From the thrilling Tour de France to peaceful rides along the canal, Toulouse invites travellers to embrace its cycling spirit and explore the heart of southwest France.

This summer, all eyes will turn to the southwest of France as Toulouse proudly hosts a stage of the iconic Tour de France on 16th July, welcoming the world’s top cyclists – and the fans who follow them. In celebration of the event, the city invites visitors to immerse themselves in its dynamic cycling culture and explore its many scenic routes on two wheels.

Follow a Tour de France route

With the Tour de France passing through the region, travellers have a rare opportunity to ride segments of the official route and pedal through the same streets and rural landscapes as the competitors. Official guides and resources make these routes accessible for spectators seeking to experience the excitement firsthand.

Toulouse also offers more leisurely cycling experiences. The city’s extensive network of bike paths – spanning more than 300km – includes the Canal du Midi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site perfect for relaxed rides beneath the striking trees that line the waterway.

Bike hire and tours

Cycling around Toulouse is a charming affair – and with a range of bike hire options, including standard and electric bikes, it couldn’t be more convenient. Bikes are available 24/7 at more than 280 docking stations throughout the city with VeloToulouse, with the choice of one-day or seven-day tickets. In total, Toulouse has 3,300 self-service bikes available, 50% of which are electric. Maps and self-guided itineraries are available for independent cyclists.

For those seeking a deeper exploration, guided cycling tours highlight architectural landmarks, historic districts, and stunning viewpoints. Toulouse Bike Tour offers a range of different experiences – from the Toulouse Gourmand tour, where guests stop off at the Victor Hugo market to enjoy cheeses and charcuterie, to the Toulouse, The Unmissable! Tour, which showcases the best of the city’s landmarks. La Maison du Vélo, located across from the Matabiau station along the Canal du Midi, where bike hire, exciting workshops, and a restaurant under the shade of a lime tree await cyclists.

Beyond the bike

While the Tour de France draws global attention, Toulouse offers a rich and diverse cultural experience beyond the race. Known as La Ville Rose (the Pink City), Toulouse is characterised by rosy brick buildings and grand squares, including the Capitole de Toulouse and the Basilique Saint-Sernin. The city is also Europe’s aerospace capital, home to attractions such as the Cité de l’Espace space museum and guided tours of the Airbus assembly line.

Toulouse is a hub for southwestern French cuisine. Local markets, restaurants, cafés, and wine bars invite guests to savour regional specialities such as cassoulet, duck confit, and wines from local vineyards – making the city well worth an extended visit beyond race day.

Toulouse will host a variety of events and fan activities around the Tour de France stage. From 12th to 16th July, a five-day festival of gastronomy and heritage will take over Les Halles de la Cartoucherie, where visitors can enjoy international food stalls, farmers’ markets, and sports challenges. On 13th July, the Prairie des Filtres will come alive with a concert and fireworks during an early Bastille Day celebration – fireworks will light up the skies on the 14th at the Lac de la Reynerie to celebrate Bastille Day.

The Musée Paul Dupuy will dedicate a temporary exhibition to vintage advertising posters called À toute vitesse ! L’âge d’or de la bicyclette – Full speed ahead! The golden age of the bicycle, which will run from 8th July to 30th August.

To find out more about what’s on, visit www.toulouse-tourisme.com/sortir-a-toulouse/tour-de-france-etape-toulouse/.