Press Kit 2020 Toulouse,The Colourful, Unexpected Vibrant Citybreak and Innovative © P.Daubert ©

Press kit 2020 Toulouse,the colourful, unexpected vibrant citybreak and innovative © P.Daubert ©

www.toulouse-visit.com Welcome to Toulouse!

Knowledgeable, innovative, vibrant, Toulouse is a remarkable destination, ideally situated and not to be missed as a Contacts stop-off on your tours of south-western Press Service France. We’re ready to answer your questions and to help you write the best features Alongside its excellent economic on Toulouse as a holiday destination. performance and status as european Please feel free to contact us capital of aeronautics and space Donjon du Capitole BP 38001 industries, Toulouse showcases the 31080 Toulouse Cedex 6 - France beauty of its heritage, its cultural wealth, its cultural effervescence and its Marine Esch wonderful temperament. Toulouse tourist office Tél. +33 5 34 25 58 21 This subtle cocktail of art de vivre [email protected] and highlights make Toulouse the ideal destination in which to enjoy an Mélissa Buttelli Office de tourisme de Toulouse adventure for a weekend or for a whole Tél. +33 5 61 11 02 36 lifetime. [email protected]

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www.toulouse-tourisme.com Table of contents WELCOME TO TOULOUSE 10 good reasons to visit Toulouse �� 4

HIGHLIGHTS 2020 �� 5

TOULOUSE AN EFFERVESCENT METROPOLIS �� 6 The unmissable districts �� 6 Shopping paradise �� 7 The major events of 2020 �� 8

TOULOUSE CITY OF KNOWLEDGE �� 9 European capital of aeronautics �� 9 Toulouse, city of knowledge and economic powerhouse �� 9 Cultural sites with a scientific vocation �� 10 La Piste des Géants : a unique cultural venue to celebrate the aeronautical adventure �� 11

TOULOUSE FAMILY DESTINATION �� 12 Heritage, monuments and museums! �� 12 Between sky and earth, unique experiences to live in Toulouse �� 12 Go green with kids �� 13 Family friendly transports �� 13 Family friendly restaurants �� 13 Different ways to explore as you have fun �� 13

TOULOUSE A FOODIE DESTINATION �� 14 Gastronomic destination ��.14 Along the Toulouse wines routes...... 15 The markets ...... 15 Specialities of Toulouse �� 16 Time for a sweet break �� 16

TOULOUSE A REMARKABLE HERITAGE �� 17 A Renaissance heritage ��17 Urban renewal �� 17 UNESCO sites �� 18 Converted sites �� 19

EMBLEMS OF TOULOUSE �� 20 Toulouse Capital of Occitania �� 20 Toulouse, rugby destination �� 20 Toulouse “Cité des violettes“ �� 21 Pastel, blue gold of the “Pays de cocagne“ �� 21

3 www.toulouse-tourisme.com www.toulouse-tourisme.com good reasons to visit Toulouse in 2020

1. The capital of Occitania ©Laura Biassette A short hop from the Pyrenees and the Mediterranean, Toulouse is ideally situated in the South-West of France. A city-trip to Toulouse is the ideal way to discover a vast offer of activitie and the must-sees of Occitania : Carcassonne the medieval Cité, Revel and it’s market, Albi and it’s cathedral...

2. Truly colourful Toulouse, known as the Ville Rose («Pink City») for its special brick color architecture, is a city full of other colors: the violet of it’s amblematic flower, the blue given by the local plant «Pastel», the green of it’s gardens and parks...

3. A welcoming city Soissons © Pierre Toulouse is as warm as its weather: conviviality and art de vivre are on the menu with 2,092 hours of sunshine per year on average.

4. A rich heritage Toulouse is a City of Art and History. Bursting with 2000 years of history, the Ville Rose is home to three UNESCO World Heritage sites, such as the famous Canal du Midi.

5. Festive all year round The blend of sunshine, party atmosphere and carefree lifestyle make it a festive and dynamic city that is synonymous with “fiesta”. Not only in

summer, but throughout the years are the terraces filled with people. © N. Raymonde

6. The pleasures of the table Regional wines and produce of Occitania take pride of place: bon viveurs will love the famous cassoulet and the fine wines of the South-West.

7. Nature and walks The city’s 161 parks and gardens extend an invitation to visitors to relax and enjoy a stroll, as do the banks of the River Garonne and the Canal du Midi. Our favorites ? The japanese garden and it’s red bridge or the Jardin des plantes with it’s lovely pond. © C. Sabatier 8. Air and space From the Aeroscopia Museum to the Cité de l’Espace, Toulouse is a must-visit destination for lovers of aeronautics and space exploration.

9. A sporty city Toulouse is also sporty: the focus is on rugby with Stade Toulousain, the local team that has been champion of France and of Europe many times!

10. A unique offer The Ville Rose boasts a unique tourism offer: museums that touch on every

era, industrial sites that have been repurposed as unusual tourism venues... © G. Martin

www.toulouse-tourisme.com www.toulouse-tourisme.com

© jourdenuit - matthieu krieger www.toulouse-tourisme.com its heritage. ofCulture inordertoshowcaseDepartment d’Histoire», afrench label attributed by the • Toulouse labelled «Ville hasbeen d’Art et alike. greater for comfort traders andshoppers and itssquare are alsocompleted,providing • Renovation works at Market Victor-Hugo square. towerbell andtheredevelopment ofthe including the restauration of the building’s Unesco heritagehave cometoanend, • WorksontheBasilique, Saint-Sernin as doestheMuséePaul-Dupuy. inautumn2020, reopens itsdoors museum • TheMuséedesAugustins, FineArts . to theairport ofthecity,June 2020inthenorth-west near convention centre ofToulouse, opensin • this area, «theRamblas» for themselves. completed, allowing pedestrianstoreclaim works at theAlléesJean-Jaurèswere be • In November 2019, the redevelopment StéphaneTourniéstar Chef . things, culinaryworkshops ledby Michelin cycling tourists by offering, amongother welcomes children, walkers school and Mounède, dela •From 2019,theChâteau October MEETT, theexhibitions parkand

The Ville Rose constantly renewsThe Ville itself, here are ourtop infos for 2020.

first hostelaround Toulouse,

HIGHLIGHTS 2020

A lively and bustling city, Toulouse has it’s proximity to Spain to thank for its love of a party. From the end of the day to the aperitif time, the terraces and the banks of the Garonne river start to fill up in an ambiance of conviviality. Here is our guide to the top neighbourhoods.

