Planning your trip to Provence and need some inspiration? For a weekend getaway or vacation, you’ll never be bored in Toulon! Known for its military port, the largest in France, the town offers a blend of maritime traditions, beautiful natural scenery and a rich cultural history. This dynamic city, bathed in sun and sea, attracts thousands of visitors every year to discover its beaches, museums and picturesque districts.
In this article, you’ll discover a list of 8 ideas for things to do in Toulon, illustrated by numerous photos. We’ve even added a few bonus activities!
This guide is completely independent, based on our experiences. We visited the region anonymously, making our own choices and paying our bills in full.
1. Flaner in the city center
Why visit?
Toulon, an ancient fishing town, was known as Telo in ancient times. It reveals itself through a rich heritage and diverse architecture. We enjoyed exploring its historic center. Here, you’ll discover the narrow streets typical of Mediterranean cities, contrasting with the Haussmann district of wide avenues and opulent buildings. A perfect visit if you’re stopping off in Toulon before taking a ferry to Corsica or Sardinia.
If you have more time, don’t miss out on the city’s museums. They are the guardians of its historic heritage. They allowed us to delve into its past and discover the city’s deep commitment to art and culture. We learned that the Second World War wreaked havoc in Toulon. Despite this, the city has preserved monuments that bear witness to its architectural evolution and the artistic currents that have shaped it.
Stroll through the streets of this Var town and admire its centuries-old buildings. Art is also very present in the narrow streets, making Toulon a popular place for history and culture lovers.
Practical advice
- Places not to be missed:
- Place de la Liberté, Opera House, Place Victor Hugo and Place Pierre Puget
- The Cours Lafayette market
- Rue des Arts and the Statue of the Genius of Navigation
- Saint Flavien Church
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours.
- To discover Toulon, you can opt for:
- A private walking tour of the Old Town– More info and booking
- A tour of the city’s most beautiful spots on a tourist train – More info and booking
- A gourmet tour: discover the town with stops along the way to sample local specialities – More info and booking
- Access: all the above points of interest are located almost exclusively in Toulon city center. To discover them, you can park at the Q-Park Place d’Armes Le Port parking lot, for example, which occupies a rather central location. If you take public transport, the “Strasbourg” stop on the city’s transport network is quite central. To plan your itinerary, please consult the route maps, timetables and fares here.
- Difficulties: the port of Toulon and the whole of the city center seemed fairly accessible to people with reduced mobility.
- Eating out: Nearby, among our selection of downtown restaurants, we recommend a gourmet break at the convivial Halles de Toulon. In this iconic city building, you’ll find delicious local produce from independent artisans and food traders. Find out more here.
2. Discover the Musée National de la Marine
Why visit?
Immerse yourself in over 400 years of maritime history at Toulon’s Musée National de la Marine. Located close to the majestic Porte de l’Arsenal, we enjoyed discovering its impressive collection. Here you can see models of ships and galleys. As well as maritime objects testifying to Toulon’s importance as Europe’s leading military port.
As you wander through its halls, you’ll discover captivating exhibits. For example, we loved the reconstructions of life on board ship and the works of art illustrating the rich maritime tradition of the Mediterranean. Whether you’re a history buff or simply curious, the museum promises an enriching and immersive experience. It’s a must-see to discover the great history of the Royale and the unbreakable link between Toulon and the sea.
Practical advice
- Access: the museum is located in the port district. Near the Toulon naval base. The nearest parking lot is Parking Place d’Armes, a 5-minute walk away.
If you take public transport, the “Préfecture maritime” stop on the local transport network is the nearest. To plan your itinerary, please consult the route maps, timetables and fares here. - Opening hours: September to June: 10 am – 6 pm daily except Tuesday; July and August: 10 am – 6 pm daily. Please check the timetable before your visit here.
- Duration: 1 to 2 hours.
- Price: admission is €7 full price and €5 concessions. Please note that online booking entitles you to a discount. Find out more here.
- Eating out: among our selection of nearby restaurants in Toulon, we recommend the bistronomic Restaurant L’équerre. We had a great time here and enjoyed the authentic atmosphere.
- Accessibility: The museum is accessible to people with motor, hearing, mental or psychological disabilities.
3. Admire the landscape from Mont Faron
Why visit?
Mont Faron, Toulon’s landmark, is a must-see when visiting the Mediterranean city. Accessible by cable car, it takes you to an altitude of 584m in just a few minutes. We really appreciated the breathtaking view over Toulon harbor and the Mediterranean. Once at the summit, it’s possible to take a short walk through unspoilt Mediterranean flora. You’ll also find La Fauverie, a feline rescue center, and the Mémorial du Débarquement de Provence. Climbing to the top of Mont Faron is an ideal activity for families.
