Things to do in Occitanie in October

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Overview

October is a good time to visit Occitanie.

Occitanie has plenty to offer for visitors of all ages and interests. In this article, we tell you the top things to see and do for your October trip to Occitanie. Get inspired by the events, activities, attractions, and experiences unique to October. We’ll let you know where to explore events based on your interests, whether that’s food, culture, art, music, sport or others.

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Best events and things to do in Occitanie in October

Top experiences in October
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Best attractions for Occitanie in October

Besides the array of exciting events and activities Occitanie has to offer for travelers in October, we want to remind you of the classic attractions in Occitanie that are great to visit at this time of the year as well! You can’t miss these iconic landmarks, local favorites, and places rich with cultural heritage. We hope to give you insights and inspiration into the best things to see and do to make the most of your visit. Here is a list of our top attractions in Occitanie for October.
Cité de Carcassonne
1. Cité de Carcassonne
4.7
(90672)
Fortress
Historical place
Citadel surrounded by double walls 3km in length, dotted by 52 towers, founded in Gallo-Roman times.
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Very beautiful Medieval Castle with very charming narrow roads. Highly recommend the guided audio tour which is super convenient to navigate as it starts automatically every time you enter a new area. Once you walk the ramparts I recommend to walk also the full round back to the main castle it is worth it.
An absolute highlight. The castle town is like in every childrenbook. Wouldn't be surprised, if a dragon arrives🙂. It is really like in a tale. All the towers with the roofs and the big large walls. A walk along the wall is more than 3km and take about 1 hour. Its included in the castle entrance. The cite can be freely visited all time. The castle is separate and has normal ooening hours. Entrance is 19€. But its worth it. You get a lot infos on boards with drawings about defense systems and reconstruction of the site. The cite is full of shops, bars and restaurants.An cathedral can also be visited. I recommand 2 visits. One fir castle and wall. Other in the evening for diner.
This is an amazing place to visit, lots to see. I would encourage anyone going to visit the castle and get the audio guide. So much information to listen to, both in the castle and and as you walk the walls. It really explains the history and development of the place. There's far less info on the few signs dotted about. Lots of places to eat and buy souveineers in the city and so many things to photograph.
The full fairytale experience....... As we we crossed the lovely old bridge from the lower town, we got our first glimpse of the walls of the medieval city, the walk up is quite enjoyable, passing a streets full of eateries enticing passer-by's with the local favourite.........., it is easy to spend a whole day within the walls, starting with a guided tower, visiting the basilica and learning all about the the history with enjoyable stories, next is the not missed, walking the walls/ramparts, a visit to the Medieval camp, is fun, just not for the kids, there are many restaurants, however our go to is the cite boulangerie, the bread is divine and there are many treated to be tempted with to finish the day, just walking the cobblestone streets, watching the kids with there sword and shield, wearing a helmet walking the streets sourced from the many souvenir shops. all in all a wonderful experience.
A really cool place to visit in the fall when the tourists are gone. I walked around at my leisure then took the Privilege tour which takes us in basements and other restricted areas to learn more about the history of the place. It was worth it. The only mild disappointment was the restaurants. I nearly cried when I realized that I can make a better cassoulet than what I had been served. I love cassoulet and was hoping to have an out of body experience in the birthplace of this dish. It was ok but not mind-blowing... If you like jogging, there's a nice trail around the walls where I enjoyed gorgeous views. In shoer, great place to visit but eat in town if you want to experience gastronomy.
The best medieval city ever. It's a must place to visit. You'll not be disappointed. Worth the entrance fee into the castle. There's plenty of parking too
There are numerous shops & restaurants that are well worth your time to explore and enjoy. But first time visitors should definitely walk for parapets, tour the museum, and shop the gift shop. The history of the Cité is layered and fascinating.
This castle is a very nice place to spend with family or friends, the area is so clean and there is a big parking area nearby, there are many shops and coffee shops and small restaurants, the scenes are amazing just before sunset, additionally the place is not crowded and well organized, we enjoyed our time but there were some closed doors we couldn't reach beyond.
Château et remparts de la cité de Carcassonne
2. Château et remparts de la cité de Carcassonne
4.6
(1861)
Castle
Sights & Landmarks
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A real treat, the audio guide is worth the extra €. Just make sure the guide finishes the current subject before moving on or it may auto jump to the next chapter as it is all automated. A lovely 'castle' with lots of history. I really recommend pre purchasing your tickets and arriving for 09.45 for a 10.00 am start when it opens. Walk up from the entrance and the main castle and ramparts are in front of you. We arrived at 09.45 with pre-booked tickets and were first in line. By 10.00, opening time, the queue was already sizable. You can walk for 0.8 mile/1k + around the inner ramparts via the audio guided tour but there are exit points on the way if you feel you can't complete it. Beautiful views and lots of info via the audio guide, however less so if not using the audio guide. The 'city' itself within the walls is quite tourist focused and the quality and price reflect that. I would prefer to eat in the main city of Carcassonne itself, or just over the le Pont Vieux (Old Bridge). Get there early, avoid the heat and crowds, it's a worthwhile visit!
We spent a couple of days here and found it absolutely amazing. Lots to do and see. Shops and restaurants in abundance. The evening walk on the ramparts along with the light show was amazing
Very good tour through the castle with a great walk on the walls of Carcassonne. We spent here about 2 hours. The price was 19€ per person without an audio guide. But there were plenty of explanations written in English so for us no guide was totally fine.
