Toulouse or Cannes? Which city should you visit?
Considering a trip to France and can’t decide between Toulouse or Cannes? Here’s a quick rundown to help you choose:
- History Buffs: Toulouse shines with aerospace wonders and medieval tales, but Cannes steps forward with its film legacy and old-world elegance.
- Beach Lovers: Hands down, Cannes with its iconic Riviera beaches is the choice for sun and surf aficionados.
- Foodies: If heartwarming cassoulet or duck specialities entice you, Toulouse awaits. But for a touch of Mediterranean culinary magic, it’s Cannes.
- Nature Enthusiasts: Mountains and hikes? Toulouse is your call. However, if sparkling coastline and island excursions tempt you, Cannes beckons.
- Urban Explorers: For a vibrant yet historic urban landscape, Toulouse is the answer. But for luxury, glamour, and upscale boulevards, choose Cannes.
- Adventure Junkies: Keen on mountain or river activities? Toulouse is the pick. But for sailing and water adventures, Cannes sails ahead.
- Wine Lovers: Toulouse introduces you to the unique wines of Southwest France. Yet, for those drawn to Provencal rosés, Cannes is the toast.
- Backpackers: For an immersive, budget-friendly cultural trip, Toulouse is ideal. Cannes, though a bit pricier, offers a ritzy, unmatched experience.
- Over 60’s: Cannes, with its luxurious promenades, festivals, and beachside serenity, is perfect for the refined traveller. Toulouse, offering a calm pace and deep-rooted history, caters wonderfully to those seeking a quieter experience.
Curious for more? Read on to dive deeper into the unique charm each city holds.
Toulouse
Toulouse, a city perfectly perched between the Mediterranean and the Atlantic, offers an intriguing mix of history, innovation, and charm. Its historic centre, known as Vieux Toulouse, boasts a tapestry of coral-hued buildings that have earned it the moniker ‘La Ville Rose’, or ‘The Pink City’. But Toulouse is not just about reminiscing about the past. It’s a dynamic city teeming with academic vigour, courtesy of its vibrant student population, and is a hotbed for aeronautics and space exploration. With an array of museums, a thriving arts scene, and lively local markets, this city caters to a broad spectrum of travellers. Plus, the local cuisine, characterized by hearty Southwestern French specialities, is a gastronomic adventure in itself. If you’re seeking a unique and vibrant destination for your next vacation, Toulouse should unquestionably be on your radar!
Cannes
Known worldwide for its famous film festival, Cannes truly is a star of the Côte d’Azur. Here, you can wander along La Croisette, a boulevard lined with palm trees and luxury boutiques, with the sparkling Mediterranean Sea as your backdrop. The Old Town, known as Le Suquet, offers a change of pace with its winding streets and panoramic views of the city and sea. But Cannes isn’t just about the glitz and glamour. It’s also a city with beautiful sandy beaches, splendid villas, and rich history. Whether you’re looking for luxury, culture, or simply a place to relax in the sun, Cannes has got everything.
While we’re comparing Toulouse and Cannes in this post, we’ve also looked at how Toulouse stacks up against other cities like Marseille, Nantes and Montpellier. We’ve linked to those articles below if you want to take a look!
Pros and Cons of Toulouse and Cannes
Toulouse Pros:
- 🚀 Space City: Toulouse, being the heart of Europe’s aerospace industry, offers unique experiences like visiting the Cité de l’espace, a fascinating space-themed park.
- 🎓 University Town: As a thriving student city, Toulouse provides a youthful and dynamic atmosphere.
- 🍽 Cuisine: Toulouse offers a rich culinary experience with its hearty Southern French cuisine.
- 🎨 Art: The city is home to numerous art museums showcasing European art from the Middle Ages to the present.
Toulouse Cons:
- 🔥 Weather: Toulouse can experience quite high temperatures in the summer.
- 🗣 Language: The English language is not as commonly spoken here compared to other French cities.
- 🚫 Beach: As it’s not a coastal city, Toulouse doesn’t offer beach-related activities.
Cannes Pros:
- 🎥 Film Festival: Cannes is globally recognized for its International Film Festival.
- 🏖 Beaches: Being a coastal city, Cannes offers beautiful Mediterranean beaches.
