Southern France’s beauty beckons with a day trip from Toulouse to Albi and Cordes-sur-Ciel. Travelers will marvel at the stunning Sainte Cécile Cathedral and explore the Toulouse-Lautrec Museum‘s impressive collection. After exploring Albi’s charming streets, the medieval ambiance of Cordes-sur-Ciel awaits, all while enjoying the comfort of a coach. With lunch and entry fees included, this hassle-free tour offers a chance to discover UNESCO World Heritage sites. But the true highlight may lie in the unexpected discoveries that await those who embark on this captivating journey through the heart of southern France.
Key Points
- This day trip from Toulouse visits the UNESCO World Heritage site of Albi, including the Sainte Cécile Cathedral and Toulouse-Lautrec Museum.
- The tour also explores the medieval town of Cordes-sur-Ciel, known for its picturesque Gothic architecture set on a hilltop.
- The trip duration is 9 hours, with around 4 hours of free time in Albi and 2.5 hours in Cordes-sur-Ciel.
- Transportation is provided by a comfortable tourist coach, with hassle-free direct travel between the destinations.
- The tour price of $28.91 per person includes guided visits, entry fees, lunch, and all transportation.
Tour Overview
This day trip takes travelers from Toulouse to explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Albi and the medieval town of Cordes-sur-Ciel.
The day begins at 9:30 AM and returns around 6:30 PM for a total duration of one day. Guests will discover the impressive Sainte Cécile Cathedral and the Toulouse-Lautrec Museum in Albi, followed by free time to wander the charming streets.
Next, the tour travels to Cordes-sur-Ciel, a picture-perfect medieval village with Gothic architecture.
Priced from $28.91 per person, the tour includes transportation, lunch, entry fees, and a guided component.
Highlights
Among the highlights of this day trip is the exploration of the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Albi.
Visitors will marvel at the impressive Sainte Cécile Cathedral, an outstanding example of Southern French Gothic architecture. They’ll also discover the Toulouse-Lautrec Museum, which houses the world’s largest collection of works by the renowned French artist.
The medieval town of Cordes-sur-Ciel offers a delightful contrast, with its charming Gothic buildings and stunning hilltop location.
Highlights include:
- Touring the Sainte Cécile Cathedral
- Visiting the Toulouse-Lautrec Museum
- Exploring the medieval town of Cordes-sur-Ciel
- Admiring the Gothic architecture
- Enjoying the picturesque hilltop setting
Itinerary
The day trip begins with a departure from Toulouse at 9:30 AM. The first stop is Albi, a UNESCO World Heritage site, where visitors have 4 hours of free time to explore the Sainte Cécile Cathedral and the Toulouse Lautrec Museum. Afterwards, the coach heads to the medieval town of Cordes-sur-Ciel, allowing 2.5 hours to wander its Gothic architecture. The return journey to Toulouse takes 1 hour, completing the full-day excursion.
| Destination | Duration |
|---|---|
| Toulouse to Albi | 1 hour |
| Free time in Albi | 4 hours |
| Albi to Cordes-sur-Ciel | 30 minutes |
| Free time in Cordes-sur-Ciel | 2.5 hours |
| Cordes-sur-Ciel to Toulouse | 1 hour |
Transportation
The day trip begins with transportation by tourist coach from the starting location in Toulouse.
The journey takes guests on a 1-hour drive to Albi, where they’ll have 4 hours of free time to explore.
Next, the coach travels 30 minutes to Cordes-sur-Ciel, allowing 2.5 hours to discover the medieval city.
Finally, the coach returns to Toulouse in 1 hour.
The tour includes:
- Comfortable tourist coach travel
- Direct transportation between locations
- Free time to explore at your own pace
- Return transport back to the starting point
- Hassle-free experience without the need to drive
Inclusions
Along With the comfortable transportation, this day trip includes a guided tour and entry fees to the key sites and museums.
Visitors will have the opportunity to explore the UNESCO World Heritage site of Albi, including the impressive Sainte Cécile Cathedral and the Toulouse Lautrec Museum.
The tour also includes a visit to the medieval town of Cordes-sur-Ciel, where travelers can marvel at the Gothic architecture at their own pace.
Lunch is also provided, ensuring a well-rounded and hassle-free experience.
However, the tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, and participants are advised to bring their passport or ID card.
Exclusions
Aside from the inclusions, this day trip doesn’t cover personal expenses like souvenirs or additional food and drink.
Plus, it isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, and the following items aren’t permitted:
- Pets
- Smoking
- Alcohol
- Drones
- Weapons
The meeting point for this tour is 29 Allée Jean-Jaurès, Toulouse 31000.
Participants should bring a valid passport or ID card, as it may be required for certain activities or entry points.
Customer Reviews
The day trip to Albi Cathedral and Cordes-sur-Ciel has received positive reviews from previous participants.
The tour’s friendly bus driver and the highlights of the Toulouse Lautrec Museum and charming Cordes-sur-Ciel were particularly well-received.
While some guests suggested adjusting the pick-up time to allow more time in Cordes-sur-Ciel, the majority rated the tour 4.5 out of 5 stars based on 238 reviews.
Participants appreciated the detailed information provided and the convenience of included transportation, lunch, and entry fees.
However, the tour may not be suitable for wheelchair users due to the steep ascent in Cordes-sur-Ciel.
Booking Information
For the day trip to Albi Cathedral and Cordes-sur-Ciel, travelers can book their spots up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund should they need to cancel.
There’s also a reserve now & pay later option available. Customers can check availability for their desired dates and select from French, Spanish, or English language options.
The meeting point is at 29 Allée Jean-Jaurès, Toulouse 31000.
Key booking details:
- Free cancellation up to 24 hours before
- Reserve now & pay later
- Check availability by date and language
- Meeting point at 29 Allée Jean-Jaurès, Toulouse
Frequently Asked Questions
Can the Tour Be Customized to Fit My Schedule?
Unfortunately, the tour cannot be fully customized to fit your personal schedule. However, the tour does offer some flexibility, as you can explore the destinations at your own pace during the free time provided.
Are There Options for Vegetarian or Gluten-Free Lunch?
The tour offers vegetarian and gluten-free lunch options. Customers can inform the provider of any dietary requirements when booking to ensure their needs are accommodated during the day trip.
Is There a Discount for Senior or Student Travelers?
The tour operator doesn’t offer specific discounts for senior or student travelers. However, those eligible may be able to secure reduced admission fees on their own at the Albi and Cordes-sur-Ciel sites during the tour.
Can I Bring a Small Backpack or Carry-On Bag?
Yes, small backpacks or carry-on bags are allowed on the tour. The tour operator advises travelers to bring only essentials and avoid large, bulky luggage to ensure a comfortable and convenient experience.
How Much Time Is Spent at Each Location During Free Time?
During the free time, visitors spend around 4 hours exploring Albi and 2.5 hours in Cordes-sur-Ciel. The tour’s itinerary allows guests to discover these UNESCO-listed sites at their own pace.
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Sum Up
This day trip from Toulouse offers a chance to explore the stunning Sainte Cécile Cathedral in Albi and the charming medieval town of Cordes-sur-Ciel. Visitors can marvel at the architectural beauty of these UNESCO World Heritage sites and explore the legacy of artist Toulouse-Lautrec. With transportation, entry fees, and lunch included, it’s a hassle-free way to discover the highlights of southern France.