Don’t Miss These 16 Incredible Things to Do in Toulon!

Last Updated on February 27, 2025 by April Nicole

Is Toulon one of France’s most underrated coastal gems? If you’ve only passed through on your way to Corsica or Nice, you’re missing out on a destination packed with stunning Mediterranean views, rich naval history, and a laid-back Provençal charm. Whether you’re into history, nature, or food, there are plenty of things to do in Toulon that make it worth a visit.

As someone who has explored Toulon extensively, I can confidently say that Toulon deserves more attention—whether you’re here for the beaches, the local cuisine, or the fascinating maritime heritage. This guide will help you uncover the city’s hidden gems, scenic spots, and must-try experiences so you can make the most of your visit.

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If you are in a hurry, here’s a summary of things to do in Toulon:

Is Toulon Worth Visiting? Absolutely!

If you’re looking for a stunning Mediterranean destination with a mix of history, beautiful beaches, and outdoor adventures, Toulon, France, should be on your radar. Often overshadowed by its glitzy neighbors like Nice and Marseille, Toulon offers a more relaxed, authentic experience. Whether you’re spending one day in Toulon or planning a longer stay, this guide covers the best things to do in Toulon to help you make the most of your trip.

1. Head to the Top of Mont Faron

If you’re wondering what to do in Toulon for a day, a ride on the Mont Faron cable car is a must! This scenic journey takes you to the top of Mont Faron, offering panoramic views of Toulon and the Mediterranean Sea.

While riding the cable car to Mont Faron, I struck up a conversation with a local hiker who revealed a hidden gem—an off-the-beaten-path picnic area near the summit. Just a short walk from the main viewpoint, this quiet spot offers breathtaking, crowd-free views of the harbor. He even recommended stopping at a local bakery before heading up to grab a fresh baguette and cheese for the perfect scenic lunch!

👉 Recommendations:

• Picnic Tip: Stop by Boulangerie Marie Blachère near the port to grab a sandwich and pastries before heading up.
• Local Secret: After visiting the Musée du Débarquement, take a detour along the Sentier Forestier trail for a less crowded panoramic view.

Local Insider Tip: If you want to avoid the crowds, take the cable car early in the morning or close to sunset—the golden hour light makes for stunning photos!

2. Visit Musée Mémorial du Débarquement

For history enthusiasts, the Musée Mémorial du Débarquement is an essential stop in Toulon. Located on Mont Faron, this museum provides a deep dive into the Allied landings in Provence during World War II and the subsequent liberation of Southern France. As you step inside, you’ll be transported back in time through detailed exhibits, personal accounts, and military artifacts that narrate the significant events that unfolded on these very shores.

👉 Recommendations:

• Historical Exhibits: The museum features a vast collection of artifacts, photographs, and military equipment that tell the story of the 1944 landings and the liberation of Southern France.
• Panoramic Views: The museum’s location on Mont Faron offers breathtaking views over Toulon and the coastline, providing a fitting backdrop to its historical significance.

3. Explore the Old Town (Vieille Ville)

Wandering through the Old Town of Toulon in France feels like stepping back in time. The cobbled streets are lined with colorful buildings, charming cafes, and lively markets. Each corner reveals a piece of Toulon’s rich history and local charm, making it a fantastic place to explore on foot.

As I walked through Toulon’s Old Town, I stumbled upon a tiny bookstore tucked away on a side street near Place Puget. Inside, an elderly bookseller recommended a book on Provençal history and even shared a few stories about growing up in Toulon. If you’re a book lover, take some time to explore these hidden gems.

👉 Recommendations:

• Stop by Place Puget, a picturesque square featuring a unique moss-covered fountain, a perfect spot to take a break and enjoy the ambiance of the old town.
• Visit the Cours Lafayette Market, one of the liveliest places in Toulon. This traditional Provençal market is open every morning (except Mondays) and is a great place to sample local cheeses, olives, fresh fruits, and baked goods.
• Admire the beautiful Toulon Cathedral, also known as Cathédrale Sainte-Marie-de-la-Seds. Dating back to the 11th century, this historic church showcases a blend of architectural styles due to centuries of modifications.

Local Insider Tip: Most tourists visit the Cours Lafayette Market in the morning, but if you go later (around noon), vendors start offering discounts on fresh produce. It’s a great way to snag local fruits, cheeses, and olives for a picnic!

4. Visit the Toulon Naval Museum

Given Toulon’s significance as a naval port, the Musée National de la Marine is a fascinating stop that provides deep insights into the city’s maritime heritage and France’s naval history.

I expected the Naval Museum to be full of old ship models, but what fascinated me most was the exhibit on the French Resistance. Toulon’s role in WWII was intense, and seeing original maps and wartime artifacts gave me a whole new appreciation for the city’s history.

