Toulouse, the capital of Haute-Garonne within the region of Occitanie, is the fourth-largest city in France. With houses and buildings made of pinkish terracotta bricks, Toulouse is therefore often called la Ville Rose (Pink City).

We first took a train from Montparnasse Station to Toulouse Station (~4-5 hours), then head to Tarn by car. Therefore, we managed to spend a day with this pretty pink city.

From Toulouse Station, one can easily explore this compact city on foot. The city centre is fairly walkable, almost like a big’ol country town instead of a capital city. The old quarter, Vieux Quartier, is a huge atmospheric square. Vieux Quartier is surrounded by place du Capitole and Toulouse’s medieval winding lanes and streets. Sipping coffee across the Capitole de Toulouse and people-watching almost had me feel like I was in a Paris – only friendlier.

Capitole de Toulouse

The Capitole is the heart of the municipal administration of Toulouse and its city hall. I strongly recommend that you visit the inside of the Capitole, especially the Petit Versailles. The breathtaking and picturesque view resembles the actual Versailles, minus the insane crowd!

UNESCO World Heritage Sites
Basilica de Sant Sarnin

Toulouse has two UNESCO World Heritage Sites, namely the Basilica de Sant Sernin and Canal du Midi (linked with other cities).

Built between 1080 and 1120, Basilica de Sant Sernin is the largest remaining Romanesque building in Europe. It was constructed with pinkish terracotta bricks, graced by an elegant spire and an octagonal tower. It was once a significant basilica on the medieval era’s most important pilgrimage route, and contains the bones of Sant Sernin himself.

Canal du Midi

Often called le Midi, it is a long canal connecting several cities in Southern France. Originally named the Canal Royal en Languedoc, it was one of the greatest construction works in the 17th century.

End of a Date

Finally, the day came to an end! I certainly hope that you’ll fall in love with this pink city as much as I did. I know that one day is definitely not enough to explore the city for what it has to offer.

Well, there’s always a next trip!