Travelling the World on a Budget: Exploring the Pink City of Toulouse in One Day

Sometimes the best trips are the spontaneous ones. My mum and I decided to take an extreme day trip to Toulouse, flying from London Stansted, and exploring the best of the Pink City in just one day. It was a whirlwind, but packed with unforgettable moments. Here's how we made the most of our short time in Toulouse, including the costs for a budget-friendly day out.

Flying to Toulouse from Stansted

Our day began with an early morning flight from Stansted Airport. We booked our return flight with Ryanair for just £40 each—such a bargain for a day trip! The flight took about 2 hours, and before we knew it, we were landing in the sunny south of France, ready to explore.

Total cost for flights: £40 per person.

Place du Capitole: The Heart of Toulouse

Upon arrival, we hopped onto the Toulouse Metro and made our way to Place du Capitole, the beating heart of the city. The square is flanked by the impressive Capitole building, with its stunning pinkish facade and intricate details. We took a moment to admire the architecture and grab a quick coffee and pastry from a nearby boulangerie, all for just €4. The sun was shining, and the square was alive with activity, making it the perfect spot to start our adventure.

Total cost for coffee and pastry: €4.

Japanese Gardens: A Peaceful Escape

After exploring Place du Capitole, we decided to visit one of Toulouse’s hidden gems, the Japanese Gardens. Located in the Compans-Caffarelli park, the gardens were a peaceful escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. We spent around an hour walking through the lush greenery, admiring the koi ponds and traditional bridges. The tranquil atmosphere was a welcome contrast to the busy streets and provided the perfect respite during our tight schedule.

Entry to the Japanese Gardens: Free

Basilica of Saint-Sernin and Jacobins Convent

Next, we made our way to the Basilica of Saint-Sernin, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of Toulouse’s most impressive landmarks. The Romanesque church with its towering spire and intricate carvings took our breath away. From there, we wandered over to the Jacobins Convent, another stunning architectural gem. The Gothic cloister offered a quiet, serene space that felt like stepping back in time.

Dinner in the Heart of Toulouse

After all that sightseeing, we were ready for a proper French meal. We returned to Place du Capitole and found a charming outdoor restaurant. The cassoulet—a rich, hearty dish of white beans, pork, and sausage—was a must-try in Toulouse, and it didn’t disappoint. We also shared a plate of moules-frites (mussels and fries), which was the perfect comfort food to finish off our day. The atmosphere was vibrant, with locals and visitors dining al fresco, making it a memorable experience.

Total cost for dinner: €30 for both of us.

Cost Breakdown of Our Extreme Day Trip to Toulouse

• Flights (Stansted to Toulouse): £40 each (return)
• Airport transfer (bus to city centre): €2 each (one way)
• Metro tickets: €1.70 per journey (we took it twice)
• Coffee and pastry: €4
• Japanese Gardens entry: €3 each
• Basilica and Convent entry: €10 total
• Dinner (cassoulet and moules-frites): €30
• Total cost for two people: Approximately £120 for an unforgettable day.

Tips for a Budget-Friendly Day Trip to Toulouse

1. Fly Early: Booking early flights helps keep costs low. We snagged return tickets for just £40.
2. Use Public Transport: The Toulouse Metro is affordable and easy to use, making getting around the city quick and cheap.
3. Prioritise Key Attractions: With limited time, focus on a few key spots. We loved Place du Capitole, the Japanese Gardens, and the Basilica.
4. Eat Local: Enjoy authentic French cuisine without breaking the bank by choosing local eateries. You can’t leave Toulouse without trying cassoulet!
5. Plan Ahead: While spontaneous trips are fun, it helps to have a rough itinerary so you can make the most of your day.

Final Thoughts on Toulouse

Toulouse may be the fourth-largest city in France, but it’s the perfect size for a one-day adventure. From the iconic Place du Capitole to peaceful havens like the Japanese Gardens, we were able to see a lot in just a few hours. And the best part? We did it all on a budget. If you’re short on time but want to experience the charm of southern France, Toulouse is a fantastic option for a budget day trip.

Even though we only had one day, Toulouse left a lasting impression. It’s definitely a city worth visiting again, especially if you enjoy a mix of history, culture, and good food—all at an affordable price.