The 15 things to do in Midi-Pyrénées

Are you on holiday in the South of France? Discover now the best places to visit in Midi-Pyrénées!

What to visit in Midi-Pyrénées? From the south of the Massif-Central to the Pyrenean mountains, Midi-Pyrénées is an old French region with 8 departments. It is now associated with Languedoc-Roussillon in the large Occitania region.

This vast territory enjoys good climatic conditions and an exceptional natural and historical heritage. Difficult to list all things to do in Midi-Pyrénées, but we have selected you here 15 must-sees.

1. Toulouse

Toulouse, the capital of the Occitanie region, is a must-see in Midi-Pyrénées. It is nicknamed the "Red City" with reference to its terracotta brick constructions. Everywhere in the city, the buildings have beautiful façades ranging from pale rose to flamboyant orange, accentuating the warm and friendly atmosphere of the city.

You will discover Toulouse on foot, by boat, by train or by following one of the trail games organized by the city. Don't miss the Capitol square, the Saint-Sernin Basilica and the Jacobin Convent, emblematic monuments of Toulouse. The banks of the Garonne will be the occasion of beautiful walks or a terrace break to enjoy the sun.

2. Cirque de Gavarnie

Gavarnie’s circus is the best known of Pyrenean circus and one of the most beautiful natural sites to visit in Midi-Pyrénées. From the village of Gavarnie you find yourself facing a wall of 1,700 meters high and 6 kilometers of circumference. An easy walk will take you in 1h30 at the foot of the circus, or you will take the full measure of its spectacular dimensions.

Around you, the peaks peak at more than 3,000 meters above sea level, and you can observe one of the largest waterfalls in Europe, which rises to 432 meters above ground. Gavarnie’s circus is listed in Unesco’s World Heritage as both a natural heritage and a cultural heritage.

3. Cauterets – Pont d’Espagne

What to visit in Midi-Pyrenees? Cauterets is a pretty mountain village in the Pyrenees, near the Pont d’Espagne. It is classified Grand Sites Occitanie. In the village, you will discover the monuments that recall its glorious past, when the stars came to the spa. The wooden station and the hotel of England are not to be missed.

Just 7 kilometers from Cauterets, the Pont d’Espagne offers a magnificent view of the waterfalls and is the entrance door of the Pyrenees National Park . From the bridge you have access to many hikes adapted to all levels.

We advise you to the lake of Gaube, where the Vignemale is reflected in the turquoise waters in a fairytale show. You can continue to the Oulette valley or the Marcadau valley, to discover the fauna and flora typical of the Pyrenean mountains.

In winter, the ski area forms a perfect playground for snowshoe fans or snowshoe rides.

4. Pic du Midi

The peak of the Midi offers one of the most beautiful views on the Pyrenees chain since its 2,877 meters above sea level. You will reach its summit by a beautiful hike, or by cable car from the station The Mongie . A must-see in Midi-Pyrenees!

At the top, many activities await you, in addition to the exceptional view of the surrounding mountains. Animators content you with the history of the peak, the oldest meteorological observatory of high-montagne still active. Reconverted into a planetarium, the Baillaud dome welcomes you for a cinema session in the stars.

Above the void, the pontoon in the sky is a gateway that will delight lovers of strong sensations. After all these emotions, it will be time to taste some of the gastronomic specialties of the region at the restaurant of the site.

5. Lourdes

The city of Lourdes is world-famous for its sanctuary Notre-Dame, built following the apparitions of the Virgin Mary in 1 858. The pilgrims from all over the world come to pray there, and more than 70 miracles were recognized by the Church. By entering the sanctuary, you will pass in front of the cave of apparitions and discover the 3 basilicas with their exceptional stained glass and mosaics.

But Lourdes is also a concentrate of things to do in Midi-Pyrénées. The fortified castle of Lourdes dominates the city and houses the Pyrenean museum. From the city centre, you will reach the top of the Pic de Jer in 8 minutes for a 360° view of the area. Lake Lourdes awaits you for a picnic and an afternoon swimming, paddle or pedalo.

