Visit Toulouse in 2 days
19 must-see POIs, optimized routes and anecdotes.
Two days in Toulouse: a stroll between pink stone and vibrant banks
Starting your itinerary at the Basilique Saint-Sernin is to step directly into the visible heart of a city that breathes history and daily life. In two well-paced days, you will discover emblematic monuments, intimate lanes and squares where it’s nice to pause, breathe and watch Toulouse locals go by. I designed this itinerary so that every step tells a story: an architecture, a view, a culinary surprise.
The first day focuses on the centre’s major landmarks — basilica, Capitole, Jacobins — and invites a slow pace at the perfect moment in the afternoon, at the Old Toulouse Museum or in the shaded avenues. The second day plunges you into private townhouses, sculpted facades and the charm of the riverbanks, ending at Le Château d'eau, an urban viewpoint that offers another reading of the city.
Along the way, you will experience architecture, gastronomy, strolls along the Garonne and small, intimate museums. I will also share practical tips on accommodation, transport, what to book in advance and a few extras to enrich your stay, such as urban scavenger hunts or local markets. The idea is to leave some free time to wander on purpose.
This guide prioritizes experience: places to see, moments to pause and suggestions so that your two days in Toulouse stay vivid in your memory. Put on a comfortable pair of shoes, keep your camera at hand and let yourself be carried by the pink rhythm of the city.
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You will visit the most beautiful points of interest in Toulouse
Day-by-day summary
Day 1 — Morning: Start at the Basilique Saint-Sernin, then head to the Tour Maurand and the Église Notre-Dame du Taur to feel the medieval backbone of the center. Don’t miss the Maison de 1924 and take time for a stroll along the Allées du Président-Franklin-Roosevelt for your first urban panorama. After a relaxed lunch, explore the Arcades of the Capitole, climb the Donjon of the Capitole if possible, unwind at Square Charles-de-Gaulle and discover the Museum of Old Toulouse. End the afternoon at the Couvent des Jacobins, a place of calm and remarkable architecture.
Day 2 — Morning: Start at Place de la Trinité, then proceed to the Hôtel de Jean-Georges de Nupces and the Église Notre-Dame de la Dalbade. Continue with the series of private townhouses — Hôtel de Bagis, Hôtel du Vieux-Raisin — for a morning dedicated to façades and hidden courtyards. In the afternoon, discover Hôtel Dahus, then the imposing Hôtel d'Assézat, head down to Place de la Daurade and the Port Viguerie, and end your itinerary at Le Château d'eau, a final stop inviting contemplation of the city and the Garonne.
Day 1 - Toulouse
10 POIs to discoverDay 1 - Morning à Toulouse
5 Points of interest - Duration : 3h45 - Distance : 1 km - Walking : 0h13
© Wikimedia Commons
Hôtel Dahus
- The Hôtel Dahus was built in the 15th century for Judge Pierre Dahus.
- Hôtel Dahus features elements of Toulouse Gothic civil architecture of the late 15th century.
- It was later modified in Renaissance style in the 16th century, with the addition of large mullioned windows and the reconstruction of the staircase tower.
- The tower took the name Tournoer because it was Guillaume de Tournoer, councilor and president in the Parliament of Toulouse, who had a stair tower built.
- It has been listed in the supplementary inventory of historic monuments since 1925.
- It was also erroneously called Hôtel Roquette, as it belonged to the son of the capitoul Pierre de Roquette.
© Wikimedia Commons
Place de la Trinité
- The square was developed in the 19th century on the site of an important crossroads of the Roman city of Toulouse.
- In the Middle Ages, the square was lively and benefited from the activity of the Grand-rue, a commercial thoroughfare.
- The square is adorned with a fountain, the fontaine de la Trinité, dating from the 19th century.
- The square has been protected as notable heritage since 1986.
- The square features some beautiful facades, such as that of the maison Lamothe.
- It is considered one of the most pleasant squares in the city of Toulouse.
© Wikimedia Commons
Vieux-Raisin Hotel
- The Hôtel du Vieux-Raisin is a Renaissance mansion.
- It was built in 1518 for Béringuier Maynier, professor of law and capitoul of the city.
- The hotel's architecture is heavily influenced by the Italian Renaissance.
- The hotel's windows are beautifully decorated with pilasters, chandeliers and foliage.
- The hotel's courtyard of honor is designed with a portico inspired by the Hôtel d'Assézat.
- The hotel's monumental fireplace features Renaissance decoration with medallions, cherubs and garlands of plenty.