The unmissable districts The City of Toulouse has made In its historic centre or its The 100,000 students now a priority of walking as a means surrounding districts, the city set the tempo for the city just of transport, by giving itself a provides some unforgettable as the old Spanish refugees network of pedestrian and semi- strolls along well-preserved used to. The terraced steps pedestrian streets. It is best to narrow streets flanked that now descend towards the walk from square to square by ancient façades with River Garonne in Place Saint- if you want to discover the remarkable décor, brick walls Pierre provide a new open-air favourite haunts of the people of that are shrouded in leaves amphitheatre for them to enjoy. Toulouse. and branches that leave gaps The bars in the square fill up through which you can spot every night and the terraces There are the unmissables: the pleasant gardens. The Carmes overflow more often than the epicentre of Toulouse, from neighborhood is also famous for river, especially when rugby the Allées Jean-Jaurès to the its lively ambiance. Around the matches are shown on the big famous place du Capitole, is covered market, the bars and screen at the Bar Saint-Pierre. the favourite playground of restaurants stretch along the Pastis lovers head for Chez Toulouse locals and passing colourful narrow streets. Here, Tonton, who has served it by the visitors. Sports bars, pubs, wine the cuisines of the world and metre for generations, whilst bars, concert halls; everyone can tapas from the South-West sit lovers of beer get in a froth at find their perfect spot. Around alongside pubs and cocktail bars. Bar Basque. the Place du Capitole, visitors can also stroll beneath the It is when the sun goes down The rue Pargaminières, linking arcades to see, under the vaults, that the poetic brilliance of this hotspot for student parties the paintings by Raymond Claude Nougaro is confirmed: with Le Capitole, is the new Moretti representing the major Spain has “pushed its horns” “thirsty street”, with its kebabs events in Toulouse’s history: so far into the city that it now that ease nocturnal hunger from the Cathars to Claude sets its watch to Madrid or pangs and numerous bars and « Nougaro, via Carlos Gardel. Barcelona time. When aperitif cuisine du monde » restaurants. hour arrives, the tapas come out, often created using regional products.

www.toulouse-tourisme.com The rue des Blanchers is more Neglected for a long time like “hungry street”, with by inhabitants of the right << around ten small restaurants in bank, this district was once Top things to do in Toulouse the space of just a few metres. a refuge for the needy, for -Have a drink in the best wine bar in The terrace at the Café des pilgrims along the Way of St the world: The N°5 Wine Bar, selected Artistes, Place de la Daurade, is James and for Spanish exiles. by « The World of Fine Wine » the place to go in order to catch Nowadays, food lovers can -Participate in a “Toulouse by night“ the last rays of sun as its sets treat themselves in the many nocturnal stroll arranged by the tourist across the Garonne. restaurants that reflect the of ce of Toulouse. multicultural nature of the -Dinne in one of the numerous At one end of the Pont Neuf, quarter and take advantage Guinguette bistros that open for the the crowd stands on the of the festivals that bring the summer season (“La Guinguette“ pavement outside Le Filochard riverbanks to life in summer floating restaurant, guinguette “A m’en donné“...). to enjoy the very last rays of (Rio Loco, Toulouse Plages and -Watch a film in its original version sun. its big wheel, Tangopostale) with subtitles at a screening of the open-air cinema by La Cinémathèque More intimate, but de Toulouse in summer. still decidedly festive, -Sample a cocktail and admire the neighbourhoods are also worth view from the new « Ma biche sur le

a detour: Saint-Cyprien and toit » rooftop bar at Galeries Lafayette

its bistros on Le Ravelin and or the Mama Shelter rooftop l’Estrapade squares. -Set off to explore the works of street << art along the streets of Toulouse.

Time to go to bed? The last metro runs at 3 am on Friday and Saturday, whilst self-service hire bikes are available 24/7 ©C. Sabatier ©G. Martin

Shopping paradise Toulouse, always at the cutting edge of fashion, is the birthplace of many famous brands such as The Kooples, Le Comptoir des Cotonniers, Marchand Drapier, 7Robes and Marc Deloche jewellery.

It is also home to young designers of all kinds (fashion, design, craft...) who are rapidly making a name for themselves.

The major chain brands on Rues d’Alsace-Lorraine and Saint-Rome offer all the latest ready-to-wear creations, accessories and cosmetics.

For a more sophisticated wardrobe, head to Rues des Arts, Boulbonne and Croix-Baragnon, as well as Place Victor-Hugo or Place Saint-Georges where you’ll find creations by the greatest names in haute couture.

Vintage fans come from all over France to find the most beautiful pieces in the second-hand shops on Place de la Bourse, and Rues Cujas, Sainte-Ursule and Peyrolières.

Many of the city’s antique dealers are located in the charming little streets in the Saint-Étienne Cathedral quarter. Here, the antique dealers sit alongside mansion houses and passers-by can visit some of the most beautiful squares in the city. Lovers of shopping will delight in the boutiques of the Bouquières quarter and the more curious will gleefully throw open the doors to the cosy little restaurants of the district.

You can also buy second-hand furniture and objects at the monthly second-hand market on Allées François- Verdier.

7 www.toulouse-tourisme.com www.toulouse-tourisme.com The major events of 2020 Toulouse can be sipped leisurelythroughout the year with around one hundred concerts every month, more than sixty festivals covering every field of the arts, unique events dedicated to Latin and Occitan cultures and a circus scene that is renowned throughout the world. Here are the major rendez-vous for 2020.

February: - the Violet festival

March: - Toulouse Carnival

April: - Festival of flamenco

May: - European Museums night - MAP Toulouse is the photography festival for the Ville Rose, a meeting point for young talent and major names in photography. Over several weeks, the entire city transforms into an immense gallery of images, accessible and free for all members of the public.

