When we think of Toulon, we think of its maritime past which has forged the history and atmosphere of the city. In recent years, the largest French military port has been rethinking its future and turning to a rich cultural offer. Resulting a particularly pleasant way of life, embellished by the colors and the warmth of the Côte d'Azur. The city is fortunate to be at the heart of a varied nature which offers many activities suitable for all. Come with us to discover the 12 essential things to do in Toulon to savor its art of living!
Sail in the most beautiful harbor in Europe
Toulon is known to be home to the most beautiful harbor in Europe. But what is a harbor? It is a large body of water open to the sea by a narrow passage, but which nevertheless allows ships to anchor there. The best way to discover the harbor is of course to step away. Commented boat trips offer splendid views of the city, the port and the sea. An essential family activity to do in Toulon!
The port of Toulon
Dive into the heart of history at the National Maritime Museum
If you want to better understand the history of the largest French military port, you will learn a lot by visiting the National Maritime Museum. Vessels, models, paintings or maps retrace the evolution of the Toulon arsenal.
The Maritime Museum
Smell the scents of Provence at the Cours Lafayette market
1 km long, the Cours Lafayette market is unmissable. Gilbert Bécaud smelled there "scents of fennel, melons and celery" and was ecstatic at the "amazed world which laughs and calls itself". This market immerses visitors in a typical Provencal atmosphere. Discover this fervor that awakens all the senses and demonstrates the hospitality of the people of Toulon.
Toulon market
Have a drink on the terrace on Place Puget
Established on the site of the old grain market, Place Puget was once the main square in the city. She stays today a pleasant place to live and meet, where regulars and passing people come to have a drink under its large plane trees. It is a very pleasant stopover in Toulon when the weather is hot!
Puget square
Playing cards with Caesar
You are probably familiar with the trilogical works of Marcel Pagnol. Raimu, the Toulon actor, sacred monster of French cinema, plays César there. The character comes to life in the heart of Toulon, in a surreal representation of a famous scene. You can sit down with César and Panisse and play cards together.. Do not miss to take this little playful break in Toulon!
The famous Caesar and Panisse
Be contemplative in front of Notre-Dame-de-la-Seds Cathedral
Religious buildings are often an unmissable stopover when visiting a city, and Toulon is no exception to the rule. Its cathedral, built over 900 years ago, is a curious example of architectural eclecticism.. Its Romanesque structure blends with Gothic ribs, the classical facade and a Baroque altar. The whole is enhanced by a magnificent Provencal campanile in wrought iron.
The cathedral Notre-Dame de la Seds
Stroll in the rue des Arts
The old center of Toulon has recently undergone a renovation which gives it new life. Today, a district is entirely dedicated to creation and art in all its forms.. Graphic, textile, musical art, but also the art of living! Designer boutiques, galleries, artists' studios rub shoulders with cafes, bars and restaurants for a wonderful cultural and tasty discovery to be made in Toulon.
The rue des Arts
Soak up the atmosphere of Mourillon
The Mourillon district is a veritable small village surrounded by the city of Toulon. It is the district where it is good to live, to walk and also to bathe. Located to the east of the city, Mourillon was once a fishing village. The district has kept its atmosphere of yesteryear with its squares, its church, its shops and its seaside restaurants.
Fort Saint-Louis in Mourillon
Sunbathe on the Toulon beaches
In the list of things to do in Toulon, there is bound to be a time to relax. The city has its own beaches, and it is therefore possible to swim a few minutes from the city center.
Méjean cove
Stroll along the coast
A path along the coast allows you to admire superb panoramas on the coast and the big blue. The walk is accessible to all and offers a moment of disconnection in the middle of creeks, pines and at the foot of cliffs. If you are looking for something quirky to do in Toulon, you can also go along the coastline by sea kayak or paddle board.
Kayaking along the coast
Combine sea and nature at the Parc de la Tour Royale
Toulon is not just a seaside town. In recent years, it has been increasingly greener and more welcoming. With its many parks and gardens, it offers airy, friendly and fun spaces. One of the most pleasant is the landscaped park of the Royal Tower. Located by the sea, it offers a grandiose view of the harbor.
Monument in the park of the Royal Tower
Take to the heights from Mont Faron
The people of Toulon are proud of the mountains that surround them and we can understand why. If you are looking for a nature getaway to do in Toulon, go get lost on the heights of Mont Faron. There are two ways to get there: by car or by cable car. From the top of its 584 meters, many paths invite to walks or hikes with the harbor and the big blue in focus.
The Mont Faron cable car
Practical information
Finally, some practical information to help you organize your stay:
- Getting to Toulon : All means of transport are possible to get to Toulon. Toulon-Hyères airport offers daily connections with Paris. Numerous regional and national buses run to the bus station every day. SNCF connections are also very well developed to reach the capital or the large French metropolises.
- Getting around Toulon : The entire city center is easily accessible on foot, but you can take the urban network buses or the water buses to reach places a little further out.
- Climate and Weather : To avoid the rain, avoid the end of the year months that present the most risk. For the best sunshine, we obviously recommend the months of June-July-August. Look at the annual weather forecast for more info and when to go.
- Toulon Tourist Office: for all the useful information, visit the Tourist Office website. The city has 2 City Passes available to visitors to discover the city's must-sees without asking any questions.
The essentials of Toulon… and after?
Toulon has surely made you want to discover other corners of the Côte d'Azur. It is an ideal base for getting to the fabulous Porquerolles island. It can also be a stopover between Marseille and Nice for a road trip along the big blue. Are you ready to be amazed?
