Things to Do in Toulouse in May
May weather, activities, events & insider tips
May Weather in Toulouse
Is May Right for You?
Advantages
- Perfect temperatures for walking - 18°C (64°F) average means you can explore the old town for hours without overheating or needing heavy coats
- Jacaranda trees bloom throughout May creating purple canopies along Canal du Midi and Boulevard Lazare Carnot - photographers get stunning shots without summer's harsh light
- Restaurant terraces open with spring menus featuring fresh peas, asparagus, and strawberries from nearby farms - locals finally eat outdoors after winter
- Fewer tourists mean shorter lines at Capitole and easier reservations at traditional brasseries - you'll actually hear French conversations around you
Considerations
- Rain falls 10 days of the month, typically 30-45 minute afternoon showers that can disrupt outdoor market visits and walking tours
- Weather changes quickly - morning sunshine can turn to cool, windy afternoons requiring multiple clothing layers throughout the day
- Some outdoor attractions like Cité de l'espace gardens may have limited hours or closed sections due to unpredictable spring weather
Best Activities in May
Canal du Midi Boat Tours and Waterway Exploration
May offers ideal conditions for canal boat tours with comfortable temperatures and lush spring vegetation. The plane trees are in full leaf creating natural tunnels, and you'll avoid summer's intense heat and crowds. Morning departures (9-11am) have the best weather before afternoon showers.
Toulouse Food Market and Culinary Walking Tours
May brings exceptional seasonal produce to Victor Hugo Market and Marché des Carmes. Spring vegetables, early strawberries, and fresh herbs are at peak quality. Cool mornings (8-11am) are perfect for market touring before afternoon rain, and vendors are more talkative in shoulder season.
Basilica of St-Sernin and Romanesque Architecture Tours
Indoor cultural touring is perfect for May's changeable weather. The basilica and surrounding Romanesque sites provide shelter during rain showers while offering rich historical context. Spring light through ancient windows creates beautiful photography opportunities without summer's harsh glare.
Airbus Factory Tours and Aerospace Museums
May weather makes the outdoor portions of Airbus facility tours comfortable - you'll walk between hangars without summer heat or winter cold. The aerospace industry is less busy in spring, potentially offering better access and more detailed explanations from guides.
Garonne River Cycling and Waterfront Exploration
Cool May temperatures make riverside cycling ideal - you won't overheat on longer rides and spring scenery along the Garonne is spectacular. Cycle paths are less crowded than summer, and frequent cafés provide shelter during brief rain showers.
Day Trips to Albi and Cordes-sur-Ciel
May offers perfect conditions for exploring nearby medieval towns. Comfortable temperatures for walking cobblestone streets, spring flowers in countryside views, and fewer tour buses than summer. Train connections are reliable and towns offer indoor attractions for rainy periods.
May Events & Festivals
Toulouse Spring Music Festival
Local venues throughout the city host classical and contemporary performances. Many concerts occur in historic buildings like Hôtel-Dieu Saint-Jacques, combining music with architectural discovery. Indoor venues perfect for May's unpredictable weather.
Marché aux Fleurs Special Spring Edition
The regular flower market expands in May with local nurseries bringing seasonal plants and flowers. Held on Place du Capitole, vendors offer gardening advice and spring planting tips. Local tradition of buying flowers for Mother's Day creates festive atmosphere.