Best Things to Do in Toulouse in the Spring

In this post, we’ll showcase the best things to do in Toulouse during the spring season. From attending a live rugby match to exploring the Canal du Midi by bike, Toulouse has something for everyone. We’ll also share tips on enjoying the city’s stunning outdoor spaces and seasonal produce. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, we hope this guide inspires you to make the most of Toulouse in the springtime.

And if you’d like to enjoy a unique tour in Toulouse, consider joining us for one of our gourmet Toulouse Walking Tours.

Attend a Live Rugby Match in Toulouse

Rugby is a major part of Toulouse’s sporting culture, and there’s no better way to experience it than by attending a live match. The city’s top teams draw large crowds of passionate fans from across the region.

The Stade Ernest-Wallon is the home stadium of Stade Toulousain and the most popular venue for rugby matches in Toulouse. With a capacity of over 19,000 seats, it’s the perfect place to experience the electric atmosphere of a live rugby match. The stadium is located in the Sept Deniers neighborhood, just a short distance from the city center.

To get tickets for a match, it’s best to book in advance to ensure availability. You can purchase tickets online, at the stadium box office, or through authorized resellers. Prices vary depending on the match and seat location, but you can expect to pay anywhere from €10 to €50.

Stade Toulousain play their matches from September through May, while the rugby league team, Toulouse Olympique XIII, play from February through September. Stade Toulousain also has a women’s rugby team that plays in the Elite 1 division from October through May. 

This means that spring is your best chance to see a live rugby game in Toulouse.

When attending a rugby match in Toulouse, arriving early is important to soak up the pre-match atmosphere. Grab a beer and a bite at one of the many food and drink stalls around the stadium. The passionate supporters and energetic chants will quickly get you into the spirit of the game.

Attending a live rugby match is a must-do activity for sports enthusiasts and anyone looking to immerse themselves in Toulouse’s famous sporting culture. So don’t miss the chance to be part of the action – book your tickets and experience the thrill of rugby in Toulouse.

For more information, check out our Complete Rugby Fan’s Guide to Visiting Toulouse.

Enjoy a Drink on a Sunny Terrace

Toulouse’s gentle spring weather is the perfect time to enjoy a drink on a sunny terrace. During the spring, it’s not too hot, so you won’t want to hide in the shade as is typical in the summertime. The city is known for its beautiful outdoor spaces, and there are plenty of spots to choose from.

One of our favorite spots with outdoor seating is Le Florida. This historic establishment is located in the heart of the city on the Place du Capitole, which makes it the perfect place to get a drink and people-watch. Don’t miss their signature cocktail, the “Capitole,” made with gin, fresh grapefruit juice, and elderflower syrup.

If you’re going to be in Toulouse during the spring and fancy taking advantage of the city’s excellent bar and wine bar scene, read our Best Wine Bars in Toulouse blog, which will give you plenty of inspiration for where to go. 

And if you’d like to sample the city’s wine in the company of like-minded people and a certified French Wine Scholar, consider joining us on our Wine Bar Tour.

See the Cherry Blossom in the Jardin Japonais

Located in the center of the Compans-Caffarelli park is one of the most beautiful and tranquil outdoor spaces in Toulouse, the Jardin Japonais. 

This Japanese-style garden offers a serene retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city, and during the spring season, it’s adorned with stunning cherry blossoms.

The best time to visit the Jardin Japonais to see the cherry blossoms is typically from mid-March to mid-April, but this can vary depending on the weather conditions. During this time, the garden is filled with shades of pink and white, making it the perfect spot for a peaceful stroll or a picnic with friends.

To capture the beauty of the cherry blossoms, bring your camera and try to visit during the early morning or late afternoon when the light is softer. Walk around the garden to explore the various sections, including the zen garden and koi pond. 

While the Jardin Japonais can get busy during peak season, there are still plenty of quiet spots to relax and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere. 