June: - Rio Loco, music festival - Siestes Électroniques, electromusic festival in Toulouse devoted to emerging cultures, a niche event with great heart that, since its creation in the Ville Rose, has been taken to Paris and other major cities across Europe. The concept? Musical discoveries in a relaxed ambiance, stretching out across the lawns of the Compans Caffarelli public gardens. Exhibitions to remember

• Until November “Moon, Episode II” July-August: - Tangopostale, a nod to Aéropostale, which connected at the Cité de l’espace. Toulouse and Argentina, and a chance to celebrate singer Carlos Gardel, born in Toulouse, the « Tangopostale » international tango • Until June “Extinction” at the festival is set to make the city pulse once again! More than 80 Muséum de Toulouse. events, concerts, shows, balls, conferences, exhibitions and films will bring dancers and spectators together in this enchanting world. • 1st quarter Exhibition by feather - Open-air Cinema at Cinémathèque de Toulouse work artist Maxime Leroy at the To experience cinema “differently”, every summer the courtyard of Musée Paul-Dupuy. the Cinémathèque de Toulouse transforms into an open-air movie • From April to September “The theatre. Over seven weeks, around forty great lms from the history Polish Poster School” at MATOU. of cinema will grace the big screen on the façade of the building. • From 21st September to 21st September: - Piano aux Jacobins, the most important festival October Exhibition by plastic artist dedicated to the piano in France. Hosted in the Jacobins convent, Tatiana Trouvé at the Jacobins a place full of spirituality and history, young and world famous Convent. performers are welcome during the festival. • October “The XIV Century in October: - Toulouse les orgues, Toulouse has a rich and varied organ Toulouse” in conjunction with the Musée de Cluny at the Musée des heritage, including many different styles of instruments from all Augustins. periods of history. The exceptional number of organs in the city (30, 9 of which are classi ed historical monuments) and the surrounding region (370) mean that all kinds of music can be played during this festival. - Cinespaña, Spanish films are in the spotlight at this festival in Toulouse which also extends into the Occitanie region. - Toulouse Métropole Marathon

December: - Christmas Market

www.toulouse-tourisme.com TOULOUSE EFFERVESCENT METROPOLIS ©Cité de l’espace M. Huyhn ©Cité de l’espace

Toulouse is a centre of excellence in the fields of research and innovation: world capital of aeronautics, european capital of Space research, a favourite town for students... Visitors have a multitude of opportunities to awaken their scientific curiosity at original sites...

Toulouse was located far from the fighting and so was selected as the ideal location for the factories. The epic tale of aeronautics began, therefore, “Paris to see, Lyon beneath the Toulouse sun in the Montaudran quarter. After the War, the company turned its to have, Bordeaux to attention to the transportation of mail by air with spend and Toulouse to the establishment of Lignes Aériennes Latécoère. Toulouse became the main hub for the longest learn“ French transatlantic air route that connected France with West Africa and South America. In 1927 these routes became Aéropostale and went on Proverb from the XVI Century to define forevermore the history of the city, thanks to the legendary exploits of pilots such as Jean European capital of aeronautics Mermoz or Antoine de Saint-Exupéry. The aeronautical destiny of Toulouse began in 1890: as legend would have it, Clément Ader, a native of Since the XX Century, the factories and businesses this land, took off in a motorised bat shaped vehicle of the aeronautical sector have continued to thrive with propeller. Nicknamed Eole, this flying machine in the Toulouse area: Dewoitine, Aérospatiale, was the first prototype aircraft. EADS and then Airbus Group set up home in the Ville Rose and produced parts at their factories During the First World War, Pierre-Georges to supply the world’s major aircraft constructors. Latécoère, an industrialist that specialised in rail They design, build and assemble renowned civil transport, decided to begin the construction of and military aircraft like the Caravelle, Concorde or military aircraft to meet the demand of the State. A380.

Toulouse, city of knowledge and economic powerhouse Toulouse brings together a unique ecosystem of companies, universities and research centres that make it a major hub for science and innovation. The 4th largest metropolitan area in France has enjoyed uninterrupted economic and demographic growth over many years (+12,7% demographic growth in 10 years with 200 000 new inhabitants for this period). The Toulouse business ecosystem is particularly favourable to the success of a new business. Project managers will find that the area boasts a variety of globally renowned research centres, the headquarters of major international clients, a network of start-ups that is among the most dynamic in France and a concentration of skills of the highest order This dynamism is allied with a quality of life that the city has nurtured carefully, enriched by a wealth of urban and architectural heritage, its cultural e ervescence, its gastronomy and its southern ambiance, all in the heart of a magni cent region. ©Airbus Italian design

9 www.toulouse-tourisme.com www.toulouse-tourisme.com Cultural sites with a scientific vocation A student city that is also home to numerous research laboratories, the Toulouse metropolitan area aims to showcase its specificity and develop the number of sites focusing on promoting scientific culture to the local population and visiting tourists. © Chloé Sabatier © Manuel Huynh

Aeroscopia Airbus assembly line Boarding is imminent at a museum that brings This European aeronautics manufacturer opens together an exceptional collection of aircraft from its doors to visitors, inviting them onto their every era (Caravelle, Super Guppy, A300B...). belvedere to discover the secrets of the A380 and Aboard Concorde, the legendary supersonic its assembly hall, step inside an A400M military airplane, or at the commands of a flight simulator, airplane or even visit the assembly line of the this visit promises to be fun, interactive and A350XWB, the newest addition to the Airbus unforgettable. With the opening of the north family. Book your visit without delay. tarmac in 2020, Aeroscopia welcomes new aircrafts in it’s collection, including an A380. © Cité de l’espace -Manuel Huyhn. © Cité de l’espace