- 👗 Shopping: Cannes boasts a number of high-end boutiques, perfect for those who enjoy shopping.
- 🍴 Dining: The city offers a plethora of fine dining options featuring Mediterranean cuisine.
Cannes Cons:
- 💶 Cost: The cost of living and visiting Cannes can be quite high.
- 👫 Crowded: It can become excessively crowded, especially during the film festival.
- 🏛 Fewer Historical Sites: Compared to Toulouse, Cannes has fewer historical landmarks to visit.
Which City Has Better Food? Toulouse or Cannes?
If you’re anything like us, food is one of the biggest factors when deciding where to go! So making a decision between two cities with amazing food on offer, like Toulouse and Cannes can be a difficult one.
Toulouse is known for its rich, hearty cuisine. Its most famous dish is cassoulet, a slow-cooked casserole with different types of meat and butterbeans. It’s a beautifully, luxurious dish that you will not forget. My mouth is watering just thinking about it. Toulouse is also famous for its Toulouse sausages and Foie Gras which are both worth trying. If you’re a vegetarian don’t worry. there are plenty of restaurants you’ll be able to visit. O Saj is a Lebanese restaurant that is definitely worth trying, the hummus and falafel are amazing!
But, Cannes has incredible food on offer too! The local dishes are the beautifully fresh dishes that you would expect from the French Riviera like Bouillabaisse, Ratatouille and Socca. The seafood here is incredible with an abundance of seafood restaurants dotted all over the city, Plus with Cannes being a playground of the rich and famous, there’s also an abundance of high-end restaurants. And let’s not forget the seafront cafés there’s nothing I love more than a good coffee with a view of the sea!
Which City is Better For Couples? Toulouse or Cannes?
When it comes to a romantic getaway both Toulouse and Cannes are great options. But which you decide to visit really depends on what your idea of a romantic holiday is.
Toulouse is a beautiful city with plenty to do. If you and your partner love spending your time wandering around and seeing the sights Toulouse might be the one for you. As soon as you get there you find a city full of life. Its busy streets are filled with the beautiful pink-bricked buildings it’s famous for with a huge variety of bars and restaurants. And with it being sat on the Garonne River, there’s the opportunity for romantic walks next to the water. You’ll find groups of locals and tourists alike sitting along the banks eating and drinking. We could sit there for hours on a nice day just watching the boats go by.
On the flip side, we’ve got the sunkissed city of Cannes. Sat right on the Mediterranean Sea, Cannes offers a different type of holiday. This is the place if you want to spend your time relaxing on the beach soaking up the sun. But, Cannes has more to offer than just a beach holiday, its old town is famous for being seriously beautiful and filled with cute shops and great places to eat and drink. Plus there are plenty of top-class restaurants if you and your partner like the Champagne and Caviar lifestyle. Cannes is a bit smaller so there isn’t quite as much to do if you get bored of sitting on the beach like us. But due to its location on the Riviera, there are plenty of local towns and cities like Nice or Monaco that you can visit.
Which City is Better For Families? Toulouse or Cannes?
When it comes to a romantic getaway both Toulouse and Cannes are great options. But which you decide to visit really depends on what your idea of a romantic holiday is.
Toulouse is a beautiful city with plenty to do. If you and your partner love spending your time wandering around and seeing the sights Toulouse might be the one for you. As soon as you get there you find a city full of life. Its busy streets are filled with the beautiful pink-bricked buildings it’s famous for with a huge variety of bars and restaurants. And with it being sat on the Garonne River, there’s the opportunity for romantic walks next to the water. You’ll find groups of locals and tourists alike sitting along the banks eating and drinking. We could sit there for hours on a nice day just watching the boats go by.
On the flip side, we’ve got the sunkissed city of Cannes. Sat right on the Mediterranean Sea, Cannes offers a different type of holiday. This is the place if you want to spend your time relaxing on the beach soaking up the sun. But, Cannes has more to offer than just a beach holiday, its old town is famous for being seriously beautiful and filled with cute shops and great places to eat and drink. Plus there are plenty of top-class restaurants if you and your partner like the Champagne and Caviar lifestyle. Cannes is a bit smaller so there isn’t quite as much to do if you get bored of sitting on the beach like us. But due to its location on the Riviera, there are plenty of local towns and cities like Nice or Monaco that you can visit.