Practical advice
- Access: Mont Faron lies to the north of the city. A small parking lot is located at the foot of the bottom station of the cable car.
If you take public transport, the nearest stop is the “Téléphérique” stop on the local transport network. To plan your itinerary, please consult the route maps, timetables and fares here. - Timetable: there is a departure approximately every 10 to 20 minutes from 10am. Timetables vary considerably from month to month, so be sure to check them before you visit, here.
- Duration: 1 to 2 hours.
- Price: €9 return for adults. Reduced rates apply to young people and children in particular. Find out more here.
- Eating out: we didn’t eat there, but there are restaurants at the top of Mont Faron. Several picnic areas are also available.
- Difficulties: the cableway is a wheelchair-accessible experience.
WHERE TO STAY IN Toulon
Our favorites: neighborhoods and hotels
In the downtown area
Hotel Okko – see photos and availability
Hotel L’Eautel – see photos and availability
On the corniche
Hôtel Les Voiles – see photos and availability
4. Visit the Provence Landing Memorial
Why visit?
The Mont-Faron Memorial is dedicated to the D-Day Landings and the Liberation of Provence. This museum, perched high above Toulon, boasts an exceptional panoramic view of the Var coast. As you enter, you’ll discover a historic fort. The exhibition that takes you to the heart of the events of summer 1944. We were impressed by the museography, brilliantly deployed throughout the 600 m² memorial. Here, you’ll discover almost 200 objects and a host of multimedia supports, making for an immersive, educational experience.
Practical advice
- Access: The museum is located at the top of Mont Faron.
A small parking lot is located at the foot of the bottom station of the cable car.
If you take public transport, the nearest stop is the “Téléphérique” stop on the local transport network. To plan your itinerary, please consult the route maps, timetables and fares here. - Opening hours: Open daily (except Christmas and May 1st) from 10am to 12:30pm and from 1:15pm to 5:15pm in low season. In high season, we close at 6.30pm. Guided tours are organized on Wednesdays, Saturdays and Sundays at 2.30pm. Find out more here.
- Duration: 1 to 2 hours.
- Price: €6
- Eating out: We didn’t eat there, but there are restaurants at the top of Mont Faron, close to the museum. Several picnic areas are also available.
- Difficulties: The museum is accessible to people with reduced mobility. Only the roof terrace of the Beaumont Tower is not.
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5. Tour the Rade de Toulon
Why visit?
We recommend a tour of the Rade de Toulon. It’s a singular experience that lets you discover the port city from a unique angle. This pleasant walk allows you to admire the majestic military ships anchored in the harbor, while immersing yourself in the city’s history. Walking along the banks, we observed the Fort Vauban, a symbol of the region’s defensive architecture. We also discovered the modern yacht yards that bear witness to maritime innovation.
This tour is also an opportunity to explore Napoleon’s legacy: he saved Toulon from British invasion. The story adds a captivating historical dimension to the visit. This boat trip on the large, wind-sheltered bay is ideal for families.
Practical advice
- Access: The landing stage is located in the Port of Toulon, on Quai de la Sinse.
The nearest parking lot is Parking Mayol, a 5-minute walk away.
If you take public transport, the “Mayol” stop on the local transport network is the nearest. To plan your itinerary, please consult the route maps, timetables and fares here. - Timetable: Departures approximately every hour. Find out more here.
- Duration: Allow around 1 hour for the visit.
- Price: €16.50 for adults and €11.50 for children.
- Eating out: nearby, take a gourmet break at the bistronomic restaurant L’Équerre, just a stone’s throw from the port.
- Difficulties: This experience is accessible to people with reduced mobility.
OUR TPS FOR RENTING YOUR CAR IN Provence
- Compare prices on our preferred platform: DiscoverCars – one of the best rated sites.
- Choose a car that is powerful enough (the roads are steep) but compact (some passages are narrow).
- Think of thecomplete insurance (some roads are tortuous and narrow).
- There is a lot of demand, book it early.
6. Visit the Museum of the History of Toulon and its Region
Why visit?
Tucked away in an alleyway in the heart of downtown, discover this small, warm and engaging museum, run by a team of enthusiasts. The exhibition traces the social, economic and military history of Toulon and the surrounding area. We enjoyed discovering the city’s interesting past, through collections of great diversity. From everyday objects to testimonies of major historical events, each room offers a new perspective on the evolution of the port city and its region. We were charmed by the intimate atmosphere of the place, and recommend a stopover at this little museum on your visit to the Var.
