Toulon is a coastal city in the Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur region of southern France. Known for its scenic harbor, the city offers a mix of natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture. Better known as a major French naval base and a wine-making center, the small french city may not have the appeal of places like Monaco, Cannes, or Nice. However, it is a part of the French Riviera and has all you'd expect from a Côte d'Azur city.
Located between Marseille and St. Tropez, anyone who wants a Mediterranean vacation with fewer crowds should visit Toulon. It offers year-round warm weather, nice beaches, and beautiful views that rival what you'll see in other French Riviera cities. The city also has notable museums, some of which have art by famous 19th-century artists, including Auguste Aiguier, Paul Guigou, and Vincent Courdouan.
One of the city's highlights is the Vieux Port (Old Port), where you can stroll along the waterfront or enjoy a meal at one of the many seaside restaurants. The port is also a gateway to the Îles d'Or islands. Rugby fans will be happy to know that the city is home to RC Toulon, one of France's most popular rugby teams. In addition, history buffs should note that Napoleon Bonaparte left for his Italian campaign from Porte d'Italie in Toulon.
You'll often hear that this part of the French Riviera isn't worth visiting; however, there's plenty to see and do in the city. Here are some of the best things to do in Toulon.
Best Things to Do in Toulon
Mont Faron
The 584 m high Mont Faron is the most famous landmark in the city and provides a beautiful backdrop. If you want to shake off calories from the French cuisine you've been enjoying, take the challenging walk up the mountain's west side.
The road was part of the route used in the Tour Méditerranéen bicycle race. It was one of the most difficult parts of the route.
If you don’t like your chances of hiking to the peak, the best way to get to the top is via the Téléphérique du Faron cable car. In addition to saving your energy for other parts of the city, the cable car provides wonderful views of the Bay of Toulon.
Once you arrive at the peak, treat yourself to a meal at one of the restaurants, where you can enjoy views of the harbor while you eat. Before you leave, consider picking up a few gift items at the cable car shop.
Mémorial du Débarquement
Mémorial du Débarquement is a World War II military museum/memorial at the top of Mont Faron. Opened in 1964, the museum has exhibits from the events during the 1944 Allied landing between Toulon and Cannes.
In addition to reflecting on the D-Day landings, the location offers views of Toulon, the cities around it, and the Mediterranean Sea. It is the perfect destination for anyone curious to learn more about D-Day or people who have a family member who fought in World War II.
Circuit Paul Ricard
True racing fans can rent Circuit Paul Ricard for a track day event. Businessman Paul Louis Marius Ricard built it in 1969. Famous for its blue run-off areas known as the Blue Zone, the circuit is just a 30-minute drive from Toulon. Back in the 1980s, the track saw a lot of motorsport action as it hosted many Formula One pre-season tests and races. Local F1 hero Alain Prost won three French Grand Prix races at the Paul Ricard Circuit during that period.
Other events held here include motorcycle, GT car races, and speed tests by various exotic car manufacturers. It is also a popular location for photoshoots and movies. Time your visit right, and you can enjoy driving experiences offered at the circuit. You can arrive in style at the Le Castellet Airport next door (also built by Paul Ricard), which offers private jet services, helicopter rides, and car transfers.
AGS Formule 1
AGS (Automobiles Gonfaronnaises Sportives) ran a Formula 1 team from 1986 to 1991. Now, the company offers driving courses available to racing fans. Fans sign up for one or more of the several driving courses and feel the power of real Formula One cars. AGS offers half-day and full-day driving courses, allowing attendees to select the open-wheel racecar they prefer.
The driving courses take place at either the Circuit Paul Ricard or the Circuit du Luc-en-Provence. Each location offers driving courses with one of the best experiences in the south of France.
Plages du Mourillon (Beaches of Mourillon)
Plages du Mourillon is a set of Blue Flag beaches that attract locals and tourists seeking a perfect escape. These family-friendly beaches are just a short distance from the city center. They offer views of the Mediterranean Sea and a place to relax.
The area is well-maintained, with four beaches separated by grassy lawns. Visitors can swim in crystal-clear waters, sunbathe on the soft sand, or take part in water sports.
In addition to its natural beauty, Plages du Mourillon offers a variety of amenities to ensure a comfortable visit. Plenty of seaside restaurants and cafés serve fresh seafood and local French cuisine. Families with children will like the playgrounds and the calm, shallow waters, perfect for young swimmers.
Toulon Old Town
The city's Old Town has beautiful southern French architecture and charm. Visitors will find narrow streets in the Old Town filled with many cafes, restaurants, and shops. You'll also find the city's tiny artisan shops where you can purchase gift items.
