Today I’m going to celebrate an understated hero. A French Mediterranean city with all the thrills of Nice, but without the crowds. It is set within one Europe’s largest natural harbours, has colourful Provençal markets and plenty of sandy beaches. Incidentally, it also happens to have incredible views from one of its nearby mountains. In this blog post, let me persuade you why 48 hours in Toulon is just what you need.
Toulon is often overlooked in favour of its more famous neighbours along the riviera. Don’t get me wrong; the South of France is idyllic and many of the more popular destinations do deserve their reputation. However, Toulon is up-and-coming, stunningly beautiful, and packed full of history and culture.
In this 48 hours in Toulon guide I’m going to walk you through my suggested itinerary. I’ll include everything you need to know to make the most out of a trip here. Without further ado, here is Toulon. Enjoy.
48 Hours in Toulon | Your Ultimate Guide
Planning Your Trip
Getting to Toulon
As a major French city, Toulon is relatively easy to get to. By train (which, in my opinion, is the best way to travel to the South of France) it is a 4 hour journey from Gare de Lyon, Paris. There is a short stop in Marseille, but other than that it is straight forward. You can also access it from other southern hubs, including Nice, Toulouse and Montpellier.
The train station in Toulons is somewhat central, but not near to the beaches in case your hotel is there. Toulon does have excellent bus connections and a bus from the station to the beaches takes around 15 minutes.
Toulon also just so happens to have an airport (Toulon Hyères Airport), and you can get here easily from across Europe. If, like me, you are based in the UK then British Airways also operates a 2 hour flight from London Heathrow.
Top Tip: There are a few different shuttles which run from the airport. I’d recommend the 878 bus (Gare Routiere) which is a non-stop, regular service to the train station. This journey lasts half an hour.
Where to Stay in Toulon
You have a few different options of where to stay in Toulon, though around the beach is undoubtedly the best for that authentic South of France feeling. During our stay in Toulon we were here as part of a South of France Interrail and were planning on a few day trips. To make our lives easier, we stayed near the station. Whilst not the most touristy area, our hotel – Grand Hôtel de la Gare – was a good find and was very comfortable with good value. It served a small buffet at breakfast only, but the rooms were a nice size and the staff were excellent.
Alternatively, you’ll want to stay near the beach. I’d personally recommend Le Mourillon; this is quintessential Riviera-living and feels more village-like than a major city. It incidentally is one of the more expensive areas in the city, but not the most. That award goes to Cap Brun, which is a greener and naturally beautiful part filled with little coves and beaches to explore. I’d personally recommend either of these two if your plan is to flop and relax. What I also love about these two areas is that they feel more authentic and residential. You don’t get that slightly artificial feel you get in other places along the Riviera.
Getting Around Toulon / City Card
You have a few different options when it comes to city cards in Toulon and it depends on what sort of 48 hours you want in the city.
The first is a standard day pass for all public transport. This includes all buses and water taxis along the main lines. This costs €3.90 per person and is activated from the first journey. You can also extend this for 48 hours and 72 hours respectively (same price each day). This is a good option if you’re planning on just relaxing and pottering about.
Alternatively, you can buy the Toulon City Card. As well as providing all public transport in the city, it also includes routes which venture to nearby towns and villages in the Provence Méditerranée metropolitan area. The City Card also includes a range of different attractions and tours in Toulon which you can do in your 48 hours. However, the majority of these are actually outside of the city. You can see the range of places here.
The price of the city card for 48 hours in Toulon costs €49 per person. With this itinerary, you’ll need it for 24 hours on the second day which costs €29. I’d personally buy the transport only card for day 1, and then the City Card for day 2 for the best value. However, the choice is yours.
48 Hours in Toulon: Day 1
Early Morning
Like all good mornings in France, you’re going to begin with a terrific breakfast. We’re going to first head into the City Centre and then into the old town. Boulangerie Feuillette was one of our top finds on the trip and served some delicious pastries. It’s just on the outskirts of the old town; our first stop for the morning. Grab a croissant, find a bench, and sit back.
Top Tip: On your way to the Old Town, stop at Place de Libertè, one of the most recognisable squares in Toulon. In it, you’ll see the Fontaine de la Fédération and the surrounding large buildings. A great contrast to the old town.