- The Hôtel du Vieux-Raisin has been listed as a historic monument since 1889.
© Wikimedia Commons
Church of Our Lady of Dalbade
- The Notre-Dame de la Dalbade church was built in the 15th century, and features a Southern Gothic style.
- The church features a facade with an Italian Renaissance-style tympanum made of ceramic.
- The church's interior houses several works of art, including statues and paintings.
- The church's tribune organ, built in the 19th century, is a listed historic monument.
© Wikimedia Commons
Hôtel de Bagis
- The Hôtel de Bagis, also known as the Hôtel de Clary or Daguin, is a magnificent private mansion.
- Built in the 16th century, it is distinguished by its all-stone facade, which was unique in the city at the time.
- In 1855, the hotel was completed with sculptures by Calvet-Besson.
- The Hôtel de Bagis has been listed as a historic monument since 1889.
Day 1 - Afternoon à Toulouse
5 Points of interest - Duration : 4h45 - Distance : 1.4 km - Walking : 0h18
© Wikimedia Commons
Church of Notre-Dame du Taur
- The church is a Catholic religious building.
- Its construction began in the fourteenth century and was completed in the sixteenth century.
- It is an example of southern Gothic art.
- The church of Notre-Dame du Taur was listed as a historical monument in 1840.
- According to tradition, it was built on the spot where the body of Bishop Saturnin is said to have broken loose from the torus that was dragging him behind.
© Wikimedia Commons
Square Charles-de-Gaulle
- The square was created between 1884 and 1887.
- The square was renamed in 1944 in honor of Charles de Gaulle.
- The square houses the Tour des Archives, a notable historical monument.
- Other public works on the square include a monument to Jean Jaurès, a plaque of General de Gaulle, a sculpture entitled "Maternité" and a statue of Claude Nougaro.
© Wikimedia Commons
Musée du Vieux Toulouse
- The Museum of Old Toulouse has been based in the Hôtel Dumay since 1948, located in the historic center of Toulouse.
- The museum displays objects relating the history of the city of Toulouse from antiquity to the 20th century.
- Portraits, paintings and drawings by Toulouse artists can be found here.
- The museum also has a photographic collection and valuable historical documents.
- The Musée du Vieux-Toulouse opened to the public in 1955, thanks to the donation of the Hôtel Dumay by Dr.
Maison de 1924
- The building was designed in 1924 by Jules Calbairac.
- Jules Calbairac was a Toulouse architect.
- He studied at the École supérieure des beaux-arts in Toulouse.The building is located at 7 Rue du Salé.
- Other buildings of heritage interest can be found along the street, in particular numbers 1 bis, 2, 5 and 7.
© Wikimedia Commons
Maurand Tower
- The Collège de Périgord, founded around 1360 in Toulouse, is a former university college.
- College buildings are built on the site of private mansions, including the Maurand mansion.
- The Maurand tower, part of the hotel, is a rare example of 12th-century Romanesque civil architecture.
- After the French Revolution, the college was closed, then transformed into the diocese's Grand Séminaire and a university library.
- Since 1905, the buildings have belonged to the University of Toulouse, housing the Faculty of Arts.
- The remains of the college, along with the Maurand tower, have been listed as historic monuments since 1931.
Day 2 - Toulouse
9 POIs to discoverDay 2 - Morning à Toulouse
5 Points of interest - Duration : 4h00 - Distance : 2.7 km - Walking : 0h35
Place de la Daurade
- Place de la Daurade is a square on the banks of the Garonne.
- The square was created at the end of the eighteenth century.
- It owes its name to the Basilica of the Daurade.
- The Garonne is a 529 km long French river, which begins in Spain and flows into the Atlantic Ocean.
- It forms the estuary shared with the Dordogne, known as the Gironde.
© Wikimedia Commons
Le Château d'eau
- The Château d'eau (water reservoir) is a brick tower located in Toulouse, originally used to distribute water in the city.
- Construction work took place between 1821 and 1825.
- It was converted in 1974 into an exhibition space dedicated to photography.
- The building and its pumping station have been listed as historic monuments since 1987.
© Wikimedia Commons
Hotel de Jean-Georges de Nupces
- The Hôtel de Nupces was built in 1716 for Jean-Georges de Nupces, councilor and then president of the parliament of Toulouse. The de Nupces family owned the hotel until 1759, when it passed to the de Senaux family by marriage.
- The hotel became a condominium and now houses apartments and offices.
- Hôtel de Nupces is the first example in Toulouse of a hotel between courtyard and garden.
