A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Bristol vs. Toulouse for Food, Attractions, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Bristol or Toulouse?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Bristol and Toulouse can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Bristol

Bristol is a historic, diverse, and cultural city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Toulouse

Toulouse is a historic, vibrant, and friendly city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Bristol and Toulouse: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers


Is there more to do in Bristol or Toulouse?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Toulouse. Although Bristol and Toulouse are about the same size, Toulouse has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Bristol is more touristy than Toulouse and is known for its laid-back atmosphere and progressive environmental policies. Toulouse is famous for its impressive old town, many museums, and delicious local cuisine. It is also well known for Basilique Saint-Sernin.

How is Bristol different from Toulouse?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Toulouse and Bristol. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Bristol or Toulouse?

Bristol
Toulouse

You'll find a number of great museums and attractions in both Toulouse and Bristol.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Bristol. The city has some great museums and landmarks such as the SS Great Britain, M Shed, the Clifton Suspension Bridge, and Cabot Tower.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Toulouse. There is a long running history with countless landmarks and museums. Highlights include Basilique Saint-Sernin, Place du Capitole, Muséum de Toulouse, and Fondation Bemberg.


Is the Food Better in Bristol or Toulouse? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Bristol
Toulouse

Toulouse is an unbeatable place for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Bristol is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Many restaurants in Toulouse have been singled out for their culinary prowess. There are many unique regional recipes that make use of poultry, cold meats, and foie gras. Toulouse sausage, cassoulet, Poulet à la Toulousaine, and Foie gras d’oie are all popular local dishes.

Bristol offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. You'll find all of the classic British specialties such as bangers and mash or fish and chips. There are many restaurants, markets, and pubs where you can grab a relaxing meal and enjoy the British ambiance.

Is Bristol or Toulouse Better for Nightlife?

Bristol
Toulouse

The vibe at night is great in both Bristol and Toulouse.

Many people head to Bristol for the nightlife scene. The nightlife scene is diverse and inclusive. There are huge clubs that host well known DJs. There is also an underground music scene as well as local bars and even traditional speakeasies. Whether your interest is live jazz or upscale cocktail bars, there really is something for everyone.

Toulouse has plenty to do after the sun goes down. You'll find a large number of students in town so the nightlife scene is active and fun. For the most lively atmosphere head to Carmes, Saint-Cyprien, or Place Saint-Pierre.

Is Bristol or Toulouse Better for its Old Town?

Bristol
Toulouse

Toulouse is great for its historic old town charm. However, Bristol does not have a historic old town.

Toulouse is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. The old town is filled with terra-cota buildings and pedestrian walkways. The area flows out around the Capitole and is crossed by the Garonne.

Bristol does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Bristol or Toulouse?

Bristol
Toulouse

If you're looking to go shopping, Bristol and Toulouse both offer plenty of great spots.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Bristol. Head to Clifton Village for the most upscale boutiques or the Bristol Shopping Quarter for a diversity of budgets and brands. Gloucester Street is famous for its independent shops or there are the student neighborhoods of Park Street and the Triangle which have a number of trendy shops.

Toulouse is an extremely popular place for shoppers. There are many great shopping districts around town including Place du Capitole, The Saint Georges district, and Rue Alsace Lorraine.

Is Bristol or Toulouse Better for Families?

Bristol
Toulouse

Toulouse is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Bristol is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Toulouse. The city's known for its space industry so the La Cite de l’Espace (Space Museum) is a favorite attraction for kids and adults alike. You can also visit Aeroscopia, the airplane museum. La Halle de la machine is a truly unique and impressive playground. The city also has many other museums and outdoor spaces to explore.

Bristol is a family-friendly place to visit. The city has a number of kid-friendly museums, activities, and playgrounds. For museums, check out the Bristol Museum and Art Gallery, the M Shed, or Aerospace Bristol. There are also boat rides and the Bristol Aquarium among other unique activities.

Is Bristol or Toulouse Better for Couples?

Bristol
Toulouse

Toulouse is great for couples. Also, Bristol is not as popular, but is still a nice city for romance.

Toulouse is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. There are many beautiful parks, gardens, and walking paths. Make sure you take a stroll along the Canal du Midi and visit Jardin Japonais Pierre Baudis. This is also a great city for visiting a spa.

Bristol is a nice destination for couples. There are romantic restaurants, fun bars, and unique museums that make for a variety of different date options.


Is Bristol or Toulouse Better for Students?

Bristol
Toulouse

For students, both Bristol and Toulouse are nice places to visit.

It's common for students to visit Bristol. It's a small and friendly city with enough diversity that it stays interesting and dynamic.

Toulouse is a good city to visit for students. You'll find a diverse student population with many international students.

Is Bristol or Toulouse Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Bristol
Toulouse

Bristol and Toulouse both offer nice public transit to get you around.

While Bristol offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. Metrobus serves the greater Bristol area.

Toulouse has a few public transit options. There are a large number of bus routes that travel both locally and regionally.

