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Amidst the complex Covid-19 pandemic, many cities in France, including Toulouse, have implemented restrictions such as: all restaurants, bars, as well as museums, cinemas, and theaters must close, with only shops, grocery stores, and churches allowed to remain open. Wearing face masks is mandatory throughout the city, and residents are asked to practice social distancing as much as possible.
The suburbs of Toulouse have become eerily quiet, with many streets virtually deserted. The city only bustles in the mornings, when many people go shopping for necessities or line up to get tested for Covid-19.
But this setting offers visitors to Toulouse a fresh perspective. Toulouse is not pretentious or flashy, but utterly tranquil. You can focus on observing the city's architecture, learning its history, and grasping its original essence without being distracted by noisy crowds. You can spend time admiring Toulouse's Romanesque buildings. You can feel the intimate vibes in the winding cobblestone streets of the medieval city center. You can stroll along the quiet banks of the Garonne River. And so, your trip becomes more pleasant and incredibly memorable.
Toulouse is the fourth largest city in France (after Paris, Lyon, and Marseilles) and is a 4-hour, 30-minute train ride from Paris. With its extensive network of universities, the city boasts a large student population, making it a vibrant city renowned for its lively nightlife. Historically, the city has been influenced by Spanish and Arab cultures, evident in its distinctive cuisine, language, and architecture.
Despite being a large city, Toulouse's center is relatively small, allowing visitors to easily walk to all the most important landmarks. With its charming old-world architecture and serene, picturesque natural scenery, it's an ideal destination for anyone. Furthermore, Toulouse is renowned as the cleanest city in France, free from smog and boasting exceptionally fresh air.
For the French, Toulouse is known for its relaxed lifestyle, proud locals, aerospace industry, rugby fans, the culture of enjoying drinks on the banks of the Garonne, eating Cassoulet (duck and bean stew), and being known as "La Ville Rose" (The Rose City).
Why is Toulouse called "La Ville Rose" (The Pink City)? It's because pink bricks and tiles were used to build many of the city's buildings, giving Toulouse its unique charm. Depending on the firing time, these bricks (called "briques foraines") can be light pink, coral pink, or deep orange. The color of the bricks also changes depending on the time of day – vibrant pink at sunset, pale pink in the sun, and deep pink in the rain.
Highlights of Toulouse
Garonne River
Toulouse boasts the Garonne River, often described as a stunning watercolor painting. The Garonne is the largest river in France, its banks lined with quintessential French scenery: ancient houses clustered together, and rows of lush, old trees stretching along the banks.
You can stroll under the trees, breathe in the fresh air, and explore the historic bridges spanning the tranquil river.
Neuf Bridge
Spanning the Garonne River, the Neuf Bridge is one of Toulouse's most fascinating tourist attractions. Built in the 16th century, the Neuf Bridge is the central bridge connecting the two banks of the city. Standing on this bridge, you can observe most of the famous landmarks around and relax while watching the Garonne River flow gently. In addition, a telescope is installed on the bridge to help visitors get a panoramic view of the entire city of Toulouse.
Saint-Sernin Cathedral
Considered one of the city's largest churches, Saint-Sernin Cathedral is regarded as a top tourist attraction for visitors to Toulouse.
The Saint-Sernin Cathedral was built in the Romanesque style, with elaborate decorative details, from the bell tower to the stained-glass windows. Completed in the 13th century, the cathedral features many areas for visitors to explore, such as the chapel, the six-story clock tower, and the tomb of Saint Sernin.
Midi Canal
Visiting the Canal Midi, with its stunning and incredibly picturesque scenery, you feel as if you are immersed in nature, enjoying the fresh and pleasant atmosphere. Stretching from the city of Toulouse to the port of Sete, the Canal Midi is one of the most important shortcuts connecting the Atlantic Ocean with the Mediterranean Sea. The paths along the canal banks are a popular spot for city residents to stroll and cycle.