Les Ailes Anciennes Cité de l’espace Next to Aeroscopia, the association Les Ailes Stepping into the daily life of an astronaut, Anciennes works for the preservation of the contemplating the Ariane 5 rocket or a lunar aviation heritage, saves any aeronautical rover, studying meteorites, boarding the Mir equipment and does static restoration. station... With 2,500 m2 of exhibitions, gardens, an IMAX cinema with a giant screen, a telescope Their work aims to place the collection in the and a planetarium, there is enough here for you shelter in a suitable and visitable premises: an to see stars! In 2020, the Cité de l’Espace keeps Aeronautical Museum in Toulouse (now called celebrating fifty years since Man first stepped Aeroscopia). onto the Moon and offers an exhibition entitled Moon, episode II.

www.toulouse-tourisme.com Natural history Museum Quai des savoirs At the entrance, Punch the elephant and Twiga The Quai des Savoirs is devoted to promoting and the giraffe set the tone: here, the natural sciences sharing scientific culture. Researchers, engineers, are explored in depth. How old is the Earth? How visitors, artists and facilitators rub shoulders in does an earthquake feel? How big is a giant squid? this former faculty of science in order to discuss Through collections and entertainments, young the society of the future, the latest technological and old alike learn of the links between Mankind advances or areas of industry. Through interactive and nature. As for the botanical gardens in the exhibitions, workshops and debates, our curiosity Borderouge quarter, from April to October they and imaginations are awakened. Children under showcase tamed and wild nature, as well as plants the age of seven can also explore these themes in from all over the world. a dedicated space: the Quai des Petits. © HapTag © Ville de Toulouse - Patrice Nin - Patrice © Ville de Toulouse << La Piste des Géants A unique cultural venue opened in Montaudran to celebrate the aeronautical Piste des adventure. Géants L’Envol des pionniers It was in Montaudran, on the Runway of Giants, a 1.8km aircraft runway that is partially listed as a Historic Monument, where the great love story between Toulouse and airplanes really took off with the Aérospostale! In this remembrance space devoted to the human adventure of those early days in aeronautics, mediators will accompany visitors right throughout their journey. Getting under the skin of pilots, mechanics, managers and factory foremen , they share the experiences of the workers they represent, through their stories allow viistors to dive into the universe of these pioneers of aviation that crossed deserts, oceans and mountains to make sure the mail arrived safely.

La Halle La Machine La Machine Company, directed by François Delarozière, creates street spectacles across the globe. In the Montaudran quarter, the public can now discover a stable of their machines, learn how they are designed and see how they work. Whatever their size, each mechanical engine tells its own story. The machinists are at the controls to manipulate these works of wood and metal whilst answering questions from young and old alike, create curiosity and wonder in equal measure. The Minotaur made

its first appearance in Toulouse during «the Guardian of the Temple» show. This is a ©HapTag unique and monumental creature that opens its eyes, rears up and carries up to 50 visitors on its back (47 tons and 14m tall). Day after day it wanders the tarmac of the runway that, a century earlier, witnessed the Aéropostale aircraft taking off. A bar- restaurant, a boutique and meeting spaces all allow spectators to experience a truly unforgettable moment in the Halle de la Machine.

The Airline Gardens Gardens have been created all along the historic runway in tribute to the pilots of

Aéropostale. Vegetation, colours, topography: each landscape recalls the countries

crossed by these pioneers, from Toulouse to Valparaiso in Chile. << des pionniers ©Envol

11 www.toulouse-tourisme.com www.toulouse-tourisme.com © HapTag 12 River Garonne orCanal deMidi,explore inventions quarter,uncover historical intheScience accommodation, playingatbeinganadventureraccommodation, asyou explore navigate theskies, the along historical runway Halle de La Machine to enjoy a tour of the Next toit,hop on the place . took adventure of the Aéropostale and its pilots remembrance spacefrom where thegreat factories. Don’t miss Airbus they canvisittheAirbusA380orA350 step aboard legendaryaircraft. WithLet’s Visit their wingsat the Aviation buffs andamateur pilotscanspread suit allagesandtastes. meetings, workshops, there issomethingto immersive shows, interactive exhibitions, adventure parkthat isuniqueinEurope: rendezvous at the Budding astronauts or astronomy lovers can in thesefields. and space,thecradle ofprowess andexploits reverie butrather asthecapitalofaeronautics that isgazingupat thestars,andnotingentle adventure awaits inToulouse! Thisisacity passionate about thewonders oftheUniverse: Some advice for sciencebuffs orthose unique experiences to live andearth, in Toulouse! sky Between - Nougaro. at make theGalerue, the mostof playground inLe Donjonandtake aphoto next tothestatue ofClaude - . architecture - youngsters toexplore heritageinafunway alongsidetheir parents: ofafewsearch urban adventures. Allofthecity’s majorattractions offer ahostofquirkydetailsthat allow Toulouse funandattractive isdesignedtobe andisaimedat everyone from heritagelovers tofamilies in andmuseums Heritage, monuments Rigol’héros (anew cultural gameavailable ontablet) The JacobinsThe Convent: The Hôtel d’Assézat Hôtel The seduce families thankstoseduce itswiderange of tourist offers. Whetheritisfindingtheperfect Le Capitole: Le Capitole: Travelling Nothing bemore withchildren? pleasant!Toulouse could to istailor-made find your starsignon theOccitanCross, marvel at the admirereception thepaintings rooms, . Aeroscopia Museum Cité de l’espace : family (from visits and storytelling 4years) combiningmake-believe and withart L’Envol des pionniers be astounded by thesurprisingPalm be Tree, have funandlaughwiththemedieval Minotaur gems orheritage, Toulouse hasitall! backat La TOULOUSE FAMILY , thespace asthey DESTINATION

