LYON TO TOULOUSE TO BORDEAUX
The greatest buskers ever. My fly with the birds is canceled, so I’ve got a few days to burn. One day in Lyon is enough, so I’m off to Google Maps to explore.
Toulouse it is. I have no idea what to expect, but it’s between Lyon and Bordeaux, where I’ll meet my parents soon.
WHERE IS TOULOUSE?
GREAT CROWD
Credit to the French and Central Europe, the trains are brilliant, frequent, punctual, and comfortable. But sometimes more expensive than flying!
I checked into La Petite Auberge de Saint-Serin, a clean hostel near the center. Toulouse’s public transport system is great, with metro, bus, and train networks.
IMMACULATE
I’m becoming more and more surprised by this part of France. There seems to be just as much on offer compared to Paris and the med coast without the crowds. They make even the darkest alley worth looking at. I’ve walked all evening and haven’t found any area that seems dangerous or intimidating.
TOULOUSE….
- Known as “Pink City” due to the rose-colored bricks used most of the buildings.
- It’s town hall resembles Buckingham Palace.
- It is a cultural hub for the performance arts.
- Rugby is the most popular sport in Toulouse.
STREET PERFORMERS
When in Toulouse, walk along the River Garonne. Locals gather there during lunch, and you might see top buskers in the evening. Walking along the river, I heard music from Place de la Daurade. Local musicians gave an amazing street performance during a beautiful sunset. I think anyone could believe their luck and everyone was just vibing, the atmosphere was 10/10. A perfect example of finding something special when just wandering around the city.
BORDEAUX
Check out time! Today I head to Bordeaux to meet my parents, who spent the last five days on a holiday in Portugal. The train station of Bordeaxu is around 10 minutes drive form the centre but Bordeaux has an amazing network of trams which are easy to use and cost less than €2 a trip. Yet again the infrastructure of France continues to amaze me.
LE PALAIS GALLIEN
I checked into Hotel Le Palais Gallien, which opened five months ago. It’s impressive and a short walk from the old town, perfect for exploring Bordeaux. Will help with the amount of food and wine you’re about to throw down your neck. Facilities include, a swimming pool, raised sun trap decking area, compact gym and a bar so all the essentials are covered!
LE TROQUET
My parents arrived in the evening. On the hotel’s recommendation, we dined at Le Troquet, a low-key French restaurant with incredible food.
It’s all very traditionally French here, even the menus but you know you are getting quality. The flavours are like nothing I have ever had, if I am ever asked about Bordeaux or going back myself I’ll be suggesting this place!
NEXT UP
Full tour around Bordeaux trying food and wine. Click to read.
SAFE TRAVELS, DS x
133/229
This post is part of the West Africa Series, pt1, click to explore or for episode 1 click here.
To watch the video of my trip, head to my highlights on my Instagram.
Question Time
- Have you been to Toulouse, what was your experience like?
- Where did you stay?
- What is your favourite thing to do?
Let me know in the comments below . . .