6. Rodez

The prefecture of the department of Aveyron offers a stay between relaxation and cultural discovery. Start your exploration by following the historic centre circuit. It will lead you through alleys of the city to the main monuments such as the bishopric, the house of Armagnac and the famous cathedral.

No less than 300 years have been required for the construction of this Gothic building, which contains a monumental organ, a retable and a chapel. From the top of the bell tower to 87 meters, you will enjoy a magnificent view of the roofs of the city.

The Soulages Museum is another must-see in Midi-Pyrénées. In a design building rewarded with the Pritzker architecture award in 2017 the exhibition rooms feature Pierre Soulages’ work.

7. Limoux

Are you still wondering if to visit in Midi-Pyrenees? The city of Limoux is mainly known for its wines and carnival. This is held every weekend between January and March, making it the longest carnival in the world! Limoux is surrounded by vineyards and labeled Vignobles and Discoveries since 2018.

Many tourist tours offer you the tasting of the Blanquette AOC and the Crémant, as well as the learning of all their manufacturing secrets. The Basilica Notre-Dame de Marceille welcomes the piano museum, unique in France with its collection of more than 100 instruments.

8. Parc Naturel de l’Aubrac

This Regional Natural Park is a must-see in the Midi-Pyrénées. It highlights the heritage and traditions of this region on horseback on the Lozère , Aveyron and Cantal .

On the last weekend of May, you can attend the transhumance, during which the shepherds take their famous breed cows "Aubrac" to pasture.

Beautiful hikes await you in wild landscapes. They will lead you to natural sites in small villages of character. Don't miss Laguiole, famous for its world-famous knives and cheese.

9. Out.

Crossed by the eponymous river, the capital of Lot is part of the 40 major sites in Occitania. The main activities and monuments are concentrated in the historic centre, which is easily visited by foot.

You will pass through St. Stephen's Cathedral and the Valentré Bridge, strolling through medieval streets testifying to the city's past. Don’t forget to sit at the terrace of one of the many restaurants, to enjoy a glass of Malbec, the region’s pride.

10. The Dordogne valley

Here is an ideal environment for those looking for activities of full nature to do in Midi-Pyrénées. Dordogne and its tributaries are an ideal playground for canyoning and canoeing, but also for an afternoon swimming in its clear waters.

Via ferrata, hot air balloon, mountain biking or hiking are only a few ways to explore this region with preserved nature. Between its picturesque villages and its proud castles erected on their rocky groves, the Dordogne valley holds you the promise of a stay full of surprises.

11. Gorges du Tarn

The Gorges du Tarn share between the departments of Aveyron and Lozère. The river dug a dizzy canyon in the middle of the causses, creating a preserved natural environment. The villages of character follow each other along the cliffs that you travel by car, by foot or by bike.

At the key, sumptuous panoramas and the observation of a fauna typical of the region, for example the majestic flight of wild vultures. Sports of bright water and full nature do not miss, for a well-filled stay if you come to visit Midi-Pyrénées with family or friends.

12. Viaduct de Millau

By visiting the Midi-Pyrénées from the North of France, you will surely go through the Millau viaduct. This impressive structure that spans the Tarn valley, with exceptional dimensions, is the largest bridge in the world. Higher than the Eiffel Tower , with 343 meters high, and 2 460 meters long, it fits perfectly in the landscape.

You will be able to observe its slender batteries, its veils and its light curvature from the area of the viaduct. A breathtaking view, museum space and explorer trail await you to discover the history of this unique work in the world.

13. Albi

By visiting the Midi-Pyrénées, stop in the episcopal city of Albi, listed in the UNESCO World Heritage Site. Cathedral and the Berbie Palace are one of the largest brick constructions in the world and form their imposing silhouettes in the heart of the historic centre.

You will walk in the different medieval quarters, between the red-coloured buildings, built with the land drawn from the bed of the Tarn River.

14. Villefranche de Rouergue

From Notre-Dame Square, you can radiate in the streets in grids typical of the new cities of the 13th century. Pay attention to the details of the church bell tower before descending to the Saint-Sauveur chartreuse.

The various museums give the opportunity to discover local history, contemporary art exhibits or the second public jazz collection in France.

