48 Hours in Toulouse: A Budget Traveler’s Guide to the Pink City

Known as La Ville Rose (The Pink City) for its distinctive terracotta buildings, Toulouse offers a vibrant and colorful experience at a lower price point than Paris or the Riviera. As France’s fourth-largest city and a major university and aerospace hub, Toulouse blends historic charm with modern energy.

With its relaxed southern pace, rich Occitan culture, and mild weather, Toulouse is perfect for a budget-friendly escape. In just 48 hours, you can enjoy its heritage sites, bustling food halls, scenic riverbanks, and local eats—without stretching your wallet.

A Short History of Toulouse

Toulouse has ancient roots, originally settled by the Volques Tectosages and later conquered by the Romans around 100 BC. It flourished as a key stop on trade routes and developed strong religious and academic traditions during the medieval era.

During the Renaissance, Toulouse became an important center of art and culture, thanks in part to its wealth from woad (a plant used to produce blue dye). Today, it’s known for its aerospace industry and as a center of innovation, while retaining its charming medieval streets, brick facades, and lively atmosphere.

How to Spend 48 Hours in Toulouse: Day 1

Start at Capitole de Toulouse

Begin your exploration at the Place du Capitole, the city’s grand main square. Admire the pink-hued Capitole building, which houses both city hall and a historic theater. The square is a great spot for photos and is free to explore.

Step inside to see the magnificent Salle des Illustres, a ceremonial room adorned with murals and sculptures—free and open to visitors during weekdays.

Walk Through Rue Saint-Rome and Place Saint-Georges

Head south through Rue Saint-Rome, a pedestrian shopping street that leads to the quaint Place Saint-Georges. The area is filled with boutiques, cafés, and charming old buildings.

It’s the perfect area for a mid-morning stroll and to grab a quick pastry or coffee.

Lunch at Victor Hugo Market

Enjoy lunch at Marché Victor Hugo, Toulouse’s central food market. Upstairs, you’ll find local restaurants serving cassoulet, duck confit, and regional specialties starting from €12.

It’s a great place to sample authentic Occitan cuisine at budget-friendly prices.

Visit the Basilica of Saint-Sernin

Walk a few blocks north to the Basilique Saint-Sernin, one of the largest Romanesque churches in Europe and a stop on the Camino de Santiago. Entry is free to the main sanctuary, with a small fee for the crypt and relics.

The basilica’s architecture and peaceful setting make it a cultural and spiritual highlight of any visit.

Dinner at Carmes District

For dinner, head to the Carmes District, a lively neighborhood known for its tapas bars and wine spots. Choose from casual bistros or ethnic eateries with dinner menus around €15.

Don’t miss a glass of Fronton wine, the local red from vineyards near Toulouse.

How to Spend 48 Hours in Toulouse: Day 2

Morning Walk Along the Garonne River

Start your day with a walk along the Garonne River, especially near the Pont Neuf. The early morning light and reflections off the water offer postcard-perfect views.

Cross to Prairie des Filtres park for green space and locals enjoying morning runs or yoga.

Explore Les Abattoirs

Head to Les Abattoirs, Toulouse’s contemporary art museum located in a converted slaughterhouse. Admission is around €8 or free with certain city cards or on the first Sunday of the month.

The rotating exhibitions, sculpture garden, and modernist works offer a creative contrast to the city’s Romanesque landmarks.

Lunch in Saint-Cyprien

Stay in the Saint-Cyprien District for lunch—this multicultural neighborhood is full of affordable restaurants offering international fare.

Grab a falafel wrap, tapas plate, or vegetarian thali for under €10.

Afternoon at Jardin des Plantes

Take tram or bus to Jardin des Plantes, Toulouse’s lush botanical garden. Entry is free and the park includes themed gardens, sculptures, and shady places to rest.

Ideal for unwinding or reading after a busy two days of sightseeing.

Dinner and Drinks in Esquirol

Wrap up your trip in Esquirol, where narrow streets open into hidden squares with affordable dining options. Try aligot (cheese and potato purée) or grilled sausages.

Pair your meal with a local beer or a budget glass of southwest French wine.

What Else to See and Do If You Have More Time in Toulouse

Visit the Aeroscopia Museum

Learn about Toulouse’s aerospace legacy at Aeroscopia, a museum featuring vintage aircraft, including Concorde and Airbus models. Entry is around €14, but discounts and free days are available.

Take the tram to Blagnac and allow 2–3 hours for the full experience.

Explore the Canal du Midi

Rent a bike and ride along the historic Canal du Midi, a UNESCO site lined with plane trees. It’s scenic, flat, and offers many picnic spots.

Bike rentals start around €10 per day. Or simply walk and enjoy the views for free.

See the Jacobins Convent

The Couvent des Jacobins is a Gothic masterpiece with a unique “palm tree” column. Entry to the church is free; small fee for the cloister.

Quiet and serene, it’s a great escape in the city center.

Relax at Grand Rond and Jardin Royal

These two adjoining parks are perfect for a picnic or afternoon break. With fountains, statues, and colorful flowerbeds, they’re among Toulouse’s most beautiful green spaces.

Free entry and often home to weekend music or art events.

Tour Hôtel d’Assézat

This Renaissance mansion houses the Bemberg Foundation, a private art collection with masterpieces from the 15th to 20th centuries. Entry is about €9.

Architecture lovers can admire the mansion’s courtyard for free.

How to Save Money on Your Trip in Toulouse

Even though Toulouse is already more affordable than other French cities, here are a few easy ways to save even more during your trip:

• Use public transportation passes like the Tisséo day pass for unlimited metro, bus, and tram rides.
• Visit museums on free days, like the first Sunday of each month or during cultural events.
• Buy lunch at local markets like Victor Hugo and have a picnic by the Garonne.
• Stay in university areas or near Jean Jaurès for budget-friendly hostels and short-term rentals.
• Bring a reusable water bottle—the tap water is drinkable and public fountains are available.
• Walk between attractions—most of Toulouse’s highlights are within 15–20 minutes’ walk of each other.
• Book in advance for attractions or free tours to ensure access and avoid peak prices.

Final Thoughts on Visiting Toulouse for Budget Travelers

Toulouse is an ideal destination for budget-conscious travelers looking for a blend of southern charm, history, and modern culture. With two days, you can see major landmarks, enjoy local cuisine, and relax in riverside parks—without spending a fortune.

The Pink City is warm, welcoming, and full of low-cost adventures that make it a standout stop on any French itinerary.