Is Bristol or Toulouse a more walkable city?

Bristol
Toulouse

Bristol and Toulouse are great when it comes to walkability.

Bristol is a very walkable destination. The city center is well designed for walking.

Toulouse is very walkable. Within the city center it is very walkable and easy to explore on foot.


For even more information, also check out Is Bristol Worth Visiting? and Is Toulouse Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Toulouse or Bristol?

How long in Bristol or Toulouse?

It's fun to spend time in either Bristol or Toulouse. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Toulouse due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Bristol, and 2-4 days is enough time in Toulouse.

Families should spend more time in Toulouse than Bristol. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Toulouse, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Toulouse than Bristol. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Toulouse that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Toulouse than Bristol if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Toulouse.


  • How many days in Bristol or Toulouse? Ideal Length of Stay
    Bristol 1-3 
    Toulouse 2-4

One day in Bristol or Toulouse?

The city of Bristol offers food and shopping. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

In Toulouse, you'll find nightlife and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the food. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Bristol or Toulouse?

Bristol is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Bristol, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

In Toulouse, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. One reason most visitors come is for the food. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Toulouse has to offer.

Five days in Bristol or Toulouse?

Bristol is a popular choice for travelers. Five days is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Toulouse is a great place to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.


A week in Bristol or Toulouse?

Bristol is a great place to explore. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Toulouse. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Toulouse. One reason most visitors come is for the food. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United Kingdom, The Best Historical Tours in United Kingdom, The Best Historical Tours in France, and The Best 10-Day Tours in France.


Which place is cheaper, Toulouse or Bristol?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Bristol is £91, while the average daily cost in Toulouse is £107. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Bristol and Toulouse in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Bristol £49
    Toulouse £57
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Bristol £98
    Toulouse £114
Compare Hotels in Bristol and Toulouse

Looking for a hotel in Bristol or Toulouse? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Bristol


Hotels in Toulouse


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Bristol Hotel Prices and Toulouse Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Bristol £13
    Toulouse £35

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Bristol

Also for Bristol, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Bristol Airport (BRS): Transfer to Southampton city hotels: $781
  • Bristol Airport (BRS): Private Transfer to London city: $680
  • Private Transfer from Bristol Airport (BRS) to Southampton City : $205
  • Bristol Airport (BRS) to Southampton hotels - Arrival Transfer: $172
  • Bristol Airport to London City Hotels Arrival Private Transfer: $160
  • Bristol Airport (BRS): Private Transfer to Bristol City: $148
  • Bristol Airport Transfers: Bristol City to Bristol Airport BRS in Luxury Car: $108
  • Bristol Airport Transfers: Bristol Airport BRS to Bristol City in Luxury Van: $99
  • Departure Private Transfers: Bristol City to Bristol Airport BRS in Luxury Van: $99
  • Bristol Airport Transfers: Bristol City to Bristol Airport BRS in Luxury Van: $99
  • Bristol Airport Transfers: Bristol City to Bristol Airport BRS in Business Car: $90
  • Departure Private Transfers: Bristol City to Bristol Airport BRS in Business Car: $90

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Toulouse

Also for Toulouse, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Transfer Toulouse to Carcassonne center: $240
  • Private transfer your alternative to taxi for your travels: $93
  • Departure Private Transfer: Toulouse to Toulouse Airport TLS in Luxury Van: $92
  • Private transfer from or to Toulouse Airport: $87
  • Toulouse Private Transfer from Toulouse Airport to City centre: $67
  • Toulouse Private Transfer from Toulouse city centre to Toulouse Airport: $66
  • Transfer from BLAGNAC Airport to all other destinations in Toulouse: $53
  • Arrival Transfer Toulouse Airport TLS to Toulouse by Car or Van: $41

Is it cheaper to fly into Bristol or Toulouse?

Prices for flights to both Toulouse and Bristol change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Bristol £32
    Toulouse £29

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Bristol

For Bristol, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • (Thur 7pm) Comedy Magic Show includes 1x Pizza & 2 glasses of Prosecco: $25

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Toulouse

For Toulouse, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • No Diet Club - Best food tour in Toulouse !: $52
  • Bakeries, Chocolate & Patisseries Food Tour: $76
  • Traditional Toulouse Food Tour - Do Eat Better Experience: $104
  • Victor Hugo Market Guided Food Tour with Tastings: $105
  • Marché Victor Hugo Small Group Food Tour: $107

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Bristol £13
    Toulouse £13

Tours and Activities in Bristol

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Bristol.

  • 2 Hours Private Walking to Bristol Cider Tour with Cheese: $45
  • Afternoon Bath City Tour - Private tour from Bristol with a local guide: $280
  • Blackbeard to Banksy - The Ultimate Walking Tour of Bristol: $17
  • Bristol Harbourside Self-Guided Walking Tour: $11
  • Bristol Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $11
  • Bristol Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $11
  • Bristol Sketching Tour for Beginners and Improvers: $38
  • Bristol Tour App, Hidden Gems Game and Big Britain Quiz (1 Day Pass) UK: $19
  • Bristol private pub hopping and sightseeing with local guide: $114
  • Bristol's Brilliant Pubs: A Self-Guided GPS Audio Tour of the Old City: $6.99
  • Bristol's Time-Honored Pubs: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $11
  • Bristol’s Darkest Secrets Tour: $25

Tours and Activities in Toulouse

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Toulouse.

