The charm of the Carmes district in Toulouse

The Carmes district is located in the historic centre of the pink city, on the right bank of the Garonne. At the beginning of the 13th century, the city's capitouls decided to build a market hall around which the Carmes district would grow. The street names are reminiscent of the medieval trades that brought the district to life: the rue des filetiers, the rue des marchands, the rue des couteliers...

At the heart of this labyrinth of narrow streets, some of which are still busy with shops, is the Place des Carmes. Until the early 19th century, it was occupied entirely by the convent of the Carmelite order, whose members were known as the Carmes.

But it was after the French Revolution that the Carmes district changed completely, with the expulsion of the monks and the destruction of the convent. Today, the site of the former convent is the site of the famous Carmes covered market.

To begin with, a diversion through the narrow streets leading to Notre-Dame de la Dalbade is a must. This southern Gothic church boasts a remarkable coloured tympanum and a tribune organ listed as a Historic Monument. All around, you'll find grocery shops, restaurants and bars. Take a moment to relax in the square, which is often full of life.

To get away from the hustle and bustle of the city, head for the banks of the Garonne on the Quai de Tounis, which runs alongside the Carmes district. Leaving Notre-Dame de la Dalbade, we recommend taking the rue du pont de Tounis to pass in front of Miss Van's impressive fresco, "La Symphonie des Songes". This immense work of street art is emblematic of Toulouse. Enjoy a pleasant stroll in the shade of the plane trees on the quays of Tounis. And don't forget to go to number 112 to discover Claude Nougaro's house!

The Carmes district is also home to a number of private mansions. In particular, you can enter the courtyard of the splendid Hôtel du Vieux Raisin, home to lawyers' offices and a number of flats, to admire the architectural beauty of the premises. There is also the Hôtel Besson, home to the Paul Dupuy museum and its art collection.

Finally, our favourite part of the Carmes district is wandering its streets and discovering the many addresses that will delight all food lovers: delicatessens, restaurants, bars, the choice is vast. This district is a little paradise for food lovers!

To get off to a good start, and since you're in Toulouse, head to Maison Samaran, which offers a wide range of South-West specialities: foie gras, charcuterie and gourmet products are all on display. You can buy products in the grocery shop or sit down and enjoy regional dishes. A must in the neighbourhood!

To do your shopping, you can of course go to the Carmes covered market. There you'll find around fifty stalls of small producers, a feast for the eyes and the taste buds. And we'll let you in on a little secret: the view from the top of the car park is one of the best in the city!

Finally, for a drink to round off the day in style, we recommend Le Filochard. This historic bar has a terrace overlooking the Garonne and regularly hosts events and concerts. It's the place to be if you want to keep up with the festive spirit of Toulouse!