10 Things to Do in Place du Capitole, Toulouse, France
Toulouse, France is a beautiful city located in the south of the country, renowned for its vibrant culture, its history and its stunning architecture. One of the best places to experience all of this is Place du Capitole, a grand square located in the centre of the city. Here, you’ll find plenty of things to do, from admiring the stunning architecture to sampling the city’s delicious food. Here are 10 of the best things to do when visiting Place du Capitole in Toulouse.
1. Admire the Architecture
The most obvious thing to do in Place du Capitole is to admire the stunning architecture. The square is dominated by the grand Capitole de Toulouse, a large building constructed in the 18th century that serves as the city’s main city hall. The building is adorned with statues, columns and intricate carvings, and is a great example of the city’s rich architectural heritage.
2. Visit the Town Hall
The Capitole de Toulouse is not just a beautiful building; it’s also the city’s main town hall. Inside, you’ll find a number of interesting attractions, including the Salle des Illustres, a hall where important historical figures from Toulouse are honoured, and the Salle des Pas Perdus, where important meetings are held.
3. Explore the Markets
Place du Capitole is home to a number of markets, including the famous Marché Victor Hugo, a large outdoor market selling a variety of produce and goods. Here, you’ll find everything from fresh fruit and vegetables to clothing and household items. There’s also the Marché des Carmes, a smaller market that sells local specialities such as cheeses, wines and sausages.
4. Take in the Views
Place du Capitole offers some of the best views in the city. From the square, you can see the Garonne River, the iconic Pont Neuf bridge and the picturesque buildings of the city centre. On clear days, you can even see the Pyrenees Mountains in the distance.
5. Enjoy the Nightlife
Place du Capitole is one of the best places to experience Toulouse’s vibrant nightlife. The square is home to a number of bars and clubs, with something to suit all tastes. Whether you’re looking for a quiet drink or a wild night out, you’ll find it here.
6. Sample the Local Cuisine
Toulouse is renowned for its delicious cuisine, and Place du Capitole is the perfect place to sample it. The square is home to a number of restaurants, from traditional French bistros to modern fusion eateries. There are also plenty of street food stands, where you can find local specialities such as cassoulet and foie gras.
7. Catch a Show
Place du Capitole is home to the Théâtre du Capitole, one of the most important theatres in the city. Here, you can catch a variety of performances, from classical music and opera to modern dance and theatre.
8. Shop Till You Drop
Place du Capitole is also a great place to go shopping. The square is home to a number of boutique stores, selling everything from designer clothing to local crafts. There’s also a large shopping centre nearby, with a variety of stores and restaurants.
9. Take a Stroll
Place du Capitole is a great place for a leisurely stroll. The square is surrounded by a number of pedestrian streets, lined with cafes, shops and galleries. Here, you can soak up the atmosphere and watch the world go by.
10. Relax in the Park
At the centre of Place du Capitole is a large park, the Jardin des Plantes. Here, you can relax in the peaceful surroundings, take a stroll through the gardens and admire the sculptures and fountains. It’s the perfect spot to unwind after a day of sightseeing.
So, if you’re planning a trip to Toulouse, make sure to add Place du Capitole to your itinerary. There’s plenty to see and do here, from admiring the architecture to sampling the local cuisine. Whatever you decide to do, you’re sure to have an unforgettable experience.