Top 5 things to do in Toulon

Toulon is a small town in the Var department of Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur, known for its superb beaches. If you’re visiting this little corner of the Mediterranean coast, you’ll love the stunning scenery and tranquil setting. Sometimes it’s good to get away from the big city for a while, away from the hustle and bustle of traffic and other noise pollution. You’re sure to love wandering around the city centre and the harbour, taking a few photos of the boats moored there… So take a break in Toulon. And what better way to do that than with a short list of things to do?

What to do in Toulon

1. Fort Saint-Louis

Category : €€/Cultural

Description: This property belonging to the French Navy is the pride of Toulon and is located on the Corniche Frédéric-Mistral. Where did it come from? It is one of the city’s oldest monuments, dating back to the 17th century. It was built in 1692 under the orders of Vauban, a military engineer and architect. As well as being particularly imposing, it is also because of its strategic position that Fort Saint-Louis is so well known throughout France. Right at the entrance to the harbour, it made it easy to launch an invasion of Toulon and Provence, as well as protecting the town from attacks by Barbary pirates. Despite heavy damage over the centuries and in battle, it was rebuilt. Today, you can visit this cannon tower near the Mourillon beaches with a guide from 12pm to 3pm every day except Saturdays.

It’s a great opportunity to learn more about the city’s history, its battles and its cultural heritage, through this edifice towering over fifty metres in diameter.

2. The Fauverie du Mont Faron

Category : €€/Insolite

Description: Fancy an unusual activity? Head up to Mont-Faron and pay a visit to the big cats that live there (we’re joking, of course). Some of the felines in these enclosures are in danger of extinction. That’s why the town of Toulon has opened this breeding centre, to help keep the species alive. The Fauverie du Mont Faron is not a conventional zoo like the ones you see everywhere. The enclosures, which are large enough to hold a whole family of tigers, are laid out in a safe way, so that we can get a good look at how the animals live in their environment. The animal keepers will be delighted to explain the history of these felines (which is older than you might think), their way of life, their way of hunting, and why it is so important to preserve them and protect them from poaching and other hunting activities often aimed at recovering the fur of wild cats to make coats or other items. After that, you’ll definitely want to join the cause!

Located on the Route du Faron and open on Wednesdays and weekends from 10.30am to 5pm, the Fauverie du Mont Faron will introduce you to some of the biggest predators the world has ever known.

3. Mont Faron

Category : €€/Sporty/Insolite

Description: Fancy a bit of physical activity? After all, Toulon is an excellent place for walking, cycling and family sports activities. Close to nature, you’ll want to live life to the full! One of the most popular activities that all tourists do when they arrive in the city is to climb Mont Faron? This mythical spot, home to the aforementioned Fauverie, culminates in a total of 584 metres of white limestone and is the most beautiful harbour in Europe.

It’s a must-see spot where you can admire the peaceful flora and fauna in an atmosphere of serene calm. For nature lovers, it’s the perfect place for a stroll or a short run (trail lovers, we see you). At the top, you can take a nice siesta lulled by the rustle of the trees and the breeze, and then enjoy a delicious, well-deserved snack before setting off again. It’s an easy activity with no major difficulties, and is much appreciated by families, who see it as an opportunity to get closer together and share a moment together. We recommend you try out the Toulon cable car, for an absolutely stunning view of the city and much more besides!

4. Visit the city and the beaches

Category: €€/Cultural

Description: We know it’s a bit of a cliché, but taking a stroll around Toulon’s charming little hamlets is a fun activity. We recommend you take a stroll around the Mourillon district of Toulon, which looks like a small village. Its colourful facades are reminiscent of the houses in Disney films, and its little squares where you can sample a delicious tequila are sure to delight you! A charming town, take the time to explore every nook and cranny and enjoy a few hours’ shopping. Prices are widely known to be quite affordable in this region, so treat yourself and pick up some souvenirs.

Of course, we can’t talk about Toulon without mentioning the beaches, which are literally to die for – after all, it’s the Côte d’Azur there too. Take a day out and stop off at one of the Mourillon beaches. Spread out your towel and unpack your parasol. Then let yourself be rocked by the foam of the calm, warm waves, while being lightly titillated by the tiny grains of sand clinging to your skin. The key word? We hesitate between tranquillity and serenity, what do you think?

5. The Mémorial du Débarquement en Provence

Category : €€/Cultural

Description: Still on Mont Faron, discover the memorial to the landing and liberation of Provence. This state-owned property echoes the Allied landings on 15 August 1944, which shook the town and led to its liberation.

Situated in Fort Beaumont, and inaugurated almost 20 years after the event by General de Gaulle, the site will take you on a journey through time to put you back in context. What you can see: representations, photographs, some uniforms and objects; some models to help you visualise past events… It’s a whole history brought back to life, through a fresco, or rather a film in the image of the 21st century. In this way, the public can gain a better understanding of the town’s history, its ups and downs, and what it is remembering today. Finally, outside the fort, you can see the plaques of the brave soldiers who perished at the time. You can also see the impressive life-size cannon and a tank. Watch out!