Toulon travel guide

Photo of anse de méjan, Toulon, France.
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Introduction to Toulon

Toulon, France - When thinking about this city in southern France and a large military harbour, images of the spectacular Stade Mayol, Téléphérique du Mont Faron, and Musée National de la Marine instantly come to mind. As you explore beyond these attractions and read through this Toulon travel guide, you'll find that this city in France is more than what we see in books and social media. Toulon, and its community of more than 178.7 thousand people, is a culturally-rich and diverse travel destination offering plenty of unforgettable experiences.

Easily accessible from Toulon–Hyères airport, Toulon is the perfect base for a memorable and unique vacation in France any time of the year.

You'll learn more fascinating facts about Toulon as you explore this spectacular city.

Traveling to Toulon is especially rewarding for anyone eager to connect with locals and learn more about their unique culture and traditions.

Get ready to explore and learn more about the city of Toulon below!

History of Toulon

Nestled on the French Riviera, Toulon boasts a rich tapestry of history. Founded by the Phoenicians in the 7th century BC, it later became a Roman military outpost.

In the Middle Ages, it was a hub for trade and the Knight Templars.

The city's strategic location made it a prized naval base. In the 17th century, Louis XIV built the Arsenal of Toulon, cementing its naval significance.

In 1793, during the French Revolution, the city was seized by royalist forces. A young Napoleon Bonaparte played a critical role in recapturing it, a feat that propelled him to prominence.

World War II saw Toulon heavily damaged, but post-war reconstruction has restored much of its historic charm.

Today, this vibrant port city is a blend of ancient history and modern attractions, from its grand naval museum to the bustling markets of Cours Lafayette.

Top services in Toulon

Here on this page, you'll find all the top travel services in Toulon, France. Check out the cheapest and most popular flights offered by 198 airlines that fly to France. Browse the 12 top-rated tours available to you in Toulon. We make it easy for you to find and book the top services in Toulon.

Enjoy the convenience of planning and booking every detail of your trip to Toulon, including flights, accommodations, activities, and more, in one place. Book with Guide to Europe to get an expertly-curated and fully-customizable itinerary and experience the best of Toulon on your vacation in France.

Get answers to questions about the routes and services offered in Toulon from our free 24/7 customer support. Continue reading to learn how you can enjoy a stress-free and memorable vacation in the city of Toulon!

Best time to visit Toulon

The best time to explore Toulon, France is between June and September when the weather is at its most pleasant. The summer months offer warm, sunny days perfect for exploring the city's historical sites, stunning beaches, and vibrant markets. In August, the city holds the annual 'Jazz à Toulon' festival, a feast of music that attracts visitors from around the world. However, this does mean that the city can be quite busy during this time. For those seeking a quieter visit, the shoulder seasons of spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November) offer mild weather, fewer tourists, and lower prices. The winter months, from December to February, can be chilly and wet, but they offer the unique opportunity to experience Toulon's Christmas markets and festive decorations without the crowds. Therefore, depending on your preferences for weather, crowd levels, and events, the best time to visit Toulon can vary.

Weather in Toulon

Toulon, located in the Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur region of France, enjoys a Mediterranean climate characterized by hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. Summer temperatures, from June to August, typically range from 20°C to 30°C, with July being the hottest month. This season is perfect for tourists seeking plenty of sunshine and clear blue skies.

The winter months, from December to February, bring cooler temperatures ranging from 4°C to 15°C, with January being the coldest month. Rainfall is more frequent during this period, so visitors should come prepared with appropriate rain gear. The city is less crowded during this time, offering a more tranquil ambiance.

Spring and autumn are pleasant transitional seasons with moderate temperatures and lesser rainfalls. The city receives a generous amount of sunshine year-round, often exceeding 2800 hours annually. Toulon is also known for its strong mistral winds, which can sometimes reach extreme speeds. These winds, while providing a respite from the summer heat, can make the sea rough and are something to be aware of for those planning water activities.

Local tip for visiting Toulon

When in Toulon, an insider tip is to explore the city's lively local markets. The Cours Lafayette Market, held every morning except Mondays, is a local favorite. You'll find fresh produce, seafood, cheeses, and other regional delicacies here. However, the true hidden gem is the less-known Petit Marché du Pont du Las, held every morning except Mondays as well. This market has a more local feel, and you'll find a variety of unique spices, herbs, and local crafts. It's an ideal place to engage with locals, learn about their cuisine and way of life, and pick up a unique souvenir. Make sure to arrive early in the morning for the best selection and remember, haggling is part of the fun!