👉 Recommendations:

• Interactive Displays: The museum offers engaging, interactive exhibits that bring maritime history to life, including ship simulations and audiovisual presentations.
• Naval Engineering and Innovation: Discover how Toulon contributed to naval engineering, from the construction of wooden sailing ships to modern warships.

Local Insider Tip: Check the museum’s schedule for guided tours—they’re often led by former navy officers who share fascinating behind-the-scenes stories you won’t find in the exhibits.

5. Enjoy a Show at the Toulon Opera House

The Opéra de Toulon is one of the most beautiful opera houses in France, boasting a stunning 19th-century architectural design with elaborate frescoes, gilded details, and an opulent red-and-gold auditorium.

Even if you don’t plan on attending a show, stop by the opera house at night. The building is beautifully illuminated, and the nearby square has street musicians and a romantic atmosphere.

👉 Recommendations:

• Attend a Performance: The opera house hosts a variety of performances, including operas, ballets, and symphony concerts. Check the schedule in advance to book tickets for a world-class show.
• Guided Tours: If you’re interested in learning about the rich history and design of the venue, guided tours are sometimes available, offering insights into its construction and cultural significance.

Local Insider Tip: For budget travelers, Toulon Opera sometimes offers discounted last-minute tickets or student discounts—check at the box office!

6. Stroll Around Toulon’s Harbor

Toulon’s harbor is one of the most scenic in the region, offering a vibrant mix of maritime history, stunning waterfront views, and a lively atmosphere. It’s the perfect place to enjoy a leisurely walk along the promenade, lined with palm trees and charming cafés where you can sip a coffee while watching boats glide across the azure waters.

One of my favorite moments in Toulon was sipping a pastis at a small café along the harbor while watching local fishermen mend their nets. It was a simple but authentic slice of local life.

👉 Recommendations:

• Waterfront Dining: Choose from a variety of seafood restaurants and bistros offering fresh Mediterranean cuisine. Dining with a view of the harbor at sunset is an unforgettable experience.
• Boat Tours & Excursions: Take a guided boat tour to explore Toulon’s impressive naval base, home to one of France’s most important military ports. You can also opt for a scenic cruise along the coastline, providing breathtaking views of the city and surrounding hills.

• Local Insider Tip: If you love photography, visit the harbor at sunrise—there are fewer people, and the golden light reflecting on the water is magical!

9. Take a Ferry to the Îles d’Hyères

Looking for what to do in Toulon for a day? Hop on a ferry to the Îles d’Hyères, a group of stunning islands just off the coast. These islands are perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, beach lovers, and those seeking a peaceful escape from the city.

Renting a bike on Porquerolles was the best decision! I cycled past vineyards and lavender fields before reaching the secluded Plage Notre-Dame, where the water was so clear I could see fish swimming around my feet.

👉 Recommendations:

• Porquerolles Island is known for its crystal-clear waters, pristine sandy beaches, and scenic bike trails. Rent a bicycle to explore its picturesque vineyards and olive groves or relax on Plage Notre-Dame, one of the most beautiful beaches in France.
• Île de Port-Cros, a protected national park, is perfect for snorkeling and hiking. The island is home to diverse marine life, making it a paradise for underwater exploration. Its well-marked trails lead visitors through dense forests and up to breathtaking viewpoints.
• Île du Levant offers a unique experience with its mix of lush nature and a well-known naturist village. While part of the island is a military zone, visitors can explore the preserved coastal paths and enjoy a tranquil atmosphere.

Local Insider Tip: Ferries get packed in summer—book your tickets in advance and go early in the morning to secure a good spot on the boat.

10. Relax on Toulon’s Best Beaches

No trip to Toulon is complete without enjoying its stunning coastline. I wandered onto Mourillon Beach expecting just another touristy stretch of sand, but a local recommended walking further to the smaller, quieter coves just beyond the main beach. Here, families gather for evening pétanque matches while elderly locals swap stories over pastis (an anise-flavored aperitif). I even got invited to join a game—and, unsurprisingly, I lost terribly!

👉 Recommendations:

• Plages du Mourillon – A family-friendly beach with golden sand, crystal-clear waters, and a lively promenade. The area is packed with restaurants and bars, making it a perfect spot to spend an entire afternoon. You can rent sun loungers, go paddleboarding, or simply relax under the sun.
• Anse Méjean – A small, secluded cove that offers a more intimate and tranquil experience. Located between rocky cliffs, this hidden gem is ideal for those looking to escape the crowds. The turquoise waters are perfect for snorkeling, and the surrounding nature provides a peaceful retreat.
• Plage de la Mitre – A quieter beach loved by locals, this area is great for those who prefer a less touristy and more authentic beach experience. With a mix of sandy and rocky sections, Plage de la Mitre is great for both sunbathing and exploring the tidal pools.

