Toulouse, The Pink City (La Ville Rose) charms you with its rosy hues and enchanting Old Quarter. As France’s fourth-largest metropolis, it pulsates with energy and life. There’s plenty to keep you busy in the city, from teeming food markets to its beautiful outdoors and historic spaces. You won’t have to worry about looking for a place to stay here as there are plenty of hotels in Toulouse, France, to suit all budgets.
Despite its vibrant vibe, life in Toulouse moves at a slower pace than the other French cities. People don’t seem to be in a hurry as they go about their lives and even appear to speak slower than their counterparts. If you’re looking to practice your French, you can definitely take your chance here as you explore the top things to do in Toulouse.
Where To Stay In Toulouse
The best hotels in Toulouse, France are spread out in different neighborhoods. However, the city’s top attractions are within a small area so if you’re looking for accommodation near the attractions, you’re sure to find something to suit your budget and style.
The city center is one of the most vibrant areas, with its shopping streets and attractions. The mainly pedestrian-only area is the ideal choice for someone who enjoys getting around on foot. The Saint-Sernin Basilica is one of the top attractions here as is the main square, Place du Capitole.
Compans Caffarelli lies to the north of the city center, close to several schools, universities and businesses. It’s a good place to base yourself if you’re in the city for business. Even for someone who’s in the city for the sights it’s a good place to stay. There’s plenty to do in the area with restaurants, shopping and a large park.
For those looking for a rustic experience, the Carmes district has the feel of a small village and is favored by many hipsters. Food markets, restaurants, and small cafes are in abundance here. You’ll find some great hotels here too, but if you’re looking for more affordable hotels in Toulouse, France, Saint-Michel is a good place. Ultimately where you stay in the city will depend on your needs and personal choice.
Hôtel des Beaux-Arts
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Considered to be one of the oldest hotels in Toulouse, France, the bright modern interiors do not eschew much about the history of Hôtel des Beaux-Arts. However, the hotel goes all the way back to the 1890s.
The hotel derives its name from its location close to the Toulouse School of Fine Arts. Built from the characteristic pink stones of the city, it’s all about art at this hotel located near the Pont-Neuf.
From the bright welcoming lobby to the paintings on display, there’s a special charm to the hotel. Guests will enjoy their stay in the artistically designed rooms with their antique objects and bright murals. This hotel is also one of the few hotels in the city that have amazing views of the river Garonne. A buffet breakfast is served for an extra fee every morning. The vaulted breakfast room is typically Toulouse. For other dining options, head to the La Brasserie Les Beaux-Arts adjacent to the hotel. There are plenty of other restaurants in the vicinity of the hotel.
Villa du Taur
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One of the best centrally located hotels in Toulouse, France, that offers a bit of peace and quiet is the Villa du Taur. Located within walking distance of Place du Capitole, the hotel is a tranquil space not too far from the attractions. You’ll find a few small bars and cafes nearby while Saint-Senin Basilica is just 100 meters away. If you’re interested in exploring other parts of the city, it’s about a 10-minute walk from here.
The focus of many hotels in Toulouse, France is on art and this hotel is one such example. You’ll find modern art, abstract paintings, and graphic prints in public spaces and guest rooms. You can look forward to bright rooms that are offset by white walls. The lowest category rooms are a bit small but given the large windows and open layout, they don’t feel cramped.
You’ll find a bar on site for pre-dinner drinks and an excellent restaurant too. In good weather, the terrace is a great place to enjoy a glass of gin or other drinks.
Appart Hôtel Clément Ader
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For those who enjoy a larger space when traveling, the Appart Hôtel Clément Ader is one of the more spacious hotels in Toulouse, France. Located in a private courtyard, just a stone’s throw from the busy Rue Bayard, the location is suited to families who prefer some distance from the bustle. It’s just 10 minutes by foot to the Place du Capitole from here while the train station is two minutes away.
Providing four star service, the Appart Hotel sports a modern, bright décor fusing splashes of bold colors with neutrals. You can choose from a mix of double studios and two-bedroom apartments which come with private balconies or terraces. Smart open plan kitchens have everything that you’ll need to prepare a meal if you choose to dine in.
You can look forward to excellent service at the apartments, one of the reasons why it’s often difficult to find a vacancy here. There’s daily housekeeping so you won’t have to worry about washing up what you’ve used. Outside the rooms, you’ll find a heated pool that is directly linked to the indoor hot tub. A good fitness center, sauna and ice machines on each floor are available for guests.
