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

Should you visit Canberra or Toulouse?

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

Should I visit Canberra or Toulouse? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Canberra

Canberra is a diverse, under-rated, 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 nightlife, food, and hiking.

Toulouse

Toulouse is a friendly, relaxed, and dynamic city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums.

Canberra and Toulouse: Pros and Cons

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


Is there more to do in Canberra or Toulouse?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Toulouse than Canberra, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Toulouse is more popular for its food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Canberra is known for its hiking. Canberra is popular for its educational museums and the nearby nature reserves. Toulouse is popular for its impressive old town, many museums, and delicious local cuisine. It is also home to Basilique Saint-Sernin.

How is Canberra different from Toulouse?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Canberra
Toulouse

Visiting museums and landmarks is a fun activity in both Canberra and Toulouse.

Canberra offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. As Australia's capital, there are a large number of museums around town that focus on everything from history and culture to science and nature. Some of the most interesting are the Australian War Memorial, the New Parliament House, the Museum of Australian Democracy, the National Gallery of Australia, and the National Science and Technology Centre, but there are many more.

Many visitors head to Toulouse specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. 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 Canberra or Toulouse? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Canberra
Toulouse

Toulouse is terrific for its restaurants. Also, Canberra is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

For foodies, Toulouse is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. 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.

Dining out in Canberra is an experience not to be missed. There's a trendy culinary scene as well as nearby vineyards that provide great wine. You'll find everything from family-friendly and casual to upscale and fine dining.

Is Canberra or Toulouse Better for Nightlife?

Canberra
Toulouse

Toulouse is an excellent place to visit for nightlife and partying. Also, Canberra is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its evening party scene.

Toulouse has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. 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.

Canberra has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. There are local pubs and music venues that offer fun entertainment in the evening. You can sip wine or practice your dance moves at one of the city's clubs.

Is Canberra or Toulouse Better for its Old Town?

Canberra
Toulouse

Toulouse is an excellent place to visit for its old town. However, Canberra does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Toulouse. 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.

Canberra does not have a historic old town.


Is Canberra or Toulouse Better for Hiking?

Canberra
Toulouse

Canberra is a city with good options for hiking. However, Toulouse is not a hiking destination.

Plenty of visitors go hiking around Canberra. There's one national park - Namadgi, as well as green space, rolling hills, and hiking trails just outside of town.

Toulouse is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Canberra or Toulouse?

Canberra
Toulouse

Toulouse is an excellent place to visit for its shopping opportunities. Also, Canberra is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping areas.

Toulouse is well-known for its shopping. There are many great shopping districts around town including Place du Capitole, The Saint Georges district, and Rue Alsace Lorraine.

Many visitors go to Canberra to go shopping. Caberra Centre is the city's largest shopping centre and it has all of the usual international brands.

Is Canberra or Toulouse Better for Families?

Canberra
Toulouse

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Canberra or Toulouse.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Canberra is very family-friendly. There are interactive museums and science centers such as Questacon, the National Dinosaur Museum, and the National Zoo and Aquarium. There are also cultural and historical museums such as the Australian War Memorial, the Museum of Australian Democracy, and the National Museum of Australia. The city also has plenty of outdoor space and hands on crafts that kids will enjoy.

Toulouse is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. 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.


Is Canberra or Toulouse Better for Couples?

Canberra
Toulouse

Toulouse is an excellent place to visit for its romantic activities. Also, Canberra is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

Toulouse makes for a fun place to visit for 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.

Canberra is a good city for couples to visit. As the city has plenty of date night activities like nice restaurants, interesting shows, and trendy wineries. During the day you can explore the outdoor setting, have a picnic, or visit a vineyard.

Is Canberra or Toulouse Better for Students?

Canberra
Toulouse

Canberra is great for its student-friendly activities. Also, Toulouse is not as popular, but is still a nice city for students.

Students come from all over to stay in Canberra. It's a welcoming city that is a fairly popular study abroad destination. Many students appreciate the friendly atmosphere, safe environment, and great economic setting.

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

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

Canberra
Toulouse

Visitors will find good public transit in both Canberra and Toulouse.

Canberra has some public transit options. There are public buses as well as a light rail system. The Red Explorer Loop bus goes by many of the city's sights.

You'll find some public transit in Toulouse, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are a large number of bus routes that travel both locally and regionally.


Is Canberra or Toulouse a more walkable city?

Canberra
Toulouse

Toulouse is an excellent place to visit for its high level of walkability. Also, Canberra is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its ease of walking around.

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

Canberra is a somewhat walkable city. There are parts of the city that are walkable and possible to explore on foot, but in general this is a very car-centered city.

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

Should I spend more time in Toulouse or Canberra?

How long in Canberra or Toulouse?

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

Families should spend more time in Toulouse than Canberra. 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 Canberra. 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 Canberra 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 Canberra or Toulouse? Ideal Length of Stay
    Canberra 2-3 
    Toulouse 2-4

One day in Canberra or Toulouse?

The city of Canberra offers food and shopping. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

The city of Toulouse offers food and shopping. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Canberra or Toulouse?

Canberra 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 Canberra, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Toulouse 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. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Toulouse, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.


Five days in Canberra or Toulouse?

Canberra 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 popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that food is why people visit. 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.

