ZIE BLOG
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CARMES &
ST ETIENNE
If you are looking for a nice district in Toulouse, quiet but dynamic, Carmes is for you!
This little paradise is located between Esquirol and Saint-Michel bridge, on the right bank of the Garonne. It’s one of the central districts of the ‘Pink City’ and is situated in the heart of its historic centre. It’s also known as a lively place, with its various bars, tapas restaurants, and its famous market! With the Garonne nearby, you can go for magnificent walks along the riverbank, admiring Toulouse city life.
You can visit the nearby the Temple of the Salin (a Protestant relic), the majestic Church of Our Lady of Dalbad, or the famous Courthouse. But you can also stop for a drink at Bar du Matin, considered an institution of Place des Carmes. It’s one of those places that captures the soul of this neighbourhood. Located at the corner of Rue des Filatiers, it’s perfect for brunch, lunch or just a coffee.
Even if this district is less lively than Saint Pierre Square, it’s loved by students. Its many tapas bars makes it the perfect area for them to start off their evening…
If you go up the street towards Esquirol, you will come across Place de la Trinité.
Pedestrian since 1990, it’s surrounded with cafés and buildings renovated in the Toulouse architectural style. With this nineteenth century fountain in its centre, it’s one of the most pleasant squares of the city.
If you can walk around there, don't hesitate to stop for a drink at Bar de l'Echanson ; they make delicious cocktails...
After your drink, walk along Rue de Metz until you come across the War Memorial, located in the centre of Allées François-Verdier. It’s one of the main buildings in Saint-Etienne District. This bourgeois district is home to magnificent residences, built for the Toulousian aristocrats. Today, there are luxury and antique shops, as well as art studios. Rue des Arts and Rue Ozenne are some of the remarkable streets that weave through the district. Rue Croix-Baragnon will take you back to Place des Carmes.
The district gets its name from the majestic Saint-Etienne Cathedral, which dominates the square. You can also find a 16th century fountain, the city hall and Froidur’s private mansion.
It’s a perfect place to rest, bask in the sun, have some coffee and a snack. You will find the famous Italian restaurant Officina Gusto, which will make you excellent Bucatini Carbonara! However, if you want a more typical Toulouse place, there is the Sylene. With its red brick decoration and its outdoor terrace, it will offer you a breath-taking view of the Cathedral.
But be careful, if you want to spend a quiet evening, the place quickly becomes lively at night.