Learn more about France

There are many reasons to visit the city of Toulon, but a trip to France needs no explanation.

Exploring France, which spans 643,801 square kilometers, is an adventure of a lifetime. France offers an abundance of truly magical places to discover, including cultural, historic, and scenic sites of significant value to both locals and travelers.

As the home country of many world-famous attractions like the spectacular Stade Mayol, Téléphérique du Mont Faron, and the Musée National de la Marine, you’re all set for a unique and memorable travel experience in France.

Click or tap the link below to discover more about France.

What to see in Toulon

Photo of freedom Square or Place de la Liberte in the centre of Toulon city in France.

Toulon has something for everyone. Regardless of age and interest, travelers have the best time exploring every corner of the city.

Read on to discover the best places to visit and find out what to expect from the city of Toulon.

Top attractions in Toulon

Home to plenty of top attractions, Toulon is more than just a wonderful city in France. Toulon is a travel hotspot and a great place to experience a mix of the traditional and modern culture of France.

One fascinating sight in Toulon is the unforgettable Stade Mayol. Considered one of the most well-known attractions in the city, a visit to this spectacular travel destination is something you shouldn’t miss on your trip to Toulon.

For more information about what you can expect during a vacation in France, check out our list of top attractions in Toulon below. Discover the best places to visit in Toulon, including the fascinating Stade Mayol, Téléphérique du Mont Faron, Musée National de la Marine, Mémorial du Débarquement de Provence, and Jardin Alexandre 1er.

Map of attractions

Use this map to find the location of all top attractions in Toulon.

Things to do in Toulon

Photo of Toulon harbor, France.

Enrich your travel experience in Toulon by joining tours and activities. Toulon offers an exciting selection of top-rated tours and it's easy for every traveler to find something to their liking. Take the opportunity to catch the top attractions on a tour, stay active with an adventurous excursion, or learn something new about the local history or culture of the city.

Discover the most popular experiences in Toulon below.

Most popular experiences in Toulon

Traveling is all about gaining new experiences. You can have that and more in the city of Toulon.

Toulon offers numerous tours and activities for travelers to choose from. Historical Tours, Bus Tours, and Guided Day Trips are only a few of the many experiences you can book for your holiday in France.

Explore the most popular experiences you can join in Toulon by clicking on one of the top-rated tour categories below.

Top tours & tickets starting in Toulon

Travelers in Toulon can choose from 11 categories of top-rated tours and tickets.

By joining this highly recommended tour, travelers get to learn more about what makes Toulon one of the best travel destinations in France.

Toulon also offers plenty of budget-friendly tours and activities that promise travelers a unique experience in the city. The affordable Nature park day (animals, hanging nets, gardens, barefoot path. ) is the cheapest tour in the city, and is a popular Disney® Park. This experience costs around 12 EUR and allows travelers a great time in Toulon. Around 18 travelers have given this activity an average rating of 4 stars out of 5.

Secure an unforgettable experience for your upcoming trip to Toulon and book a top-rated tour in the city. Discover the best tours, activities, and tickets in Toulon below.

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Search for things to do in Toulon

Discover the best things to do in Toulon. Choose from 12 fantastic tours and activities available in the city.

Select your dates and number of travelers in the search bar below to receive the best recommendations for your vacation in Toulon. Click the green button to view your options.

What to eat in Toulon

Toulon, a gem on the French Riviera, boasts a vibrant culinary scene that ranges from bustling street food markets to exquisite high-end restaurants. One of the best places to eat in Toulon is the Mourillon district, known for its charming eateries serving tantalizing local dishes. The city's old town, 'La Haute Ville', offers a multitude of traditional bistros where you can indulge in Bouillabaisse, a rich fish stew that is a gastronomic symbol of the city. Don't miss out on trying the 'Cade Toulonnaise', a chickpea flour pancake that is a beloved local snack. For a more upscale dining experience, head to the Mourillon beach area, where you will find restaurants serving fresh seafood with stunning sea views. The daily markets in Cours Lafayette and Pont Du Las are the perfect places to sample the ripest fruits, local cheese and fresh bread. Remember, the key to an unforgettable culinary journey in Toulon is to embrace the local culture and the Mediterranean flavors that are at the heart of its cuisine.

Nightlife in Toulon

As the sun sets, Toulon, a vibrant city in the French Riviera, shifts into a lively nightlife scene. The city offers an array of nocturnal activities, from bustling bars and trendy nightclubs to relaxed waterfront venues. The Mourillon district, known for its sandy beaches by day, transforms into the best area for bars in Toulon by night, offering a variety of establishments to cater to every taste. Unique watering holes like Le Barathym, famous for its extensive wine list, and La Bodega, with its signature cocktails, are must-visit establishments. If you're searching for a more cosmopolitan vibe, head to the downtown area where you'll find a range of nightclubs and late-night eateries.