  • Aeroscopia Admission Ticket: $16
  • Day Trip to Carcassonne Cite Medievale and Comtale Castle Tour from Toulouse: $35
  • Private 3-hour Walking Tour of Toulouse with Official Tour Guide: $255
  • Private tour of Toulouse in an electric Tuk Tuk: $66
  • Toulous: Glory of Occitania Audio Tour: $15
  • Toulouse : Must-see Walking Tour: $80
  • Toulouse : Self-guided Reading Tour: $2.13
  • Toulouse : Walking tour with audio guide: $5.29
  • Toulouse E Bike Tour: $49
  • Toulouse E-Bike Tour: $48
  • Toulouse Food & History Tour with a Chef: $118
  • Toulouse Food & History Tour with a Chef (in English): $120

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Bristol £11
    Toulouse £6.42

Sample the Local Flavors in Bristol

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Bristol:

  • Bristol’s Best Brewery Taprooms: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.99

Sample the Local Flavors in Toulouse

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Toulouse:

  • Pub Crawl Toulouse: $20
  • From Toulouse Cite de carcassonne et wine tasting: $530


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Bristol and Toulouse, we can see that Toulouse is more expensive. And not only is Bristol much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Bristol would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Bristol and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Toulouse would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Toulouse than you might in Bristol.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Bristol Expensive? and Is Toulouse Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Bristol or Toulouse?

Toulouse has a larger population, and is about 1% larger than the population of Bristol. When comparing the sizes of Bristol and Toulouse, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.


When is the best time to visit Bristol or Toulouse?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Bristol or Toulouse in the Summer?

Both Toulouse and Bristol are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Bristol because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Toulouse this time of year.

Bristol is cooler than Toulouse in the summer. The daily temperature in Bristol averages around 18°C (64°F) in July, and Toulouse fluctuates around 22°C (72°F).

In July, Bristol usually receives around the same amount of rain as Toulouse. Bristol gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Toulouse receives 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Bristol 18°C (64°F) 
    Toulouse 22°C (72°F)

Should I visit Bristol or Toulouse in the Autumn?

Both Toulouse and Bristol during the autumn are popular places to visit. The city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene are the main draw to Bristol this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Toulouse for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Bristol is cooler than Toulouse. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Bristol in October average around 13°C (55°F), and Toulouse averages at about 15°C (60°F).

Bristol usually gets more rain in October than Toulouse. Bristol gets 90 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Toulouse receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Bristol 13°C (55°F) 
    Toulouse 15°C (60°F)

Should I visit Bristol or Toulouse in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Bristol and Toulouse. Many travelers come to Bristol for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Toulouse in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In January, Bristol is generally around the same temperature as Toulouse. Daily temperatures in Bristol average around 6°C (43°F), and Toulouse fluctuates around 6°C (44°F).

In January, Bristol usually receives more rain than Toulouse. Bristol gets 90 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Toulouse receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Bristol 6°C (43°F) 
    Toulouse 6°C (44°F)

Should I visit Bristol or Toulouse in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Bristol as well as Toulouse. Many visitors come to Bristol in the spring for the activities around the city. Also, most visitors come to Toulouse for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months.

Bristol is cooler than Toulouse in the spring. The daily temperature in Bristol averages around 10°C (50°F) in April, and Toulouse fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

Bristol usually gets less rain in April than Toulouse. Bristol gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Toulouse receives 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Bristol 10°C (50°F) 
    Toulouse 12°C (54°F)

Typical Weather for Toulouse and Bristol

Bristol Toulouse
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 6°C (43°F) 90 mm (3.5 in) 6°C (44°F) 55 mm (2.2 in)
Feb 5°C (41°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 8°C (46°F) 55 mm (2.2 in)
Mar 8°C (46°F) 90 mm (3.5 in) 10°C (49°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Apr 10°C (50°F) 40 mm (1.6 in) 12°C (54°F) 64 mm (2.5 in)
May 13°C (55°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 16°C (60°F) 73 mm (2.9 in)
Jun 16°C (61°F) 50 mm (2 in) 19°C (67°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Jul 18°C (64°F) 40 mm (1.6 in) 22°C (72°F) 41 mm (1.6 in)
Aug 18°C (64°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 22°C (71°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Sep 15°C (59°F) 80 mm (3.1 in) 20°C (67°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)
Oct 13°C (55°F) 90 mm (3.5 in) 15°C (60°F) 52 mm (2 in)
Nov 8°C (46°F) 100 mm (3.9 in) 10°C (50°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Dec 7°C (45°F) 80 mm (3.1 in) 7°C (45°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)