France

Toulouse

Discover / France / Toulouse

Affectionately named the ‘Ville Rose’ for its blush-hued buildings, Toulouse is the lively capital of France’s Occitanie region. A dreamy patchwork of pretty shopfronts, centuries-old structures and raucous jazz bars, there’s something for everyone in this French city. In spring, the Jardin Japonais (Japanese Garden) comes alive with pink cherry blossom, while you’ll find the crystal blue waters of the River Garonne perfect for water sports in the summer. Still, there are plenty of things to do in Toulouse all year round, from burning the midnight oil in the city’s cellar bars to sipping vin chaud at the annual Christmas market. If you have more time to explore the surrounding area, you could hike the mountainous terrain of the Pyrenées to the south, see the famous pilgrimage site of Lourdes to the west, or head east for the delights of the Côte d’Azur.

Why you will love France