We live a little to the south and a little to the west of Toulouse. When I first heard about it, a magnificent yawn unexpectedly rose from my chest and somehow made its way to my brain, glazing my eyes in front of the two most important people at that moment: our realtor and my husband. I’m not alone. I’ve seen it—that imperceptible dulling in the eyes of others—when we speak about our life in France that is not in Paris, not in the Loire Valley, and not on the French Riviera (the Côte d’Azur for the cognoscenti).
Toulouse?
1. Toulouse: The Ultimate Pink City Glow-Up
Toulouse is known as La Ville Rose (The Pink City) for its dreamy terracotta brick buildings that turn soft shades of pink and orange at sunset. It’s basically like the city was made for Instagram—a natural filter that’s irresistibly snappable.
2. Europe’s Aerospace Hotspot 🚀
Toulouse isn’t just pretty—it’s smart. Known as the aerospace capital of Europe, this is where Airbus designs some of the world’s most innovative planes. Fun fact? The legendary Concorde was born here, and the Airbus A380, the world’s largest passenger plane (a double-decker flying giant), calls Toulouse home, too.
It was also once the home of M. Patenet, a long-retired professor and one of France’s leading UFO experts. He even owned our château at the beginning of the pandemic.
3. The Canal du Midi: Where Chill Meets History
Looking for a scenic escape? The Canal du Midi, a 17th-century UNESCO World Heritage site, is perfect for boat rides, cycling, or lazy afternoon picnics. It’s where beautiful historic charm meets ultimate chill vibes—ideal for slow living and picturesque waterfront snaps.
4. Foodie Alert: The Home of Cassoulet 🍲
Haute-Garonne is where cassoulet was perfected—a hearty mix of white beans, Toulouse sausage, and duck confit. Comfort food levels? Chef’s kiss. Bonus: Pair it with delicious local natural wines (from Gaillac), and you’ve got the essence of Southwest France in one delicious bite.
And then there is the violet. In Toulouse, the violet is more than a flower—it’s part of the city’s soul. Known as the “City of Violets,” the tiny velvety jewel has been celebrated since the 19th century, inspiring everything from candies and syrups to perfumes and liqueurs, inspiring the Fête de la Violette every February! It is everything I love about life here: simple, meaningful, and undeniably charming. 🌸
5. A Little Slice of Medieval Coolness
Toulouse is packed with history, but it’s also brimming with medieval-meets-modern vibes. Stop by the Basilica of Saint-Sernin, the largest Romanesque church in Europe, or wander through Place Saint-Georges and Place du Capitole. Here, you’ll find weird little boutiques (lots of vintage!) and vibrant cafés tucked into centuries-old buildings. Think old-world charm, charming pocket parks, and where coffee culture meets 21st-century energy.
And then there is Jain, Toulouse’s coolest entry in contemporary music:
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