Hôtel de Brienne
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Families will love the four-star Hôtel de Brienne located in a peaceful neighborhood north of the city. It’s just 10 minutes from the airport and a 20-minute walk to Place du Capitole. Some of the city’s attractions like the historic church of St-Pierre-des-Cuisines and the Japanese Gardens are about 10 minutes by foot.
Hôtel de Brienne is one of the only hotels in Toulouse, France, the city center that offers free parking. This, combined with the amenities, funky décor, and works of art in various spaces, make the hotel an appealing option. Contemporary guest rooms are soundproofed and air-conditioned and come with a good range of amenities.
Breakfast is not included in the rate but you can enjoy either a continental or buffet breakfast for an extra fee. There’s no restaurant on site but the Patio Lounge is pretty good. It opens out onto the garden patio with its koi pond and olive trees.
Novotel Toulouse Centre Wilson
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Hidden within the pink walls of a listed building in the heart of Toulouse, you’ll find Novotel Toulouse Centre Wilson. It’s on the oval of the Place Wilson which makes it one of the more convenient hotels in Toulouse, France for sightseeing. A leisurely 15-20 minute stroll will take you to most of the museums or sights. If you prefer a quiet day, Place Wilson is a great place to while away your time with its cafes, restaurants, and an old-fashioned carousel.
This hotel stands out from the other hotels of the Novotel brand with its classy interiors. The glass and ironwork roofed lobby is bright and welcoming as are most of the public spaces. Spacious guest rooms come equipped with a good range of amenities and comfortable bedding.
Begin your day with a sumptuous breakfast at the glass-ceiling breakfast room, or stop at the terrace of the Brasserie du Capoul for people watching. Besides the view from the terrace, you can enjoy some great specialties at this restaurant which is linked to the hotel. Another standout at the hotel is the well-equipped fitness room which also features a whirlpool tub, sauna, and hammam.
La Cour des Consuls Hotel and Spa Toulouse-MGallery
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With its quiet location in the historic Carmes neighborhood, La Cour des Consuls Hotel and Spa Toulouse-MGallery gives you the best of both worlds. It’s one of the more luxurious hotels in Toulouse, France, by Sofitel that combines history and class. Spread across two historic buildings, from the 16th and 18th century, the hotel has retained many of the original features. Wooden beams, a wrought iron staircase, a period fireplace, and other classic elements add to the charm of staying here.
When compared to the decor of the public spaces the guest rooms are a bit of a letdown. Though the rooms are tastefully designed, the nod to the hotel’s heritage is missing. They’re more contemporary and a little dull except for the pops of color on the beds and curtains. That being said, all rooms are quite spacious with large bathrooms.
The hotel boasts a Michelin starred restaurant, Le Cénacle, where you can indulge in the five-course gourmet menu or a la carte. Apart from the delectable food, the highlight of dining here is the grand fireplace from the 16th century that occupies center-stage. You’ll also find a Champagne Bar open for pre-dinner drinks. Other amenities you can look forward to are a fitness room and spa and a tearoom (tisanerie) where you can treat yourself to healthy snacks and herbal infusions.
Mercure Toulouse Centre Saint Georges Hotel
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The Mercure Toulouse Centre Saint-Georges Hotel also enjoys a prime downtown location, so if you’re looking for hotels in Toulouse, France near the main attractions this is as good as any. A five-minute walk will bring you to the Central Place du Capitole and the fine arts museum. The lively area is also teeming with restaurants and cafes.
You can look forward to beautiful interiors at the Centre Saint Georges hotel, beginning with the bright lobby. Spacious guest rooms are done up in soothing tones, offset by a colorful mural behind the bed. You’ll find big, comfy beds and a good range of amenities for a comfortable stay. Those in the city for a longer time can book a self-catering apartment.
There’s a narrow lap pool on the first floor garden terrace that’s only heated for a few months. You won’t find an onsite restaurant but the Mahogany Club bar in the lobby is open from 7pm onwards.
Hôtel des Arts
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What was once a historic townhouse has been transformed into the chic Hôtel des Arts. Located opposite the Musée des Augustins (fine arts museum), the hotel’s appeal lies in its décor. Although the hotel only has a limited number of rooms it stands out as one of the best boutique hotels in Toulouse, France. Guest rooms pay homage to various genres of the Arts. So you’ll find rooms dedicated to music, literature, and sculpture.
Exposed brick walls, uneven ceilings, and tasteful furnishings add to the charm of staying here. Even though the hotel is centrally located, the noise from the street does not filter in. Given the size of the property don’t expect any big amenities here. In-room amenities are also quite limited. However, what you can look forward to is an excellent service. Breakfast is not included in the room rate but you can enjoy a good breakfast for an extra fee. As there is no restaurant or bar, breakfast is delivered to your room.
