The best time to visit
Thanks to its Mediterranean climate, Toulon can be visited all year round.
- In spring, the Provençal markets burst with colour and the terraces begin to come alive. It is one of the most pleasant times to explore the city.
- In summer, Toulon buzzes with activity, from beaches and festivals to boat trips in the harbour. The beaches of Le Mourillon become a must-visit destination.
- In autumn, the Mediterranean light enhances the landscapes and temperatures remain mild, ideal for hikes around Mont Faron.
- In winter, the city enjoys a milder climate compared to the rest of France, allowing visitors to enjoy the historic centre and museums in a quieter atmosphere.
Day 1: Immerse yourself in the historic heart of Toulon
Morning: Provençal alleyways and the Cours Lafayette market
Start your getaway in Toulon’s historic centre, a quintessentially Mediterranean neighbourhood with its pastel-coloured façades and lively little squares. Don’t miss the famous Cours Lafayette market, a true local institution where the scents of Provence mingle with colourful fruit, flowers and local produce. Continue your stroll towards Notre-Dame-de-la-Seds Cathedral, one of the city’s oldest monuments, dating back to the 13th century. Then wander around Place de la Liberté, the bustling heart of Toulon surrounded by Haussmann-style architecture.
Afternoon: Toulon’s port and harbour
After lunch, head to the port of Toulon, a true symbol of the city. The harbour is home to ferries, cruise ships and military vessels alike, making Toulon one of the Mediterranean’s strategic ports. A must-do activity is to set sail on a boat tour of the harbour, which allows you to get up close to the military vessels and explore the surrounding seascapes.
Next, take the cable car to the summit of Mont Faron. At an altitude of 584 metres, the panoramic view of the city and the Mediterranean is spectacular.
At the end of the day: sunset at Le Mourillon
End the day in the Mourillon district. With its beaches, restaurants and palm-lined promenade, it’s the perfect spot for a stroll by the sea. On the way, you’ll spot Fort Saint-Louis, situated at the entrance to the beaches. Built in the late 17th century during the reign of Louis XIV to protect the harbour of Toulon, it is now an iconic symbol of the neighbourhood. The silhouette of the fort, bathed in Mediterranean light, offers the perfect backdrop for your photos and for enjoying the sun setting over the sea.
Day 2: nature, culture and authentic Toulon
Morning: gardens and museums
Start the day with a stroll through the Jardin Alexandre-Ier, one of the city’s main green spaces. Then explore the National Maritime Museum of Toulon, which traces the city’s maritime and naval history. You can also visit the Chalucet district, which has become a cultural and creative hub centred around the garden and several artistic institutions.
Afternoon: a trip around the harbour
Spend the afternoon exploring the villages and seaside resorts around Toulon. The charming town of Sanary-sur-Mer charms visitors with its colourful harbour and lively terraces. Another option: a trip to La Seyne-sur-Mer and Les Sablettes beach, ideal for a stroll along the water’s edge.
Where to dine and have a drink?
Toulon offers a fine variety of places to enjoy Mediterranean cuisine. For refined dining with a sea view, book a table at Les Pins Penchés, renowned for its elegant Provençal cuisine. For a friendly atmosphere by the water’s edge, head to Le Saint Gabriel, popular for its fish and seafood. If you’d rather have a drink, the Mourillon district and the harbour are brimming with lively bars and terraces where you can soak up the Mediterranean atmosphere.
Where to stay in Toulon?
For a holiday close to nature and the Mediterranean, camping is an excellent option around Toulon. Nestled between the sea and pine forests, the region’s campsites let you soak up the Var sunshine whilst staying close to the city centre and the beaches.
Why choose Toulon?
Authentic, sunny and surrounded by spectacular scenery, Toulon is an ideal destination for exploring Provence by the sea. With its maritime heritage, Provençal markets, urban beaches and panoramic views of the Mediterranean, the city offers the perfect balance of culture, nature and a relaxed way of life.
Things to see around Toulon
If you’re extending your stay, there are several magnificent places nearby:
- Porquerolles Island: a paradise island with turquoise waters and white sandy beaches.
- Hyères: a charming Provençal town nestled between the sea and an old medieval village.
- Calanques de Cassis: spectacular cliffs plunging into crystal-clear waters.