15. The most beautiful villages

Visiting the Midi-Pyrénées is also discovering dozens of small villages, all more charming than others. We present you here five who will surely delight you, but nothing prevents you from denying others!

Conquests

Major step on the path Saint-Jacques-de-Compostelle Conques has been hosting pilgrims for centuries. His Romanesque abbey is a true jewel of Romanesque art. You will discover the magnificent tympanum of the 12th century illustrating the last judgment.

From April to October, night illuminations highlight the 124 characters of this major work. Don’t miss the treasure of medieval goldsmithery, one of the largest in Europe, and the windows of the painter Pierre Soulages.

Saint-Bertrand-de-Comminges

The visit to Sainte-Marie Cathedral is a highlight of a stay in Saint-Bertrand-de-Comminges and a must-see in Midi-Pyrénées. It dominates the roofs of the houses and seems demeasured with the size of the village, which attests to its importance in the past. The Basilica of Saint-Just-de-Valcabrère and the ancient site of Lugdunum are also immanquable.

Saint-Cirq-Lapopie

Prepare to discover no less than 13 historical monuments by strolling through the medieval streets of Saint-Cirq-Lapopie. You evolve in an enchanting setting, among the houses dating from the 12th to the 15th century. More than ten artists installed their workshops in the village, that is, the creative atmosphere that reigns there. Not far away, the Pech Merle Cave contains paintings dating from 20,000 years ago.

Rocamadour

Rocamadour is a truly unique village. Its houses seem to be part of the cliff on which it is built, giving the whole a surrealistic look. At the top of the village, a set of 7 chapels is joined by a staircase of 216 steps. From here you can admire the crypt of Saint-Amadour, the Black Virgin and the stream of Alzou 150 meters below.

Cordes-sur-Ciel

This medieval bastide has been in the clouds for almost 800 years... You will have to walk a little through the narrow alleys to discover all the wonders. Vestiges of ramparts, old hall and Gothic facades tell you the history of the village. If you sleep on site, you may be entitled to the show of the sea of mist rising from the valley...

16. Gastronomy

Who doesn't know South-West culinary specialties? Foie-grass Gers , cassoulet in Toulouse, aligot in the Aubrac, so many typical dishes that make all the greedy. In a terrine or stirred, duck and goose liver represents the ancestral tradition and know-how of producers in the region.

In the mountain, garbage comforts hikers, while cheeses are classified as AOP, AOC or IGP by dozens. Cantal, Auvergne Blue, Rocamadour, Pelardon, Roquefort ...the list continues almost indefinitely! Whatever the department you will visit in Midi-Pyrénées, the restaurant will have to hold a central place in your day.

How to get to Midi-Pyrénées?

By car

In the centre of the region, Toulouse offers easy access to the Midi-Pyrénées thanks to the road network.

• From Paris : you will reach Toulouse in 6h30 following theA71 until Vierzon then theA20 ;
• From Lyon : you will follow her N88 which will make you pass through Rodez and Albi;
• From Bordeaux : borrow theA62 and since Montpellier,A9 until Narbonne then theA61.

By plane

The main airports to visit the Midi-Pyrénées by plane are those of Tarbes-Lourdes and Toulouse-Blagnac. Depending on your destination, you can also get to Rodez or Pau .

In any case, we advise you to use a comparison of flights as Skyscanner . It will allow you to check the tickets at the best price according to your dates of stay.

By train

The railway network is rather dense in Midi-Pyrénées, with the exception of the department of Aveyron. From Toulouse, you can quickly reach the main cities of the region. Then use the bus network or rent a car.

Where to stay in Midi-Pyrénées?

The hotel offering of the region is wide and varied. First determine what type of accommodation you are looking for, depending on your expectations. Charming hotel for lovers, camping between friends, family villa rental...

For good mobility, we advise you to stay in cities like Toulouse , Rodez , Albi or Millau . If you are looking for calm and authenticity, opt for charming villages like Rocamadour or Conquests For example.

To find the best accommodation plans, go to one Compare hotels and specify your criteria and dates of stay. You can also find what to stay on Airbnb . All you have to do is book your nest and wrap your suitcase!