Legendary & Epic Castle This is by far my favourite castle in France. I visited a lot but this one is special. What I like is the fact it is Medieval and so well preserved. It is very grand too. One of the largest around the world. You can feel the middle ages here and really appreciate what it must have been like to live in those days. Highly recommended to visit.
Perfect on a sunny day..... A visit to the Medieval City is not complete, without doing the walk along the ramparts/walls and visiting the museum/castle. It is well worth the cost. We went early 0930, opening time, to beat the crowds, we actually had the walls to ourselves for the first 30 minute, we took our time, and totally enjoyed the experience.
Carcassonne and its castle are must-see sites if you're visiting Occitania in southern France. The day we were there, the place was swarming with tourists from all over the place, and with good reason, because there's so much rich history there. I heard French, Spanish, Catalan, German, English — visitors from many places. Touring the castle is synonymous with touring the city, since you can enter the city through the castle gates and walk around the winding lanes full of restaurants with outside seating, shops selling souvenirs and tourist items, etc. Every other restaurant signboard advertises cassoulet, a local specialty. If you're touring the castle and Carcassonne, I highly recommend also stepping into the basilica, whose stained-glass windows are a marvel to behold. Rich blues, reds, yellows, a fairyland of vibrant colors….
Not a usual Cheateau it’s way more than that . It’s a vibrant town with full of shops ,restaurants ,bar and hotels . You can lost yourself inside the small streets with tonnes of things to see . Easy access car park next to it for your convenience. Do not miss this place if you Around Carcassonne.
Unique in its kind, the Cité de Carcassonne is a fine example of medieval military architecture. It is not only one of the largest fortified cities in Europe, but also the largest medieval complex on the continent, and arguably one of the best preserved. The stones that make up the Cité tell us the history of the place. A rich and complex history spanning several centuries, from the Gallo-Roman period (from the 3rd century BC) to the 19th century. Strolling through the citadel and standing on its ramparts is like contemplating 2,500 years of history. At the heart of the medieval city of Carcassonne, the Château Comtal was built in the western part of the Cité, the highest and therefore best protected. On this side, the city overlooks the Aude River, making it difficult to access and thus serving as a protective feature. Today, consisting of a stately palace separating two courtyards, the castle dominates the Lower Town, protected by 11 towers, including two keeps. The main entrance is guarded by twin towers forming a gatehouse with elaborate defensive systems. The Watchtower, in the South Courtyard, is the castle's tallest. It is one of the city's few square towers. Constantly modified over time, the count's castle was enlarged in the 12th century by the Trencavels, Viscounts of Carcassonne. A primitive castle already stood on this site. The construction of this new palace, begun around 1130, took place in a very unique context. The establishment of the feudal system led to the division of the territory and the decentralization of power: vast territorial areas were placed under the responsibility of lords, tasked with administering the various regions on behalf of the Carolingian kingdom. While these families owed loyalty to the king, they were increasingly powerful and independent. In Carcassonne, the Trencavel dynasty managed to establish its dominance and ensured the management of the viscounty. This was an important family, composed of fierce warriors and great builders. The city was, however, threatened by the presence of two powerful neighbors, the Counts of Toulouse and Barcelona, ​​who were fighting over the South of France. The Viscounts of Carcassonne, allying themselves with one, sometimes with the other, managed to reconcile these two powers. This was a prosperous period, which allowed for the development of trade and the urban expansion of the city. After the construction of the Saint-Nazaire basilica, the castle, which housed the seigneurial power, was fortified and enlarged. From the 11th century onwards, it was an important living space, including a great hall, kitchens, stables and a keep. It is the only room in the count's castle to have retained its medieval appearance; the walls of the state room are still decorated with the original paintings. Made with semi-precious stones, they represent epic scenes that tell of the power of the Lords during the Crusades. Later, in the 12th century, the castle also housed a chapel dedicated to the Virgin Mary, which was destroyed during the Revolution (with the exception of its apse, which is still visible). Today, little remains of the castle from this period, which then consisted of two buildings forming an L and dominated by a watchtower. The castle was then separated from the rest of the city by a simple palisade.
Pont du Gard
3. Pont du Gard
4.6
(36109)
Bridge
Museums
Mighty aqueduct bridge rising over 3 well-preserved arched tiers, built by 1st-century Romans.
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So great we went twice! Once to see the bridge and another to have a picnic by the water and take a quick bath. You don’t have to pay unless you wanted a guided tour. Just pay for the parking. Very nice place to visit in family.
Roman aqueduct, crossing the Gard river. Spectacular and within a beautiful natural setting. Possibility to cross the bridge and enjoy beaches and several points of view. Plenty of easy trecks around the monument.
Our visit to the Pont du Gard on October 8 was absolutely unforgettable. I went there with my friends and together we walked the peaceful paths leading down to the river, surrounded by the golden warmth of the southern French autumn. Before we even reached the bridge, we stumbled upon several strawberry trees— not real strawberries, but Arbutus unedo, also called the strawberry tree. Their fruit looked almost too bright to be real — tiny red, textured berries with a surprisingly sweet and tangy flavor. They turned out to be a wonderful surprise ,something unique and truly delicious. Then, turning a corner, the magnificent Roman aqueduct unfolded before us. The Pont du Gard rises from the landscape like a vision — three tiers of stone arches reflecting perfectly in the clear waters of the Gardon River.Nearly 2,000 years old, it served as part of an aqueduct that once carried water to ancient Nîmes. Even today, it feels alive with history — a triumph of precision and beauty. We spent the afternoon walking along the riverbank, taking in the symmetry, the soft rustle of leaves, and the warmth of the sun against the limestone. It’s the kind of place that makes you pause and breathe, reminding you how enduring human creation can be when shaped with purpose. In short:A day filled with history, nature, and quiet wonder — shared with good company and bright red strawberry tree fruit as an unexpected delight. Must-see rating:🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 Visited:October 8 Highlights:Ancient Roman engineering, peaceful riverside walks, and the discovery of the strawberry tree fruit — sweet, wild, and unforgettable.
