Relax at the Canal du Midi
The Canal du Midi is one of France’s greatest engineering achievements and has been recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1996. Constructed between 1666 and 1681 under the direction of engineer Pierre-Paul Riquet, the canal was built to connect the Atlantic Ocean with the Mediterranean Sea, eliminating the need for ships to sail around Spain. Stretching approximately 240 kilometres, it passes directly through Toulouse before continuing towards the Mediterranean coast. Today, the canal is no longer used primarily for commercial transport but has become one of the region’s most popular leisure attractions. Visitors can enjoy scenic boat cruises, rent bicycles along its shaded towpaths, or simply stroll beneath the magnificent rows of centuries-old plane trees. The peaceful atmosphere, charming locks, elegant bridges, and abundant wildlife make the Canal du Midi one of the most relaxing places to experience Toulouse while appreciating one of the greatest civil engineering projects of the 17th century.
Explore the Place du Capitole
The Place du Capitole is the heart of Toulouse and has been the city’s main gathering place for centuries. Measuring over 12,000 square metres, this vast square is surrounded by elegant cafés, restaurants, and historic buildings, making it one of the liveliest places in the city. Dominating the square is the magnificent Capitole, an impressive neoclassical building that has served as Toulouse’s City Hall since the 12th century and also houses the renowned Théâtre du Capitole, home to one of France’s leading opera companies. The façade, built from the city’s characteristic pink terracotta bricks and white stone, features eight marble columns representing the original capitoul districts that once governed Toulouse. Inside, visitors can admire the magnificent Salle des Illustres, a richly decorated ceremonial hall inspired by the Hall of Mirrors at Versailles, featuring elaborate frescoes, sculptures, and gilded decorations. Throughout the year, the square hosts Christmas markets, concerts, festivals, sporting celebrations, and public events, making it a vibrant meeting place for both locals and visitors.
Discover the Basilica of Saint-Sernin
The Basilica of Saint-Sernin is one of the finest examples of Romanesque architecture in Europe and is recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Built between the 11th and 13th centuries, it was designed to accommodate the thousands of pilgrims travelling along the Camino de Santiago (Way of St. James). Named after Saint Saturnin (Saint Sernin), the first bishop of Toulouse, the basilica commemorates the martyr who, according to tradition, was dragged through the streets by a bull after refusing to renounce his Christian faith. The church is renowned for its magnificent five-storey octagonal bell tower, soaring over 60 metres high, and its vast interior, which contains beautiful Romanesque sculptures, stained-glass windows, and one of Europe’s richest collections of medieval relics. The peaceful ambulatory allows visitors to admire the radiating chapels while appreciating the remarkable craftsmanship of medieval builders. As one of Toulouse’s most iconic landmarks, the basilica remains an active place of worship and an essential stop for pilgrims and history enthusiasts alike.
