Toulouse is a city that invites exploration, whether you’re into sampling regional flavors, cycling through vibrant neighborhoods, or soaking up its fascinating history. Its lively markets, renowned gastronomy, and impressive architecture make it an ideal destination for diverse tours. We particularly enjoy the Victor Hugo Market Small Group Tasting Tour because it offers an authentic taste of local life, and the Food & History Tour with a Chef for its unique combination of culinary delights and cultural storytelling. If you want an active way to see the city, the bike tour provides a lively and eco-friendly option, and for a quick overview, the City Sightseeing Bus is a perfect way to get your bearings.
The list below covers a variety of experiences—culinary walks, bike rides, historical excursions, and even artistic sessions—each designed to give you a memorable taste of Toulouse. Whether you’re a foodie, history lover, or simply someone who enjoys a good adventure, you’ll find something that fits your style.
1. Toulouse Victor Hugo Market Small Group Tasting Tour
At number 1, this tour takes you inside Toulouse’s largest market with a native English-speaking guide. It’s perfect if you want to experience local products up close—cheese, wine, French bread—and chat directly with vendors. The tour lasts about 3.5 hours and includes plenty of tastings, making it a delicious introduction to Toulouse’s culinary scene. The guide’s detailed recap email helps you remember what you learned and tasted. With small groups, the tour feels personal, and the reviews tout it as “a high point of our stay,” especially for its engaging guide and insider tips. Note: no seating, so be prepared to stand and nibble your way through the market.
Bottom Line: A lively, authentic food experience that’s ideal for foodies eager to explore Toulouse’s market culture firsthand.
2. Toulouse Food & History Tour with a Chef
Number 2 on our list combines culinary delights with historical insight. Led by a trained chef, this walking tour hits seven spots around Toulouse, where you’ll taste regional dishes and learn about the city’s past. Highlights include exploring the Fondation Bemberg mansion, learning about Toulouse’s 15th-century fire at Quai De La Daurade, and discovering the town’s connection to the Crusades at Couvent Des Jacobins. Your guide not only cooks fresh food along the way but offers stories that bring Toulouse’s history and culture alive. Guests describe it as “best food tour ever,” praising the chef’s knowledge and the variety of samples. This tour is perfect if you want a deep dive into local food and history in one go.
Bottom Line: An immersive experience for those who love cooking demonstrations combined with strolling through Toulouse’s key sights.
3. The essential of Toulouse by bike
Number 3 offers a guided bike ride through Toulouse, covering key landmarks like Saint-Etienne Cathedral, Place du Capitole, and the Basilique Saint-Sernin. The bikes are comfortable, and the route is designed for easy riding, making it suitable for most fitness levels. The tour includes stories about the city’s architecture and history, with stops for photos. Reviews mention how the guide is “extremely informative” and the ride is a great way to see the city without tiring yourself out. The tour lasts about 3 hours and is perfect for travelers who want a quick, active overview of Toulouse’s highlights.
Bottom Line: Great for active travelers who want to combine sightseeing with light exercise on well-paced routes.
4. Toulouse: Carcassonne Day Trip by Coach with Audioguide
Number 4 features a full-day coach trip to the remarkably preserved Cité de Carcassonne. This UNESCO World Heritage site is famous for its medieval walls and castles. The tour includes a self-guided tour of Château Comtal and free time to explore the fortress city. An audio guide in three languages enriches your visit, giving you historical context at your own pace. It’s ideal for those who want an easy day out without the hassle of driving, and reviews praise the well-organized itinerary. If you’re captivated by history and medieval architecture, this is a fantastic day trip.
Bottom Line: A relaxed way to see one of France’s most impressive medieval sites, perfect for history enthusiasts.