Practical advice
- Access: The museum is located in Toulon city center, close to the port and Notre-Dame-de-la-Seds cathedral.
The nearest parking lot is Parking Q-Park Lafayette, a 5-minute walk away.
If you’re taking public transport, the nearest stop is “Cours Lafayette” on the local transport network. To plan your itinerary, please consult the route maps, timetables and fares here. - Opening hours: Monday to Saturday, 2pm to 6pm. Find out more here.
- Duration: allow between 30min and 1h.
- Price: the visit is free.
- Eating out: among our selection of nearby restaurants in Toulon, we recommend Restaurant L’équerre for a gourmet break near the port, or Les Halles de Toulon, a convivial food court offering good local produce.
- Difficulties: the museum is on several floors, but has an elevator.
7. Explore the Royal Tower
Why visit?
Listed as a Historic Monument since 1947, the Tour Royale is one of Toulon’s most emblematic monuments!
This impressive fortress, built in the 16th century, fascinated us with its colossal dimensions: a diameter of 60m and walls 7m thick. We discovered that the Royal Tower is an interesting model of the “Torrioni”: Italian gun towers designed for impregnable defense. Once nicknamed the “big tower”, it has evolved with the times to become a vibrant place of culture and summer festivities. Take a stroll through the surrounding park, and you’ll enjoy a lovely view of the Toulon harbor and the Mediterranean.
Practical advice
- Access: the monument is located in the Mourillon district, in the south of the city. Close to Mitre Beach and the Asian Art Museum.
The nearest parking lot is the Parking de la Tour Royale, a 2-minute walk away.
If you take public transport, the nearest stop is the “Polygone” stop on the local transport network. To plan your itinerary, please consult the route maps, timetables and fares here. - Opening hours: 9 am to 6 pm from July 1 to September 30. Guided tours are organized daily at 10:30 am and 3:30 pm.
- Duration: allow between 30min and 1h.
- Price: €2.
- Catering: There are no restaurants nearby.
- Difficulties: although not every corner of the Tour Royale and its surroundings is accessible to all, landscaped pathways allow people with reduced mobility to walk along the moat outside the tower to a belvedere offering a wide-open panorama of the harbor.
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8. Asian Art Museum
Why visit?
The Musée des Arts Asiatiques de Toulon, housed in the charming Villa Jules Verne, is a veritable invitation to cultural escapism. Nestled in an azure setting, the exhibition highlights the heritage of Asian civilizations. The focus is on Buddhism, which has strongly influenced Asian art and culture. The museum’s ambitious temporary program offers new exhibitions. Whether you’re an art lover or simply curious about distant cultures, we recommend a visit to Toulon’s Musée des Arts Asiatiques.
Practical advice
- Access: the museum is located in the Mourillon district, in the south of the city. Close to Mitre Beach and the Royal Tower.
The nearest parking lot is the Parking des Plages du Mourillon, a 10-minute walk away.
If you take public transport, the “Fort Saint-Louis” stop on the city’s transport network is the nearest. To plan your itinerary, please consult the route maps, timetables and fares here. - Opening hours: Tuesday to Saturday, 12 to 6 p.m.
- Duration: allow between 30min and 1h.
- Price: free of charge
- Eating out: there are few restaurants close to the museum.
- Difficulties: the museum is on several floors, but has an elevator.
PLAN YOUR STAY IN Toulon
- What to do in Toulon (coming soon)
- Best hotels to stay in Toulon (coming soon)
- Best restaurants (coming soon)
- Toulon’s most beautiful beaches (coming soon)
Things to do in Toulon: other ideas
Other museums in Toulon
Var Departmental Museum
Located in the Jardin du Las, which has been awarded the “Jardin remarquable” label, this natural history museum, founded in 1888, is dedicated to promoting the department’s natural heritage. You’re sure to be captivated by its diverse collections, comprising over 75,000 objects relating to fauna, flora, geology and prehistory. We particularly liked the museum’s modern museography.
The trail is designed to raise public awareness of local biodiversity and conservation issues. We noticed that the tour was carefully designed for children, with activities and teaching aids to ensure a fun and accessible visit.
Bird Park
This wooded park offers a pleasant walk to discover numerous species of birds. If you wish to visit the museum, we recommend that you do so after your visit to the Muséum départemental. The Parc des Oiseaux is a nice option for families and those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city, even if its offer remains modest. However, the majority of birds are caged, and we’re not really comfortable with this practice.