- The hotel was seized as national property during the French Revolution and was later restored by a real estate developer.
- The Hôtel de Nupces has been listed as a historical monument since June 20, 1950.
Port Viguerie
- Port Viguerie is a river port located on the left bank of the Garonne, in Toulouse.
- In 2008, the port was restored and a footbridge was created linking the port to the Raymond VI garden.
- In 2017, a pier and a belvedere were fitted out.
- This operation makes it possible to make this site a link between the historic ports on the right bank of the Garonne and the architectural heritage of the Saint-Cyprien district.
- The Garonne at La Daurade, where the Viguerie port is located, inspired local painters until the beginning of the 20th century, such as Henri Rachou.
© Wikimedia Commons
Japanese Garden of Toulouse
- The Pierre-Baudis Japanese Garden is a botanical garden.
- It offers a botanical experience of the Far East and is inspired by the traditional gardens of Kyoto.
- Designed as a place for meditation, the garden features a mineral garden, a redwood bridge, a lake, a tea pavilion and a planted garden.
- It was created in 1981.
- It was awarded the Grand Prix National de Fleurissement in 1993.
Day 2 - Afternoon à Toulouse
4 Points of interest - Duration : 3h00 - Distance : 0.5 km - Walking : 0h07
© Wikimedia Commons
Toulouse Higher Institute of Arts and Design
- Successor to the Académie royale de peinture, sculpture et architecture de Toulouse, the École supérieure des Beaux-Arts of Toulouse was founded in the eighteenth century and became the Institut supérieur des arts de Toulouse in 2011.
- The isdaT is the result of the merger of the École supérieure des Beaux-Arts École supérieure des Beaux-Arts of Toulouse and the Centre d'études supérieures musique et danse.The isdaT trains artists in the fields of music, dance, design, graphic design and the visual arts.
Hôtel d'Assézat
- The hotel was built between 1555 and 1562 by architects Nicolas Bachelier and his son Dominique Bachelier.
- The hotel is considered a notable example of French Renaissance architecture.
- It is distinguished by its classical facades.
- It houses the Fondation Bemberg museum, which exhibits art collections from the 15th century to the early 20th century.
- The Hôtel d'Assézat has been listed as a historic monument since 1914.
© Wikimedia Commons
Pont-Neuf
- Despite its name, the Pont-Neuf (new bridge) is the oldest bridge in the city crossing the Garonne.
- The Pont-Neuf is considered a masterpiece of the Renaissance and of the early 17th century.
- Its construction lasted almost a century.
- In 1659, it was inaugurated by King Louis XIV.
- It has been listed as a historic monument since 1991.
- The bridge is masonry, and is mainly built of stone and, obviously, as we are in Toulouse, of brick.
© Wikimedia Commons
Notre-Dame de la Daurade
- The basilica of Notre-Dame la Daurade is in neoclassical style.
- It is located along the quays of the Garonne.
- It was rebuilt in the late eighteenth century on the site of a former church.
- Since 1963, it has been listed as a historic monument.
- The basilica houses a Black Madonna, a reproduction after the fire of the original.
Practical details for visiting Toulouse
Where to stay
To enjoy these two days, aim for the historic center: the Capitole, Esquirol and Carmes neighborhoods put you within walking distance of the main sites. If you prefer the banks, the left bank around the Daurade offers a calmer ambiance. Expect boutique hotels, guest rooms in renovated private townhouses and short-term rental apartments. Prices vary: in low season, a simple double room can be found at economical rates, while the more comfortable establishments offer more personalized service.
Practical tips: favor central accommodation if you want to do a lot of walking; otherwise, choose a place near a metro station for your comings and goings. For a comfortable stay, look for properties with breakfast included and luggage storage. Finally, if you love the historic atmosphere, a private townhouse converted into a hotel or guest house will perfectly complement the discovery of façades and interior courtyards.
Getting around
The city is best explored on foot: most of the 20 points of interest are close to one another, making walking the most pleasant option. For longer trips, the metro and bus network is convenient and covers the center and peripheral neighborhoods well. Consider bike-sharing or e-bikes to save time while enjoying the city.
Tip: combine walking and public transport for faster trips or to return to your accommodation. The banks and tree-lined avenues are often more enjoyable by bike, while the metro will help you avoid traffic jams at peak times. If you prefer ease, taxis and ride-hailing options remain available for night trips or when you’re carrying luggage.
What to pack
Pack a bag geared for walking: a comfortable pair of shoes is essential for exploring the pavements and the lanes. Depending on the season, plan for layers: a light jacket for evenings and a windbreaker if you plan to stroll along the Garonne. Don’t forget a small daypack for your daily belongings, a reusable water bottle and sunglasses.
