What to do in Toulon: the complete guide

Are you planning a stay in the Var and wondering what to do in Toulon? Between its legendary roadstead, Mont Faron and its developed beaches, this port city has plenty to attract visitors. Boat tours, Provençal markets, swimming in Mourillon, or hiking with views of the Mediterranean: there’s no shortage of activities. Toulon is moreover an ideal base if you stay in a campground with water park in the Var.

Here’s our selection to make the most of the city.

Mont Faron and its cable car: Toulon from above

The Mont Faron is the ideal starting point for discovering Toulon. This limestone massif peaks at 584 meters altitude. It dominates the entire roadstead and the Var coastline. To get there, the Mont Faron cable car remains the most impressive way. In 6 minutes, the cabin transports you to the top. It’s also the only urban cable car on the Mediterranean coast.

Once at the top, several activities await you. Marked trails allow you to explore the massif on foot. The Mont Faron Fauverie houses big cats and endangered species. The Provence Landing Memorial retraces this page of history on Var soil. In clear weather, the view extends to the Îles d’Hyères.

Claire’s tip: choose an ascent in the morning, before 10am. The light is softer and the view even clearer. Come back down on foot via the trails if you enjoy walking.

Where to discover Toulon’s roadstead by boat?

Toulon’s roadstead is considered the most beautiful in Europe. To enjoy it, nothing better than a guided boat tour. Les Bateliers de la Rade offers outings of about 1 hour. Departures are from Quai de la Sinse, at the bottom of Cours Lafayette.

During this sea outing, you will travel along the military port for nearly 7 kilometers. It houses the Mediterranean Squadron. The guide comments on each point of interest with passion. You will discover Fort de l’Aiguillette, Fort de Balaguier, and the Royal Tower. Tamaris Bay and its mussel farms complete the route. In the background, the Saint-Mandrier Peninsula closes the roadstead.

What to see in Toulon’s historic center?

The historic center of Toulon concentrates several cultural sites not to be missed. Between Provençal streets and shaded squares, each walk reveals a new point of interest.

The Provençal market of Cours Lafayette

The Cours Lafayette market is one of the most renowned in Provence. It takes place Tuesday through Sunday, from 8am to 1pm. About 80 stalls offer seasonal fruits and vegetables, cheeses, fresh fish, and flowers. It’s also an opportunity to taste the Toulouse cade. This chickpea flour cake is cooked over a wood fire. Local producers sell their harvests directly there.

The Cathedral of Sainte-Marie-de-la-Seds

This religious building traces more than 1,000 years of history. Its origins go back to the 5th century. The current construction dates mainly from the 17th century. The bell tower has dominated the city center since the 18th century. Entry is free and the visit takes only a few dozen minutes.

The National Navy Museum

Located on Quai de Norfolk, this museum retraces Toulon’s maritime history. Its collections include ship models, paintings, and navigation instruments. Free flash tours of 20 minutes take place every Sunday. The museum is open daily except Tuesday, from 10am to 6pm.

The arts district and Place de l’Équerre

Just a few steps away is the Rue des Arts and Place de l’Équerre. This renovated district hosts galleries and artist studios. The atmosphere is peaceful and creative, ideal for a terrace break.

Where to enjoy the beach and water sports in Toulon?

If you’re wondering what to do in Toulon with family, head for the beaches of Mourillon. They are located 30 minutes’ walk from the city center. The site has 5 developed coves over nearly 2 kilometers. It covers more than 7 hectares of sand and 12 hectares of green spaces.

Families appreciate the children’s play areas, shaded lawns, and fountains. The choice of water sports is wide: kayaking, stand-up paddle, sailing, and e-foiling. The Toulon Yacht Club also offers courses for children. Windsurfing, catamaran, and optimist are on the program. Bars and restaurants line the promenade for dining on site.

Claire’s tip: the beaches of Mourillon perfectly complement a stay in a campground with water park. Your children enjoy the waterslides at the campground and the sea during the day!

Preparing your next family vacation in the Var? Discover campgrounds with water parks in the Var and book a stay combining sea, pool, and sunshine!