So much grander than I expected! An incredible feat of engineering from a time before electricity, gas, or diesel power! Thisbis monument to time, craftsmanship and ingenuity. Leave it to the Roman's to leave me impressed. A MUST SEE destination in France.
The Pont du Gard is a towering three-tiered aqueduct bridge built by the Romans in the 1st century AD. Interesting facts we found out about the bridge: • It was built without mortar: the roughly 50,400 tonnes of limestone were cut and fitted so precisely that the blocks hold by gravity and friction alone. • The aqueduct channel that the bridge is part of drops only about 12.6 m over 50 km (~1 in 4,000 gradient) — extremely slight for such a long distance. • Many stonemasons left their marks on the stones: more than 320 “compagnon” marks have been found on the monument, some from as early as 1611. • Over its history the bridge served various roles: after its time as a water aqueduct it became a toll bridge, and later, in the 18th century, a road bridge was built alongside it. • It survived major floods in modern times (1958, 1998 and 2002) which tested its structure — impressive given its age. Getting there & timing: • Located near Vers-Pont-du-Gard in Occitanie, about 20 km from Nîmes. • The site opens around 09:00. Hours vary by season; check official site for current times. • Allow 1.5 to 3 hours, or a full day if you include walks, river time and the museum. What to do & best spots: • Walk across the lower level to appreciate the arches up close and the river beneath. • Visit the on-site museum: interactive exhibits, scale models, virtual reconstructions — good for history context. • Swim or relax by the river banks — the scenery and setting are excellent for a rest, especially in warmer months. • For photography: early morning or late afternoon gives good light through the arches and fewer crowds. Tips & practical advice: • Parking is paid and you should check whether parking closes at a certain time (especially after dark). • During high season it may be busier; consider visiting in shoulder season for a calmer experience. • Wear sturdy walking shoes if you plan any of the walking trails around the site. • If you want to access the third (top) level of the aqueduct bridge, this requires a guided tour — check availability in advance. • Bring swimwear/towel if you plan to enjoy the river; also sun protection.
It’s hard to imagine something so magnificent and strong is two thousand years old and still standing. The bridge and the surrounding parks and land provided a wonderful place to spend a lovely afternoon enjoying the sun, the outdoors, and understand more about the long history of la République.
Le Pont du Gard is an icon from days gone by from the Roman era. It’s been on my bucket list for years to see. I like it because it represents the great engineering skills that people with little technology could use to build something that will stand through the ages. The site is well setup to handle tourists coming to look at the aquaduct, and the, later built, viaduct. Tourist offices are situated on each side of the river, and one of them has a museum/exposition/cinema/gift shop/ complex. And, walking tours are conducted to the bridge. A good visit. I arrived here on a bus shuttle from Avignon. I hear there is also a shuttle from Nimes, France. Recommended for those interested in area history, architecture, and Roman life.
Amazing view! Paid parking on site 9€ for a day and about 3-5mins. walk to Pont du Gard. It's a pebbled river so better bring swimming shoes. Very crowded on summer but it's fun and a lively place!
Pl. du Capitole
4. Pl. du Capitole
Sights & Landmarks
Points of Interest & Landmarks
Grand Neoclassical building housing city hall, an opera house, orchestra & 19th-century artwork.
Amphitheatre of Nîmes
5. Amphitheatre of Nîmes
4.6
(37902)
Amphitheater
Sights & Landmarks
Imposing Roman amphitheater hosting historic reconstructions plus regular concerts & events.
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The Nîmes Amphitheater is one of the most impressive and best-preserved Roman arenas in the world. Built around 70 AD, shortly after the Colosseum in Rome, it could seat up to 24,000 spectators and was used for gladiator fights, wild animal hunts, and public spectacles that thrilled Roman crowds. Its oval shape spans 436 feet long and 331 feet wide, with a complex system of corridors, staircases, and galleries that allowed for quick access—an architectural marvel even by today’s standards. What makes the arena unique isn’t just its state of preservation, but the way it’s still alive today: the amphitheater continues to host concerts, festivals, and even bullfights, blending ancient tradition with modern culture.
Incredibly well preserved Roman amphitheatre in Nîmes, France. It is just like visiting the Colosseum in Rome but it is far less busy and in considerably better condition-- they even still hold events here! My only regret is not being able to see an event in the arena, as I can only imagine this would be spectacular. In any case it is a very worthwhile sight to see in Nîmes
We ticked off a bucket list item today by visiting the Arena in Nimes and it didn’t disappoint. The history of this incredible structure makes you want to go back in time and just see what life was like. It is bigger and more impressive than we expected. As we left we walked through the gift shop and the lovely Agnes (I so hope I have the name correct) chatted with us and told us some other places to go, she was so lovely and proud of this beautiful area! It isn’t just the Arena, it is the entire area, stunning, surprising and full of history, I am so glad I have experienced it.
Beautiful amphitheatre. Make sure you check that there are no ongoing shows at night because you won't be able to enter unless you buy a ticket! I believe until the 18th of August (2025) there are shows every night, Dream of a Gladiator. It was quite nice, for a not too bad a of a price. The theater has now seating on top of the stone seating so definitely takes a way from the actual look of the amphitheatre. Quite impressive and unexpected!