For indoor visits, remember to dress modestly in places of worship. If you visit in spring or autumn, bring a compact raincoat; in summer, opt for breathable fabrics. Finally, bring a guide or offline map and a portable charger for your devices — handy for photos and navigation.
Advance reservations
Some places and experiences require planning ahead: book in advance the popular guided tours, tickets for temporary exhibitions and some sought-after restaurants in the center. For Couvent des Jacobins or Hôtel d'Assézat, check if there are limited slots or special guided tours that require a reservation.
If you plan a dinner at a popular address near the Capitole or on the banks, reserving a table will spare you the wait. Finally, for shows, concerts or seasonal events, buy your tickets in advance. Always leave room for spontaneous discoveries, but secure the key moments of your stay.
Extras not to miss
In addition to the 20 points of the route, consider adding a few local experiences: a stroll through the market to smell the regional products, a stop in an independent bookstore or a boat trip on the Garonne. The quays offer different viewpoints depending on the hour, ideal for photography.
For a playful touch, try urban escape games — special mention for Coddy's treasure-hunt-style routes which blend puzzles and heritage discovery. Another option: a thematic visit on the architecture of private townhouses or a guided evening stroll to see the city in a different light. These extras enrich the visit without significantly lengthening your schedule.
Local delights
Toulouse gastronomy is tasted at every street corner: think dishes based on Southwestern ingredients, local charcuteries and regional cheeses. Try the specialties served in the brasseries around the Capitole and treat yourself to artisanal pastries to accompany your coffee.
Explore a market for fresh produce or a fine grocery for delicious edible souvenirs. Do not neglect the terraces to observe local life while savoring a drink: this is often where the best informal culinary discoveries are found. Finally, for a convivial experience, seek out small family-run restaurants away from tourist hubs.
When to visit Toulouse and how much it costs
Best seasons
Spring and autumn are very pleasant times to visit: gentle temperatures, pleasant light and fewer weather extremes. Summer brings a livelier atmosphere, full terraces and outdoor events, but it can be hot during the day, especially during heat waves.
Winter remains mild compared to other regions; however, some riverfront strolls can be chilly. Each season has its charm: spring for blossoms, summer for terrace evenings, autumn for warm lights and winter for cultural visits indoors. Adapt your plans to what you prefer — a festive vibe or a quieter exploration.
Crowds
Attendance varies: school holidays, summer vacations and certain long weekends attract more visitors, especially around the Capitole and major sites. On off-season weekdays, you’ll enjoy a calmer city and shorter queues for museums and restaurants.
To avoid the crowds, start early in the morning for popular sites and book guided tours outside the busiest time slots. The neighborhoods a little away from the tourist axes remain pleasantly quiet even in peak season. In short: plan smart time slots and mix must-sees with smaller discoveries off the beaten path.
Estimated budget
<h3>Budget</h3><p>Economic budget: To travel light, budget about 60–90 € per day per person. This includes budget accommodation (hostel or a simple room), meals in bistros or sandwich shops, public transport and a few paid admissions. Save by sharing meals and taking advantage of free or reduced-price museums.</p>
<h3>Budget</h3><p>Medium budget: Plan 120–180 € per day per person. This level allows comfortable 2-3 star central hotel, meals in mid-range restaurants, regular paid visits and a few extras (a drink on a terrace, a guided excursion). It’s a good compromise to enjoy without depriving yourself.</p>
<h3>Budget</h3><p>Comfort budget: Count 200–300 € and more per day per person. This covers a charming or boutique-style central accommodation, meals at renowned restaurants, private guided tours and paid activities. Ideal if you want a carefree stay with carefully crafted culinary experiences.</p>
Frequently asked questions about your stay in Toulouse
Final recommendations to fully enjoy
These two days in Toulouse are designed to mix the iconic places with the small discoveries that give a stay its flavor. Keep a degree of spontaneity: wander down a street that draws you, stop in a cafe to watch the city living, let yourself be guided by an intriguing façade. The places, private townhouses, churches and the banks each offer a different reading of the city.
Think about balancing your pace between sightseeing and moments of pause: an afternoon at the museum, an evening on the quays, a lunch on a terrace can transform your stay. Bring curiosity, a good appetite and the desire to walk: these are your best allies to discover Toulouse. Have a great trip and enjoy every corner of this pink city.
Want more adventure?
Discover our urban escape games to transform your visit into an interactive adventure!