The old town is built around a series of small squires and accompanying narrow lanes, along which you’ll find plenty of everyday shops and cafés. What I want to draw your attention to though are the historic buildings. I think that they are truly quite special to see and you do feel somewhat transported back in time. There are also far fewer tourists here too which certainly adds to the atmosphere.
I’d start by heading in and wandering. Some of the best memories come from just navigating the streets and seeing what you can find. Your first stop should be the Bateau Sculpture, a gigantic 10m boat art piece. It resembles a frigate from the 18th Century and celebrates the extensively-rich nautical heritage of the city. It’s certainly worth a picture or two.
Then begin walking your way through the Old Town, in the direction of the Cours Lafayette Market…
Late Morning
Perhaps the best-known market in Toulon, the Cours Lafayette is a historical gem of toulon. If you want a true introduction to Provençal life, this is where to start. You’ll find stalls which stretch onwards which sell a range of vegetables, cheeses, spices and other local produce. It is such a revered place that Toulon-born singer – Gilbert Bécaud – immortalised it in song form.
Top Tip: The best produce in the market gets busy quickly. Don’t leave this part too late; all of the good stuff will be gone!
From the market it is a short walk to Toulon Cathedral; Cathédrale de Notre-Dame-de-la-Seds. The building dates back all the way to the 11th Century, and as such features architecture from a range of different periods. It is an incredibly beautiful spot and, if it is in the summer, a lovely cool place to sit down.
Lunch
After you’ve explored the old town, begin making your way towards the waterfront and spend some time exploring Toulon Harbour. As I’ve said above, Toulon is famed for its nautical heritage. It is no surprise that this is one of the most important naval ports in France and you’ll find it impossible to miss the city’s relationship with the French Navy. In fact, you’ll be able to spot naval vessels from the harbour, as well as other vessels.
I think that this is as ideal a spot as any for lunch. You have some great restaurants here, many of which serve delicious seafood and regional dishes. We enjoyed our time at Restaurant le Saint Gabriel and there is also a very good pizzeria (Gaetano – Pizzeria Port de Toulon). If these two don’t take your fancy, keep exploring. There are plenty of places to choose from.
Early Afternoon
After lunch, stretch your legs exploring the National Maritime Museum (Musée National de la Marine de Toulon). It is located right on the harbour and is very easy to find. Entrance to the museum is €15 for a full price person, although reduced fees are €12. This particular attraction is not included with the City Card.
The museum is particularly good if you’re fascinated by military history or naval architecture, but you don’t need to be a history enthusiast to appreciate it. There are some truly impressive models, objects and displays which can be enjoyed by all. In fact, the museum explores over 400 years of Toulon’s maritime history.
I’d suggest an hour or two for your visit depending on how quick you move about the museum. The opening hours are 10:00 to 18:00 each day, except for Tuesday where it is closed.
Late Afternoon
For the second half of your afternoon, catch the bus to Le Mourillon, the seaside neighbourhood I mentioned earlier. As I said, it is probably one of the best places in Toulon to enjoy the Mediterranean.
You’ll want to head down to the peninsula and begin walking the walking trail called Sentier du littoral La Mitre Toulon. Now, don’t worry – I haven’t sent you on a hike. Instead, this accesses many of the hidden breaches. It also just so happens to be a really beautiful walk on a sunny afternoon. It particularly comes into its own at golden hour.
If you are in the mood for more exploring, make sure that you check out the Tour Royale and the accompanying Plage Pipady.
Evening
Honestly, my favourite thing to do is to take a picnic with me to the beach on a sunny evening. Provence really calls for this; you get a fantastic selection of cheeses, cold cuts and olives, not to mention the wine.
Alternatively, head back to the area by Fort Saint Louis and find a restaurant by the seafront before retreating back to the hotel.
48 Hours in Toulon: Day 2
Early Morning
Today we’re going to be starting the day with one of the best things to do in Toulon; taking the Téléphérique du Faron (otherwise known as the cablecar) up Mont Faron. At 584 metres above sea level, you’ll see Mont Faron tower over Toulon. Incidentally, it also has some of the best views across the Mediterranean and Toulon.
The cable car is found by the station and is open from 10:00am each day, though the times throughout the year vary. Check out the Mont Faron website which updates itself throughout the year for more information. Prices also vary depending on various conditions, but an adult costs €18:00. However, this is included in your City Card.