We were there early November and practically had the place to ourselves. What a treat! The free audio guide is an absolute must. Lots of good info in succinct pieces (not overwhelming). So many extra side exhibits to entertain all ages. Dog friendly, too!
We spent about 3 hours exploring this site. It was the reason we came to Nîmes, and we were not disappointed. The view of the city from the topmost row of seats is beautiful, even if climbing up there was a bit vertigo-inducing! The two small enclosed exhibits on the ground floor were interesting, too.
The interior and exterior are beautiful and crowded with tourists. It is recommended to buy tickets online beforehand so that you do not have to queue for the audio guide. We can download the audio guide by QR code and then listen to it by number.
Built around AD 90–100, about two decades after the Colosseum in Rome, the arena is one of the best-preserved Roman amphitheaters in the world. Constructed as a grand entertainment venue for the citizens of the Roman colony of Nemausus, the structure stands approximately 21 meters tall with a two-tiered facade composed of 60 arches per level, totaling 120 arches in a highly refined architectural design. From the 13th to the 18th century, the arena was transformed into a fortress-like residential quarter, housing over 700 inhabitants. In 1786, the internal dwellings were gradually dismantled to restore the monument’s original form. Originally capable of accommodating around 24,000 spectators, the venue now holds approximately 16,000 people for safety and conservation purposes. Today, the amphitheater serves as a dynamic cultural and entertainment space, hosting traditional bullfights, Camargue-style bull games, the annual Festival de Nîmes, concerts, and historical reenactments. ※ Included in the Pass Romanité.
Gouffre de Padirac
6. Gouffre de Padirac
4.7
(39028)
Temporarily Closed
Nature & Parks
Caverns & Caves
Iconic cave network with tours on foot & by boat, plus events like underground wine tastings.
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Simply fantastic! Easy to park (no charge), very easy to purchase tickets at a machine, queue short and undercover, audio guide straightforward and lifts if you want them. And as for the cave network - just amazing. You see so much and then into the boats - very atmospheric and onto yet more stunning sights. You will not be disappointed! We visited mid-September and no need to book ahead but certainly would for July and August. Highly recommend!
Great experience. Very well organised and very informative. Lots of steps but there is the option of a lift. Boat ride along the underground stream is great. Wear a raincoat as there is some dripping water although a lot of effort has been made to minimise this.
Had been waiting to go here for a while and so glad I did. It's a bit of a windy drive to get there, and parking is pretty chaotic, but it's definitely worth the effort. A whole underground world awaits you: A giant chasm; a lovely boat trip along a subterranean river; waterfalls, lakes, enormous stalactites; and a section that opens up to reveal a chamber with a 90m high ceiling. Staff are friendly and knowledgeable, and the infrastructure is exceptional there. Tips: Book tickets in advance. We went on a cold, rainy day in October and were surprised to see how busy it was. Parking is free, but a bit of a hunt was necessary. It's a steady 13 degrees in there, so warm, waterproof clothing & shoes required. Also, use the toilets before you enter as there are none in there! Have fun!
A true wonder in this world. The Gouffre de Padirac is really something else. You will get a beautiful unexpected surprise through all this beautiful adventure to the center of the earth. Naturally crafted through time, this is the perfect place for families and friends to spend a beautiful day to remember. Enjoy...
Simply magnificent. The caves are very beautiful with many fantastic photo opportunities. Buy your tickets in advance so that you won't be disappointed. Free parking is available but limited but the paid parking lot is inexpensive.
Absolutely beautiful caves you can walk through with a short boat ride. My only recommendation for those visiting the area, don't go after walking down from visiting the château at Rocamadour or your legs will be like jelly. If you want to see everything that's there, it's probably best to just make a day of it.
An absolute must-visit attraction if you are in the Dordogne region. It was an hour and a half of pure fun and adventure that was well worth the price. The way this attraction is structured is very well-organized and I appreciate how accessible it is for all kinds of people. The cave formations are stunning and grand and must be seen to believe. I was not expecting the sheer scale of this cave and was blown away. Furthermore, the staff were great and my boat guide in particular was very friendly and willing to answer any questions I had about the cave. Highly, highly recommend visiting this place.
Incredible. Thoroughly enjoyed our visit particularly the boat ride even deeper into the cave. This place is vast and totally mind blowing!!! A lot of steps (but there is a lift if you need it).
Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes
7. Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes
4.8
(10454)
Pilgrimage place
Sights & Landmarks
Religious complex famous for pilgrimages & healing, encompassing a grotto, baths & churches.
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The Lourdes Church (Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes) is an incredible and sacred place to visit. The atmosphere is peaceful and deeply spiritual, attracting pilgrims and visitors from all over the world. The architecture is breathtaking, and the surroundings are beautifully maintained. It’s only a short walk from nearby hotels, making it very accessible. Attending mass and spending quiet moments in prayer here was a very moving experience. Whether you visit for faith or simply to appreciate the history and beauty, Lourdes Church is truly a must-see.
As a catholic, I’m writing this review with great pleasure and joy. It was my first time in Lourdes and I felt so special and blessed. Please note there’s a candlelight procession happening at 9pm at night every day from April to October. Also there are several mass services in different churches in the premises. You can buy bottles from near by shops and fill holy water. There’s staff that help you with information and guiding you through. Have a pleasant pilgrimage Our Lady of Lourdes, Pray for us
If you are a devotee of the Mother of Jesus Mary, if you are desperate for healing, this place makes miracles. So many devotees from around the world would flock this Holy place. So many proven miracles of healing that science couldn't explain. A beautiful place for everyone to experience the love of Mother Mary expressed through feelings of hope and love for Jesus and his mother.