Opera lovers should look out for Opéra de Toulon, located on Boulevard de Strasbourg on the boundary of the Old Town. It is France's second-largest opera house after Palais Garnier in Paris.
The building has a beautiful mix of Baroque and Renaissance architecture and is worth visiting even if you're not an opera fan.
Toulon Port
The Port of Toulon is the main Mediterranean base of the French navy. It won’t take long to notice this once you’re at the port. You’ll find a set of aircraft carriers, submarines, and other naval ships (part of the largest French Mediterranean fleet) docked here. Anyone with an interest in battleships should add the port to their list of places to visit.
In addition to the strong naval presence here, the port is a major docking location for large cruise ships, which are always a joy to watch. The port is close to various shops and restaurants serving tasty Mediterranean food.
Also present at the port is Musée National de la Marine, a marine museum that sums up the city’s transition to becoming the largest Mediterranean naval port. Opened in 1814, it is the oldest maritime museum in France. Exhibits include artwork, scientific instruments, and models.
While at the port, look out for Génie de la Navigation (The Genius of Navigation). It is a bronze and marble statue built in 1847. It is a nod to the city’s sea exploration heritage. Another point of interest at the port is the ferry service with trips to towns on some of France’s most beautiful islands and other Mediterranean locations. These include Ajaccio, Bastia, Ile Rousse, and Porto Vecchio.
Sentier des Douaniers
The Sentier des Douaniers (Customs Officers' Path) is a trail with views of the Mediterranean. The path was once used by customs officers to monitor smugglers along the coast. Today, it is a popular hiking route with locals and visitors.
Winding along the rugged coastline, the 11 km trail connects coves, rocky cliffs, and sandy beaches. Hikers are treated to views of the crystal-clear waters and lush greenery.
In addition to its beauty, the trail offers a look into the region's rich maritime history. There are several landmarks along the path. These include old watchtowers, which add to the charm of the hike.
The trail is well-marked so hikers of all levels can use it. It has many sections with different levels of difficulty which makes it great for walks or challenging hikes.
Cours Lafayette Market
Cours Lafayette Market is a Tuesday to Sunday farmers’ market held close to the port of Toulon. Vendors at the market offer flowers, fruits, vegetables, and fresh fish.
Even if you have no interest in cooking (after all, you’re on vacation), the colorful stalls and lively interactions between the vendors and their customers will likely keep you in good spirits.
With plenty of cafes and restaurants around the market, it’s the perfect place to enjoy French food. Whether you want to purchase fresh produce to create iconic French dishes yourself or sample prepared meals, this market has you covered.
One vital thing to keep in mind is the market is only open in the morning, so plan well to avoid missing it.
Place De La Liberté
Place De La Liberté is a square located on Boulevard de Strasbourg. The square is lined with palm trees along its borders and has historic structures around it. These include the building housing the Théâtre Liberté.
It was a grand hotel in 1870 and later used by occupying forces in the Second World War. Soon after, it became an apartment building before being switched to its current use.
On the north side of the square, right next to Rue Victor Clappier, is Fontaine de la Fédération, a white limestone fountain decorated with allegorical French figures.
Built in 1889 by brothers architect Gaudensi Allar and sculptor André-Joseph, the fountain is a symbol of unity and celebrates the centenary of the French Revolution. The square has various cafes, restaurants, and other retail outlets around it. If you need a break from exploring Toulon, this is the place to do it.
Airport
Transportation
- Bus: The Mistral Bus Network provides buses for travel between the airport to twelve communes.
- Taxi: The official taxi company authorized to provide vehicles for transport at the airport is Taxis Radio Hyerois. The taxis can be found in the taxi rank area in front of the terminal building.
- Train: Hyeres train station is located 3km from the airport. 30 daily trains connect you to the cities of Toulon, Marseille and Nice.
Ride Hailing
Uber, Sixt
Compared to other nearby towns and cities, Toulon is a small and peaceful southern France holiday spot. It has unique tourist attractions like Musée des Arts Asiatiques (Museum of Asian Arts), lovely beaches, beautiful views, and great Mediterranean weather. From Le Mourillon, the small port, to the grand presence of the French navy, the small fishing city has everything to make your stay memorable.
Popular Local Cuisine
Tapenade
Tapenade was invented by Chef Meynier in 1880 at the La Maison Doree Restaurant in southern France. Since its invention, tapenade has become synonymous with the southern region of the country. Traditional tapenade is made by crushing capers and black olives. The crushed mixture is combined with anchovies and tuna before spices, pepper, and olive oil are added.
Tapenade can be spread onto bread and enjoyed with a glass of wine, or as a side to a meal. It is also consumed by dipping vegetables or bread into it. Tapenade's ingredients are considered incredibly healthy resulting in the spread being labeled a so-called "superfood".