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l ’ e e c s a p Go green with kids The Segway is also a fun alternative that is sporty Down on earth, there’s greenery to be found in the and eco-friendly and will certainly spice up centre of Toulouse. To light up the kids eyes, take discovering the city centre. them to the traditional carrousels on Place Wilson To discover the Ville Rose combining comfort and and rue Alsace-Lorraine. touristic commentary, welcome aboard the tourist Beside Les Abattoirs, the Raymond IV gardens are trains or even an open-top minibus with City Tour home to an astonishing merry-go-round from the Toulouse (with possibilities for « hop on hop off » 1930s, with moving animals and fantastic beasts circuits!) (open Wednesday, at weekends and during the The River Garonne and/or Canal du Midi – French school holidays). including the impressive locks – are perfect for The Jardin des Plantes (near Le Muséum) is a little cruises by day or at night depending on the season, paradise for families with its pond that is home to thanks to Les Bateaux Toulousains. Since summer ducks, geese and swans, its merry-go-rounds and, 2019, the boat company also offers a one-hour sometimes, its pony rides. cruise on a traditional Gabare boat from July to As for the Japanese Garden, children will love October. A «Gabare» is traditional craft of Occitanie, running around its exotic landscape in search of originally used for transporting merchandise. 75 the dragon. people will sail along the waters of the Canal du Midi. Family-friendly transports Toulouse is a well-preserved city on a human scale Family-friendly restaurants that provides multiple possibilities for visitors to Depending on the time, gourmets can relax and explore. treat themselves at cafés or restaurants where You can decide what to do depending on the children are most welcome. Toulouse abounds with weather, the age of the children and whether they establishments boasting old-time atmospheres that want adventure or exploration. Whilst the easiest remind you of your school days, toys of our heros way to get around is on foot, when you want to or favourite cartoon characters, inviting everyone wander around and explore the historic streets at to eat with their fingers or have fun while they your own pace, bikes are also perfect for discovering taste (ex: Les sales gosses, Le Moaï, Le Picotin, the city. They can easily be hired at La Maison du ZePlégraounde…). Vélo or from the VélôToulouse stations. Please note: two-wheel trails and rollerblade rambles are regularly organised by various associations on Friday or Sunday, a convivial occasion where you can blend visits, sports and get-togethers.

The Tourism Pass (24h, 48h or 72h) lets you take advantage of free entry to many attractions (museums, monuments, guided visits) and discounts to make the most of your discovery of the Ville Rose. It even includes public transport!

Different ways to explore and have fun! The Tourist Office provides fun french guided visits that take place regularly during the school holidays, all aimed at exploring the city by solving puzzles. The fun and innovative discovery circuit « Toulouse for the Family with the Jungle Bunch », created by the Tourist Office in partnership with TAT Productions, invites young and old alike to grab their Smartphones and use them to find Maurice and his friends and watch them come to life through augmented reality. Older children are not forgotten either and will adore our Graff Tour.

The Granhòta agency organises time trails throughout the city in the form of urban rallies and open-air activities, also available in foreign languages (http://www.granhota.fr). The Paysdoc.com team develop original guided tour. Other virtual treasure hunts invite you to seek out Geocaching caches, or even Space Invaders, small pixelated creatures that decorate the walls of the city (apps to download: Geocaching and FlashInvaders). © HapTag

13 www.toulouse-tourisme.com www.toulouse-tourisme.com © Pier La Vue 14 authenticity, thegourmet delightandtheflavours that are sourced straight from the farm... faire andhigh-quality regional ofancestralthe fruit savoir- The culinarytradition here is Mediterranean Sea. of thePyrenees andthe Atlantic Ocean,themountains capital ofOccitanie,between the a mixthat itsstatus reflects as Local gastronomy inToulouse is Gastronomic destination restaurants, cafésandbistros... to thehundreds oftearooms, spoiltforwill be choicethanks take thetimetoenjoy life…You visitors tositdown at table and The VilleRosealsoincites to take homeintheirsuitcases. pockets withdelicioussouvenirs their shoppingbaskets ortheir inordertofill artisans food the finedelicatessens orlocal can pay a visit toGourmets Sample itsspecialities: foie gras, smoked duckbreast, duckconfit, garlic potatoes, cassoulet,

© E. Eychenne When you speak of of thecuisine theSouth-West, you the theconviviality, eulogiseabout apple croustade... Isyour mouthwatering? Here are someideasfor restaurants that will TOULOUSE AFOODIE or you for are looking small media darlingMichelSarran) Toulouse area (includingthe in thefamous red guideinthe dozen Michelinstarchefslisted down at thetable ofone Whether you want tosettle happy care ofkeeping your stomach Les that Halles takes delaCité, with anhonourable mentionto ormenu PlaceSaint-Georges you can see displayed on every habits. Tapas here are legion, as are now inlocal culinary rooted tapas shares itsown love for hamand Spain gladlyNeighbouring breast, confit…). all itsforms –gizzards,smoked Armagnac, duck inRoquefort, boast boast many of which canproducts, delight your taste buds. DESTINATION withToulouse andthese ... pure theatre! AOC status Park» of Toulouse,Park» «L’Écluse andpub.... restaurant »-ariverside onIle duRamier, opened has that spot seasonal « Central future a quirky », Centrale «La Abattoirs, museumLes art modern the beside just Gardens, deSaint-Cyprien Guinguette «La Raymond »in the dela VI Daurade, Port »at deSable Pêcheurs «Les guinguette the River of Garonne, the banks Quai de at moored guinguette afloating the alongTounis Guinguette» «La isfine : weather « à la life Toulousainesweet whenever the reigns over » that city the let you enjoy of that places a few the examples Here areseason. just have summer for the opened bistros guinguette city, of pop-up the views unbeatable offering spots, orin somequirky Garonne of the banks the On thesummer pop-ups guinguettes, Les (truffles, at thewater’s edgeinsummer Guinguette bistros that spring up terraces ofthecafésorat pop-up alongside oneanotheronthe visitor, encouraging you tosit you are a Toulouse native or a whetherfeeling ofbelonging, the sunshinereinforces this its specialitiesandcharacter, draws your attention with quarter, whatever theirsize, Whilst every square and sharing andconviviality dolce vitaanditstradition of destination that isloved for its in thecity, itisanauthentic With more than Toulouse. can’t help falling in love with ambiance, settingorview, you to enjoy theuniquecuisine, shoulders withfellowrub diners intimate addresses where you www.toulouse-tourisme.com 1,700 eateries . .

Along the wine routes Not so well-known, the wines of Toulouse promise to take your taste buds to new horizons, which are sometimes exotic! Toulouse is actually the only major city in France that cultivates its own vineyards.