A Place of Deep Faith, Peace, and Healing The Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes is one of the most moving and spiritual places in the world. From the moment you enter the grounds, there is an overwhelming sense of peace, faith, and reverence. The atmosphere is filled with quiet devotion, where pilgrims from all over the world come to pray, reflect, and find healing. The Grotto of Massabielle, where the Virgin Mary appeared to Saint Bernadette, is incredibly serene — especially during the evening candlelight procession, a truly unforgettable experience of unity and prayer. The basilicas, chapels, and walkways are beautifully maintained, and everything radiates a feeling of hope and grace. Whether you visit for spiritual reasons or simply to experience its profound tranquility, Lourdes touches the heart in a very special way. A sacred destination that inspires faith and peace beyond words.
Visiting here for the first time was truly breathtaking. The sanctuary is grand, magnificent, and more beautiful than any place I have ever seen. If you visit, you will feel the same wonder and excitement that I felt.
Lovely day taking in the beauty of Lourdes and it's surroundings. Very quiet on a Monday as most places were shut, but we did manage to find one place selling gorgeous crepes.
Beautiful grounds. Inspiring architecture. It's like a religious Disneyland. Healing waters. Round the clock rosary. 25000 seat basilica.
Personally, I’m not Christian, but I felt that this place was truly holy. There was a wonderful energy. I went there in the off-season around 6:00 p.m., and there were about 100 people , it didn’t feel crowded at all. I respect all religions, and I must say this is a magical place to visit, even if you’re not religious.
Sainte-Cecile Cathedral of Albi
8. Sainte-Cecile Cathedral of Albi
4.8
(14662)
Catholic cathedral
Sights & Landmarks
Gothic, 13th-century cathedral with 78m-high bell tower, housing notable frescoes & painted chapels.
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Absolutely gorgeous inside and being built of bricks it’s beautiful and so different outside. Well worth a visit which is free for most areas with a small fee to see the vaults. The ceilings and frescoes are a sight to behold
This is one of the most beautiful cathedrals in the southern French gothic style I have ever visited. The outside is very imposing but the inside is crammed with beautiful artwork. It’s said that it is the largest building constructed out of bricks. Close to the building is a beautiful garden and the Toulouse-Lautrec museum.
What can you say about this most imposing yet beautiful of cathedrals? The plain Tolosian pink brick exterior - built as a fortress to intimidate the Cathar supporters - belies the intricate beauty inside where every surface is decorated to a point that you have to just sit down to try and take it all in. And that is what you can do - it is free to enter the eastern half of the cathedral. The western half - similarly decorated but less busy, and one for the fans of impressive sculptures of the time, is a small fee, and also contains the treasures on an upper floor. Not necessary to enjoy the cathedral, but if you like completeness. The choir is stunning though, and reminiscent of York Minster, but taken up a notch. The only hint of this on the outside is the main entrance, whose portico feels like a mini cathedral in itself. If Notre Dame had fallen down before Victor Hugo built it up again, then Quasimodo would have felt very at home here, at least the Disney version anyway… Finally, we have to mention the organ - one of the biggest in France and uniquely decorated with the queues for Heaven and Hell. Very Dutch in form, and something to marvel at. I’m a big fan of European cathedrals, and Albi is in my top three. Not to be missed, if you are at least within 100km of it. The authentic winding streets and high views over the river as you make your way there add to the visual drama.
Truly magnificent and spectacular church with incredible art and massive fort like structure on the outside that bellies the intricate details artful details on the inside. I didn't pay to see the other half of it but didn't think it was necessary to get a great experience. Must visit if you are around Toulouse.
Free entry to the impressive Sainte-Cécile Cathedral, the largest brick cathedral in the world, has the feel of a fortress. • 113m long, 35m wide and 30m under the vault •  a 78m high bell tower completed in 1480. • 1282/1493: it took 200 years to build It is also the largest fully painted cathedral in Europe, with 18,500 m² of frescoes and decorations.
The almost complete painting of this large Gothic building is unique, magnificent, and impressive. A must-see, and not just for art historians. And very easy to visit: there's a large parking lot below the hill, and admission is free. Sit in the choir stalls and stay for a while.
Truely magnificent! This is the largest brick cathedral in the world and fully painted inside. The frescoes are amazing, worth the visit to this beautiful town albi
Excellent visit, well worth the 6€ for the audio guide. A remarkably well preserved church and surrounding area. The toulouse lautrec museumjust besides. A beautiful place to lookat while you take a consommation in one of the bars at the edge of the square.
Pl. de la Comédie
9. Pl. de la Comédie
Sights & Landmarks
Points of Interest & Landmarks
Basilique Saint-Sernin de Toulouse
10. Basilique Saint-Sernin de Toulouse
4.7
(14794)
Basilica
Sights & Landmarks
Medieval basilica with relics of 128 saints & a thorn said to have come from the Crown of Thorns.
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The Basilique Saint-Sernin is an unmissable monument in Toulouse. It’s a stunning and well-preserved example of Romanesque architecture, known for its impressive size and beautiful details. Built in the 11th and 12th centuries, it was an important stop for pilgrims on the Way of St. James. Visiting this basilica is a must for anyone interested in history, art, or architecture—it truly captures the spirit of the city.
It is a nice and clean church, both the exterior and interior are beautiful, it was a pleasure to visit this church during a day trip to Toulouse and a walk around the city center. When we entered the church, young girls and boys were singing religious songs and a good spiritual atmosphere was created. The church was relatively quiet and had the necessary peace. I personally felt very good and I hope you will also have a good experience visiting this church.
