Banks: 09:30 to 16:30, Monday to Friday 
Post Offices: 08:00 to 19:00, Monday to Friday; 08:00 to noon, Saturday 
Government Offices: 09:00 to 17:00, Monday to Friday 
Business Centres: 09:00 to 17:00, Monday to Friday
Shops: 09:00 to 13:00 and 15:00 to 19:00, Monday to Saturday; many places open all day

Toulouse, like many large European cities, has a problem with pickpockets who inhabit tourist areas and the bus and metro stations, particularly in the summer. Matabiau Station is one of the worst areas, while Place du Capitole and the banks of the Garonne River are also pickpocket haunts.

At night, try to steer clear of Matabiau Station, which tends to attract Toulouse’s seedier characters. The city also has somewhat of a gang problem, but sticking to well-trodden and policed tourist areas will ensure you stay safe.

220V, 50Hz; twin round-pin sockets

There are no undue health risks to be aware of in Toulouse. The hospitals here are on par with those of other major French cities and there are several 24-hour pharmacies in town to boot. Food hygiene is also good, although it may pay to stick to drinking bottled water owing to the differing minerals in tap water.

CHU La Grave Hospital: +33 5 61 77 78 15 
Emergency services: 17

The national language of France is French, although you may hear the historic language of Occitania spoken on occasion in Toulouse.

France abandoned the franc in 2002 and adopted the euro (EUR) along with many other major European countries. Various notes are available, varying slightly throughout the EU, with €1.00 equalling 100 euro cents.

The duty-free limits for France are: 200 cigarettes, 50 cigars or 250 grams of tobacco; 1 litre of spirits over 22 per cent and 2 litres of wine 22 per cent or under; 250ml of eau de toilette; and gifts up to the value of €175.00. Citizens of the EU can’t purchase duty-free, but they can bring in and take out as much duty-paid items as they like, within reason.

The French are well-mannered and respectful and tend to dress well. Even when sightseeing on a hot day in Toulouse, try to dress smartly and observe basic manners. Tipping is not necessary, but will be appreciated for good service in restaurants. Service charges are generally added to bills.

Citizens of the European Union only need a passport or national identity card to enter France. Visitors from non-EU countries should check with their nearest French embassy or consulate with regards to whether or not they need a tourist visa to enter the country.

Toulouse Tourist Office is located in Charles de Gaulle square. Phone: +33 5 6111 0222