Toulouse is a vibrant city in southern France, but there’s so much more to explore beyond its borders. Why not take a day trip to the nearby towns of Albi and Cordes-sur-Ciel? This excursion promises a delightful mix of history, art, and scenic beauty, all for a reasonable price. With audio guides to enhance your experience, you’ll have the freedom to discover these charming destinations at your own pace. Who knows what hidden gems you might uncover along the way?
Good To Know
- A day trip from Toulouse to Albi and Cordes-sur-Ciel priced at $31.54 per person, with departure at 9:30 AM and return around 6:30 PM.
- Visits to Sainte Cécile Cathedral, Toulouse Lautrec Museum, and the picturesque medieval town of Cordes-sur-Ciel, with audio guides available in multiple languages.
- Includes 4 hours of free time in Albi and 2.5 hours in Cordes-sur-Ciel for independent exploration.
- Round-trip transportation by tourist coach, entry fees to key attractions, and lunch provided for convenience.
- Not suitable for wheelchair users, and passport or ID card is required for crossing between towns.
Overview of the Day Trip
Although the day trip from Toulouse to Albi and Cordes-sur-Ciel offers a comprehensive exploration of two notable historic sites, the tour is competitively priced at just $31.54 per person.
The journey departs Toulouse at 9:30 AM and returns around 6:30 PM, allowing ample time to visit the Sainte Cécile Cathedral in Albi, the Toulouse Lautrec Museum, and the medieval town of Cordes-sur-Ciel.
The day trip departs Toulouse at 9:30 AM and returns around 6:30 PM, allowing ample time to explore Albi and Cordes-sur-Ciel.
Audio guides are available in multiple languages, and entry fees are included.
While a guided tour isn’t provided, travelers are encouraged to freely explore these UNESCO-recognized destinations.
Find more activities and experiences we've covered in Albi.
Itinerary Details
The tour begins with a bus journey from Toulouse to Albi, covering the approximately 1-hour distance.
Visitors will have 4 hours of free time to explore Albi, including:
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Touring the Sainte Cécile Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
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Visiting the Toulouse Lautrec Museum to view the renowned artist’s works.
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Wandering the charming medieval streets and squares.
Next, the group will travel 30 minutes to the hilltop town of Cordes-sur-Ciel, where they’ll have 2.5 hours to freely discover the well-preserved medieval architecture.
The final leg of the journey returns to Toulouse, taking approximately 1 hour.
Highlights of the Tour
What are the highlights of this day trip to Albi and Cordes-sur-Ciel? Travelers will start in Albi, home to the impressive Sainte Cécile Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage site. They’ll also explore the Toulouse Lautrec Museum, which houses the largest collection of works by the famous artist. In the afternoon, they’ll visit the charming medieval town of Cordes-sur-Ciel, perched atop a hill. Here are some of the key highlights:
| Site | Description |
| — | — |
| Sainte Cécile Cathedral | Stunning 13th century cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage site |
| Toulouse Lautrec Museum | Largest collection of works by the renowned artist |
| Medieval Cordes-sur-Ciel | Picturesque hilltop town with winding cobblestone streets |
Included Features and Inclusions
This day trip includes round-trip transportation by tourist coach, allowing travelers to reach both Albi and Cordes-sur-Ciel efficiently.
The tour also provides:
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Audio guides available in French, English, and Spanish, ensuring a seamless experience for international visitors.
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Entry fees to the Sainte Cécile Cathedral (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) and the Toulouse Lautrec Museum, eliminating the need for additional out-of-pocket expenses.
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A included lunch, making it a convenient and all-inclusive experience.
Notably, a guided tour isn’t provided, allowing travelers to explore the medieval cities at their own pace.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyImportant Information for Travelers
Before embarking on this day trip, travelers should note the meeting point at 29 Allée Jean-Jaurès in Toulouse.
The tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, so those with mobility issues should reconsider. Travelers should bring their passport or ID card, as they’ll be crossing between towns. Pets and smoking are prohibited.
While an audio guide is available in multiple languages, a guided tour isn’t provided, allowing for free exploration of the sites.
With the trip lasting around 9 hours, travelers should plan accordingly and be prepared for potential weather challenges.
Customer Feedback and Ratings
How do travelers rate this day trip to Albi and Cordes-sur-Ciel?
With an overall rating of 4.5/5 based on 317 reviews, it’s clear that most visitors have a positive experience.
Based on 317 reviews, the day trip to Albi and Cordes-sur-Ciel receives an overall rating of 4.5/5, indicating a positive visitor experience.
Key highlights include:
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Effective way to see both locations in one day, per Qing from the USA.
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Some noted travel time discrepancies, as mentioned by Maria Dolores from Malta.
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Positive experience despite weather challenges, as Audrey from the USA pointed out.
Getting to the Meeting Point
Locating the meeting point for this day trip is straightforward. The departure point is 29 Allée Jean-Jaurès in Toulouse. This centrally-located spot is easily accessible by public transportation. The closest metro station is Jean-Jaurès, just a short walk away.
To help you find the meeting spot, here’s a table with nearby landmarks and directions:
| Landmark | Direction |
| — | — |
| Toulouse Town Hall | 400m northwest |
| Pont Neuf | 700m southwest |
| Basilica of Saint-Sernin | 750m northeast |
| Place du Capitole | 900m northwest |
Remember to arrive 15 minutes before the scheduled 9:30am departure time.
Preparing for the Day Trip
As travelers embark on this day trip, it’s important to consider a few key preparations.
First, be sure to bring your passport or ID card, as it’s required for entry.
Second, dress comfortably and prepare for the weather, as the tour involves walking outdoors.
Third, leave pets at home, as they aren’t permitted on the coach.
With these simple steps, you’ll be well-equipped to fully learn about the rich history and charming landscapes of Albi and Cordes-sur-Ciel.
Just sit back and enjoy the journey.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?
While the tour doesn’t provide food and drinks, you’re welcome to bring your own. However, consumption is limited to the designated rest stops for the comfort of all passengers.
Is There a Dress Code for the Tour?
There is no formal dress code for the tour. Visitors can dress comfortably in casual attire suitable for walking and exploring the historic sites. However, they should avoid wearing overly casual or inappropriate clothing that may be unsuitable for visiting churches and museums.
Can I Leave the Group During Free Time?
Yes, participants can leave the group during the scheduled free time in Albi and Cordes-sur-Ciel. The tour allows for independent exploration, as long as travelers return to the designated meeting point on time.
Are There Any Discounts Available for Seniors or Students?
There are no specific discounts mentioned for seniors or students on this day trip. However, some tour operators may offer discounts, so it’s best to check with the provider directly when booking.
What Happens if the Tour Is Canceled Due to Weather?
If the tour is canceled due to weather, travelers receive a full refund. The tour operator will notify participants as soon as possible and assist them with alternative arrangements. Customers have the option to reschedule for another day.
The Sum Up
This day trip from Toulouse to Albi and Cordes-sur-Ciel offers an affordable and immersive cultural experience. Visitors can explore the stunning Sainte Cécile Cathedral, the Toulouse Lautrec Museum, and the charming medieval town of Cordes-sur-Ciel, with the convenience of audio guides in multiple languages. The itinerary provides the perfect balance of guided activities and free time, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a memorable day trip from Toulouse.
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