7 Charming Villages & Cities to Visit Near Toulouse
THE PERFECT DAY TRIP IN OCCITANIE
Nestled amidst the picturesque landscapes of Occitanie (the southernmost region in France), lies a tapestry of enchanting villages that encapsulate the region's rich history and vibrant culture.
With narrow cobbled streets lined with painted shutters, ancient medieval buildings filled with history, and blooming flower boxes adorning every corner, these villages exude a timeless charm that captivates all who visit.
Steeped in history, and decorated with the warm hospitality of its inhabitants, a visit to these villages is nothing short of a journey back in time.
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Here are 7 recommendations for villages and cities to visit in Occitanie. All being around 1 hour or less from Toulouse, the capital of the Occitanie region.
Disclaimer: In this article be prepared for us to overuse the words “cobblestone streets” and “picturesque”. Unfortunately, when describing France, it has to be done!
1. BRUNIQUEL
(1-hour drive from Toulouse)
“Bruniquel is not just a charming French medieval village, it is a mysterious place for me. If you come in summer or winter, there is magic in the streets because nature is everywhere, and the village is owned by friendly cats, its guardians. The architecture will surprise you, you will feel like you are alone, everyone getting lost in the narrow streets or in the castle’s gardens.”
Nestled in the picturesque Tarn Valley is the charming village of Bruniquel.
With its quaint medieval architecture and cobblestone streets, wandering through Bruniquel feels like you’re stepping into a living fairy tale.
The village is famous for not one but two castles which stand side by side, overlooking the village. Both fortresses are perched on a rocky outcrop 300 feet above the river below and offer marvelous views of the surrounding countryside. A wonderful terraced garden surrounds the castles. Filled with flowers, they’re mimicked through the narrow street which descends down the hill.
Exploring the narrow alleyways, you'll discover charming boutiques showcasing local handicrafts and delightful cafes serving regional cuisine.
Tip: Walk to the Pont de Bruniquel (a bridge over the Ayeyron River) to see the views of Château de Bruniquel from below. Here you can really appreciate how high up the château sits, and how close it is to the drop.
➜ Here are hotel options in Bruniquel
➜ Our recommendation: Have Lunch at Chez Pigassou then take one of the hiking trails to explore the surrounding woodlands. Here are a view route suggestions.
Bruniquel is listed as one of “the most beautiful villages in France”! Head to this article by the Guardian to see what they have to say about Bruniquel.
2. MONTAUBAN
(1-hour drive from Toulouse)
“Montauban is a very peaceful place. I love the architecture but also the spirit of the city. The shops are small but charming, there are many nice restaurants that aren’t expensive. The harbour on the canal is the perfect spot to read under a tree if it is sunny, and the Ingres Bourdelle Museum is where to go if it’s rainy. My favourite spot is Place Nationale, here you can stay all day if you want, for breakfast, lunch, apéritif or dinner. Watch the light change and be surrounded by people going to work or relaxing”
Located in the Tarn et Garonne region of Occitaine, Montauban is a captivating city that blends history, culture, and natural beauty. Known as the "Pink City" due to the distinctive pale pink colour of the buildings, Montauban offers a picturesque and charming urban landscape steeped in a rich heritage.
Wander through the picturesque streets and discover the iconic landmark “Place Nationale” (the National Square). With its splendid arcades and impressive brick archways (each one being a different size) the historical square is filled with vibrant cafes and restaurants, colourful boutiques, and dessert shops.
This bustling hub of activity lined with ornate facades is filled with children playing in the water fountains, locals indulging in apéritifs listening to live music, and visitors window-shopping.
Apart from its architectural wonders, Montauban is also a cultural hub, with numerous museums, art galleries, and theatres showcasing its artistic heritage. Visit the renowned Ingres Museum, which houses an impressive collection of works by the painter Jean-Auguste-Dominique Ingres.
The city's idyllic location on the banks of the Tarn River is perfect for a stroll along the riverfront. Here you can admire the colourful buildings' reflection in the water and the delightful green spaces. Keep your eye out for vibrant street art which adorns the wall with bursts of colour and creativity.
➜ Our recommendation: Visit the Antoine restaurant. Watch the chef cook your meal over an open fire while you enjoy the warm ambience, local wine and good conversation.
➜ Here are hotel options in Montauban
3. CORDES-SUR-CIEL
(1 hour & 10-minute drive from Toulouse)
The captivating hilltop gem of Cordes-sur-Ciel is known as “The town that touches the sky”.
The picturesque village is listed in The Times article “The most beautiful villages of France” and when you visit you’ll understand why!
Founded in 1222, Cordes-sur-Ciel is one of the oldest fortified towns in Occitanie. The medieval village is filled with cobblestone streets lined with charming half-timbered houses that snake up to the peak of the village. With fortified doors, ramparts, and carved Gothic facades, the village transports you to the Middle Ages.