Which City is Better For Partying? Toulouse or Cannes?
When it comes to Toulouse, the party scene might surprise you. It’s a city that comes alive at night. Given the large student population, Toulouse’s nightlife is teeming with a youthful, energetic vibe. There are loads of bars and clubs in between Place du Capitole and the river that are really fun to go to. Lots of places have outdoor seating areas so the fun spills out onto the streets too. And let’s not forget about the live music venues like Le Metronome, which is a popular spot where various genres of music can be enjoyed throughout the week.
Cannes is a different style of partying altogether. Cannes is synonymous with glamour and luxury, and this is reflected in its nightlife. The city’s night scene exudes an exclusive, chic atmosphere. If high-end clubs are your thing, then Cannes won’t disappoint. Famous spots like Baôli or Gotha Club often host international DJs and attract a well-dressed crowd. Also, there’s nothing quite like an evening yacht party overlooking the glittering coastline of the French Riviera.
Which City is Safer? Toulouse or Cannes?
Generally, Toulouse is considered safe for travellers. Like any large city, it has its share of issues, but on the whole, visitors will feel secure while navigating the streets. Common sense safety measures should be observed, of course – like keeping an eye on your belongings in crowded places. From experience, the locals are very friendly, and the areas where tourists tend to roam are monitored and secure.
Cannes tends to have a reputation for being a bit safer than Toulouse. It’s a smaller city, and with its luxury reputation, there’s an element of exclusivity that comes with it. It’s always bustling with tourists, especially during the film festival, and it’s well-patrolled by local police. Again, typical safety measures apply here too. Overall, whether walking down the Croisette or exploring the old town, you can feel at ease in Cannes.
How long to stay in Toulouse
Figuring out how long to stay in Toulouse? That’s a great question and depends on what kind of trip you’re planning. If you’re popping by for a quick visit, I’d say two to three days should suffice. This will give you enough time to visit the main sights, such as the iconic Capitole de Toulouse, the Basilica of Saint-Sernin, and the Toulouse Museum of Natural History.
But if you’re anything like me and love to delve a little deeper, immersing yourself in the local culture and lifestyle, you might want to consider staying a little longer – perhaps around five to seven days. This will allow you to explore at a leisurely pace, have time to appreciate the city’s vibrant arts scene, meander through the charming neighbourhoods, and even try out some of the local bistros and cafes. Trust me, the cassoulet is to die for!
Toulouse is also a great base to explore the surrounding region. If you plan on taking day trips to places like Carcassonne or Albi, then a week or even ten days would be a good estimate.
In the end, remember this – travel isn’t a race. It’s about the experiences, the people, the food, the culture, and the memories you make. So, take your time in Toulouse and enjoy what the ‘Pink City’ has to offer!
How long to stay in Cannes
Determining how long to stay in Cannes depends on what you’re looking to get out of your visit. With its sunny beaches, luxurious lifestyle, and vibrant cultural scene, Cannes has something for everyone.
For those looking to enjoy the sun and sand, a weekend getaway might suffice. This gives you time to soak up the sun on Cannes’ beautiful beaches, take a leisure stroll along the glamorous La Croisette Boulevard, and perhaps enjoy a meal at a seaside restaurant.
However, if you’re interested in exploring Cannes’ cultural attractions, such as the Le Suquet old town, the Musée de la Castre, or the various art galleries around town, a stay of three to four days would be more suitable. This will allow you to experience these attractions without feeling rushed.
For a more relaxed pace and time to explore beyond Cannes itself, consider a stay of a week or longer. This would give you ample time to enjoy day trips to the nearby Lerins Islands or other charming towns along the French Riviera like Nice, Antibes, and Saint-Tropez.
Which City is More Budget-Friendly? Toulouse or Cannes?
Let’s kick things off with Toulouse. Known for its red brick buildings, this city does a fantastic job of providing a great holiday without making a huge dent in your wallet. Accommodation, food, and sightseeing options cater to all kinds of budgets. There are plenty of free activities too, like wandering through the historic districts, lounging in its parks, or even catching a free concert at the St Pierre square on a summer night.
