The UNESCO-listed Canal du Midi at its Port Saint-Sauveur marina, with a plane-tree towpath.
The Canal du Midi was designed by Pierre-Paul Riquet and opened in 1681 to link the Atlantic and the Mediterranean. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site, listed in 1996, and the Toulouse section passes the Port Saint-Sauveur marina, a short walk east of the Jardin Royal. The towpath is lined with plane trees, and cyclists, joggers and walkers use it daily. Short boat trips run in season, and houseboats are moored in the port.
| Admission | Free (~$0) |
|---|---|
| Hours | Towpath open 24 hours; boat tours seasonal |
| Typical visit | 1-2 hours |
| Best time | Late afternoon |
| Getting there | Metro line A or B to Jean-Jaurès, then 15 minutes on foot; or Tisséo bus to Port Saint-Sauveur |
| Address | Port Saint-Sauveur, 31000 Toulouse, France |
Location
Port Saint-Sauveur, 31000 Toulouse, France
43.5953, 1.4563 View on map
Highlights
- UNESCO World Heritage canal
- Plane-tree towpath
- Boat trips in season
- Cycle route to the Mediterranean
Tips for visiting
- Rent a bike and follow the canal for a 20 km round trip.
- The towpath is shaded in summer.
When to visit
Late afternoon in summer.
Accessibility
The path is flat but surface quality varies.
Visit, book or contact
Frequently asked questions
Can one cycle the canal?
Yes, the towpath is a cycle route.