Toulon's nightlife is a blend of French sophistication and laid-back Riviera charm, offering a unique night culture that is both memorable and enticing. Remember, most bars and clubs in Toulon get livelier after midnight, so a late start is the norm. Whether you're looking for a quiet spot to enjoy a glass of local Provencal wine or a lively club to dance until dawn, Toulon’s nightlife scene has something to offer everyone.

Best shopping in Toulon

Toulon, a charming city nestled alongside France's Mediterranean coast, is a paradise for shoppers. The city brims with an array of shopping options, each exuding a unique charm. Start your shopping adventure at Rue d'Alger, a bustling street renowned for its chic boutiques featuring the latest French fashions. A visit to the Cours Lafayette market is a must, where you can explore stalls filled with local produce, fragrant spices, and artisanal crafts. This is the best place to go shopping in Toulon if you're looking to buy authentic Provençal souvenirs.

For a more comfortable shopping experience, head to the Grand Var Shopping Center. This expansive mall houses over 150 shops, ensuring that you'll find something to your liking. For lovers of local craftsmanship, the Petite Serre is a delightful artisan shop that sells handmade ceramics and textiles.

Remember, most shops in Toulon close on Sundays, and many also close for a leisurely lunch break, so plan your shopping trips accordingly. Embrace the relaxed pace, and you'll soon find that shopping in Toulon is not just a pursuit, but a pleasure.

Best Free Things to Do in Toulon

Toulon, a vibrant city on the French Riviera, offers a treasure trove of experiences that cost nothing but are rich in culture and charm. One of the best free things to do in Toulon is to explore the old town, or 'Ville Basse'. Step back in time as you wander through its narrow lanes lined with colorful Provencal markets and historical buildings. Another must-see is the Toulon Marina packed with yachts and surrounded by cafes, offering the perfect spot to people-watch. Don't miss the daily fish market at Cours Lafayette, where you can immerse yourself in local culture. For history buffs, the Monumental Cemetery, one of the oldest in France, offers an intriguing exploration of Toulon's past. If you're a nature lover, head to Mont Faron, a limestone mountain overlooking the city. You can hike its trails for breathtaking views of the Mediterranean and the city below. Lastly, the Plages du Mourillon, a series of sandy beaches, offers a perfect spot to unwind, swim, or simply enjoy the stunning sea views.

Vacation packages in Toulon

Photo of cityscape of Toulon in a spring morning.

The best and easiest way to visit Toulon is by booking a vacation package. A vacation package includes everything you need for a worry-free and perfectly planned holiday in France.

Booking a vacation package to Toulon means spending less time planning and more time enjoying your vacation. A vacation package includes everything from flight tickets, accomodation, and a rental car, to 24/7 personal travel support and a carefully planned travel itinerary. You can also take your vacation in Toulon to the next level by adding tours, tickets, and activities to each day of your trip.

Apart from providing you with everything you need to travel comfortably, your vacation package to Toulon is also fully customizable. In other words, you can add or remove services at your own convenience, to create the perfect vacation for you and your travel companions.

On our website, you will find 22 unique vacation packages to Toulon, including flight tickets, hotel reservations, and recommendations for the best sightseeing spots, restaurants, bars, and activities.

Continue to the next section to learn more about what types of vacations you can book in the city of Toulon.

Popular types of vacations in Toulon

The most popular way to experience Toulon is by visiting the city as part of a road trip across multiple destinations in France. However, it is also common for travelers to go to Toulon on both shorter and longer getaways, to get a break from everyday life, relax, and experience something new.

With Guide to Europe you can find road trips, city breaks, and weekend getaways in France, ranging from budget to luxury. Whether you’re planning a multi-day road trip across France, or you just want to enjoy a few days exploring Toulon, there is a vacation package for you.

Discover the most popular vacation packages in Toulon below.

Top vacation packages in Toulon

Travelers have a great selection of vacation packages to choose from in France. In fact, you can choose from as many as 22 different top-rated vacation packages to take you to Toulon, and even more if you expand your search to include a bigger area of France.

To help narrow your choices down, here are some of the best vacation packages for exploring the city of Toulon.