Le Grand Balcon
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The name Le Grand Balcon Hotel sits well on this historic hotel with its sleek interiors. Once a former guest house for aviators, the hotel’s key design elements derive inspiration from flight and travel. You’ll find cloud murals in all rooms and large black and white portraits of famous pilots in the bar.
Tastefully designed guest rooms come with plush carpets, fluffy bedding, and sleek light fittings. Double windows ensure that you’ll enjoy a peaceful night’s sleep. One of the more unique rooms is the Saint-Exupéry Suite which has been preserved with the original flooring, sink, and bidet.
Breakfast is not included in the rate but guests can enjoy a good spread for an extra fee. There’s no restaurant on-site either but the bar is open till the early hours of the morning. the hotel also offers guests in-room massages.
If you’re wondering about the hotel’s location it couldn’t get better than this! Le Grand Balcon is one of the best-located hotels in Toulouse, France just of Toulouse’s main square. While the nearest metro station is just four minutes’ walk from here, the other attractions are about 10 minutes by foot.
Mama Shelter
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Tucked behind the facade of an old movie theater, you’ll find one of the more charming hotels in Toulouse, France, the Mama Shelter. Although it’s not located in the best part of town, the hotel is within easy walking distance to many of the city’s main attractions.
Like most of the hotels of this brand, Mama Shelter has a fun, funky vibe. You can see this in the public spaces, the lifts, and the guest rooms. Mismatched furniture, jazzy cushions, and funky artwork add to the hotel’s appeal. Guest rooms are more toned down but still exhibit clean playful touches such as masks on the lamps and pops of color. All rooms have more or less the same décor but where they differ is in the size.
The hotel’s onsite restaurant and bar are extremely popular with locals and guests, especially the rooftop terrace. It’s only the second one in Toulouse which is another reason for its popularity. On some nights you can enjoy live music or a DJ. Though breakfast is not included in the rate, it’s worth the extra euros with its lavish spread.
Other extras that you can look forward to at Mama Shelter are a small basketball court, a ping pong table and pétanque. The standout however, is the underground cinema which screens films four times a week.
Grand Hotel de l’Opera
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One of the best hotels in Toulouse, France in terms of location and amenities is the Grand Hotel de l’Opera. Occupying a prime position just off the bustling Place du Capitole, it places you within easy reach of a number of attractions. It’s only an eight-minute walk to the Saint-Sernin Basilica and Garonne River while the Capitole Metro station is a minute away.
History seeps into every corner of the hotel that is spread over two historic buildings, one which was a former 17th-century convent. However, the décor is far from dated with its lavish furnishings and tasteful colors making one feel like they’ve taken a step back into an opulent past. This extravagance spills over into the guest rooms which may not be to everyone’s taste. Bold reds or sunny yellow themes and patterned walls in guest rooms make them feel quite outlandish, but they definitely add to the appeal of staying here. Some rooms may feel a little small, given the hotel’s past but they’re comfortable and cozy.
Step out of your room and you’ll step into more luxury at the bar or restaurant. Velvet armchairs and bright interiors make the bar an excellent place to hang out at the end of the day. Head to the Restaurant Brasserie for a delightful meal or to the Michelin star Les Jardins de l’Opera for a gastronomic treat. If you want a bit of pampering head to the small spa with treatment rooms and a sauna.
Recommended Restaurants / Bars in Toulouse:
- Les Caves de la Marechale – Indulge in a unique dining experience at this restaurant located underground in a 12th-century priory. The food here is the traditional fare from the south-west of France.
- Les Jardins de l’Opera – This Michelin-starred restaurant located in the Grand Hotel de l’Opera serves up a delectable gastronomic treat.
- Michel Sarran – Another of Toulouse’s gems is this two Michelin star restaurant where you can enjoy a scrumptious, artistically presented meal.
Recommended Activities In Toulouse:
- Basilica of Saint Sernin – One of the most popular landmarks in the city, is the well-preserved Romanesque church also built from the rose-hued stones that the city is so famous for. The interiors of the church are quite spectacular, especially the ambulatory with its 11th-century marble reliefs.
- Place du Capitole – The beating heart of Toulouse is this grand main square that showcases the best of the city’s classic architecture. It’s bustling with people on Sundays.
- Private Walking Tour – Take in all the sights of the city on this 2.5-hour private walking tour that can be customized for your convenience.