Swinging over to Cannes, it’s no secret that this glamorous city is known for its luxury appeal. It’s associated with high-end living and expensive tastes, thanks to the world-famous film festival. But, you can still do it on a budget. If you look properly you can find affordable accommodation, especially during off-peak times. Eating out might be a tad pricier than in Toulouse, but there are budget-friendly eateries if you know where to look and stay out of the main tourist areas. For attractions, the beaches are free, and wandering around the old town, of Le Suquet doesn’t cost a penny. So, Cannes can be done on a budget, it just requires a bit more planning compared to Toulouse.
How much is food and drink in Toulouse and Cannes?
| Toulouse | Cannes | |
|---|---|---|
| Beer | €5 – €7 | €6 – €8 |
| Glass of Wine | €3 – €10 | €5 – €12 |
| Coffee | €1.50 – €3 | €2 – €4 |
| Meal at Midrange Restaurant | €15 – €30 | €25 – €50 |
Please note that these prices are approximate and can vary based on the establishment, location, and other factors.
How much is it to stay in Toulouse or Cannes?
| Toulouse | Cannes | |
|---|---|---|
| Luxury Hotel | €150 – €500+ | €300 – €1000+ |
| Midrange Hotel | €70 – €150 | €100 – €300 |
| Budget Hotel | €40 – €70 | €60 – €100 |
| Hostel | €20 – €40 | €20 – €40 |
Please note that these prices are approximate and can vary based on factors such as the time of year, location, and specific hotel or hostel.
When is the best time to visit Toulouse?
Picking the best time to explore Toulouse is a big part of your planning. Known for its temperate climate, Toulouse can be great to visit throughout the year, each season bringing its own charm and unique experiences.
Spring: Season of Blossoms
Spring (March to May) in Toulouse is a beautiful season, the trees will be blossoming and the temperature won’t be too high. This time is ideal for sightseeing and soaking in Toulouse’s distinct architectural beauty, particularly the Capitole and Saint-Sernin Basilica. Spring is also the start of the outdoor festival season, adding an extra dash of liveliness to your visit.
Summer: Lively and Sunny
Summers (June to August) in Toulouse are warm and vibrant. This is a great time to indulge in outdoor activities, such as a leisurely stroll along the Garonne River or a picnic in the lush Japanese Garden. Summer evenings in Toulouse are particularly charming with open-air concerts and night markets for you to explore.
Autumn: Artistic Colours
Autumn (September to November) brings a beautiful colour palette to Toulouse, with the tree-lined avenues transitioning to shades of gold and red. The weather remains pleasant for outdoor exploration. In addition, the cultural calendar is full, making it a perfect time for art and music lovers to visit the city.
Winter: Serene and Festive
Winter (December to February) in Toulouse is typically cool and sometimes rainy.. With fewer tourists around, you can explore the city’s impressive museums and galleries at your own pace. Don’t miss the Toulouse Christmas Market for a dash of festive spirit and warm, comforting treats.
Weather: Toulouse has a fairly temperate climate, making it suitable for visits year-round. Summers can get a tad warm, but winters are generally mild. For the most pleasant weather, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons of April to June or September to October. These periods provide a good balance of excellent weather and manageable tourist crowds.
When is the best time to visit Cannes?
Spring: A Film Lover’s Paradise
Spring (March to May) is a fantastic time to visit Cannes, especially if you’re a film enthusiast. The Cannes Film Festival, held annually in May, turns the city into a global hotspot for film lovers. Be prepared for larger crowds and higher prices during this period, though. Weather-wise, the temperatures are generally pleasant, perfect for exploring the city and nearby attractions.
Summer: Sun, Sea, and Sand
Summer (June to August) in Cannes is all about the beach. The weather is typically warm, with lots of sunshine – perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and other beach activities. Outdoor festivals and events are common during this season, adding to the city’s lively atmosphere.
Autumn: Serene Beauty
Autumn (September to November) in Cannes offers a more serene experience. The summer crowds have dispersed, leaving the city quieter and more peaceful. This is an excellent time to enjoy the city’s cultural attractions, as well as the beautiful autumn scenery of the French Riviera.