Something of a secret, the Domaine de Candie is the agricultural estate that has belonged to the city of Toulouse since 1976. It includes a château from the Middle Ages (listed as a historic monument since 2001) and stretches across more than 200 hectares of farmed land (wheat, barley, soya…). Since 2017 the estate has been producing a range of organic grape juices and wines from the regional grape varieties: Sauvignon, Merlot, Négrette…Vinification and bottling of the Comté Tolosan wines is carried out at the château’s own winery.

Just a few kilometres from Toulouse, between the Tarn and the Garonne, the wines of Fronton (www.vins-de-fronton.com) invite you to discover their local grape variety known as La Négrette, which makes them so original: the name stems from its black colour and it has characteristic aromas of dark fruits, violet, red fruits, liquorice and peppery notes.

In the heart of this wine region that has been AOC listed since 1975, the Château de Capdeville houses the Maison des Vins de Fronton: the ideal place in which to get advice for a personalised wine route. Here you can buy and sample wines from some 40 passionate wine producers that open their doors to you, admire art exhibitions or picnic in the park.

The Markets In Toulouse, since the start of the XIX Century, the markets have evolved alongside the town itself. From construction to demolition, from renovations to improvements, they recount 200 years of urban history that passers-by, locals and tourists can enjoy by strolling around them from Tuesday to Sunday.

Among the 35 food markets and fairs, open-air or under cover, that take place weekly, some in particular hold a special place in the ©HapTag hearts of the people of Toulouse.

Among the many outdoor markets, we should mention the popular Cristal market situated on the Grands Boulevards, the more intimate Esparcette market that has been devoted to organic produce for more than 30 years and is held at the foot of the Donjon du Capitole (Tuesday and Saturday morning/ www.marchebiotoulouse.org), or even the very prestigious Sunday market of Saint-Aubin around the beautiful church with its bourgeois-bohemian spirit that brings ©P. Nin ©P. together a number of producers, artisan designers, musicians, flower sellers and live poultry!

Of the covered markets, other than those at Saint-Cyprien (nestling in a beautiful iron hall) and Carmes, the covered market of Victor Hugo can be proud of its reputation as “one of the most prestigious markets in France“. Don’t miss the renowned Toulouse brands that are present at these market (Maison Garcia, Samarran, Betty, Chai Vincent) and visit the 1st floor that is home to a variety of convivial and gourmet restaurants. Victor-Hugo Market regularly hosts late © PGO night openings featuring music and generous dishes to be enjoyed over a glass or two. (www.marche-victor-hugo.fr).

15 www.toulouse-tourisme.com www.toulouse-tourisme.com Specialities of Toulouse In Toulouse, the humourists Les Chevaliers du Fiel have been organising The cassoulet toulousain a contest since 2016 that is officially In order to clear up any arguments with our entitled the “World Championship of the neighbouring cities concerning its origins, Cassoulet de Toulouse“. let us be clear that there are 3 varieties based on Tarbes beans: the Cassoulet de Whilst you can find a Cassoulet on any Castelnaudary “the Father“, the Cassoulet restaurant menu, some like Genty Magre de Carcassonne “the Son“ and the Cassoulet or Emile remain firm favourites. de Toulouse “the Holy Spirit“! Nobody would be able to concoct a The one from the Ville Rose is undoubtedly good Cassoulet Toulousain without the the most gourmet, but all of them coincide aromas and flavours of the véritable on one key point: they are cooked in a Toulouse sausage, inextricably linked to Cassole (the dish that gives it its name) the Ville Rose since the 18th Century. The for a long time, over a low heat, and it is red label that it was awarded in 1992 is important to break the crust that forms designed to give consumers a guarantee on the cassoulet seven times in order to of its superior quality, having been guarantee the excellence of the dish. made to a very specific recipe. It can be enjoyed grilled or confit. Presented in a spiral, it is sold by weight: so we always refer to THE sausage.

Time for a sweet break The oldest sweet speciality, Among the many traditions In Toulouse you will notice the however, dates back to the that bring so much colour and many different sweet treats that Roman era and is known as charm to the Ville Rose, it is have been created by pastry Fénétra, a pastry made with worth singling out the Violet chefs or chocolatiers, inspired by almonds, apricot and confit of Toulouse that has given the the icons of Toulouse. lemons. city its nickname of « City of - The Brique du Capitole (flaky Typical of the cuisine of Violets » and is used to enhance caramel slice with a hazelnut Occitanie, this gateau is a number of classic and less heart), chocolates Bello & traditionally wrapped in a red typical flavours: crystallised Angeli… without forgetting ribbon and can be sampled in flower petals, bonbons, liqueurs, the indomitable Cachou its purest form at a number teas/infusions, chocolates, Lajaunie (with a liquorice base of Toulouse boutiques or mustard… which should be and flavoured with English reinvented by Michelin star chef enjoyed without prejudice and mint, invented in 1880 by a Yannick Delpech at his concept without moderation. pharmacist). patisserie Sandyan (www. sandyan.fr).

