The Best Hotels in Toulouse for Every Traveller

Hôtel de Brienne, which takes its name from the nearby Canal de Brienne, marrys old and new design references. Think exposed terracotta tiles, original chandelier cornicing and a lobby lined with both traditional French portraits and modern sculptures. Walk-in waterfall showers are highlights of the rooms that overlook the hotel’s courtyard. Enjoy a breakfast of fresh and local produce in bed – the violet jam is highly recommended – before heading out to explore attractions like the Basilique Saint-Sernin and Capitole de Toulouse.

Darth Vader wall lamps, lipstick messages on mirrors and picture frames repurposed as headboards – these are a few of the eclectic touches at Mama Shelter. Entertainment is of high importance at this hotel, located in a former cinema in the picturesque district of St Aubin. A 45-seat movie theatre offers free viewings for guests, while you can enjoy a game of foosball and a live DJ set in the guitar-adorned bar, before heading to the parasol-packed rooftop that serves local wine. Finish your day with Saucisse de Toulouse (fresh sausage) in the Mama Restaurant to fully immerse yourself in the city’s culture.

A small boutique hotel in the Saint-Aubin neighbourhood of Toulouse, Hôtel St Claire is ideally located just five minutes from the bustling Place du Capitole. Its rooms are interestingly arranged according to the concepts of feng shui, the Chinese art of harmonising people and their environment. Despite being so central, its rooms are quiet, peaceful and softly decorated. A tranquil gem in the heart of the city.

Though renovated only three years ago, the Père Léon still carries its early 20th-century charm with its tastefully modern and sensitive decor. Originally a wine bar, the location of its brasserie dates back to 1905 when Léon Sentenac, the grandfather of the current owners, founded “Aux caves du Père Léon”. It still contains wine up to 200 years old, the bottles having been protected during the renovations to preserve a century-old coating of dust, making it a brilliant spot for wine-lovers and a site of true cultural heritage.

Right in the heart of Toulouse, with an exceptional view of the river, Hôtel des Beaux Arts is perfectly placed and boasts an excellent restaurant offering authentic, South West French cuisine. With complimentary breakfast included in the room price, you could find yourself enjoying your morning coffee on a balcony overlooking the peaceful Garonne river. Its homely furniture and unusual decor adds to the overall ambiance of luxury, comfort, and originality.

Nestled in a chic and quiet street in the fascinating old town of Toulouse, Hôtel Croix Baragnon is ideally located and offers great quality for great value. For added historical significance, it is right next to the oldest house in Toulouse, which dates back to the 14th century. A central patio adds to its individual charm and the fact that it is family-owned, with only fourteen rooms, makes it feel more like you’re a guest in a family home than a hotel.

A former 17th-century convent, the Grand Hôtel de l’Opéra in Toulouse plunges you into a luxurious, atmospheric, elegant setting. With its warm red decor, unique suites and the possibility of having a balcony overlooking the Place du Capitole, this hotel exudes class, quality, and comfort. Make use of their spa facilities for the ultimate relaxing experience right at the centre of the bustling city.

The historic Hôtel Albert 1er dates back to the 16th century. It is situated in the quiet Rue Rivals, originally home to the workshops of the four most famous rivals in Renaissance art: Michelangelo, Leonardo, Raphael and Titian (the street is named after their famous rivalry). The quaint establishment has been run by the same family for over four generations, and in every room there are hints of the fascinating depth of history the building has witnessed. Yet despite this historic grandeur, its wood-panelled floors and bright rooms make it a comfortable, modern, and unimposing place to stay.

Offering luxurious yet authentic 1930s charm, and superbly placed a stone throw’s away from the central Place du Capitole, Le Grand Balcon combines style and authenticity with a playful touch. In memory of perhaps one of the most famous pilots of the early 20th century, Antoine de Saint-Exupéry (author of Le Petit Prince), the Suite Saint-Exupéry has been reconstructed to resemble his original 1930s hotel room. This fascinating building is as much a site of cultural significance as it is a lovely place to stay.

Away from the city in the idyllic village of Vieille-Toulouse, Hôtel la Flanerie’s breath-taking views and gorgeous façade makes it a fantastic place for those not wishing to stay in the city centre. This converted manor house is adorned with ivy and its position on top of a hill overlooking the iconic Garonne river offers brilliant panoramas from its window. With a roaring fireplace for the winter, and a swimming pool and an abundance of balconies for the summer, this beautiful hotel is perfect all year round.

Situated only a minute’s walk from the buzzing Place Saint-Georges, Hôtel des Arts, true to its name, is a veritable celebration of the arts itself. Each room is individually themed through artwork and decor to display this philosophy, with themes ranging from music to sculpture to photography. This quirky yet stylish hotel is especially perfect for those who have come to Toulouse to bask in its vast range of cultural, musical, and artistic events and exhibitions.

A friendly boutique hotel in Toulouse, Hôtel Héliot is a welcome retreat from the urban hustle and bustle, complete with its own cat (named Héliot). Dating back to the 19th century, this converted mansion with its winding staircase, comfortable rooms and wooden furnishings seems to transport you back to a past world. Ideally located in the centre of Toulouse, it is as practical as it is welcoming.