Start your tour at Place du Capitole, Toulouse’s grand central square, dominated by the majestic Capitole, a pink-brick city hall with a neoclassical façade. Admire the zodiac-themed floor mosaics and the square’s lively cafés. From here, stroll north along Rue du Taur, a charming street lined with shops and historic buildings, capturing Toulouse’s vibrant, rosy-hued charm.
After about 10 minutes, stop at Le Bibent (5 Place du Capitole), a belle époque brasserie since 1861, with ornate chandeliers and gilded mirrors. Enjoy a quick lunch of cassoulet (a hearty bean and sausage stew) or a lighter salade Toulousaine, reasonably priced for its historic setting, no reservations needed for the café section, but arrive early to avoid crowds.
Continue north to Basilique Saint-Sernin, a UNESCO-listed Romanesque masterpiece, one of the largest remaining of its kind. Marvel at its octagonal bell tower and intricate portal; pop in for a quick look at the ambulatory’s relics (free entry). Nearby, wander along Rue du Taur to Place Saint-Pierre, a lively square by the Garonne River with views of the Pont Neuf.
Head east into the Vieux Toulouse district, with narrow streets like Rue Saint-Rome, packed with half-timbered houses and boutiques. Stop at La Faim des Haricots (3 Rue du Puits Vert), a quirky, no-reservations vegetarian eatery offering all-you-can-eat buffets of local dishes like lentil stew or ratatouille, arrive promptly to snag a table.
Continue to Couvent des Jacobins, a 13th-century Dominican monastery with a stunning “palm tree” vaulted ceiling. A quick 20-minute visit (small fee) showcases its Gothic serenity, or admire its cloister from the exterior. From here, stroll south along Rue Lakanal to Place Saint-Georges, a charming square with terraces and elegant 19th-century buildings.
Loop west to Rue d’Alsace-Lorraine, Toulouse’s upscale shopping street, lined with fashion boutiques and patisseries. For a sweet treat, visit Pâtisserie Conté (47 Rue du Languedoc), a local favourite for a coffee or hot chocolate with a violet-flavoured macaron, a Toulousain speciality, no bookings needed, but expect a queue.
End your tour at Quai de la Daurade, a scenic riverside promenade along the Garonne, with views of the Dôme de la Grave and the city’s pink-brick skyline. For a final treat, pop into Café des Artistes (13 Quai de la Daurade), a relaxed spot for a glass of Gaillac wine or a tarte aux noix (walnut tart), soaking up Toulouse’s laid-back charm. Alternatively, relax at Le Florida (12 Place du Capitole), watching the vibrant square’s evening bustle unfold.This 3-4 km route captures Toulouse’s pink-brick beauty, Occitan cuisine, and historic allure, perfect for a four-hour stroll. Wear comfortable shoes for the cobbled old town streets and bring a light jacket for Toulouse’s occasionally breezy weather