House of Photography
If you love the art of photography, don’t miss the Maison de la Photographie, nestled in an old building converted in 2002. Only temporary exhibitions are held here. During our visit, we really enjoyed discovering an exhibition dedicated to theater. We were delighted by the warm welcome we received from the staff. A veritable springboard for regional artists, the Maison de la Photographie also exhibits works of international stature, influencing the various currents in the discipline.
Other churches in Toulon
Notre-Dame-Du-Cap-Falcon chapel
Facing the Mediterranean Sea, at the tip of Cap Brun, we fell in love with this small, charming and romantic chapel. Here you can enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. This poetic site, perched high above Toulon since 1975, is a symbol of memory for the Pieds-Noirs. Its peaceful ambience and simple architecture make it an ideal place for contemplation. You’re sure to appreciate its discreet charm and enchanting setting.
Toulon Cathedral
We enjoyed visiting Toulon Cathedral, also known as Notre-Dame-de-la-Seds. Step inside and you’ll discover a peaceful atmosphere where light is suddenly muted. An ambience that contrasts with the hustle and bustle outside and the Mediterranean heat. This charming little cathedral has been at the heart of Provencal spiritual life since the 5th century. Although modest in size, its architecture blends different styles and bears witness to a rich history. Take the time to discover this building, a welcome break from the hustle and bustle of Toulon’s urban life.
Other beaches in Toulon
Discover the superb beaches around Toulon:
- Plage de la Mitre (dedicated article available soon),
- Anse Mejan (dedicated article available soon),
- Plage du Mourrilon (dedicated article available soon),
- Pipady beach,
- Anse Magaud
We strongly recommend that you read our article (available soon) on the city’s best beaches for spending a pleasant moment by the water.
Other gardens and nature sites in Toulon
Cap Brun, to the east of the town, is famous for its rocky cliffs plunging into the Mediterranean Sea. We loved this little rocky peninsula with its breathtaking views over the harbor.
The Chemin du Littoral is a picturesque walk along the Toulon coast. From Saint-Mandrier to Hyères, the route is 47 km long. In Toulon, you can take it near the Tour Royale. During our walk, we enjoyed the breathtaking views of the sea and surrounding countryside.
The Jardin d’Acclimatation is a park where you can stroll among a variety of exotic plants and trees. We loved this garden, which honors biodiversity in an accessible and playful way. It’s an ideal place for a family outing, offering both relaxation and discovery.
Things to do in Toulon when it rains
In the event of rainy weather, we recommend taking refuge in Toulon’s museums, especially the Musée National de la Marine. To extend the experience, enthusiasts can admire the military ships moored in the Port of Toulon, just a stone’s throw from the museum.
It’s also an opportunity to savor local cuisine in a quality restaurant, or to take advantage of the upscale services offered by some of Toulon’s hotels.
Excursions around Toulon
Not sure which Côte d’Azur city to visit? That’s okay, because you can stay in Toulon while discovering the major cities of the French Riviera. Toulon has a major advantage: it’s located between Hyères, La Ciotat, Marseille, Bandol and Saint-Tropez. By public transport, it will take you around 1h to get to Hyères, Marseille or La Ciotat, 25min to Bandol, and 2h to Saint-Tropez. However, we recommend that you opt for a car, which will allow you to explore the region to the full.
Here are the main journey times to give you an idea of the distances involved:
- Driving time to Saint-Tropez: 1h15
- Driving time to Bandol and Hyères: 20min
- Driving time to Marseille: 50min
- Driving time to La Ciotat: 30min
You can also opt for excursions. Here’s our selection to discover the treasures of Provence:
Visitperched villages and Mediterraneanvineyards
Explore the Var on a personalized tour with a private chauffeur-guide, who will tailor your visit to suit your interests. Whether you prefer history, scenery or gastronomy, plan the excursion that’s right for you. Discover the Mediterranean coast, picturesque villages and taste local wines. – see prices, availability and book
Discover the Bandol vineyards
We recommend a wine excursion to an emblematic Bandol appellation estate. Guided by a wine expert, you’ll learn all about the winemaking process and enjoy a tasting of the region’s wines. Wouldn’t you like to learn more about the secrets of this renowned appellation during an immersive and enriching experience? – see prices, availability and book
Discover the magnificent Île des Embiez
We recommend a visit to Ile des Embiez, just a short boat ride from the Toulon peninsula, one of the most beautiful islands on the Côte d’Azur. It’s a true haven of peace. To preserve its natural beauty, travel is limited to foot, bicycle or small train. A 6km trail takes you around the island to discover its picturesque coves, beaches and breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and coastline. To get there, regular shuttles leave from the Port du Brusc in Six-Fours-les-Plages. One day is the ideal time to enjoy this serene setting. Find out more here.
