Things to Do in Toulouse in March
March weather, activities, events & insider tips
March Weather in Toulouse
Is March Right for You?
Advantages
- Perfect spring awakening - Toulouse's parks and Canal du Midi come alive with blooming magnolias and cherry trees, creating stunning photo opportunities without summer crowds
- Ideal walking weather - Cool mornings (5-8°C/41-46°F) perfect for exploring Vieux Toulouse's brick architecture, warming to comfortable 15°C (59°F) for afternoon canal strolls
- Student energy peaks - Universities return from winter break, filling cafés with authentic local atmosphere and keeping restaurant prices competitive
- Violet season begins - Toulouse's signature crystallized violets are freshly harvested, available at every pâtisserie and perfect for unique gifts
Considerations
- Unpredictable weather swings - Can shift from sunny 18°C (64°F) to rainy 8°C (46°F) within hours, requiring flexible indoor backup plans
- Limited daylight - Sunset around 6:30pm means rushing to fit outdoor activities into shorter days compared to summer visits
- Variable restaurant hours - Some establishments still operate on reduced winter schedules before Easter, requiring advance checking
Best Activities in March
Canal du Midi Cycling Tours
March offers perfect cycling weather along the UNESCO World Heritage canal - cool enough to avoid overheating but warm enough for comfortable 2-3 hour rides. The plane trees are just beginning to bud, and you'll share paths with locals rather than summer tourists. Morning mist over the canal creates magical photography opportunities.
Toulouse Food Market Walking Tours
March brings spring vegetables and the last of winter specialties to Toulouse's markets. Marché Victor Hugo is at its liveliest with fewer tourists competing for vendors' attention. Cool temperatures mean fresh produce stays crisp longer, and vendors are more willing to offer tastings. Perfect timing for cassoulet season before it ends in April.
Cité de l'Espace Space Center Visits
March weather makes this indoor/outdoor attraction ideal - cool enough for comfortable outdoor rocket garden exploration, with indoor planetarium perfect for rainy moments. Spring break timing means interactive exhibits are less crowded, and you can actually engage with displays without queuing.
Capitole and Historic Quarter Walking Tours
Cool March temperatures make walking Toulouse's pink brick streets comfortable for 3-4 hours. Spring light enhances the rose-colored buildings' photogenic qualities, especially during golden hour (5:30-6:30pm). Fewer crowds mean better access to Capitole's courtyards and unobstructed photos of major landmarks.
Airbus Factory Tours
March offers perfect timing for aviation enthusiasts - production lines are active post-winter maintenance, and cooler weather makes the large factory floors more comfortable. Advance booking essential as tours sell out, but March has better availability than summer months.
Garonne River Sunset Cruises
March sunsets around 6:30pm create perfect timing for after-work river cruises. Cool air keeps boats comfortable, and spring river levels are optimal for smooth sailing. The golden hour illuminates Toulouse's bridges and waterfront architecture beautifully without summer's harsh glare.
March Events & Festivals
Printemps de Septembre Contemporary Art Festival
Toulouse's premier contemporary art festival transforms galleries and public spaces across the city. Free exhibitions in unexpected venues, from former industrial spaces to historic courtyards. Perfect indoor cultural activity for March's variable weather.