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© I. Birbes Pyrenees andtheMediterranean, Toulouse Rose becauseof thecolour isnicknamedthe“Ville Boulevard de Strasbourg with the Canal duMidi. Boulevard deStrasbourgwith theCanal 2019. This pedestrian avenuemetre in december long allées Jean-Jaurèsalsocametofruition will link the as well from thedevelopment asbenefiting ofthesquare uponwhichitstands.TheRamblasalongthe600 that islistedasWorldHeritage by UNESCO, went underarestoration that showcases thereligious building, basilica ofSaint-Sernin.ThelargestRomanchurch inEurope, astoppingpointalongtheWay ofStJames willalsoaimto presentBy 2020,thisproject heritage more effectively totouristswithafocus onthe for visitorstoToulouse!boom provision ofconvivial andquays spacesinthestreets, squares, ports ofthecity the flow of traffic more and improveefficient, bring greater harmony the to the various neighbourhoods Joan Busquets. The is objective to make routes that use of the main arterial already define the city, render haveprojects launched right across the metropolitan been area, architect under the supervision of Catalan Within the framework of Toulouse’s aUNESCO World Heritage city, bid to become major urban renewal renewalUrban and “A littletouraround thecourtyards“… the courtyards ofthesehouses:“Saint-Romeanditsmansionhouses“ tourist office provides ofguidedvisitsthat allow anumber you toenter thatopen the monumental shield doors them from curious eyes. The accompaniedby aguideinorderto necessarytobe public, itmay be offer justafew remarkable examples ofthis.Ifthey are notopentothe The Hôteld’Assézat, HôteldeBernuy, HôteldePierre orHôteld’Ulmo . andSaint-Etiennequarters oftheCarmes the heart pride. Youcanadmire themby liftingyour gazeduringastroll through social status andwealth, they builtchaptertowers, known astowers of of their the Noble Parliamentarians. As asymbol inthesameperiod houses throughout thecity, (city asdidtheCapitouls councillors)and ofToulousemerchants ofsumptuousmansion theconstruction began At thecentre ofaveritable international trading hub, thewealthy blue, thecolourofroyalty andnobility sincetheMiddleAge. known as pastel trade ofindigo,thisplantthat. Priortotheimportation isalso ToulouseBetween theXVandXVICenturies, grew richfrom the the mansionhouses. through itsnarrow streets you willnoticesomeimpressive dottedhere andthere: buildingsfrom thisperiod Renaissance marked renewal thearchitectural that gave theVilleRoseitscurrent colourscheme.Strolling following thegreat fire of became prevalentToulouse, that ofthebuildings.The itsuse inthe reconstruction Whilst historians can retrace the first usage of bricks to Roman times, it was only in the XV Century, A Renaissance heritage Capital region, of theOccitanie intheheartof theSouth-West of France between the isatis tinctoria isatis TOULOUSE AREMARKABLE of the traditional local construction material: brick. material: construction of thetraditional local was theonlyonecapable ofdyeing textiles HERITAGE

© M. Baldello © P. Thébault . Thiswillprovide areal 17 UNESCO sites Toulouse is a city with a thousand faces that is not so keen to reveal all its secrets. Many know it for its brick buildings that change colour according to the sunlight, alternating between pink, orange and red, but fewer people are aware of its classical heritage from the Renaissance and its remarkable monuments.

Before discovering the UNESCO heritage, any visit to Toulouse ought to begin with a tour of the central square where the emblematic Capitole reigns supreme. Behind its façade of 8 marble columns, it is home to the town hall and the Théâtre du Capitole. With its majestic tableaux, its gold gilding and countless sculptures, the interior resembles a mini-Versailles right here in Toulouse and allows visitors to discover the history of the city in the Salle des Illustres free of charge. © Bomhehe © Angelique photography © Angelique ©Schiegg

The basilica of Saint-Sernin The Hôtel-Dieu Saint-Jacques Canal du Midi erected in honour of Saint hospital Another monument listed as Saturnin (or Sernin), the first situated on the left bank of the World Heritage by UNESCO: Bishop of Toulouse, is one of the River Garonne in the Saint- the Canal Royal du Languedoc, largest preserved Romanesque Cyprien quarter, has had several nowadays known by the name buildings in Europe. uses. Canal du Midi.

Its construction stretched from Originally built as a hospice Its construction by Pierre-Paul the XI to the XIV century and for the poor, it quickly became Riquet, a former tax inspector, provides a remarkable example a hostel for pilgrims along the was commissioned by Royal of Romanesque architecture: the Ways of St James before being Decree in 1666. This 240km elegant apse studded with side transformed into a hospital, in navigation route is studded with chapels rises up to the octagonal use until the mid-XX Century. 63 locks and required 12,000 bell tower. workers to build, representing Traces of its past are still visible one of the most colossal Rich in relics, since the Middle today: the buildings are arranged construction projects in Europe. Ages it has been a major stopping in a U-shape around a garden point for pilgrims heading to that is adorned with a gigantic Flanked by plane trees, it Santiago de Compostela along shell, a statue of St James sits on links Toulouse with the the Via Tolosana, also known as the entrance porch that gives Mediterranean Sea and led to a the Voie d’Arles. access to the historic rooms: the veritable transformation of the Pilgrim’s Room and the Columns’ city during the XVII Century Room, set around the chapel. from an economic and urban standpoint.

Nowadays, walkers love to wander along its towpaths and watch the landscape change with the passing seasons.

Converted sites Orchestra in 1974 (http://onct.toulouse.fr/ halle- In Toulouse, remarkable heritage transforms into aux-grains). sites that have been converted in order to give rise to new and original venues. - Le Bazacle on the banks of the Garonne housed the city’s mills in the XII Century. In the XIV Century - The old abattoirs of the city, built in the XIX its owners, pioneers of capitalism, established the Century in the Saint-Cyprien quarter has been world’s first ever joint-stock company here. In 1888, converted to house a significant archive of art the Grand Moulin du Bazacle was converted into works raging from the 1950s to the contemporary a hydro-electric plant by the Société Toulousaine creations of today. The works are showcased at d’Electricité who illuminated the city of Toulouse. temporary exhibitions and events. One of the EDF took over the property in 1946. This major masterpieces of the collection is a stage curtain hybrid site of the EDF Foundation offers free donated by Picasso (www.lesabattoirs.org). exhibitions, whilst in the basement the turbines of the hydro-electric plant are still in use. - The Hôtel d’Assézat, constructed in 1555 by a rich textile industrialist that made his fortune in the - Le Château d’eau created in 1974 by Jean pastel trade, is the most remarkable mansion house Dieuzaide, the gallery of the Château d’Eau is set in Toulouse. It was entirely renovated to house the on the banks of the River Garonne, with original thousand or so works of the Bemberg Foundation, XIX Century architecture. The venue is entirely belonging to an Argentinian merchant. Wandering given over to photography with a programme based through the rooms in a Renaissance and XVIII around the works of internationally renowned Century style, follow an artistic trail touching on photographers and up-and-coming artists. (www. Western art from the late Middle Ages to the XX galeriechateaudeau.org). Century (www.fondation-bemberg.fr). - Le Théâtre Garonne, a European-level stage that - The Halle aux Grains was built in 1861 to manage was built a European-level stage that was built in the trade in cereal crops transported along the the mid-XIX Century, was established within the Canal du Midi that flows behind the building. It was former pumping station for the waters of the River transformed into a sports pavilion in 1952, before Garonne that is typical of the industrial architecture becoming the headquarters of the Capitole National of Toulouse of the XIX Century.