For an epic vacation, discover Toulon and other top destinations in France on a top-rated holiday like the 10-Day France Beach Holiday in Saint Tropez. This vacation package provides travelers with tons of opportunities to experience not only the most popular attractions in Toulon, but also in other top places to visit in France. If Lou Revelin, Gendarmerie Nationale, Chapelle Sainte-Anne, Église Paroissiale Notre Dame de l'Assomption, and Tour Portalet are on your bucket list, this is the perfect vacation package for you.

Get more Toulon vacation ideas on this site and discover the greatest selection of vacation packages in Europe. Scroll down to find the best vacation packages in France that match your needs and budget.

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Find vacation packages in Toulon

Discover and compare 22 vacation packages that take you to the wonderful city of Toulon.

The best flights, hotels, and activities in Toulon get fully booked quickly. Use the search tool below to find the best vacation packages in France. Your customized holiday package to Toulon is only a few clicks away!

How to get to Toulon

To get to the city of Toulon the fastest way possible, travelers from outside France can travel by plane. International travelers can fly to Toulon by booking flights with any of the 7 airlines that offer direct flights to Toulon–Hyères airport. Some airlines that operate flights to Toulon–Hyères airport are easyJet, United Airlines, Delta Air Lines, JetBlue Airways, and Air China. Go to this page to compare all flights to Toulon.

To reach the city of Toulon, travelers can choose from various airport transfer options available at Toulon–Hyères airport.

If you're looking for the best flight ticket deals to Toulon, knowing the cheapest travel time and which airlines offer the most affordable flights is helpful. Luckily, we have this information for you. Discover more about the cheapest and most popular flights to Toulon–Hyères airport and Toulon below.

Find cheap flights to Toulon

Photo of yachts and boats in the Toulon port in Cote d'Azur provence in sothern France.

Over the years, more airlines have started offering flexible and direct flights to Toulon, making it one of the most accessible travel destinations in France. However, it is usually cheaper to fly to Toulon, France, in September.

The cheapest one-way flight to Toulon costs around 61 EUR and is offered by the airline easyJet.

The cheapest round-trip flights to Toulon cost approximately 48 EUR in total. The departure flight leaves on July 18 and the return flight is scheduled on July 25. The flight time is around 1 hour per way.

The return flight is operated by Ajaccio Napoleon Bonaparte.

Use the search tool below to find the cheapest flights to France and the city of Toulon from your city of departure.

Popular flights to Toulon

Travelers visiting Toulon in France can fly to Toulon–Hyères airport directly from 615 destinations worldwide.

The three most popular routes to Toulon–Hyères airport and the city of Toulon in France depart from Toulon–Hyères airport in Toulon, France, Norman Manley International airport in Kingston, Jamaica, and Tocumen International airport in Panama City, Panama.

Travelers can fly to France by choosing from from 1 weekly flight(s) from Toulon; from 2 weekly flight(s) from Kingston; and from 1 weekly flight(s) from Panama City.

The airline that operates most flights to France is Lanmei Airlines. Lanmei Airlines offers 3 scheduled flight routes to France.

Discover the most popular flights to Toulon below. Click to view flights to Toulon, France from destinations all across the globe.

Where to stay in Toulon

Photo of the Royal Tour in Toulon, Riviera, Cote d'Azur, France.

An essential factor to consider when traveling to a new place or country is accommodation. While visiting a city as fantastic as Toulon is always exciting, any avid traveler knows that accommodations often make or break the vacation experience.

The best place to stay in Toulon usually depends on travelers' needs and preferences. However, booking accommodation in downtown Toulon offers a ton of benefits.

Staying at the heart of the city allows you to easily walk to many of the top sights and dining areas in Toulon and cut down on your travel expenses. Centrally-located accommodations are also an excellent choice for travelers in Toulon planning to go on a quick tour or drive to the neighboring regions.

For example, honeymooners or travelers on a romantic getaway in France can experience the ultimate relaxation at one of the 5-star or 4-star hotels in Toulon. Travelers whose purpose is sightseeing can also find plenty of mid-range hotels to budget-friendly accommodations in the city, allowing access to many of the top attractions in Toulon.

Learn more about the most popular places to stay and the top-rated hotels in Toulon in the next sections.

Popular types of accommodation in Toulon

While each type offers varying amenities and rates, there is no denying that Toulon provides a great selection of lodging options ready to cater to every kind of guest.

Budget accommodations are also incredibly popular among travelers in Toulon. Cheaper alternatives allow travelers to save on accommodation costs and have more to spend on other experiences.

Select the type you prefer to compare options under each category and find the best accommodation.

Top hotels in Toulon

Hotels are travelers' go-to accommodations in Toulon for the unique experience they provide.

