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.

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.

Beamish Museum, a pioneer of living museums, invites visitors to touch objects, embodying the practice of interactive exhibits. It showcases everyday life in North East England during the peak of industrialisation in the early 1900s. Explore a recreated town with shops, houses, a pub, offices, and a sweets factory, all brought to life by costumed staff and set amidst countryside influenced by the industrial revolution from 1825.

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.