What to do in Occitanie? Your holiday guide
Occitanie, a vast region in the south of France, offers an incredible diversity of landscapes and sites. To help you plan your family holiday in Occitanie, our campsite in Haute-Garonne, Les Violettes, is the ideal starting point. Wondering what to do in Occitanie? This guide presents the best activities and tourist attractions in Occitanie that are not to be missed for a successful stay.
Toulouse, the dynamic and cultural capital
In the heart of the Occitanie region, the city of Toulouse is a must-see. Nicknamed the “Pink City,” it offers a unique atmosphere. Stroll through the Place du Capitole or visit the Saint-Sernin Basilica, a masterpiece of Romanesque art listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. For a family outing, the Cité de l’Espace is a memorable activity in Occitanie. According to the Toulouse Métropole Attractiveness Agency, the site welcomed 423,000 visitors in 2022 1.
But the city doesn’t stop there: a stroll along the Garonne or a guided tour of its many museums are excellent options. To fully enjoy it, book your campsite near Toulouse.
The medieval city of Carcassonne, a journey through time
How can you imagine a stay in the region without a day in Carcassonne? The city, also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is one of the best-preserved medieval complexes in Europe. With its 3 km of ramparts and 52 towers, a visit to the count’s castle is one of the must-do family activities in Occitanie. This historic monument is a true time machine. A tip based on traveler reviews: plan your visit in the morning to avoid the crowds.
After such an adventure, the comfort of a mobile home rental in Haute-Garonne will be greatly appreciated.
Saint-Cirq-Lapopie, a timeless village
Nearby, Saint-Cirq-Lapopie, a UNESCO Geopark perched above the Lot River, offers medieval streets and breathtaking views. These activities are perfect if you’re looking for things to do in Occitanie this weekend for a family getaway.
The Mediterranean coast: beaches and ports
The coast of the Occitanie region stretches for over 200 km. In the Pyrénées-Orientales, near Perpignan, Collioure and the Vermeille coast in Roussillon captivate visitors with their coves that inspired Fauvist painters. Further east, the city of Sète, the “Venice of Languedoc,” lives to the rhythm of its canals. It’s an excellent destination for excursions in Occitanie with a seaside focus.
Albi and its fortress cathedral
In the Tarn region, the UNESCO-listed episcopal city of Albi is a surprise. The Sainte-Cécile Cathedral, the largest brick cathedral in the world, dominates the city. Inside, the contrast is striking. Right next door, the Palais de la Berbie houses the Toulouse-Lautrec Museum. This visit is a great idea if you’re unsure what to do in Occitanie for a cultural day.
What to do in Occitania when it rains?
Is the weather unpredictable? The Occitanie region offers numerous indoor activities and venues.
- The Cité de l’espace : a space journey for young and old.
- The Niaux Cave in Ariège: to admire authentic prehistoric paintings.
- Museums: the Abattoirs in Toulouse, Aéroscopia and the Halle des Machines.
These family outings are perfect for keeping busy intelligently.
The Pyrenees: a playground for all seasons
The Occitanie region is also known for its mountains. From our Les Violettes campsite, the peaks of the Pyrenees are within easy reach, offering a playground that changes with the seasons. Whether in the snow or the sun, there’s no shortage of activities for the whole family.
What to do in Occitania in winter?
Winter transforms the Pyrenees into a snowy paradise. Ski resorts like Ax 3 Domaines and Font-Romeu await you for a day of skiing, snowshoeing, or building igloos with the family.
What to do in Occitania in summer?
When the snow melts, the mountain reveals its trails and lush green landscapes. There are many possibilities for summer activities:
Visit the sanctuary of the Lady of Lourdes, a world-renowned spiritual center, or Saint-Bertrand-de-Comminges and its imposing cathedral.
Hikes in the Pyrenees National Park, such as the one leading to Lake Gaube.
Cable car ascent to the Pic du Midi, a designated International Dark Sky Reserve.