Make your way up the hill, admiring each individual building as you ascend higher and higher till you reach the top. From there you can enjoy the vibrant markets, artisan shops, and local cuisine while enjoying the panoramic view of the Cérou valley.
➜ Our recommendation: The viewpoint of Cordes-sur-Ciel is a must-visit! Only a 10-minute walk down a dusty track and you’ll find the best view in Occitanie!
Sometimes being immersed in the village, you can’t fully appreciate the location, scale and landscape of where you are. So by visiting this viewpoint and seeing Cordes-sur-Ciel from afar, you can experience the beauty of the village inside and out.
➜ Here are some hotel options in Cordes-sur-Ciel
4. PENNE
(1-hour & 15-minute drive from Toulouse)
The tiny village of Penne is topped by the majestic ruins of the Château de Penne, a medieval castle that’s precariously perched on top of a rocky outcrop.
Standing majestically atop a rugged cliff, this remarkable 12th-century fortress has a strategic position overlooking the surrounding landscape and river Aveyron.
➜ Our recommendation: Have a meal at Café des Mesures. This cafe is up a cobbled lane under the ramparts of the castle. Here you can relax on the terrace while overlooking the Forest of Grésigne.
Tip: It’s only a 10-minute drive between the villages of Bruniquel and Penne so you can visit both in the same day.
5. ALBI
(1-hour drive from Toulouse)
Albi, known as the “Red Brick City”, sits on the Tarn River and has been a UNESCO site since 2010.
The city has a rich medieval and Renaissance past. Filled with red brick buildings, and monuments which give the city its nickname. The two most prominent buildings are the Saint Cecilia Cathedral, which fully dominates the Albi skyline, and the Toulouse-Lautrec Museum.
The Toulouse-Lautrec Museum reveals the artistic genius of Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec, a renowned painter who was born in Albi. Stepping into this architectural gem, visitors are transported into the compelling world of Belle Époque. The museum houses an extensive collection of Toulouse-Lautrec's works, displaying his mastery of colour, and composition, and capturing the essence of Parisian nightlife.
➜ Our recommendation: Just below the museum is the Les Jardins de la Berbie. A botanical gem, these gardens date back to the 13th century and sit right on the Tarn River. Have a tranquil escape from the city and wander through the well-manicured pathways and enchanting colourful displays of flowers.
Tip: If you want to visit multiple attractions then purchase the Albi City Pass. The pass includes:
The Albi sightseeing pass, Albi shopping pass & Albi restaurant pass
Prepaid entry to the Saint Cecilia Cathedral & the Toulouse-Lautrec Museum
Over 25 discounted offers on cafes and restaurants
➜ Here are hotel options in Albi
6. RIEUX-VOLVESTRE
(45-minute drive from Toulouse)
Rieux-Volvestre is a charming little village nestled in the Haute-Garonne region which embraces the slower pace of life.
This idyllic village, with its narrow cobblestone streets and timber-framed houses, is built with small red bricks typical of the region which adds to its charm. The fortified brick-built, gothic-style Cathedral is the main stage in the village. With an unusual octagonal bell tower that overlooks the village and surrounding river.
Tip: There are multiple benches right by the river. Buy some lunch from the village bakery and relax by the river Arize. Watch the locals fishing, listen to the birds, and enjoy your picnic.
➜ Here are hotel options in and around Rieux-Volvestre
7. LUPIAC
(1 hour & 30 minute drive from Toulouse)
Lupiac is the renowned birthplace of the legendary musketeer D'Artagnan.
Visit the Musée d'Artagnan de Lupiac (the oldest classified building in the village) which is dedicated to the musketeer and his adventurous life.
➜ Our recommendation: If you want to have a beach day head to Lac De Lupiac where you can dip your toes in the water and sunbathe on the sand! A little hidden gem just a 2-minute drive from the village.
➜ Here are hotel options in and around Lupiac
While in Lupiac head to Domaine de Bilé. Rows of vines line the hillside and sit right by Lac de Saint-Laurent. A family-run company, spanning multiple generations, the estate perpetuates the art of crafting exceptional Armagnac.
Tour the vineyard, meet the family, and have a tasting. (We definitely walked away with a bag of clinking bottles!)
Then for lunch head to Auberge de La Baquère for a special meal. Meet the talented chef who’ll explain your chosen meal, and suggest local wine pairings.
WHERE TO STAY IN OCCITAINE
Here are the links to the hotels and B&B’s we stayed in while on our trip in Occitaine
We hope that this article has inspired you to visit! If you have any other suggestions or have any questions please let us know in the comments below.
Our trip to Occitanie was in partnership with the Destination Occitanie. Head to @tourisme_tarn_et_garonne , @tourismegers, @tourismetarn, @tourismehg & @tourisme.occitanie for more inspiration!
