Carcassonne and Albi Private Sightseeing Tour from Toulouse
Active
8h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant_then_manual confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Private sightseeing tour with an American driver-guide (Expatriate - in France since 1992)
With over 28 years' experience driving in France, I provide safe transport and historical commentary with personal anecdotes about life in France as an American expatriate.
My objective is to help you to maximize your time spent here in France - so that you will most comfortably enjoy all the beauty and history - that you return home filled with spectacular memories of a marvelous adventure.
Please feel free to contact me with an additional questions.
Available options
11:00
Pickup included
What's included
Private transportation
Bottled water
Air-conditioned vehicle
Detailed itinerary
1
We'll walk around & visit this impressive fortified medieval city. You'll see the defensive walls and ramparts that surround the city and learn about the Cathar people as well as their tragic history.
Optional - (Admission fee not included): visit the Castle and museum inside the fortified medieval city - this allows you access to walk along the ramparts.
2
Stop 2
We'll drive through the village and then stop at a scenic overlook across from the Lastours castle formation.
There is a small admission fee to access the "Belvedere" where you can take photos of these four Cathar castle ruins.
3
Stop 3
Visit this marvelous museum and learn about Toulouse-Lautrec.
Next to the museum sits the largest red-brick cathedral in the world
4
On the drive back to Toulouse we'll stop briefly in Cahors to visit the famous medieval fortified bridge: the Pont Valentre
What's not included
Lunch
Admission fee for Castle/museum (& access to ramparts) in Carcassonne: €9
Admission fee for Toulouse Lautrec Museum €10
Available languages
Guide guide
DE
EN
FR
ES
Important information
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Specialized infant seats are available
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Update: All of our private driver-guides are now vaccinated against the Covid-19 Virus.
About Toulouse
Toulouse, known as La Ville Rose (The Pink City) for its distinctive terracotta architecture, is a vibrant city in southern France. It's renowned for its aerospace industry, historic universities, and rich cultural heritage, making it a unique blend of innovation and tradition.
Top Attractions
Capitole de Toulouse
The Capitole is the heart of Toulouse, housing the city hall, a theater, and a famous square. Its pink brick facade is iconic.
Historical/Architecture
1-2 hours
Free to explore the square and exterior, guided tours available for a fee
Basilique Saint-Sernin
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this Romanesque basilica is one of the largest remaining Romanesque buildings in Europe and a key stop on the Way of St. James pilgrimage route.
Religious/Historical
1 hour
Free entry, donations welcome
Cité de l'Espace
A space-themed park with interactive exhibits, simulators, and full-scale models of spacecraft. It's a must-visit for space enthusiasts.
Museum/Adventure
Half day
€25-€35 depending on the season and age
Jardin des Plantes
One of the oldest botanical gardens in France, featuring a diverse collection of plants, greenhouses, and a small zoo.
Nature
1-2 hours
Free, small fee for greenhouses and zoo
Pont Neuf
The oldest bridge in Toulouse, spanning the Garonne River and offering beautiful views of the city.
Architecture
30 minutes to 1 hour
Free
Must-Try Local Dishes
Cassoulet
A rich, slow-cooked casserole made with white beans, meat (usually duck, goose, or sausage), and tomatoes.
Dinner
Contains meat, can be made vegetarian with substitutions.
Saucisse de Toulouse
A traditional Toulouse sausage made from pork, garlic, and pepper, often grilled and served with bread and salad.
Snack/Dinner
Contains pork.
Violette de Toulouse
A sweet, violet-flavored liqueur made from the flowers of the local violet plant, often served as a digestif.
Dessert
Contains alcohol.
Confit de Canard
Duck legs slow-cooked in their own fat, served with potatoes or bread. A classic dish of the region.
Dinner
Contains duck, high in fat.
Popular Activities
Hiking in the Pyrenees
Canoeing on the Garonne River
Hot air ballooning
Picnicking in Jardin des Plantes
Wine tasting in local vineyards
Sunbathing by the Garonne River
Visiting museums and galleries
Attending local festivals
Best Time to Visit
June to August
Summer is the peak tourist season with warm weather, outdoor festivals, and lively atmosphere. However, it can be crowded and more expensive.
20°C to 30°C
68°F to 86°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: French
- Widely spoken: English, Spanish, Occitan
- English: Moderately spoken, especially among younger people and in tourist areas
Currency
Euro (EUR)
Time Zone
GMT+1 (CET), GMT+2 (CEST) during daylight saving time
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe, but exercise caution in certain areas and situations
Toulouse is generally a safe city for tourists, with low levels of violent crime. However, petty crime such as pickpocketing and bag snatching can occur, especially in crowded tourist areas and on public transport. Exercise caution in less touristy areas at night.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight
- • Be cautious when using ATMs, especially at night
- • Avoid walking alone late at night, especially in less touristy areas
Getting there
By air
- Toulouse-Blagnac Airport • 8 km from city center
By train
Toulouse Matabiau
By bus
Toulouse Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
The metro system is efficient and easy to use, with two lines (A and B) connecting key areas.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, G7
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Saint-Pierre
Carmès
Saint-Cyprien
Saint-Aubin
Day trips
Albi
80 km from Toulouse • Full day
A charming medieval city known for its stunning Sainte-Cécile Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the Toulouse-Lautrec Museum.
Carcassonne
90 km from Toulouse • Full day
A fairytale-like medieval fortress city with a double-walled castle and a rich history. A UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Cordes-sur-Ciel
70 km from Toulouse • Half day to Full day
A picturesque medieval village perched on a hill, known for its art galleries, cobblestone streets, and stunning views.
Festivals
Toulouse Festival • June
Rio Loco Festival • June
Fête de la Musique • June 21st
Pro tips
- Use the Toulouse City Card for discounts on attractions and unlimited public transport
- Visit the markets for authentic local products and a taste of the city's culture
- Explore the city's neighborhoods, each with its own unique character and charm
- Try local specialties like cassoulet, Saucisse de Toulouse, and violette de Toulouse liqueur
- Take a day trip to nearby attractions like Albi, Carcassonne, or the Pyrenees for a deeper understanding of the region's history and culture
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
