Toulon: 12 Magnificent Things to Do in The Coastal City

Toulon is located southeast of France on the Mediterranean Sea. It is considered the main naval base of France and contains large yards for building ships. King Henry IV founded Toulon’s naval arsenal, but before that, it was a naval signal station on its shore in the Roman era.

In 1815, the city became more important, and its port was the starting point of the French military campaigns in the 19th century. In the 20th century, Toulon became France’s most potent naval port, a centre for Allied naval forces in the Mediterranean during World War I. The city is also the home of the famous French aircraft carrier Charles de Gaulle and its battle group.

Toulon is one of the most important historical and tourist cities in France. It is visited by many tourists worldwide and is the fourth-largest city after Marseille, Nice, and Montpellier.

Weather in Toulon

The weather in Toulon is warm and rainy in winter and relatively little rain in the summer. July is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 23 degrees, and January is the coldest month, with an average temperature of 8 degrees. If you want to visit the city, avoid these two months.

Things to do in Toulon

Toulon is one of the most beautiful coastal cities in France on the Mediterranean Sea. You will love spending time there with its magnificent historical buildings, museum, and port. So now, let us start our tour of Toulon to learn more about it and the things you can do there during your visit.

1. Port of Toulon

The Port of Toulon is considered one of the most important harbours in the Mediterranean Sea and a major centre for the French navy since the 15th century. In this port, all its visitors are keen to take a tour, and all you have to do is go to the port and ride the ferry that will take you on a trip through the old military port and visit the landmarks surrounding the port.

The most important places there are Vauban’s military fortifications, dating back to the 17th century and still used by the French army today, and the historic Arsenal Gate, which dates back to 1738.

2. Freedom Square

Freedom Square is the main square in Toulon City and the centre of transport. One of the most important landmarks in the square is the Grand Hotel, located on the square’s northern side. Built in 1870, it was the headquarters of the occupation army during World War ll.

Among the square’s landmarks is the marble fountain, dating back to 1890, that adorns the middle of the square. You can take souvenir photos of it. You can also walk on foot and enjoy a cup of French coffee in one of the cafes in this square.

3. Mount Faron

Mount Faron is one of the most important destinations in Toulon. It is 548 meters high, and you can reach it by foot, car, or cable car. If you want to walk, it will take you about 40 minutes from Freedom Square to Lices Park. You will encounter steep footpaths until you reach the top.

If you are going by car, take the Corniche of Mont Faron Road. While driving, you will see a gorgeous view of the sea and the sunset. The cable car is the best transportation to Mount Faron. While riding, you will see a spectacular view of the Bay of Toulon. You can also enjoy the picnic area, restaurants, and footpaths for walking or hiking.

4. Toulon Opera House

Toulon Opera House was built in 1862. It was designed by the architect Charles Garnier, who also designed the opera house in Paris. Many artists participated in decorating the opera house. The southern façade is decorated with statues of tragedy and comedy, sculpted by Joseph Daumas, and the northern façade describes the Muses by Montagne.

The interior design of the opera house is mixed with lavish red and gold Napoleon III style. You will see some beautiful paintings, chandeliers, and bronzed lounge seating when you enter. In the hall, you will see some paintings of music and dance. You can also attend a lovely event or music festival in the theatre, decorated in a Baroque style.

5. Cathedral of Saint Marie de la Seds

The Saint Marie de la Seds Cathedral was built in the 11th century. The original church was boosted in the 17th century by adding a classical façade with Baroque details. The bell tower, built in the 18th century, contains a unique bell and ringing contraption crafted from wrought iron. The interior design is mixed with a sense of Gothic style.

6. Allied Landings Museum

The Allied Landings Museum is located on the top of Mount Faron; it contains many collections of artefacts, weapons, uniforms, documentation, and many other things related to the Allied Forces from August 1944. At the top, you will find a telescope that gives you a beautiful view of the city and the port.

7. The Old Town

The Old Town is one of the perfect places to visit; you will love walking in its narrow cobblestone streets and enjoying its beautiful fountains. One of the famous things there is the Caryatides sculptures at the entrance of the Hotel de Ville, which Pierre Puget designed.

On the west side of the Old Town, you will see the Fountain of Three Dolphins. You will also see the old fishing village, known for its narrow lanes and fishermen’s houses painted in beautiful colours. There are also many boutiques, restaurants, and lovely sandy beaches with many activities, making it a perfect place for families and friends.

8. Naval Museum

The Naval Museum is located in the harbour of Toulon. It shows the history of Toulon’s military port and contains many collections of paintings and drawings. There, you can learn more about the development of artillery.

When you enter the Naval Museum, you will see antique model ships and old maps. One of the prized properties is Le Louis XV, a model of an 18th-century ship that was created to house the French Royal Navy.

9. Porquerolles Island

Porquerolles Island is the largest in a group of islands called the Golden Island in the Mediterranean Sea; it is about an hour with a ferry from the port of Toulon and is a perfect place for relaxing.

When you visit the island, you will see protected coves and tiny beaches; the weather is beautiful all year. Porquerolles Island is also the perfect place to do many activities, such as snorkelling and hiking. It is also an excellent place for nature lovers, and you will love walking and discovering the island and all the beauty surrounding you.

10. Art Museum

The Art Museum in Toulon has many beautiful paintings from the 15th century until now. One of the most famous painters then was the maritime painter Vincent Courdouan, whose works showed many things about Toulon’s harbour in the 19th century.

11. Mourillon beaches

The Mourillon Beaches are just located east of the harbour. Four neighbouring sandy beaches are horseshoe-shaped bays. There, you will find many cafes and restaurants where you can have a good time.

If you visit the Mourillon beaches in summer, you will see fireworks displays from Fort Saint Louis. In August, the French Air Force Team holds aerobatic shows there.

12. Classical Musical Festival

The Classical Music Festival is a gorgeous music festival that takes place in many different places in Toulon. It runs most of the year, starting in August, passing through winter, and ending in June.

The festival occurs in many historical buildings, such as the Toulon Opera House, the Cathedral of Saint Marie de la Seds, the Verdure Theater of Faron, and many others. The Classical Musical Festival started in 1951 and offers beautiful performances, from Beethoven operas to Mozart orchestra concerts.

Conclusion

Toulon is a city that offers something for everyone. From its rich naval history and cultural attractions to its stunning beaches and outdoor activities, there is no shortage of things to see and do. Whether exploring the Old Town, hiking up Mont Faron, or relaxing on the beaches of Mourillon, Toulon will captivate you with its Mediterranean charm and vibrant Provençal culture.

With its perfect blend of history, nature, and modern amenities, Toulon is a coastal city that should be on every traveller’s list.