Advice

Just a quick pause in your visit to highlight some other points of interest just beyond the main itinerary. Within a 2-kilometer radius of Montauban’s warm and welcoming Place Nationale, plenty of little gems await discovery. Just a stone's throw from the center, the striking Church of Saint-Jean Villenouvelle immediately catches the eye. Its neo-Gothic style, complete with flying buttresses and vaulted ceilings crafted from both brick and stone, creates a subtle polychrome effect that’s as photogenic as it is impressive. Be sure to take a look inside! If you’re traveling with kids, Montauban has you covered with the Toy Museum. Open since 2016 and built entirely from private donations, it delights families with its treasures – from antique toy cars to Tour de France miniatures, games over two centuries old, and one of Europe’s largest Barbie collections. Simply put: fun for all ages! For a breath of fresh air, head to Cours Foucault, a five-hectare green space originally created to protect the Tarn River banks. Today, it’s a favorite spot for a peaceful stroll right in the heart of town. At the end of the central walkway, you’ll come across an Antoine Bourdelle sculpture, standing as a proud reminder of Montauban’s artistic heritage. Did you know there’s a marina just a 20-minute walk from the center? Port Canal combines land and water with a focus on nature, wellness, and environmental respect – perfect for a relaxing afternoon. So far, you’ve indulged your eyes, ears, and maybe even your nose. Now it’s time to treat your taste buds! In Montauban, as in all of southwest France, eating means savoring. Visit the farmers’ markets at Place Lalaque on Wednesday mornings or stroll through the bustling Allées de l’Empereur, aka the Emperor’s Alleys, on a Saturday to explore one of Occitania’s largest markets, showcasing the region’s finest produce. Then again, if you're keen to see more than just Montauban, here are a few suggestions. If you’re a fan of medieval fortresses, Bruniquel Castle, Penne Fortress, and Gramont Castle are must-sees – all within 35 minutes from the city. If quaint villages surrounded by nature are more your vibe, Saint-Antonin-Noble-Val, Auvillar, Lauzerte, Caylus, Villefranche-de-Rouergue, and Najac will welcome you with open arms. And for a taste of the iconic Occitania or a bit more urban energy, Moissac and Toulouse won’t disappoint. With all this, you’ve got plenty to keep you busy if you decide to stay a little longer in the region!