5. Toulouse: City Sightseeing Tour by Bus with Audio Guide
Number 5 is a quick, one-hour open-top bus tour of Toulouse. It’s an excellent choice if you’re short on time or prefer a panoramic overview. The tour covers main sights like Toulouse Cathedral and Saint-Sernin Basilica with an audio commentary in 8 languages, making it accessible for all. Several reviewers mention how it’s a “great way to orient yourself” before exploring on foot. It’s a budget-friendly option that’s ideal for first-timers wanting to see the city’s highlights without breaking a sweat.
Bottom Line: Perfect for an efficient overview, especially if you’re limited on time but want to get a feel for Toulouse.
6. Explore Toulouse Wine Bars with a Local Wine Expert
Number 6 is a small-group tour through Toulouse’s wine bars. Led by a local wine expert, you’ll visit 2-3 intimate wine bars in the city center. The tour focuses on wines from southwest France, with tastings of several varietals, paired with local cheeses and charcuterie. Many reviews highlight how knowledgeable and personable the guide is, with guests saying it was “fun and educational.” It’s ideal if you want to relax in cozy settings and learn how to identify French wines. The tour lasts about 2.5 hours, making it a good option for wine lovers seeking authentic local experiences without the pretension.
Bottom Line: A relaxed, educational evening for wine enthusiasts wanting to discover Toulouse’s lesser-known wines.
7. Aeroscopia Admission Ticket
Number 7 is a self-guided visit to Aeroscopia, one of France’s top aviation museums. Located just 25 minutes from Toulouse, it showcases aircraft from WWII fighters to the iconic Concorde. Visitors can walk through real aircraft, including an Airbus A300B and a Concorde, and enjoy interactive exhibits and simulators. Reviewers love how accessible it is, mentioning “lots of educational content” and the chance to “walk through Concorde.” It’s a fantastic option for aviation buffs or families with kids interested in flight history, offering a flexible visit that can last 2-3 hours.
Bottom Line: Perfect for aviation fans and families wanting an interactive, educational day out.
8. Toulouse: Guided Food Tour with Tastings
Number 8 is a guided walking food tour that takes you to hidden culinary spots around Toulouse. In about 3 hours, you’ll sample local specialties, discovering where locals eat and what they enjoy. The tour includes visits to top eateries and includes all food, so you get a real taste of Toulouse’s gastronomic scene. Reviews mention how it’s a “great way to find the best local spots,” with knowledgeable guides sharing insights into regional cuisine. It’s suited for food lovers who want a well-rounded eating experience paired with city sights.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for travelers wanting to combine culinary discovery with sightseeing.
9. Toulouse: Electric Tuk-Tuk Tour with Photo Stops and Audio
Number 9 offers an eco-friendly electric tuk-tuk tour lasting about an hour. It covers over 35 points of interest, including Basilique Saint-Sernin and Pont Neuf, with photo stops and an audio guide. Many reviewers mention the comfort and quietness of the vehicle, making it a great option for families or those less inclined to walk. The guide is friendly and knowledgeable, and the small group size adds a personal touch. It’s a quick but comprehensive way to get a good feel for Toulouse’s main sights.
Bottom Line: Fun, flexible, and suitable for all ages—especially if you prefer a relaxed, low-impact city tour.
10. Take off your clothes and let yourself be drawn!
Number 10 is a truly unique experience—a nude or clothed drawing session in Toulouse. Led by a professional artist, it’s a relaxed, empowering way to explore your creative side. The experience lasts about 1.5 hours, and you can choose your pose, style, and whether to be nude or clothed. Reviewers describe it as “transformative,” with feelings of confidence and liberation. It’s perfect for those wanting a memorable, personal artistic experience or a fun way to connect with themselves.
Bottom Line: A rare, personal experience for anyone curious about art and self-expression, with a high degree of comfort and professionalism.
11. Toulouse Food Tour – A Full French Meal by Do Eat Better
Number 11 offers a full meal experience through 4 stops in Toulouse’s old town. Guided by a local, you’ll enjoy multiple dishes—featuring foie gras, Aligot sausage, and more—while hearing stories about the city’s culinary traditions. The tour lasts about 3.5 hours, and reviews highlight its quality and the guide’s engaging storytelling. This experience is ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive, sit-down meal that showcases Toulouse’s gastronomic heritage in a friendly, social setting.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those seeking a leisurely, full-course introduction to Toulouse’s premier dishes.
