Toulouse is a popular university town in the south of France that boasts much architectural wealth and is home to the French aviation and space industry. The town is crisscrossed by a network of canals and has bags of ambience in the town centre, with its narrow alleys and bustling squares.

There are loads of things for kids to do in Toulouse, with a natty space exploration centre complete with hands-on exhibits, an African-style safari park and many active city parks. There’s also lots of opportunity for parents to get active, with miles of canals and cycling paths as well as some good golfing and skiing nearby.

Toulouse has a wonderful feeling about it, with its mass of medieval architecture and impressive churches. Some of France’s grandest buildings reside here including the Toulouse Capitole, while superb museums such as the Musee des Augustins increase the city’s standing.

Toulouse Blagnac International Airport is the gateway to Toulouse, located in the northwest of the city. Flights come in from all over Europe with the likes of Air France, British Airways and budget airline easyJet. The airport has just one terminal with comprehensive facilities including ATMs, currency exchange, a post office and shops and cafés.

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