Local Insider Tip: At La Batterie Basse, there are natural rock pools perfect for a refreshing dip! Bring water shoes for extra comfort on the rocky sections.

11. Hike the Sentier des Douaniers Coastal Trail

For nature lovers, the Sentier des Douaniers offers spectacular coastal views and a chance to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Toulon’s coastline. This scenic trail follows the rugged coastline, providing plenty of photo opportunities of dramatic cliffs, hidden coves, and the sparkling Mediterranean Sea.

👉 Recommendations:

• Trail Difficulty & Length: The hike is relatively easy to moderate, making it accessible for most visitors. Depending on the route you take, the trail can range from a short scenic walk to a longer adventure spanning several kilometers.
• Wildlife & Flora: Along the trail, you’ll encounter diverse Mediterranean vegetation, including fragrant pine trees and wild herbs, as well as occasional sightings of seabirds and marine life.
• Best Time to Visit: The trail is best enjoyed during the cooler months of spring and autumn to avoid the summer heat. Early mornings or late afternoons offer the most pleasant hiking conditions and stunning golden-hour lighting for photography.

Local Insider Tip: Bring a refillable water bottle—there are very few places to get water along the trail, and the Mediterranean sun can be intense!

12. Visit Fort Saint-Louis

Built in the 17th century, Fort Saint-Louis is a well-preserved military fortress that played a crucial role in Toulon’s defense system. The fort offers stunning panoramic views over the harbor and the Mediterranean Sea, making it a favorite spot for photography enthusiasts and history buffs alike.

From the top of Fort Saint-Louis, I could see all the way to Saint-Mandrier-sur-Mer. The best part? It wasn’t crowded, so I had the view almost all to myself.

👉 Recommendations:

• Architectural Features: The fort boasts impressive stone walls, battlements, and watchtowers, which give visitors a glimpse into 17th-century military engineering.
• Guided Tours & Exhibits: Occasionally, guided tours are available that provide insights into the fort’s strategic importance, construction, and life within its walls during wartime.

Local Insider Tip: Ask the staff about the fort’s secret escape tunnel—some say it was used by soldiers during wartime!

13. Discover Saint-Mandrier-sur-Mer

A short boat ride from Toulon, Saint-Mandrier-sur-Mer is a charming fishing village that offers a relaxing escape from the city. This picturesque peninsula boasts serene beaches, a beautiful marina, and a laid-back coastal ambiance that feels worlds away from the hustle and bustle of Toulon.

👉 Recommendations:

• Beaches: The village is home to several tranquil beaches, such as Plage de la Coudoulière and Plage de Sainte-Asile, where visitors can swim in crystal-clear waters or sunbathe on soft sandy shores.
• Fresh Seafood: Being a historic fishing village, Saint-Mandrier-sur-Mer is an excellent place to enjoy freshly caught seafood at waterfront restaurants, with specialties such as grilled sea bass, bouillabaisse, and mussels in white wine sauce.
• Outdoor Activities: The area is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, offering scenic coastal hiking trails, opportunities for kayaking and sailing, and excellent diving spots to explore marine life.

15. Watch a RC Toulon Rugby Match

Sports fans won’t want to miss a rugby match at Stade Mayol, home to the legendary RC Toulon team. The stadium, located in the heart of the city, offers an intimate setting where fans are close to the action, creating an electrifying atmosphere.

👉 Recommendations:

• Game Day Tip: Arrive early to grab a pre-match drink at Le France bar, where fans gather to discuss the game.
• Bucket List Experience: Even if you’re not a rugby fan, the Pilou-Pilou chant is a must-see moment!

Local Insider Tip: For an even better experience, grab a pre-game drink at one of the fan-favorite bars near the stadium, like ‘Le Corsaire’—locals will happily explain the rules of the game!

16. Experience Toulon’s Food Scene

Foodies will love the local cuisine in Toulon, which is deeply influenced by Mediterranean and Provençal flavors. The city’s seaside location means that fresh seafood is a highlight, but there are plenty of other culinary delights to discover.

👉 Recommendations:

• Bouillabaisse, a traditional Provençal fish stew made with a mix of local fish, shellfish, and aromatic herbs, often served with rouille sauce and crusty bread.
• Local rosé wines from nearby vineyards in Provence, known for their light, crisp, and refreshing taste, perfect for warm Mediterranean days.
• Fresh seafood dishes at harborfront restaurants, including grilled sea bass, mussels in white wine sauce, and calamari prepared in a variety of ways.
• Socca, a thin, crispy chickpea pancake, often enjoyed as a street food snack or appetizer.