19 www.toulouse-tourisme.com www.toulouse-tourisme.com 20 © C. Sabatier Nougaro, thebestof itsculinaryknow-how –thefamous arugby cassoulet–and,of course,

© Srade Toulousain Rugby © D. Viet ToulouseRenaissance, inviteyou to will tango to atuneby Carlos Gardel, thenative singer Southern city featuring Spanish accents andItalian facades,Toulouse cityfeaturingSouthern Spanishaccents cultivates fiercly its own identity.“Pays Occitan thanksto thepastel flower, decocagne“ it’sblue inthe gold of the city. And so it will profferof thecity.Andsoit will abouquetof violets,aBelCanto air,asongby Claude is also well known for its performances internationally. performances wellis also forits known Ithas beenchampion France of and 4European Cups to date. Rugby The side, Toulouse League XIII) XIII Olympique (TO club successful, famous and the most is 20 thewith most French championship titles in Toulouse,Rugby sport” became the“top andhas given champions. great The thecity Toulouse Occitania of Capital representing. the12monthsofyear orthe12signsofzodiac tourisme.com/le-capitole). Thisgreek cross ismadeupof12branches of Toulouse’s attachment (www totheirOccitanroots Moretti extends illustrating across thePlaceduCapitole, thepeople oftheregion, ahugeThe symbol OccitanCross madeby Raymond com). song, dance,musicandfestivals (Occitània: www d’Occitània) have brought theoldtraditions backtolife through language andavariety ofassociations (gathered amongtheOstal in announcementsthemetro are. Numerous teachingthe schools reappeared inthe1950sandcannow found onstreet be signsand identity andlanguage,“langue d’Oc”. Long dialect forsaken it Mediterranean seatothePyrenees. Theregion shares acommon Toulouse ofOccitanie.whichstretches is at from the theheart the meleeinStadeErnest-Wallon. of guided visitstohelpvisitorsimmersethemselves intotheheart related to products the club. Since 2019, Manatour offers regular Lorraine inToulouse andat Toulouse-Blagnac selling Airport, Alsace- onrue Among others,theclubhasopenedboutiques the7haplotthatpurchase was thesiteof firststadium. law oftheclubwhoinvested anddirector 10,000francs inorderto quarter Deniers long red andblackrobes- city at of Toulouse the time of the Counts (from 1190) dressed with -responsible forin honouroftheCapitouls administration inthe merging oftwo student clubs,andadoptedthecoloursred andblack The StadeToulousain was outofthe rugby club,for born itspart, Toulouse in1907.Itwas at thetimeplayed onthePrairie desFiltres. The rugbythat we originallyreferred reached toasfootball-rugby Toulouse, rugby destination TOULOUSE EMBLEMS ball. on many occasions. It bears the name of Ernest Wallon, professor. Itbears of . Theclubowns itsstadium intheSept- www.toulouse-tourisme.com .festivaloccitania. .toulouse- Toulouse Cité des violettes The little flower that has been cultivated in Toulouse since 1854 is a cousin of the fragrant Parma violet, but one which only flowers in winter. This variety, which does not produce any seeds but rather reproduces by means of runners (like strawberry plants), has become a speciality of market gardeners in the north of Toulouse, who established a “cooperative of violet and onion producers” in 1908. They in turn supplied around 600 producers that sent up to 600,000 bouquets per year by train throughout the whole of Europe before experiencing a downturn...

Nowadays, we can only find around ten producers. Under threat from years of propagation through cuttings, new hybrid plants have been readied in-vitro by the Chamber of Agriculture, with the help of the city of Toulouse. 130 international types of violet are preserved in © Maison de la violette beautiful municipal greenhouses and are exhibited every year at the start of February in the Place du Capitole during the Fête de la Violette. The Berdoues company has been making a perfume from violets since 1936 in Cugnaux, the Benoît Serres company produces 15,000 bottles of violet liqueur for two generations in Villefranche-de-Lauragais and the crystallised flowers, sold in sweet shops since the XIX Century (produced in Toulouse most notably by Candiflor), are still popular today, to be enjoyed on the Maison de la Violette barge, for example (boutique/ exhibition venue/tea room), which is moored on the Canal du Midi.

Pastel, blue gold of the “Pays de cocagne“ Used for dyeing and as a medicinal plant since Antiquity the pastel Isatis tinctoria was cultivated to pre-industrial levels during the Renaissance in the Lauragais, between Toulouse, Albi and Carcassonne.

Its blue pigment, obtained from pounding the dried leaves of this small yellow flower in mills, was exported throughout the whole of Europe and used as a dye for textiles. Having earned a fortune, the pastel merchants had sumptuous private mansions built in Toulouse. The dried balls of pastel, known as “coques” in the Lauragais language, would form the basis of the legendary “Pays de Cocagne”.

This flourishing commerce was ended by competition from indigo, or © MarieLiseGauthier “Chinese pastel”, that was cultivated in India. Pastel production slowly started to re-emerge in the region and its curative properties began to attract the interest of the cosmetics industry (remember: the Graine de Pastel brand has won several awards) and of artisan craftsmen (dyeing, prêt- à-porter, decorations).

Toulouse city of musics In addition to its museums, the city has fifteen theatres of all sizes.The best-known and most prestigious is the first-class Théâtre du Capitole, which is in the same building as the City Hall. It hosts operas and ballets, offering a very high-quality opera programme accompanied by the internationally- renowned Capitole National Orchestra. http://www.theatreducapitole.fr

Today it acts as both a symphony orchestra whose main residence is Toulouse’s Halle aux Grains, and the permanent orchestra of the Théâtre du Capitole in Toulouse. The 125 musicians of the Capitole National Orchestra (ONCT) are now hailed as one of France’s finest orchestras, and are touring Europe and Asia with Tugan Sokhiev, music director of the orchestra since 2008 and also Bolshoi-theater Principal Conductor and Music Director.

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