Winter: Mild and Calm
Winter (December to February) is the low season in Cannes, with fewer tourists and lower prices. The weather is generally mild, and while it may not be beach weather, it’s still pleasant enough for strolls along La Croisette or visits to nearby towns.
Weather: Cannes has a beautiful Mediterranean climate. So mild winters and hot summers, you’ll rarely see freezing temperatures here, even in winter. It can get very hot in summer, so don’t forget your sun cream!
Festivals: Cannes is world famous for its film festival. But there, are other festivals like the Cannes Dance Festival held in December and the Cannes Yachting Festival in September.
Average Monthly Temperatures
| Month | Toulouse Temperature (High/Low) | Toulouse Rainy Days | Cannes Temperature (High/Low) | Cannes Rainy Days |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | 10° / 2° | 9 days | 13° / 4° | 6 days |
| February | 11° / 3° | 8 days | 14° / 4° | 5 days |
| March | 14° / 5° | 8 days | 16° / 6° | 5 days |
| April | 17° / 7° | 9 days | 18° / 9° | 6 days |
| May | 21° / 11° | 9 days | 22° / 13° | 5 days |
| June | 25° / 14° | 7 days | 25° / 16° | 3 days |
| July | 28° / 16° | 5 days | 28° / 19° | 1 day |
| August | 28° / 16° | 5 days | 28° / 19° | 2 days |
| September | 25° / 13° | 5 days | 25° / 15° | 4 days |
| October | 20° / 10° | 6 days | 21° / 12° | 6 days |
| November | 13° / 5° | 8 days | 17° / 7° | 7 days |
| December | 10° / 3° | 7 days | 14° / 4° | 5 days |
Getting around Toulouse
Toulouse is very easy to get around, with regular buses, trams and a metro system there are plenty of options. The public transport system is clean and well-maintained. You’ll find it easy to get around the city when using it. The Toulouse city pass is well worth getting if you plan on using public transport a lot. If you want a more active holiday, the city is very walkable. You could even hire a bike if you wanted to get around a bit quicker. As with any city, taxis and Uber are readily available.
Getting around Cannes:
Navigating Cannes is surprisingly simple, even for first-time visitors. The city offers a mix of public transport and walkable districts that make getting around hassle-free. The city’s public bus system, operated by Palm Bus, covers a broad area, making stops at popular spots throughout Cannes and its suburbs. The bus service is reliable and runs frequently so you’ll never be waiting too long.
If you’re staying in the city centre, most places are easily reached on foot. The famous Boulevard de la Croisette, lined with luxury shops, restaurants, and of course, the Cannes Film Festival venue, is perfect for a leisurely walk. You’ll get to soak up the sun, enjoy the sea breeze, and maybe even spot a celebrity or two!
For more independent travel, consider renting a bike or an electric scooter. Cannes is bike-friendly with several bike paths and routes around the city. And if you’re planning to explore the French Riviera further, Cannes’ train station, Gare de Cannes, offers regular services to other glamorous towns along the coast.
Cannes-Mandelieu Airport, situated just a short drive from the city centre, serves a number of domestic and international flights, making the city easily accessible. There are also several car hire companies operating in and around the airport if you prefer to drive yourself. In short, Cannes offers a variety of ways to get around that cater to different travel styles and preferences.
Top things to do in Toulouse
Capitole de Toulouse: This stunning city hall and opera house is an iconic sight in Toulouse. Its grand façade and beautiful square are absolute must-sees when in the city.
Cité de l’espace: A unique experience for space enthusiasts, Cité de l’espace offers fascinating insights into the universe and space exploration. You can see life-sized rockets, try astronaut activities, and even observe the skies in the planetarium.
Basilique Saint-Sernin: This UNESCO World Heritage site is the largest remaining Romanesque building in Europe. Its stunning architecture and rich history make it a highlight of any visit to Toulouse.
Rue d’Alsace-Lorraine: As a main shopping street in Toulouse, Rue d’Alsace-Lorraine offers a vibrant mix of shops, boutiques, and cafés. It’s a great place to soak up the city’s lively atmosphere.
Banks of the Garonne: Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the picturesque Garonne River. The riverside is beautifully developed and offers spectacular views of Toulouse’s historic buildings and bridges. Consider a river cruise for a different perspective of the city.
