A pink-brick city with a double-arcaded square and the Ingres museum.
Montauban is the pink-brick capital of the Tarn-et-Garonne department, about 50 km north of Toulouse and the closest of the main day trips. The liO Train from Gare Matabiau takes 30 to 40 minutes, with frequent departures and promotional fares from EUR 1. The station is about 1 km from the central Place Nationale.
Place Nationale is a 17th-century double-arcaded square of pink brick, and the Musée Ingres Bourdelle holds works by the painter Ingres, a native of the city, and the sculptor Bourdelle. The Pont Vieux crosses the Tarn river, and the Cathédrale Notre-Dame-de-l'Assomption contains a painting by Ingres.
Montauban makes an easy half-day, and visitors can combine it with Moissac by train on the same line. Visit on a Saturday morning for the market, and in summer arrive early for shade.
| Distance | About 50 km north of Toulouse |
|---|---|
| Travel time | 30-40 minutes by train |
| Getting there | liO Train from Gare Matabiau to Montauban-Ville-Bourbon, about 30-40 minutes; promotional fares from EUR 1 (~$1.15) |
| Difficulty | easy |
| Address | Place Nationale, 82000 Montauban, France |
How to get there
- liO Train (TER)
- Car
- Coach
Suggested itinerary
- Place Nationale, Musée Ingres Bourdelle, Pont Vieux and riverside, lunch, train back
Location
Place Nationale, 82000 Montauban, France
44.0181, 1.3558 View on map
Highlights
- Double-arcaded Place Nationale in pink brick
- Musée Ingres Bourdelle
- Medieval Pont Vieux over the Tarn
- Quick train from Toulouse
Tips for visiting
- Take an early train and check the return times
- Visit the museum first, then the old town
- Combine with Moissac if time allows
- Wear comfortable shoes for the old town
When to visit
April-June and September-October; Saturday morning is market day.
Accessibility
The centre is mostly flat and the square is accessible; some museum levels may have steps.
Visit, book or contact
Frequently asked questions
How long is the train from Toulouse to Montauban?
About 30 to 40 minutes by liO Train from Gare Matabiau.
How far is the station from the centre?
About 1 km, a short walk or bus ride.
Is it a good half-day trip?
Yes, the compact centre suits a half day.