The basilica is one of the largest Romanesque-style churches in Europe and a major landmark of Toulouse. Construction began around 1080 and continued through the 13th century. The building reflects a pure Romanesque design with later Gothic additions, combining red brick with pale stone. Its most iconic feature is the 64-meter octagonal bell tower, a defining element of the city’s skyline.
This is a truly mind blowing cathedral. It is the largest remaining Romanesque church in the world. Its soaring barrel voltage ceiling gives a sense of space and majesty. There are wonderful statues and some incredible fresco paintings which have survived hundreds of years. I must see when in this city.
Beautiful architecture. We were lucky that there was a wedding ceremony when we entered so we got to hear the organ play live which was amazing. The entrance is free. Highly recommend a visit.
A more grandiose cathedral, visible from many parts of the city because of the distinctive tower. The access was limited when we visited because there was a service on.
Mast seen Landmark of Christian medieval architecture. Free entrance. Take your time to visit and discover all parts of basilica.
This church is really good if you're interested in medieval church architecture and history. Items of interest are well presented and there is an informative video running showing how the building evolved. Thoroughly recommended and free to enter.
Cité de l'Espace
11. Cité de l'Espace
4.2
(7615)
Science museum
Museums
Space-themed attraction with exhibits, an IMAX cinema, a planetarium & an interactive kids' section.
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The exhibition and museum dedicated to space and science is truly a remarkable experience. It features an array of captivating attractions, thrilling rides, and engaging shows that cater to visitors of all ages, making it an ideal destination for families. Nestled within a thoughtfully designed science park, the entire experience is both convenient and immersive. What stands out is the careful attention given to explaining the wonders of the universe. Each display and interactive element invites curiosity and exploration, making complex concepts accessible and fascinating. I was particularly enchanted by the rover exhibition, which offered a hands-on glimpse into Mars exploration, and the breathtaking moon takeoff and landing simulation, which transported me to the very edge of the cosmos. Overall, this exhibition comes highly recommended for anyone eager to expand their knowledge and ignite their imagination!
Great place. I saw a lot of comments that everything is in French only, well, that's not true, apart from some spectacles, everything is available in French, English and Spanish. However, they could provide some subtitles for the French only parts. I spent there 1 full day, it's enough to see the most important parts and walk through the whole object. If you want to really have full experience and see everything thoroughly, 2 days are recommended. Great place for kids, adults and anyone who loves space exploration. My favorite spectacle was the imax space images. Overall, highly recommended.
There are lots of shows which are really informative and educational. We loved the Mars Rover one, but the only thing was everything was explained in French so we had to use live translation. The planetarium shows has audio guides in english. Other than above this is a great place to visit for both kids and adults who love space.
If you’re in Toulouse and even remotely curious about space, the Cité de l’Espace is a must-visit — especially with kids. I went with my daughter, and it turned out to be one of the most memorable experiences we’ve had together. The IMAX Deep sky show was fantastic. Gazing at the stars in the Planetarium made us feel like we were travelling through the galaxy. The highlight is the Lune Explorer where you get to experience being an astronaut on a mission to Moon. You can literally feel the 2G force!
It's a must see if you are in the area. I would recommend setting a few hours aside if you visit - especially if you want to check out some of the shows on offer. Planetarium and take off simulations are great - the latter does have quite a bit of a wait time however. Translation headphones are available for planetarium - English and Spanish. There's also a restaurant and food trucks, the only thing missing was a coffee truck for some pick me up. Overall spent around 5h and haven't seen everything.
Love it! Very good place to visit. Full of astronomy, stars, planets, and fun things. Tons of activities to do and see. You would need the whole full day for this. Highly recommended.
Nice space oriented museum, from the first rocket into space, to the future. Pitty that there isn't any Dutch, as a neighbour country this would have been nice. (Translating everything for my kids was exhausting 😁) A lot of interactive stuff, friendly staff, children are more than welcome to experiment and try things. But again, only in french.. A lot to discover, you'll need at least a full day if you want to see everything.
On a warm summer day, we visited the Cité de l’Espace in Toulouse with our children—and what an experience it was! The interactive space museum offers an incredible variety of things to see and do, both indoors and outdoors. Our kids were thrilled to try out the simulators (with almost no waiting lines), where they felt like real space shuttle pilots, tractor drivers, and even captains of a fishing boat. Outside, you can walk among life-size spacecraft and even step inside some of them—something truly unique in Europe. One of the highlights was the panoramic theater, showing an engaging film about the galaxy and our solar system. It's just a pity that much of the content was only in French. For a museum that celebrates European cooperation in space, we had hoped for a bit more multilingual accessibility 😉. We had a great time and, honestly, ran out of time after four hours of exploring. Whether it’s sunny or rainy, this place is absolutely worth a visit!
Seaquarium Institut Marin
12. Seaquarium Institut Marin
4.3
(20243)
Aquarium
Nature & Parks
Marine life center with 200 species, shark & ray tanks, seals bred on site, plus protection program.
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Large aquarium with lots of different areas and break out rooms. We have been to aquariums all over but this one is very good with the variety of fish and sharks to see. The kids loved it, there is lots of toilets and lifts available throughout the whole experience. It took us around 1 hour and half to get around the whole tour followed by a gift shop and cafe at the end.
One of the best oceanariums I have visited in France. I think it’s pretty cozy and definitely can be an attractive touristic spot in summer.
Nice way to get out of the heat. But apparently everyone else in the entire south France has the same idea. Parking a car was not the easiest. Saw lots of fish. Some very large things. Some tiny things. The shop was good. WiFi didn't work.
