The city of Toulouse, in the South West of France is known as 'the pink city' or "La Ville Rose" in French, because of its terracotta buildings and coral roofs.
During a short break in the city :
Cycle the Canal du Midi
Linking the Garonne to the Mediterranean, the Canal du Midi's tow paths provide a cycle route for those keen to explore the city by foot or on two wheels.
The VélÔ Toulouse, self-service bike scheme, has 280 stations dotted around the streets and is free to use for the first half hour then just 1.20€ for the day.
Walking food tours
Taste of Toulouse offers guided tours of the Victor Hugo covered market in the heart of the city and teaches English-speaking tourists about the local produce on offer.
Visitors can taste baked goods, pastries, charcuterie, cheeses and sweet treats on their way around while Jessica the guide shares her knowledge of regional dishes including the famed Touloussain Cassoulet.
The Cité de l'espace
The Cité de l'espace is about 'all things space', with current exhibitions including the Mars, Space and Comet experiences as well as a Lunar Module, Astronomer's Observatory Dome and Planetarium.
The N°5 Wine bar
The N°5 Wine bar, has been voted 'Best wine bar in the world' in the World's Best Wine Lists for the last three years.
Michelin-star restaurants
Many of Toulouse's top chefs, such as Michel Sarran, have opened affordable versions of their Michelin-star restaurants.
The latest to join this trend is Yannick Delpech, who has opened an eatery in Toulouse called Des Roses et Des Orties.
It has an open kitchen, patisserie, trattoria and bar, offering exceptional regional dishes at affordable prices.
Antiques
The city's antique dealers are located in the little streets in the Saint-Étienne Cathedral quarter.
La Halle de La Machine
La Halle de La Machine is located on the runway used for take-off by the pioneers of the "Aeropostale" airmail service, now the "Piste des Géants" (Giants' Runway).
There is a collection of street theatre machines designed and made by François Delaroziere and La Machine Company.
Where to stay:
Hôtel Albert 1ER
Hôtel Albert 1ER is an independent hotel has the European Ecolabel for its social and environmental responsibility.
It focuses on local and organic products and fresh ingredients.
This includes honey from the 1,000m altitude mountains of Ariege in the Pyrenees; fresh yoghurt from the Haute Garonne; coffee from Café Bacquié, Toulouse's oldest coffee roaster and charcuterie and cheeses from the city's Victor Hugo Market.
www.hotel-albert1.com/en