Is Toulon worth a visit?
Yes! In our opinion, this Mediterranean city is well worth a visit. Toulon, a renowned port city, offers a captivating blend of history, culture and natural beauty. The port of Toulon, one of the largest in France, is a spectacle in itself, with its military ships and pleasure boats. History buffs? Enjoy the Royal Tower and the National Maritime Museum. Nature lovers? Enjoy the beaches or explore the beautiful surrounding countryside. We also enjoyed the city’s rich gastronomic scene. We think Toulon is a destination that will charm visitors with its diversity and authenticity.
Useful tips for visiting Toulon
Where is Toulon?
- Toulon is located in southeastern France, in the Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur region.
- Near Bandol and Hyères.
- Driving time to Bandol and Hyères: 20min
- Driving time to La Ciotat: 30min
- Driving time to Marseille: 50min
Here is a map to help you find your way:
How to get to Toulon
To get to Toulon, you can opt for the train. The town is well connected to several major French cities, including Paris (4h), Lyon (2h30), Montpellier (2h30) and Marseille (1h).
See the available schedules and book your train tickets now.
If you’re traveling by car from elsewhere in France, you can reach Toulon via the A8 motorway or the Autoroute du Soleil. For a more economical route, you can also take the national and departmental roads, such as the D554.
We recommend renting a car for your trip to Provence. It gives you greater freedom of movement and travel. Discover all our tips for renting a car on the Côte d’Azur.
If you’re traveling by car from other European countries, we recommend using European freeways, such as the A8 or the Italian A10 (or Autoroute des Fleurs).
Please note that traffic can be heavy, especially during peak and vacation periods. We recommend that you check traffic conditions and plan your route in advance. In addition, make sure you have a motorway sticker in the countries concerned, if necessary, and that you respect the traffic regulations of the countries you will be crossing.
Parking in Toulon
In the port city, on-street parking is charged for most of the time. The city has a number of parking lots, some of which are listed below:
- Q-Park Lafayette
- Q-Park Place d’Armes Le Port
- Q-Park Mayol Centre
- Parking Indigo Toulon Palais Liberté
- Tour Royale parking lot
- Parking de Bon Rencontre
- Parking Barnier
- Parking des Lices
- Parking Victoire
These parking lots offer a variety of options for parking in Toulon, whether for a short or long period.
Getting around Toulon
The easiest way to get around Toulon is by public transport or on foot. Driving around the city, especially in summer, will prove time-consuming.
For an easy way to visit the city, we recommend you take the little tourist train, which will take you effortlessly to the most important places in the city. Find out more and book
Where to eat in Toulon
During our stay in Toulon, we enjoyed a few restaurants. Here are our favorites:
Restaurant Le Pastel: this was definitely the highlight of our stay in Toulon! Located near the port, in the Place D’Armes-Arsenal district. This restaurant stands out for its modern cuisine, enriched by a Mediterranean touch. Here you can enjoy original creations made from fresh local produce, concocted by chef Bruno Chastagnac.
Restaurant L’Équerre: we liked this bistronomic restaurant, located near the Port of Toulon. It features a 19th-century glass roof by Ateliers Eiffel. On the menu, chef Yoann Silve offers an inventive blend of local produce and seafood in a warm, contemporary marine-style setting.
Les Halles de Toulon: this food court, also known as Halles Gourmandes, is a modern, friendly venue in the heart of Toulon. You’ll find 21 independent food shops in the heart of a 1,000m2 space. Here, we loved the concept: you have to wander around the different stands and compose your own meal. Then sit down at one of the tables and enjoy your booty. It’s a unique gastronomic experience!
To find out more, read our article on where to eat in Toulon (coming soon)!
PLAN YOUR TRIP TO THE Côte d’Azur
- Inspiration
The most beautiful landscapes in 30 photos
Best things to do on the Côte d’Azur
Most beautiful villages
Best beaches on the Côte d’Azur
Most beautiful gardens
Best boat tours (coming soon)
Most beautiful islands
Secret places
- Practical advice
Successful travel on the Côte d’Azur (coming soon)
Rent a car in Provence – in Nice – in Cannes – in Marseille – in Aix-en-Provence.
Itineraries: 5 days – 1 week – 10 days
Weekend ideas: best-of – romantic – luxury – unusual
- Where to stay
Where to stay on the Côte d’Azur
Best luxury hotels on the Côte d’Azur
Hotels by the sea
Best boutique-hotels
HE MADE THE TRIP Manu