Top things to do in Cannes
La Croisette Boulevard: Cannes’ most famous promenade offers stunning sea views, luxury shops, and first-class restaurants. It’s also home to the Palais des Festivals et des Congrès, where the Cannes Film Festival is held.
Le Suquet (Old Town): A charming area with narrow winding streets, the Old Town offers a break from Cannes’ glitz. Don’t miss the spectacular views from the historic watchtower and church at the top.
Lerins Islands: Just a short ferry ride from Cannes, these islands are perfect for a day trip. Visit the historic Fort Royal on Sainte-Marguerite Island and the Cistercian monastery on Saint-Honorat Island.
Cannes’ Beaches: Cannes is famous for its beaches. Whether you choose a private beach with amenities or a public beach, it’s a must for any visit.
Marché Forville: For a local experience, visit this daily market where you’ll find a range of fresh produce, cheeses, and other regional delicacies.
How to spend three days in Toulouse
Day 1: Explore the Vibrant City Centre
Kick off your Toulouse adventure in the bustling city centre. Start your day at the Capitole de Toulouse, a magnificent city hall that also houses an opera house. Be sure to take memorable photos of its grand façade. Stroll down Rue d’Alsace-Lorraine for some retail therapy and grab lunch at one of the many inviting cafés. In the afternoon, visit the Basilique Saint-Sernin, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and marvel at its Romanesque architecture. Conclude your day with a delightful dinner in the lively Saint-Georges district, a hotspot for local gastronomy.
Day 2: Immerse Yourself in Science and Space
Begin your second day at the Cité de l’espace, Toulouse’s famous space city. Dive into the world of space exploration and get a closer look at rockets, satellites, and more. Post lunch, head to the Musée des Augustins to admire a rich collection of fine arts from the Middle Ages to the early 20th century. Later in the afternoon, visit the modern art museum, Les Abattoirs. Round off the day with a relaxing dinner in the Carmes district, renowned for its chic bars and restaurants.
Day 3: Venture Beyond the City
On your last day, consider exploring the surroundings of Toulouse. Take a half-day trip to the medieval city of Carcassonne, where you can explore the old town, fortified city walls, and its fairytale-like castle. Back in Toulouse, spend the rest of your afternoon strolling along the banks of the Garonne River, or relax in the expansive Prairie des Filtres park for a leisurely end to your trip.
How to spend three days in Cannes
Day 1: Explore the City and La Croisette
Start your Cannes journey by taking a leisurely stroll down La Croisette Boulevard. Visit the famous Palais des Festivals et des Congrès and walk in the footsteps of the movie stars. Spend the rest of your morning exploring the luxury shops and enjoying the sea views. After lunch, hit one of Cannes’ stunning beaches for some relaxation. Round off your day with a lovely dinner at one of the seafront restaurants.
Day 2: Discover the Old Town and Islands
Spend your second day exploring Le Suquet, the Old Town. Wander its quaint, winding streets, enjoy the local shops and cafes, and take in the stunning views from the top. After lunch, catch a ferry to the Lerins Islands. Explore the historic Fort Royal on Sainte-Marguerite Island and the Cistercian monastery on Saint-Honorat Island. Return to Cannes for dinner, perhaps choosing a restaurant in Le Suquet for its charming atmosphere.
Day 3: Enjoy the Local Culture and Scenery
On your final day, visit Marché Forville in the morning to explore the local produce and delicacies. Consider a picnic lunch with your market purchases at one of the local parks or beaches. In the afternoon, visit the Musée de la Castre for its collection of Mediterranean and Eastern artefacts, not to mention fantastic panoramic views from the tower. Conclude your visit to Cannes with a farewell dinner at a restaurant offering Provençal specialities.
Gareth is an avid city adventurer with a particular passion for finding amazing food! There’s quite literally nothing he doesn’t like. He spends most of his travelling time trying to find great restaurants and cafes to eat at. Alongside trying local street food which he loves! He’s done most of his travelling in Europe so far but would love to visit Japan and Mexico
When not travelling you can find Gareth boxing, running, or in the gym. He’s got a passion for exercise and loves physical challenges.
You can contact him at gareth@thecityadventurers.com