also known as Place du Capitol. Jewellery stores in addition to fashion stores carrying items by French designers draw your attention. Galeries Lafayette is among shopping locations to stop by in this area.
  
  Do not pass by the Toulouse Bazaars in which second-hand items are for sale. You can find almost anything,in these bazaars, which are generally open on Wednesdays and Sundays. You may want to go to the Saint-Aubin region to purchase souvenirs from Toulouse.
  
  
  Located next to the Basilica of Saint Sernin, the bazaar with the same name is where true bargaining takes place. You can find a wide range of antiques, accessories, and items of clothing here. The most popular shopping location of Toulouse in general is Rue de Rome. You may want to take a look here to buy shoes and clothing.
  
  La Maison de la Violette is a shopping location where almost anything made from the violets unique to Toulouse, is sold. Violet tea, soap, candle, desserts and many more varieties are available here. 

Ticket Sales Offices: Toulouse

• Toulouse: Airport Map Information

  Blagnac Airport

  Address	:	Toulouse-Blagnac Airport
  Phone	:	+33 1 70 46 74 7

• Toulouse: Airport Map Information