Besides offering basic amenities, many hotels in Toulon provide meals and extras, such as shuttle services, spa facilities, tour desks, and other services. But because not all hotels in Toulon are created equal, finding the best in the city often requires careful research. For your convenience, we've done all the research to make it easier for you to check out all the top hotels in Toulon.

Below is our hand-picked list of the best hotels in the Toulon. Travelers are encouraged to book early as these hotels quickly reach capacity.

Click the arrows or swipe the list to see each hotel's ratings, reviews, locations, rates, and more. You can read detailed descriptions of each hotel by clicking the cards.

Search for accommodation in Toulon

Use the Accommodation Search tool below to find available stays in the city of Toulon on specific dates. This handy feature also allows you to compare prices and amenities.

Enter the preferred check-in and check-out dates. Then, select the number of guests and rooms. Click the Search button to find all the available hotels and places to stay in the city of Toulon that match the information provided.

Car rental in Toulon

Photo of reflections in the water around the Fort at Toulon, France.

Experience the freedom and convenience of a self-drive vacation by renting a car for your adventures in Toulon. Toulon has 7 car rental companies ready to provide you with the perfect vehicle for your travels.

Automatic cars for rent in Toulon start from 35.41 EUR per day or 247.9 EUR per week. The cheapest automatic rental car is a Fiat 500 (Electric).

If you prefer driving a manual car, you’ll find multiple options for rent in Toulon, starting from 20.99 EUR per day or 146.96 EUR per week. The cheapest manual rental car is a Fiat 500.

Learn more about the different types of cars you can rent in Toulon, France, below.

Search for car rental in Toulon

Get ready to hit the road and explore the beautiful city of Toulon. Find the best deals on a variety of popular car rentals in Toulon, France, or any other destination in Europe by using the search tool below.

Enter your pick-up and drop-off location, driver's age, and dates. Click the green button to view your options.

Transportation in Toulon

Toulon, a charming city in the South of France, offers visitors a variety of convenient transportation options. The city's primary form of public transit is the Réseau Mistral bus network, which covers a broad area, including the city center, suburbs, and nearby towns. With regular schedules and affordable fares, it is a reliable and economic way to navigate Toulon.

For a more individual approach, taxis are readily available throughout the city. There are numerous taxi stands, and hailing a cab on the street is also common. Rental cars can be procured from several rental agencies in the city, giving you the freedom to explore at your own pace and schedule. Remember, however, that parking can be challenging in the city center.

Lastly, don't miss the chance to experience the local 'bateaux bus' or boat bus. This unique water taxi service runs between Toulon and the beautiful town of Saint-Mandrier-sur-Mer across the bay, offering stunning views of the harbor and a pleasant alternative to land-based travel.

Popular destinations to visit after Toulon

Photo of the Triumphal Entrance of the Arsenal of Toulon built in 1738, France.

The city of Toulon is just one of the many unique and scenic destinations you can visit in France. So if you're itching for another cultural adventure, a relaxing road trip, an action-filled city break, or a memorable weekend getaway, know that France has it all.

France is calling, and the country is asking you to experience its culture and diversity to the fullest! Take the opportunity to visit other captivating places in France that are as magical as the city of Toulon. The most popular travel destinations in France are listed below. Click on the name of the place you want to explore next to learn more about it.

All the best destinations in France

When unsure of where to go next, use the map below. This map shows the locations of all the best destinations in France. Use the map to plan your trip and find the best routes.

Domestic flights from Toulon

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A taste of France through a visit to Toulon can often reignite a traveler's passion for adventure. When this happens, the best way to satisfy this wanderlust is to book a domestic flight from Toulon to another remarkable destination in France.

To begin your search for the best or cheapest flights from the city of Toulon to other spectacular locations in France, jump to the last section of this travel guide.

Popular domestic flights from Toulon

Travelers in France can catch flights to domestic airports in Nantes, Brest, Paris, Bastia, and Ajaccio. Domestic flights in France are operated by 4 airlines: Air Corsica, Transavia France, easyJet, and Transavia. There are around 12 scheduled flight routes operating to Toulon on a weekly basis.

From Toulon, travelers can book scheduled flights to 11 domestic destinations. The most popular flights from Toulon depart to many top-rated destinations in France and are offered by Air Corsica, Transavia France, and easyJet.

Search domestic flights from Toulon

Traveling to another city or region in France? Use the flight search tool below to quickly find the cheapest one-way or round-trip flights from Toulon to different local destinations.

Enter all the necessary information and click or tap on the Search button to see a list of the available domestic flights in France on the selected dates.

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