Best Things to Do in Toulon, France
Set between the Mediterranean Sea and the mountains of Provence, Toulon combines maritime history, traditional Provençal life and beautiful coastal scenery. Although the city is famous for being home to France’s principal naval base, there is much more to discover. From bustling markets and historic streets to sandy beaches and panoramic mountain views, here are some of the best things to do in Toulon.
Explore Toulon’s Old Town
Start your visit in Toulon’s historic center, where narrow pedestrian streets open onto lively squares lined with cafés and restaurants. As you wander, look for colorful façades, traditional fountains and architectural details that reveal the city’s Provençal character.
Place de la Liberté is one of Toulon’s most recognizable squares, while the area around Toulon Cathedral offers a quieter glimpse into the city’s past. Exploring on foot is one of the easiest ways to experience everyday life and discover corners you might otherwise miss.
Visit the Cours Lafayette Market
For a taste of Provence, head to the famous Cours Lafayette market. This lively open-air market is filled with stalls selling seasonal fruit and vegetables, olives, cheeses, flowers, herbs and other regional products.
Beyond shopping, the market is a great place to experience the sounds, colors and aromas of southern France. Visit in the morning, when the streets are at their liveliest, and take time to sample local specialties or stop at a nearby café.
Discover Toulon’s Maritime Heritage
The sea has shaped Toulon for centuries, and the city’s naval heritage remains central to its identity. A stroll along the harbor provides views of naval vessels, ferries, fishing boats and pleasure craft.
History enthusiasts can visit the Musée National de la Marine, which explores Toulon’s maritime and naval past through ship models, paintings, maps and other exhibits. A harbor cruise can offer another perspective, providing views of the coastline, military installations and fortifications from the water
Head Up Mont Faron
One of Toulon’s essential experiences is a trip to Mont Faron, the mountain rising dramatically behind the city. At around 584 meters above sea level, its viewpoints provide spectacular panoramas across Toulon, the harbor and the Mediterranean.
The journey itself is part of the attraction. When operating, Toulon’s cable car provides a memorable route toward the summit. Mont Faron is also a good destination for travelers interested in walking, nature and photography.
Relax at the Mourillon Beaches
When you want a break from sightseeing, make your way to the Mourillon district. Its beaches are among Toulon’s most popular places for swimming and relaxing beside the Mediterranean.
The waterfront has several beaches as well as green spaces, restaurants and cafés, making it easy to spend a few hours here. Mourillon also shows visitors another side of Toulon—more relaxed and residential than the busy city center and naval harbor.
Experience Toulon’s Food Scene
Exploring Toulon is also an opportunity to discover the flavors of Provence and the Mediterranean. Look for seafood, locally grown vegetables, olives and Provençal dishes on restaurant menus.
One local specialty worth trying is cade, a thin savory pancake made from chickpea flour and traditionally eaten hot. Markets, bakeries and neighborhood restaurants can often provide a more local experience than simply sticking to the busiest waterfront establishments.
Take a Walk Along the Waterfront
Toulon’s harbor is an enjoyable place for a leisurely stroll. Cafés and restaurants line parts of the waterfront, while boats constantly move in and out of the port.
The harbor is particularly interesting because it brings together several sides of Toulon: its military importance, commercial activity and Mediterranean lifestyle. Sitting at a café and watching the activity on the water can be just as rewarding as visiting another monument.
Visit the Stade Mayol
For sports fans, a visit to the Stade Mayol is one of the most characteristic things to do in Toulon. Located right in the city center, just a short walk from the harbor, the stadium is the home of Rugby Club Toulonnais (RC Toulon), one of the best-known clubs in French rugby.
Rugby has a passionate following in Toulon, and match days bring a special atmosphere to the streets surrounding the stadium. Red-and-black shirts fill the cafés and terraces as supporters gather before heading to the stands. If your visit coincides with a home fixture, attending a match is an excellent way to experience local culture rather than simply see another tourist attraction.
