The 4 Things to Do in Toulouse by Papa Pique et Maman Coud

Planning a long weekend in Toulouse and looking for ideas for walks and great places to visit? Follow the guide with the PPMC team, who tested for you the city’s must-see spots and favorite addresses.

What are the must-sees in Toulouse?

Nicknamed the “Pink City” because of the distinctive brick color used in its architecture, Toulouse is full of must-visit sites and activities. Since 2015, Papa Pique et Maman Coud has been proudly displaying its own “pink bricks” at 34 Rue de la Pomme. The PPMC team took the opportunity to explore this charming city and meet Sylvia, manager of the Toulouse boutique.

Located in Occitanie and crossed by the Garonne River, Toulouse is a vibrant city full of history, good food, and sports culture especially rugby. From the Place du Capitole to the Garonne River banks, the city offers over 2,000 years of history and countless attractions.

Our 4 Must-Do Activities in Toulouse

Place du Capitole
This is the main square of the city and one of Toulouse’s most iconic landmarks. Here you can admire the imposing Capitole, a neoclassical-style city hall, as well as the arcades and cafés surrounding it. By day or night, it’s a stunning spot. On the ground, you’ll find the Occitan cross, designed by Raymond Moretti, symbolizing the 12 zodiac signs, the 12 months of the year, and the 12 hours of the day. Moretti also created the Galerie des Arcades, a series of 29 paintings depicting different periods in the history of Toulouse and its region.

Basilica of Saint-Sernin
A masterpiece of Romanesque architecture and one of the largest churches in France. It houses the relics of Saint Saturnin and features beautiful architecture and a picturesque cloister.
Maison Pillon
This patisserie and chocolatier, in business for over 50 years, is a true Toulouse institution. It’s impossible to resist trying their famous chocolatine (or pain au chocolat, as we Bretons call it!). Take your treat to go and enjoy it with a coffee on a terrace or by the Garonne.

The Garonne River Banks
The riverbanks are a favorite walking spot for locals. You can stroll along the Garonne, enjoy cafés and restaurants, or even take a river cruise. Extend your walk to the Canal du Midi and Canal de Brienne perfect for a bike ride or a summer walk. Toulouse is crossed by several picturesque bridges offering great views of the city, including the Pont Neuf and the Pont Saint-Pierre.

The Little Extra: A Stop at Papa Pique et Maman Coud

Don’t miss a visit to our Toulouse boutique at 34 Rue de la Pomme in the heart of the Pink City.

During our visit, we were welcomed by Sylvia, the store manager, who gave us a sneak preview of the new Agrumes Pop collection. We showcased it to Toulouse locals with our new Gaby foldable backpack, accompanied by a sweet buffet prepared by Un jour un gâteau. Sylvia’s favorite? The large tote bag a versatile companion for travel, beach days, vacations, or sports. Its foldable design makes it easy to store, and it meets carry-on size requirements for most airlines.

Our Gourmet Recommendations in Toulouse

Maison Pillon (Rue Ozenne)
Founded in 1967, this patisserie-chocolaterie is a must for lovers of fine sweets. Whether for their signature chocolates or viennoiseries, it’s a stop we highly recommend.
Ma Biche sur le Toit
For a drink with a view, head to the top floor of the Galeries Lafayette. This restaurant-bar offers elegant cuisine, delicious cocktails, and a breathtaking view of Toulouse perfect for an evening out.

Toulouse also has plenty more to offer: the Couvent des Jacobins, the Abattoirs Museum of Contemporary Art, the Toulouse Museum of Natural History, the Japanese Garden, and the Saint-Cyprien district.

Whether for sightseeing, gourmet treats, or shopping at Papa Pique et Maman Coud, the Pink City is full of wonderful discoveries.