It's a nice place to spend time with kids or anyone who's interested in underwater life. For 16€ for an adult, you can see sharks, rays, huge turtles, different fish, other sea creatures and seals. The place is full of information about sea life, endangered species, water pollution puzzles for curious minds. The day I visited the seaquarium, there was a quest for children : they got a task at the entrance and had to look for clues around the aquarium. So their time there wasn't just wondering around and watching fish. There's a parking next to it and a few places to eat. The photos I post can't show the real beauty of the place, so go and check it yourself 🤗
Very nice place to visit. Was quite packed, but it was a nice experience for us and our 16 months old
Great Aquarium for a 2-hour visit! Plenty of activities for kids, clean and tidy aquariums. The fish look healthy and well taken care of. The entrance fees are reasonable for what you can see and do. There are some booths for pictures, an area where you can touch mini-sharks (highly recommended, really cool experience also for kids as they cannot bite). Overall a nice experience and time well spent! Really educative especially with regards to sensibilisation to waste in the oceans.
Nice and modern sea aquarium. We were there during end of season and some items were not in use or was being cleaned. Fair money for value. Staff friendly and helpful. Highlight is are the baby sharks wich can be touched. That was a stunning experience. Interesting story of the monk seal. Visit is worth it.
Surprisingly big aquarium for a small town
Jardin de La Fontaine
13. Jardin de La Fontaine
4.7
(18417)
Park
Nature & Parks
This 17th-century park on 15 hectares offers Roman ruins & botanic gardens, plus ponds & sculptures.
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An absolute must in Nimes. The oldest public gardens in Europe. Beautifully laid out historic gardens with lots of classical architecture, statues, and Roman ruins. A superb restaurant in the centre, nice inside, but lots of alfresco dining, which is absolutely lovely.
Commissioned by King Louis XV in 1745, this is one of the oldest public gardens in Europe. It was built around La Fontaine, a natural spring venerated by the people of Nîmes for millennia, and once the heart of a sacred Gallo-Roman sanctuary. Designed by Jacques-Philippe Mareschal and Pierre Dardailhon, the garden harmoniously blends Roman ruins with the aesthetics of a formal French garden. It features a lower section in the classical French formal style and an upper section landscaped in a more natural, Mediterranean style.
A beautiful garden with many walkways, plazas and viewpoints. The stairs and fountains are truly beautiful and there are some amazing panorama views of the city. It is quite a climb to the top though, with many staircases and ramps, so be make sure you bring your walking shoes!
Fabulous park with fountains, gardens, canal with big carp, lots of stairs to climb if you wish for the view. Great way to spend a relaxing hour or two.
This park has so much to offer; from ancient Roman ruins, botanical gardens, 16th century pondages and sculpture features. All to make the visit memorable.
Lovely park for a stroll or a good hike with lots of stairs. Free toilets and a nice café in a stunning setting. Highly recommend 🇨🇦
What a gorgeous garden! We went to Nîmes to visit the amphitheater and we hadn’t planned to visit this garden, what a surprise! If you plan on visiting this city make sure this garden is near the top of your list!
Nice park, take the stairs ti be in shade. Lots of path to explore!
Réserve Africaine de Sigean
14. Réserve Africaine de Sigean
4.3
(23315)
Wildlife and safari park
Nature & Parks
Safari park, with drive-through & walk-through areas, & African animals from lions & gnus to rhinos.
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About a 20 min wait to get in on a Saturday morning in February. The park was fantastic, our kids 1 & 3 loved it, especially the Vivarium which had reptiles and fish in it. The drive-through safari took about 30mins, and we alright (you're generally quite far away from the animals), but I imagine it would be very slow during peak season times. The rest of the park is quite large, we walked around for about 5 hours, but had a great time. Unlike many similar venues, the animals generally had a lot of space and seemed happy. All except the wallabies, which looked miserable. Most of the snack bars at Ind the park were closed as it is off season. The main cafeteria was open, but the food was very poor and expensive, and they served us the worst hot chocolate you've ever seen (see pic). Take a picnic, there are lots of places you can stop to eat and enjoy the view. The toilet facilities were fine, and catered for young children too.
We had a fantastic time at the Réserve Africaine de Sigean! The whole experience was very well organized and thoughtfully designed, giving us the feeling of being on a real African safari. Driving through the park in our own car was a big highlight – not only did it bring us up close to the animals in a unique and exciting way, but it was also a huge advantage with the 35°C heat. Being able to enjoy the experience comfortably from the car made a big difference, especially with kids. The staff were friendly, helpful, and clearly passionate about the animals and their well-being. You can tell the reserve is run with care and professionalism. We truly enjoyed every part of the visit – from the drive-through safari to the walking areas. A perfect mix of adventure, education, and comfort. Highly recommended for families and nature lovers!
A very nice safari parc with a great variety of African wildlife. At some point I almost felt like being on a safari drive. The zoo part is quite small compared to other zoos but has some pretty cool features. I really liked the aviary concept with free roaming birds, sharing their space with alligators. Amazing.
We loved it here, we saw so many animals. They have everything from big five to birds and reptiles.
It was a really great experience, drive through the different parts of the Réserve Africaine and see a little of animals that you normally only can see in a normal zoo. After the tour with the car, you also have a different way where you can walk and see many animals. The food at the kiosk is pretty good. At the entrance we had to wait a bit, because they need to check the trunk before you enter and then you can buy the tickets easily at the entrance. To be honest I didn’t see a line where you could enter if you bought your tickets beforehand. Definitely a good thing you can do is to download the corresponding app. There you can easily check where you are and you get all the needed information from the app as well.