Late Morning
The cablecar up takes 6 minutes and is an incredibly scenic experience. You’ll begin getting those views over Toulon and the Mediterranean, but will soon be rewarded with the best one at the summit.
It isn’t just the view up here which is worth the effort and money. The summit has various viewpoints all over it, as well as walking trails to really soak up the atmosphere. One must-see spot is the Mémorial du Débarquement de Provence, which commemorates the Allied landings on D-Day and the liberation of Provence during the Second World War. Spend your morning strolling around and exploring. You can easily spend hours up here.
Top Tip: In 2026, Mont Faron was identified as a high wildfire risk (and restricted because of it). If you’re travelling in the summer ensure that you check ahead to monitor the situation.
Lunch and Early Afternoon
Take the cablecar back down to the city for lunch and then catch the bus down to the old town. This afternoon we’re going on a mini-cruise and you’ll be able to see more of the incredible coastline, as well as closer to the navy vessels.
However, you will need to time this well after you book your tour of toulon harbour. Whilst you wait, spend the time eating lunch by the harbour or exploring more of the old town shops and cafés. I always think that, whilst Toulon isn’t as polished as some other parts of the Riviera, it is very much part of its charm.
Late Afternoon
Make your way to board the boat in the harbour. As I wrote above, we’ll be going on a tour of Toulon’s harbour, one of the most beautiful in Europe. I’ve written this from the idea that you’ll be going with the one linked above. This is because it is included in the City Card, or costs €12 per person. It runs at 4 points every day and these can be found on the booking page.
The tour covers all of le Rade de Toulon, as well as the river Seyne-sur-Mur which snakes its way through the nearby valleys and passes some impressive villas. You’ll also get up close to some of the French navy’s ships and various historical forts.
Personally, I think that this is easily one of the best things to do in Toulon and is a perfect way to round up you 48 hours in Toulon. Next stop – dinner.
Evening
For your final evening, head back towards the waterfront. Either choose to have a meal in Toulon’s harbour, or head back to the beaches where you were yesterday. The evening is yours to enjoy tasty food, a cold drink, and to watch the boats coming and going.
FAQs
What Should I Eat in Toulon?
One of the pleasures of spending 48 hours in Toulon is having time to enjoy the local food. Personally, when I’m by the Mediterranean it calls for seafood and fresh fish. When I’m in France, you just can’t beat the local cheeses, olives and wine (especially Provençal rosé), something which Provence is famous for. There are some excellent restaurants in the city and we even found a few bistros when we stayed. However, sometimes nothing can beat a picnic with local food.
Is Getting Around Toulon Easy?
Toulon is very easy to get around. Whilst maybe not as well-catered for as hubs like Nice, we had no issues getting around by bus. Plus, compared to other places, the day tickets are relatively good value for money. I’d also add that the majority of your time is spent in the old town and the harbour, which is small and compact, making it easy to walk.
When is the Best Time to Visit Toulon?
If you’ve read my other blog posts on Provence and the Côte d’Azure, I always come to the same conclusion. Summer is the most obvious choice, but in 2026 and 2025 it was just too hot. Yes, I love the sounds of cicadas, the smell of herbs and the water temperature, but for exploring it isn’t comfortable.
The spring though, especially late spring such as May, is ideal. The weather is warm and you can experience Provence the way it should be experienced. The only downside is that there is a chance that the weather may not be as warm as you like.
Can You Spend More Than 48 Hours in Toulon?
Absolutely.
Two days in Toulon is enough time to see the main attractions, but extending this means that you can enjoy more of this magical coastline. You also can then extend your range and head to either Porquerolles or Hyères, both places which have excellent attractions to visit, some of which are included in your City Card.
Final Thoughts | 48 Hours in Toulon
48 hours in Toulon is a perfect introduction to this underrated city. In this time you’ll be able to learn more about its rich history, sample the food, admire the views and relax by the coast. There is such diversity here that 48 hours just scratches the surface of all there is to see and do here.
Nice and Cannes may have the old-school glamour. In fact, sometimes 72 hours in Nice is exactly what you need. However, if you want an up-and-coming place with all the beauty of the Riviera without the crowds or excessive prices, consider Toulon. You won’t regret it.
