Top Outdoor Activities in Toulouse

Petit train touristique

Both adults and children enjoy Toulouse's mini-train. The half-hour trip starts at the Place Wilson and takes in all the major sights of the historic centre: the Place du Capitole, the Saint-Sernin basilica, the quays of the Garonne River and the Place Esquirol. Young visitors love this child-sized train whilst adults take advantage of its lazy pace to get an overview of the city.

Patinoire Fraternité

This olympic-sized skating ring is at only a few minutes' drive from center city, in the Argoulets Sportive and Recreational Zone. All ages are welcome under one condition: you must wear at least a size 23 (or bring your own boots if your feet are smaller). It opens on afternoons and even weekend nights, offering a chance to discover skating or improve your skills. You may also join one of the many skating clubs in order to take lessons.

Piscine Alfred-Nakache

On the Ramier island, in the midst of center city, there are actually two twin pools: the Nakache indoor pool, used all winter, and the Parc des Sports uncovered summer pool. This last is probably one of the most pleasant in Toulouse, the 1950s' architecture is quite sweet (there are even fake rocks), and the pool itself is enormous. Several package tickets are offered, among others a subscription for 5 entrances that includes swimming lessons for adults and children.

Circuit Indoor de Toulouse

A ten minutes drive east of Toulouse brings you to this indoor carting track, open to children from 7 years old up. A great chance for everyone to let off steam with minimal risks on 80-100 cm3 go-carts. Crazy races and an intense atmosphere make it an unforgettable experience for ace drivers and speed lovers; polite and pleasant employees make you really feel welcome. The required protection helmets are provided by the carting center.

Laserball

Only a few kilometers from center city, Paintball&Co offers an outside paintball field. Children can start playing this highly strategic game at 12 years old. Two teams are opposed in a war to conquer the central flag; you're armed with a paint-shooting compressed-air gun. A second covered area is available in case of bad weather. The company provides protection helmets and suits, but watch out for your shoes. Alternatively, you could try Laserball, a similar but cleaner and less violent game, from 8 years old up. Admission: Paintball, 120F/hour (EUR 18.29); Laser Quest, 40F/20mn (EUR 6.09)

Ludothèque Croix-Rouge

This is the only Ludothèque (games library) inside center city, but it's only for toddlers. The large 120-square-metre space is open to children up to six years old, under the supervision of their parents. Games offered range from early learning activities to dolls and toys, as well as very simple board games. The friendly atmosphere gives the children a chance to play together while their parents meet each other and chat. Admission: Free.

Art Action

For children and adolescents from 5 to 19 years old, this workshop offers a variety of artistic activities, ranging from traditional drawing and painting techniques to sculpture. Yearlong classes are held here, as well as 5-day workshops during the school holidays. You may even sign up for just an afternoon. All the necessary equipment is provided by the workshop, and included in the price of the courses.

Base sportive et récréative de Sesquières

This sports and recreation park, which surrounds a large lake, offers numerous facilities including football and rugby pitches, tennis courts, a swimming pool and mini-golf. Water-skiing competitions are held here during the summer. For the less athletic, the small wood and the ruins of an ancient castle are a pleasant place to stroll. There is also a large playground for children. There are lots of birds and fish to see, and the park is a popular fishing spot.

Défi Kart

A huge loop of go-kart tracks provides the space for children, adults, and competitors to speed past the finish line as many times as open hours allow. The venue also contains a panoramic bar looking out onto the tracks, hosts competitions, and may be rented for events or workshops. During certain hours, the course is restricted to children or specific vehicles on the tracks. Tickets may be purchased for individual runs or in packages. See website or call for details.

Stadium Municipal

This 35,000 seat stadium is the biggest sporting facility in Toulouse. Opened in 1937 and remodeled for the 1998 World Cup, it has seen some of the greatest soccer teams such as Argentina, England and South Africa play. It is home to Toulouse Football Club (TFC) but still hosts other big soccer games and big rugby tournaments. One of the most famous games of the stadium's history took place in 1986 during the UEFA champions league. The TFC defeated Naples in the last minutes of the game due to a missed goal of Diego Maradonna.