Südfrankreich-Kombination: Toulouse & Montpellier

About the destination: At the heart of the South, Toulouse has always occupied a prominent place in the Southwest of France. The reflections of golden light on the pink-brick walls, used in many of its buildings, have earned the city the designation of 'La Ville Rose', the Pink City. As the region’s largest city, Toulouse combines medieval architecture with bohemian music, delicious food and constant innovation, sustained by the city’s cutting-edge aerospace industry. The old town of Toulouse hides great treasures. The Basilica of St. Sernin is considered the city’s most beautiful religious monument. It is also the world’s largest church built in the Romanesque style. Feel free to wander through its cobbled streets to discover its splendid Renaissance courtyards and magnificent houses that hide behind the heavy gates. The Augustinian Museum exhibits a rich collection of paintings and sculptures. Here you will find works of either medieval masters or contemporary artists and painters. Toulouse is active and bustling, fuelled by the energy of its student population. There’s nothing like strolling through the historical center, walking along the banks of the Garonne and the Canal du Midi, or stopping in one of the many bars and restaurants to eat or have a drink under the open sky.

About the destination: Montpellier is one of southern France’s most vibrant cities, blending medieval charm with youthful energy. Stroll through the historic Écusson district, a maze of narrow lanes, sunlit squares, and elegant mansions. At its heart lies Place de la Comédie, a grand square framed by 19th‑century architecture, lively cafés, and street performers. From here, most of the city’s highlights are within walking distance or a quick tram ride away. Art and culture lovers will find plenty to explore. The Fabre Museum is one of France’s most important fine arts museums outside Paris, housing works from the Renaissance to contemporary art. Nearby, the MO.CO. contemporary art center showcases bold and innovative exhibitions in striking modern spaces. Don’t miss the graceful 18th‑century Promenade du Peyrou, with its royal statue, aqueduct, and sweeping views over the city and towards the Cévennes mountains. Montpellier also offers a distinctly Mediterranean lifestyle. Terraces spill onto the streets, perfect for sampling local wines from the Languedoc region, fresh seafood, and southern French favorites like tapenade and tielle, a savory seafood pie. The city’s large student population keeps the nightlife diverse and affordable, from cozy wine bars in the old town to music venues and clubs around the Antigone and Port Marianne districts. Finally, Montpellier is an excellent base for exploring the surrounding region. Golden beaches such as Palavas-les-Flots and Carnon are less than 30 minutes away by tram and bus. Inland, you can visit medieval villages, vineyards, and natural sites like the Hérault Gorges. Whether you come for a city break or a longer stay, Montpellier offers a relaxed, sunny gateway to the best of southern France.