* Toulouse and the aviation industry

With its distinctive red-brick architecture Toulouse is the « ville rose » of the south west, on the banks of the Garonne. As well as the charming old centre with its rosy coloured buildings, Toulouse is world-famous as a leader in the aviation industry – Concorde was built here – and you can visit the ultra-modern Aerospatiale centre.

3 days / 50 km

Ref: 11B151

Dates

January , February , March , April , May , June , July , August , September , October , November , December

D1 Toulouse (10 km)

Local style lunch. Sightseeing tour of Toulouse, from the vast Capitol Square and the gracious neo-classical architecture of the Town Hall to the banks of the Garonne, taking in the Romanesque St Sernin Basilica and some of the town’s lovely Renaissance style private mansions. Dinner and overnight.

D2 Aérospatiale Aviation Centre and Boat Trip on the Garonne River (30 km)

Guided tour of Aérospatiale and the J.L Lagardère plant, final assembly line and test site for the giant AIRBUS 380. Lunch then cruise along the Garonne for a relaxing view of the sights. Time at leisure in the city. Dinner and overnight.

D3 Canal du Midi Barge Cruise and Violets of Toulouse (10 km)

No visit to Toulouse would be complete without taking to the water on the Canal du Midi, a legendary engineering feat linking the town with the Mediterranean. A traditional barge has been transformed into a showcase for the Toulouse violet, used both in perfumery and jams and liqueurs etc, and you can taste some of the products whilst onboard. Lunch.