12. Photoshoot à La Ville Rose
Number 12 turns your visit into a personal photo session with a professional photographer. You’ll pose at scenic spots like Carmes and Jardin des Plants, receiving over 30 edited HD photos. The experience lasts about an hour and offers a fun, relaxed way to capture your trip’s memories. Reviewers love the personalized service and the beautiful shots that serve as lasting keepsakes of Toulouse’s charming pink architecture.
Bottom Line: An ideal activity for travelers wanting high-quality photos and a memorable souvenir.
13. Toulouse Tour in Electric Tuk Tuk
Number 13 is a 1-hour electric tuk-tuk ride that covers 35+ sights, from Le Capitole to Musee Georges Labit. The small group and quiet vehicle make it a comfortable way to see Toulouse swiftly. Reviewers mention how it’s “fun,” “easy,” and a good way to get an overview without much walking. Stops are quick but enough to snap photos and hear stories, ideal for families or those short on time.
Bottom Line: A quick, engaging way to familiarize yourself with Toulouse’s main highlights.
14. Toulouse: Guided Food Tour with Full Meal and Drinks
Number 14 offers a 3.5-hour guided food tour that takes you through Toulouse’s best eateries. You’ll taste regional dishes and drinks at five different locations, from trendy cafes to historic eateries. Reviewers praise the high quality of the food and the engaging guide’s storytelling. It’s perfect for travelers looking for a relaxed, social experience that combines sightseeing with a full meal.
Bottom Line: A delicious way to experience Toulouse’s culinary scene in a friendly, communal setting.
15. Toulouse: get drawn by an artist
Number 15 is a personal artistic session with an artist, lasting about 1.5 hours. You can choose to be drawn in any pose—portrait, draped, or nude—and pick your preferred style and colors. Reviewers describe it as “relaxing and empowering,” with a professional artist making sure you feel comfortable throughout. It’s a memorable keepsake and a unique way to connect with the city on a personal level.
Bottom Line: A creative, confidence-building activity for those interested in art and self-expression.
How to Choose the Best Tour in Toulouse
Choosing the right tour depends on your interests, budget, and time. If you’re a food lover, the Victor Hugo Market Tasting Tour or the Full French Meal Tour offer authentic, flavorful experiences. For active explorers, the bike tour provides a lively overview, while the electric tuk-tuk is ideal for sightseeing without fatigue. History buffs will enjoy the Carcassonne day trip, and art enthusiasts might love the photoshoot or drawing experience. Budget travelers will appreciate the bus tour or Toulouse Museum visits, and those wanting a personalized touch should consider the small-group tasting or wine bar tour.
Booking early is wise—these tours are popular, especially in peak season. Think about your travel style: for a comprehensive day, the full meal food tour is excellent, while quick visits like the bus tour suit tight schedules. For something memorable, the artistic drawing or photoshoot will leave you with more than just memories.
Final Thoughts
Toulouse offers a broad range of tours suited for almost every traveler. Whether you want to indulge in regional cuisine, cycle past architectural marvels, explore medieval fortresses, or capture your trip in photos, the options are plentiful. For a classic taste of local life, the Victor Hugo Market Tasting Tour is hard to beat, and for a deep cultural dive, the Food & History Tour with a Chef truly stands out. Active travelers will find the bike tour a perfect fit, while those pressed for time can quickly get oriented on the bus tour.
Whatever your interests, booking early ensures you won’t miss out. Toulouse is a city best experienced through its stories, flavors, and scenery—each tour offers a different lens. Pick what suits your style, and enjoy your time in this charming Pink City.
I hope this guide helps you choose the perfect way to explore Toulouse. Each experience promises something unique—so go ahead, book early, and prepare for a memorable trip!
