Toulon Mini Guide
Can you Recommend a Visit to Toulon?
Definitely! It’s an elegant city on the south coast of France and home to the French Mediterranean Fleet. It was occupied first some 3,000 years ago and became an important Roman settlement. It has a fabulous harbour where the water is always calm because of a natural breakwater facing the westerly winds and the imposing Mount Faron which looks out over the city and also protects it from the mistral winds. Today’s importance as a naval base stems from the historical association the city has had with the French navy over the centuries.
How do I get to Toulon?
Many of the cities along the south coast of France have their own airports so you are a little spoilt for choice, especially if you are looking for the best deal. Toulon Hyeres Airport has a small number of international flights from major European cities and Ryanair fly there from
Stansted and
Liverpool. The airport is found near the village of Hyeres but is still within a short bus or taxi ride of the city.
What’s There to See and Do in Toulon?
Begin with a trip in the cable car up to the top of Faron for a stunning view down over the city. The name is a variation of faros, meaning lighthouse and the hill was once used as a look out for incoming ships friend or foe! On the mountain you’ll also find the museum dedicated to the allied landing there during the liberation of France. In the city there is a beautiful old quarter which is renowned for its small but unique fountains that were carefully restored and now form the stopping points for a tour of the city. The streets of the old city seem to converge on the little squares containing the fountains and make for a very enjoyable afternoon spent exploring this part of the city.
What Can I Buy as Souvenirs of the City?
As a big city, there’s little of significance worth buying. A number of antique shops in the old town sell typically French bijouterie which can make nice souvenirs, especially if they appreciate in value, whilst products from the region of Provence, including lavender beauty products also make good purchases.
What is the Best Food to eat There in Toulon?
Being a port city, a lot of the food served in restaurants there is seafood. Pride of place on many menus is freshly caught tuna from the Mediterranean and lightly grilled, or served as a carpaccio with a fresh salad, it’s simply divine dressed with lemon and pepper.
What Festivals do they Celebrate in the City?
On Bastille Day, there is a marching band on the main streets followed by an air show and fly past of the French Air Force. Lots of people turn out and wave flags for a very nationalistic display. A month later, there is a great fireworks festival from the beach which thousands turn out to watch.