Best weekend breaks in the south of France
The south of France is one of the most popular holiday regions in Europe — but not all destinations offer the same experience. If you’re looking for a weekend break in the south of France with culture, sunshine and local life (without the crowds), it’s worth looking beyond the coast.
Why the south of France is ideal for a short break
Southern France is perfect for weekend getaways thanks to:
- Mild weather and plenty of sunshine
- Outdoor living and café culture
- Strong regional food traditions
- Easy access from the UK
A southern city break that feels real: Toulouse
As the cultural capital of south-west France, Toulouse offers all the benefits of a southern destination — without the pressure of over-tourism.
A southern weekend that feels real: Toulouse
As the cultural capital of the Occitanie region in south-west France, Toulouse offers everything travellers expect from a weekend in the south of France — sunshine, heritage, great food and a relaxed pace — without the pressure of over-tourism often found in coastal resorts.
From discovering the iconic Place du Capitole and its lively café terraces to exploring the Basilica of Saint-Sernin, a masterpiece of Romanesque architecture, Toulouse promises constant surprises. Add visits to the Cité de l’Espace or the Musée des Augustins, and your stay becomes a rich blend of history, creativity and discovery.
Great value for money
Compared to many popular destinations in the south of France, Toulouse remains refreshingly affordable. Accommodation, restaurants and attractions offer excellent value, even in the historic centre. You can enjoy a high-quality southern weekend without paying Riviera prices.
Toulouse is also home to one of the most exciting food scenes in France. A new generation of chefs is reinventing local cuisine — elevating even a simple baguette sandwich into a gourmet experience, using artisan bread, high-quality charcuterie and homemade pickles. In the evening, many restaurants offer full menus at attractive prices, without compromising on quality.
Simple and stress-free travel
With direct flights from the UK and an airport just minutes from the city centre, Toulouse is one of the easiest cities in southern France to reach for a short stay. Once there, the compact historic centre makes exploring effortless.
Life here encourages you to slow down — wandering through neighbourhood streets, browsing independent shops and enjoying the rhythm of everyday southern life.
An authentic southern lifestyle
Unlike resort destinations, Toulouse is a living, breathing city. Local markets such as Victor Hugo — with its bustling food stalls and upstairs restaurants — or the Carmes market give visitors a true taste of regional life.
Riverside walks along the Garonne, long lunches on shaded terraces and the simple pleasure of a morning coffee on Place du Capitole, facing one of France’s most beautiful city halls, all contribute to an authentic southern atmosphere.
Food, culture and sunshine
From historic landmarks to creative cuisine, Toulouse combines heritage with a modern, youthful energy. From the Basilica of Saint-Sernin to contemporary galleries and creative restaurants, Toulouse blends historic heritage with youthful energy. With more than 2,000 hours of sunshine a year and a vibrant terrace culture, it stands out as one of the most rewarding destinations for a weekend in the south of France.
The “Ville Rose”
For a weekend break in the south of France that feels relaxed, cultural and authentic, Toulouse is a refreshing alternative.
All the essentials for a successful city break
Heritage
Must-see
Culture
Exhibitions
Going out
What’s on
Sightseeing
Tour in English
Gastronomy
Eat & drink
Lifestyle
Stroll through the market
Plan your trip
Prepare for your stay
Discover Toulouse’s
Great Monuments
Iconic landmarks, southern French charm
and local stories — all in one guided tour in English.
FAQ
Weekend breaks in the South of France
Is the south of France good for a weekend break?
Yes, the south of France is ideal for a weekend break thanks to its sunny climate, relaxed lifestyle and rich cultural heritage. Many cities are compact and easy to explore in two or three days, making them perfect for short stays. Cities like Toulouse offer the perfect balance between southern charm and vibrant city life.
What is the best city for a weekend break in the south of France?
The best city depends on what you’re looking for. If you want sunshine, culture, great food and an authentic atmosphere without the crowds of the coast, Toulouse is an excellent choice. As one of the most dynamic cities in southern France, it combines heritage, local life and great value for money.
Is Toulouse in the south of France?
Yes, Toulouse is located in the south of France, in the Occitanie region. It enjoys a warm climate, a strong southern identity and easy access to other iconic destinations in southern France, making it an ideal base for a weekend or longer holiday.
How many days do you need in Toulouse?
Two to three days are ideal to explore Toulouse at a relaxed pace. In a long weekend, you can visit major landmarks, enjoy local gastronomy, stroll along the Garonne River and experience the city’s lively café culture — all within a compact and walkable city centre.
Is the south of France expensive for a weekend?
Some coastal areas can be expensive, especially during peak season. However, inland cities like Toulouse offer excellent value for money, with affordable accommodation, reasonably priced restaurants and easy access to cultural attractions — allowing you to enjoy the south of France without stretching your budget.
What is the best time of year for a weekend in the south of France?
The south of France is enjoyable throughout the year, thanks to its generally mild climate and generous sunshine. Toulouse, in particular, can be visited all year round.
Spring is often considered the ideal season, with pleasant temperatures, blooming parks and lively café terraces. Early autumn is also very enjoyable, offering warm days and a relaxed atmosphere.
That said, Toulouse is also a great winter destination. Cooler days are perfect for exploring museums and historic landmarks, while evenings are best spent in cosy restaurants enjoying comforting regional dishes and seasonal specialities. With its mild winter climate, the city remains lively and welcoming even outside the summer months.
