Toulon

Toulon’s bay is surrounded by around 40 fortifications, the oldest dating back to the 16th century. While many are best seen from a distance, you can actually visit two: Fort Balaguier and La Tour Beaumont.

Toulon’s Old Town isn’t the prettiest in Provence, but it’s got character. The narrow streets are a mix of old and rebuilt, with faded shutters, street art, and locals going about their day. The Cours Lafayette market is worth a stop—lots of noise, fresh produce, and the smell of herbs and spices in the air. Grab a chichi frégi (a local sugar-dusted doughnut) and wander past small squares and fountains until you reach the harbour. You’ll also spot the statue of locals playing cards—straight out of a Marcel Pagnol story. It’s a good place to just walk, look around, and get a feel for the real Toulon.

Toulon Cathedral (Cathédrale Sainte-Marie-de-la-Seds) has been a work in progress since the 11th century, with each era leaving its mark. The mix of styles—from medieval to baroque—makes it a bit of an architectural patchwork, but that’s what makes it interesting. Step inside, and you’ll see centuries of history layered together in one place.

Le Tour Royale is a 16th-century fort built to defend Toulon’s port. There’s a walking path around it, so you can take in the history while also enjoying views of the harbour and the nearby beach.

Stade Mayol is Toulon’s home ground, holding up to 15,000 fans. It’s used for different events, but these days, it’s mostly about rugby. Check the schedule—if there’s a match on, it’s worth experiencing the atmosphere.

Toulon’s 19th-century opera house is worth a visit, whether for a concert, an opera, or just to admire the architecture. Check the schedule while you’re in town—you might catch something interesting.

Jardin Alexandre 1er is a small, quiet park in central Toulon—good for a break if you need to sit down for a bit. There’s some greenery, a few fountains, and plenty of shade.

Place Pierre Puget is a small square with a fountain covered in greenery—nice for a quick break. From here, take a walk through the Old Town’s main street down to the harbour. It’s an easy stroll with plenty to see along the way.

Overlooking the marina, this statue represents The Genius of Navigation. First cast in 1801, it was destroyed during World War II but later restored and has stood proudly here ever since. Affectionately nicknamed "Cuverville" after an admiral of the same name, it also lends itself to the playful joke of "bum-facing-the-city" (Cul-vers-Ville).

The Muséum départemental du Var showcases the region’s flora and fauna, with exhibitions that highlight species you may not have encountered before. Since its relocation in 2011 to a larger space, it features a collection of nearly 1,000 bird species and 2,500 plants, primarily from the Var region. Visitors can also explore rooms dedicated to mineralogy, paleontology, and ethnology, displaying fossils, ancient tools, and even a dinosaur skeleton. It’s a fascinating insight into the natural world.

Adjacent to the Natural History Museum, Toulon’s botanical garden features rare and exotic plants alongside fossil displays. Established in the 19th century by local sailors, the garden showcases species from the Orient, Oceania, and America, set alongside the Las river. A serene meadow, dominated by a towering cedar tree, adds to the tranquil atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for a leisurely stroll, particularly in spring and summer.