Local Insider Tip: Many restaurants serve a ‘plat du jour’ (dish of the day) at lunchtime—these are often the best deals and the freshest meals!

How to Get to Toulon, France

✈️ By Air – Best for International Travelers

• Toulon-Hyères Airport (TLN) (25 min from city, limited flights) – 🔗 Book flights
• Marseille Airport (MRS) (1 hr train/drive, better international options) – ✈️ Find flights

🚆 By Train – Fastest & Most Comfortable

• Paris → Toulon: ~4 hrs (TGV INOUI, €50–€100) – 🎟️ Book TGV
• Marseille → Toulon: ~1 hr (TER, €15–€30) – 🚄 Get tickets
• Nice → Toulon: ~2 hrs (TER, €20–€40) – 🛤️ Check schedules
  📍 Arrives at Gare de Toulon (10-min walk to Old Town).

🚌 By Bus – Cheapest Option

• FlixBus & BlaBlaCar Bus – 🚌 Find deals
• Marseille → Toulon: ~1.5 hrs, €5–€15.

🚗 By Car – Best for Road Trips

• 🚗 Marseille → Toulon: 1 hr | Nice → Toulon: 1.5 hrs – 🚘 Compare rentals
• Parking: Liberté (center) & Mayol (harbor).

🗓️ 1 Day in Toulon Itinerary: The Perfect Day Trip Guide

If you only have one day in Toulon, here’s an optimized itinerary to help you experience the best of the city in just 24 hours:

🌅 Morning (8:00 AM – 12:00 PM) – History & Culture

☕ 8:00 AM – Breakfast at a Café in the Old Town

• Start your day at a local boulangerie with a fresh croissant and café au lait.
• Try La Tarte Tropézienne, a famous local pastry, at a bakery in Vieille Ville (Old Town).

🚶‍♂️ 9:00 AM – Explore the Old Town (Vieille Ville)

• Wander the charming streets lined with colorful facades and local markets.
• Stop at Cours Lafayette Market to see (and taste!) fresh Provençal specialties.
• Visit Toulon Cathedral to admire its stunning architecture.

🚠 10:30 AM – Ride the Mont Faron Cable Car

• Take the Téléphérique du Faron for panoramic views of the Mediterranean.
• Visit the WWII Memorial at the summit and hike short trails for even better viewpoints.

🍽️ Afternoon (12:00 PM – 4:00 PM) – Scenic Views & Relaxation

🍷 12:00 PM – Lunch at Toulon’s Harborfront

• Head to the Toulon Harbor for a relaxing seafood lunch.
• Recommended Spot: L’Envie du Sud for fresh fish and rosé wine with harbor views.

⛵ 1:30 PM – Stroll Along Toulon’s Harbor & Naval History

• Take a leisurely walk along the port, where colorful boats bob in the water.
• Stop by the Toulon Naval Museum to learn about the city’s maritime past.
• Option: Take a 30-minute harbor cruise to see France’s most important naval base.

🏖️ 3:00 PM – Relax at Plages du Mourillon

• Spend some time on the soft sands of Plages du Mourillon.
• Activities: Sunbathe, take a dip in the Mediterranean, or enjoy a seaside cocktail at a beachside café.

🌆 Evening (4:00 PM – 8:00 PM) – Sunset & Entertainment

🏰 4:30 PM – Visit Fort Saint-Louis

• Walk along the coast to this historic seaside fort for scenic views.

🍽️ 6:00 PM – Sunset Dinner in Toulon’s Old Town or Harbor

• Choose a local Provençal restaurant to enjoy regional dishes like bouillabaisse.
• Recommendation: Le Petit Sud for an authentic Toulon experience.

🎭 7:30 PM – Evening Entertainment Option

• For culture lovers: Catch a show at the Toulon Opera House.
• For sports fans: Watch a rugby match at Stade Mayol (if there’s a game!).
• For a relaxed vibe: Sip a pastis (anise-flavored aperitif) at a local bar.

🎯 Alternative Toulon Attractions (If You Have More Time)

• Nature Lovers: Take a short ferry to Saint-Mandrier-sur-Mer for a coastal escape.
• Adventure Seekers: Hike a portion of the Sentier des Douaniers coastal trail.
• History Buffs: Visit the Musée d’Art de Toulon, showcasing fine art collections.

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Final Thoughts on Things to Do in Toulon

My time exploring things to do in Toulon was nothing short of fantastic! From wandering through the historic streets to savoring local delicacies, every moment left a lasting impression. The vibrant markets, picturesque harbor, and rich cultural heritage offered a unique experience. Personally, discovering the hidden gems and interacting with the friendly locals made my visit truly memorable.

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