That’s a huge park with very respectful and friendly way of treating animals. There is enough space for them as I can see. It doesn’t feel like a zoo. It’s more a window to a wildlife sanctuary. Even in winter you can find a restaurant to have some food. Meanwhile the infrastructure is really nice and well planned. There are parking, rest rooms, shops - everything that you may need after a long trip to this place. For sure this experience is worth it.
A different experience of African wildlife. Make sure to buy tickets online for a flawless entry. First a tour through different park themes with your car, followed by a walking tour. Rich variety of animals in an enormous park, divided in different themes. Great to enjoy with family and children. A must when you’re in the neighborhood.
Very beautiful place to see the animals. We love flamingo and there are hundreds of flamingos here, with lots of other animals also. Such a great experience while driving among savage horses/ lions/ bears, etc. Love the trip so muchhhh !!!
Towers and Walls of Aigues-Mortes
15. Towers and Walls of Aigues-Mortes
4.6
(11807)
Historical landmark
Sights & Landmarks
Raised walkway between watchtowers & ramparts built in the 13th century, with views over courtyards.
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Definitely one of the best city wall walks regarding its price and quality. It’s worth it. I can say that the view and historical value is equal or even more important than the one from Carcassonne as its walls were reconstructed. These ones are perfect saved and you have a chance to visit a lot of towers and exhibitions for 9 euro per person.
These grandiose ramparts belted the city of Aigues-Mortes and dominate the panorama on the Camargue and the Salin ! A 18th century fortified enclosure erected on the initiative of Louis IX. It is 1640 meters of ramparts surrounding the city and flanked by 10 doors and 6 towers. The Tower of Constance is one of the most majestic of the architecture of the Middle Ages. She is also sadly famous for having served Protestant Cévenolas as a prison from 1685.
A must see when in the area. Very well organised, super safe and yet super exciting. The walk along the tops of the city walls make a perfect loop around the town and includes four or five towers that you can go up for spectacular views of the surroundings. We did the walls first and then finished in the impressive Constance Tower which is the largest and oldest building, dating from 1248. Great memories and great value for money!
This is an intact medieval walled city, on the coastal plain of Provence. About 3/4 of the walled city is residential, about 1/4 is restaurants, and shops. It is amazing. Try the "Bull Stew with rice." There are several parking lots around the outside, the signs will tell you if there are spaces available. Pay at the machine before returning to your car, and scan the barcode on the receipt to open the gate to exit.
Good value history and stuff. A king liked salt made a port, sold lots of salt made lots of money and built a wall. Then went off on crusade died. His descendants didn't like non Catholics. Some pigeons, lots of sun, plenty of steps, less shade. Really good value for money kids free.
Fun walk around the ramparts of the town. It costs €8 per adult and children are free. Tickets can be purchased from the booth near the entrance. There was a small queue when we visited. It takes between 60 and 75 minutes to walk the perimeter.
Stunning place to visit and walk or ride around in a lovely town
I have visited Aigues Mortes half a dozen times as it is only just over an hour from home and a wonderfully preserved, vibrant, historic monument. This time we stayed overnight (Villa Mazarin - very good) as we were attending a candle lit concert in the fort. The place has a lovely feel to it. Loads of nice restaurants and shops. Well worth a visit.
Planet Ocean Montpellier
16. Planet Ocean Montpellier
4.4
(12349)
Aquarium
Nature & Parks
Large, contemporary aquarium with hands-on, high-tech exhibits, including 3D ocean simulator rides.
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Absolute wonderful aquarium, was very clean and well maintained and the staff was really nice! Animals have enough space, lots of interactive things to do and a lot of unique animals you don’t see a lot at other aquariums. There’s also really calming and fitting music/sounds in the realms, which I personally really loved as I am autistic and love it when there’s calming and fitting sounds. We went in at around 12:30 and came out around 15:30, so we spend about a good 3 hours here, 10/10 would recommend going here! :)
My family came and spent about 3 hours here and that was taking our time. The only downside is the cost. I felt like it was quite high our family of 6 paid 94.50 They could have a large family price or all children should be counted as children. Meaning anyone under the age of 18 should be considered a child because well, they are a child so they shouldn't have to pay adult prices. The aquarium is wonderful. There's a lot to see and interactive play areas throughout the whole thing that my youngest two enjoyed. Could see all the animals. There was a super cool boat simulator that you get to experience being on in a storm. Never seen that before! Gift shop very reasonable prices.
Excellent aquarium! We came here at the end of July with my 7 yrs old son and it was a wonderful experience, from start to finish. We bought tickets online and didn't have to stay in line at the entrance. The exhibits were in French and English so it was easy to understand what we were looking at. This aquarium has jellyfish, sharks, tropical fish and even penguins. Everything was well organized and our visit felt well paced. We even picked up a few souvenirs on the way out at the gift shop. Definitely recommend!
The exhibition is really nice. Many aquariums including the main one which is from the ground floor to the first floor with sharks, rays, sawfish and other fish. Many interactive things including a very suggestive sailing in a storm. Reserve at least 2 hours or more for your visit. Price-performance ratio more than good. I definitely recommend it.
Very nice place and not only for children. We made plenty of good photos and videos. The last piece was just amazing: AI made as look as astronauts on the moon - it was awesome
A must place to visit if you love aquatic creature. They also give information about how our human waste is destroying the ocean world and it would be a good insight to see different birds and fishes like penguins,sharks, sharks, turtles sawfish and arapaima.
Amazing experience! We loved it! Also the fish looked well, and everything was clean and nice! Also lots of species were kept there!
One of the best aquariums I ever visited Their displays are nice With a big shark tank

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