Wondering what to do in Toulouse during a short stay? Known as the Pink City and France’s fourth-largest city, Toulouse charms visitors with its rich heritage, outstanding cuisine and welcoming atmosphere. Whether you’re extending a business trip or planning a getaway as a couple or family, Toulouse offers plenty of things to see and do. With Nemea residences and their Appart’Hotel in Toulouse, you can enjoy the independence and comfort of your own accommodation, ideally located to explore the city at your own pace.
Drop Off Your Bags and Settle into Your Appart’Hotel in Toulouse
When you arrive, you can drop off your bags in Toulouse straight away at either of Nemea’s two residences.
Nemea Appart’Hotel Toulouse Gare Matabiau is right in the heart of the historic city centre, making it easy to explore Toulouse on foot. The Canal du Midi, Place du Capitole and the banks of the Garonne are all just a short walk away.
Nemea Appart’Hotel Toulouse Aéroport is particularly convenient for business travellers and aviation enthusiasts alike. You’ll be close to the Airbus factory tour and Aeroscopia museum.
Both residences combine the comfort of a hotel with the freedom of independent accommodation. Each offers a modern space with a kitchenette, ideal for catching up on work after a meeting, preparing a romantic dinner or making life easier when travelling with the family.
Explore Toulouse’s Historic City Centre
Toulouse city centre is the perfect starting point for a weekend of sightseeing. The magnificent Place du Capitole is the city’s most iconic landmark. Home to the town hall and Théâtre du Capitole, it takes on a particularly magical atmosphere when the lights come on in the evening.
Another must-see is the Basilica of Saint-Sernin, an impressive 11th-century masterpiece renowned for its sheer scale. Just nearby, the 14th-century Couvent des Jacobins is a remarkable example of Gothic architecture, famous for its spectacular stone “palm tree” vault.
Together, these historic landmarks reflect Toulouse’s rich heritage and its place on the UNESCO World Heritage list, making them essential stops for anyone exploring the city.
Looking for somewhere to simply wander and soak up the atmosphere? Head to the Carmes district, known for its picturesque streets, covered markets and lively terraces. Across the Garonne, the Saint-Cyprien neighbourhood offers a more bohemian, laid-back and family-friendly feel.
Walk or Cycle Along the Canal du Midi and the Garonne
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Canal du Midi runs through Toulouse and provides the perfect setting for a leisurely walk, bike ride or sightseeing cruise. Several operators offer guided cruises, giving visitors the chance to discover the history of this remarkable 17th-century waterway and understand its importance to the region’s economy.
The Garonne adds another dimension to the city’s scenery. The Pont-Neuf, the Dôme de la Grave and the riverside quays make for beautiful walking routes. In the evening, watching the sun set over the river is a memorable experience, whether you’re travelling as a couple or with children.
Easy to reach from Toulouse Matabiau station, these riverside spots are also ideal for unwinding after a busy day of meetings or sightseeing.
Museums and Culture in Toulouse: Art and History at Your Fingertips
Museum lovers are spoilt for choice in Toulouse. Housed in a former convent, the Musée des Augustins features collections spanning medieval, Gothic and classical art. The Musée Saint-Raymond, meanwhile, showcases rare archaeological artefacts that bring the ancient history of south-west France to life.
Families will particularly enjoy the Cité de l’Espace. With full-size spacecraft and aircraft replicas, simulators and interactive experiences, it offers an immersive introduction to space exploration for visitors of all ages. Located on the banks of the Garonne, the EDF Bazacle combines industrial heritage with contemporary exhibitions.
And no visit to Toulouse would be complete without exploring the Airbus factory, offering a fascinating insight into French aerospace expertise. Nearby Aeroscopia museum is home to legendary aircraft including Concorde and the Super Guppy.
For guests staying at Nemea Appart’Hotel Toulouse Aéroport, these attractions are only a few minutes away.
Toulouse Food Guide: Local Specialities and the City’s Best Restaurants
Food is an essential part of any stay in Toulouse. Cassoulet, Toulouse sausage and duck confit are among the signature dishes of south-western French cuisine. At some of the best restaurants in Toulouse, you can sample these local specialities, often paired with wines from the nearby Fronton wine region.
The Victor Hugo Market is worth a visit in its own right. Its stalls are packed with fresh, locally sourced produce, from foie gras and regional cheeses to charcuterie and pastries. Pick up your favourite ingredients and prepare a meal in the comfort of your Appart’Hotel.
The Carmes and Saint-Cyprien districts are also home to plenty of welcoming neighbourhood restaurants and cafés, many with outdoor terraces perfect for a relaxed meal.
For business travellers, it’s also a great opportunity to extend a seminar or corporate event with a quality dinner in a warm and convivial setting.
Unique Things to Do and Evening Entertainment in the Pink City
Beyond its historic sights and renowned food scene, Toulouse has plenty of unusual experiences to discover. The city’s escape rooms are a fun way to test your teamwork and problem-solving skills, whether you’re out with colleagues or enjoying a family activity. Cruises along the Garonne offer a relaxing break and a fresh perspective on the city.
In the evening, the Théâtre du Capitole hosts opera and ballet performances, while smaller venues around the Arnaud-Bernard district showcase jazz and world music concerts.
This vibrant cultural scene has helped establish Toulouse as one of France’s leading destinations for the performing arts.
Day Trips and Things to Do Within an Hour of Toulouse
A weekend in Toulouse can easily extend beyond the city itself. Among the best things to do within an hour of Toulouse, you’ll find:
- Albi, home to the impressive Sainte-Cécile Cathedral and the Toulouse-Lautrec Museum.
- Carcassonne, a spectacular medieval fortified city with an exceptional historical heritage.
- Cordes-sur-Ciel, a hilltop village that seems frozen in time.
- The Fronton wine region, where you can enjoy wine tastings and cellar tours.
Accessible by train from Matabiau station or by car, these day trips offer a different perspective on the heritage of south-west France. They’re an easy way to complement your sightseeing in the Pink City.
Getting Around Toulouse
Getting around Toulouse is easy, making it simple to make the most of your time in the city. Two metro lines, an extensive bus network and several tram routes provide fast and convenient connections. Park-and-ride facilities also make it easy to reach the city centre without the hassle of driving and parking.
The city’s bike-share scheme and electric scooters provide even more flexibility. They’re a great option for exploring the historic centre, cycling along the Canal du Midi or reaching the riverside quays.
For business travellers, convenient public transport also means less time travelling between meetings and more time to relax and enjoy the city.
Nemea Appart’Hotel: The Perfect Base for Exploring Toulouse
With its historic heritage, museums, food scene and wide range of activities, Toulouse is one of France’s standout city-break destinations. Nemea Appart’Hotel residences, located at Matabiau station and near Toulouse Airport, give you the space, comfort and flexibility you need to make the most of your stay.
So, what should you do in Toulouse? Explore its iconic landmarks, book an Airbus factory tour, stroll along the Garonne, discover its museums, sample the city’s best restaurants or venture further afield with one of the many day trips within an hour of Toulouse.
With Nemea Appart’Hotel, every stay is an opportunity to experience the very best of the Pink City, with the freedom to make Toulouse your own.