Explore the Canal du Midi by Bike

The Canal du Midi is a historic waterway that stretches over 240 kilometers from Toulouse to the Mediterranean Sea. It was built in the 17th century to provide a navigable route from the Atlantic Ocean to the Mediterranean, and today it’s recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The pathways along the Canal du Midi are well-marked and mostly flat, making it perfect for those looking for a leisurely ride. Along the way, you’ll pass through charming towns and villages and have the opportunity to stop at local highlights such as historical landmarks, museums, and cafes.

For a shorter ride, consider starting in the town of Ramonville-Saint-Agne and following the canal to the charming village of Castanet-Tolosan. This route is around 16 kilometers and offers beautiful scenery and the chance to see some of the canal’s historic locks.

When exploring the Canal du Midi by bike, taking your time and enjoying the scenery is important. Pack plenty of water and snacks, wear sunscreen and a hat and bring a bike lock for any stops along the way. And remember to stop and take in the views at the various lookout points and bridges along the canal.

Exploring the Canal du Midi by bike is a unique and unforgettable way to experience the beauty and history of the Toulouse region. So hop on a bike and get ready for an adventure!

For dependable rental options, visit Paulette Bike Rental or Maison du Velo. 

Spend an Evening at the Museum 

Toulouse is home to some of the most impressive museums in France, offering visitors the opportunity to explore history, science, and art. But did you know that many of these museums offer after-hours events that allow visitors to spend the night and experience the exhibits in a new way?

Many of these night-time events are part of the May program for the Nuit Européen des Musées (European Museum Night). Check out the schedule to plan your springtime visit. Many museums offer free entry as part of the program, as well as hosting screenings, readings, concerts and shows.

An evening at the museum is a unique and unforgettable way to experience Toulouse’s cultural treasures. With various events and activities available, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Enjoy Spring Produce at One of Toulouse’s Markets

Toulouse is a city that takes its cuisine seriously, and one of the keys to the local food culture is the use of fresh, seasonal produce. Spring is a particularly exciting time for foodies in Toulouse, as the markets are bursting with delicious fruits and vegetables that are at their peak.

One of the best markets to find spring produce is the Marché Victor Hugo, which is open every day except Monday. Here, you’ll find a wide range of fresh fruits and vegetables, as well as meats, cheeses, and other local specialties. Some standout spring produce includes asparagus, strawberries, leeks, peas, artichokes, and rhubarb.

Another popular option is the weekly Marché Saint-Aubin, which happens every Sunday morning around the Eglise Saint-Aubin. This market is known for its organic produce, and you’ll find a wide range of fruits and vegetables, herbs, spices, and other artisanal products, as well as prepared foods from around the world. 

Be sure to try the local honey produced by bees that feed on the flowers of the Garonne River. (To learn more about the city’s markets, read our 5 Best Food Markets in Toulouse blog.)

To shop like a local, arrive at the markets early in the morning to beat the crowds and snag the freshest produce. Don’t be afraid to ask the vendors for recommendations on preparing different fruits and vegetables, and be open to trying new things. 

Toulouse’s culinary traditions are rich and varied, and you may discover a new favorite ingredient or dish. When you get home with your market haul, get creative in the kitchen. 

Try roasting asparagus with garlic and lemon, making a strawberry tart, or grilling artichokes and serving them with aioli. 

But even if you don’t have access to cooking equipment in your accommodation, you’ll be pleased to know that the restaurants of Toulouse are dedicated to using fresh, seasonal ingredients, so you can also dine out to sample the region’s most flavorful ingredients. 

If you’d like a Toulouse market experience to remember, join us on our popular Victor Hugo Market Tour. 

Enjoy Springtime in Toulouse

With so many exciting activities to enjoy, Toulouse is the perfect destination for a springtime getaway. From watching a rugby match to exploring the canal by bike, enjoying a drink on a sunny terrace, and experiencing the beauty of cherry blossoms in the Jardin Japonais, there is an array of memorable activities to choose from. 

And with Toulouse’s rich culinary traditions, no trip would be complete without indulging in the fresh, seasonal produce available at the local markets. Experience all that Toulouse has to offer this spring!

If you have any questions, please feel free to get in touch.