A week in Canberra or Toulouse?

Canberra 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.

Toulouse is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that food is why people visit. Visiting the old town is also a must. 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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Walking Tours in Australia, The Best Eco Tours in Australia, The Best Historical Tours in France, and The Best 10-Day Tours in France.


Which place is cheaper, Toulouse or Canberra?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Canberra is $135, while the average daily cost in Toulouse is $134. 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 Canberra and Toulouse in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Canberra $83
    Toulouse $72
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Canberra $166
    Toulouse $144
Compare Hotels in Canberra and Toulouse

Looking for a hotel in Canberra 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 Canberra


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: Canberra Hotel Prices and Toulouse Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Canberra $25
    Toulouse $44

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Canberra

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

  • Guided Tour of Floriade Festival with Transfers: $118
  • Private Transfer from Canberra city hotels to Eden Cruise Port: $82
  • Private Transfer from Canberra Airport CBR to Eden Cruise Port : $82
  • Canberra Airport (CBR) to Canberra - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $68
  • Canberra to Canberra Int Airport - Departure Private Transfer: $34
  • Canberra Int'l Airport to Canberra - Arrival Private Transfer: $34

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Toulouse

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

  • Transfer Toulouse to Carcassonne center: $240
  • Toulouse Private Transfer from Toulouse city centre to Toulouse Airport: $66
  • Toulouse Private Transfer from Toulouse Airport to City centre: $67
  • Private transfer from or to Toulouse Airport: $87
  • Departure Private Transfer: Toulouse to Toulouse Airport TLS in Luxury Van: $92
  • Arrival Transfer Toulouse Airport TLS to Toulouse by Car or Van: $41

Is it cheaper to fly into Canberra or Toulouse?

Prices for flights to both Toulouse and Canberra 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
    Canberra $35
    Toulouse $36
Typical Food Prices in Canberra

For Canberra, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Lunch
    $17

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 !: $53
  • Bakeries, Chocolate & Patisseries Food Tour: $77
  • 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.
    Canberra $17
    Toulouse $16

Tours and Activities in Canberra

For Canberra, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Hop-on Hop-off Sightseeing Tour in Canberra: $30
  • Australian Institute of Sport: The AIS Tour: $14
  • Best of Wildlife and Birds Tour: $98
  • Building + Architecture Tour | 10am Daily: $13
  • Canberra Floriade Tour: $118
  • Canberra Small Group Winery Tour: $149
  • Beer, Wine, and Spirits Tasting Tour: $112
  • Best of Wildlife Tour: $89
  • City Highlights Day Tour with Entrance Fees: $118
  • Capital Christmas: Private Festive Tour in Canberra: $646
  • Discover Canberra’s Heritage: A Full-Day Private Tour: $870
  • Discover Pearls of Canberra - Private Walking Tour: $133

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: $36
  • Guided EBike Tour along the Canal Du Midi and the Countryside: $71
  • Private 3-hour Walking Tour of Toulouse with Official Tour Guide: $254
  • Private tour of Toulouse in an electric Tuk Tuk: $66
  • Toulous: Glory of Occitania Audio Tour: $15
  • Toulouse : Boat Cruise Canal du Midi: $29
  • Toulouse : Must-see Walking Tour: $81
  • Toulouse : Self-guided Reading Tour: $2.14
  • Toulouse : Walking tour with audio guide: $5.33
  • Toulouse E Bike Tour: $49
  • Toulouse E-Bike Tour: $48

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Canberra $16
    Toulouse $8.04
Typical Alcohol Prices in Canberra

Here are a few samples of the prices for alcohol and nightlife in Canberra from other travelers:


  • Drinks at a Bar
    $9.25

Sample the Local Flavors in Canberra

Also in Canberra, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Canberra Brewery and Beer Tour in 3 Hours: $99
  • Canberra Brewery Winery and Distillery Tour: $112
  • Capital Brewery Full-Day Tour: $122
  • CanBEERa Explorer: Capital Brewery Full-Day Tour: $123
  • From Winery, Distillery, & Tasting Tour with Lunch: $149
  • Canberra Wine Tour: $158
  • Full-Day Canberra Brewery, Wineries & Distillery tour /w lunch: $162

Sample the Local Flavors in Toulouse

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

  • From Toulouse Cite de carcassonne et wine tasting: $534


When comparing the travel costs between Canberra and Toulouse, we can see that Canberra is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Even though Canberra is in Pacific and Toulouse is in Europe, both of these destinations have relatively similar prices of travel. Generally, the levels of luxury and expenses are the same for these cities even though they are geographically far apart.

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


Which is Bigger, Canberra or Toulouse?

Toulouse has a larger population, and is about 32% larger than the population of Canberra. When comparing the sizes of Canberra 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 Canberra or Toulouse?

Even though both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, they experience these seasons at different times of the year. Canberra is in the southern hemisphere and summer is in January and winter is in July, but Toulouse has summer in [NORTHERNSUMMERMONTH] and winter in [NORTHERNWINTERMONTH].

Should I visit Canberra or Toulouse in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Canberra and Toulouse. Many visitors come to Canberra in the summer for the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Toulouse for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Canberra is cooler than Toulouse. Typically, the summer temperatures in Canberra in January average around 20°C (68°F), and Toulouse averages at about 22°C (72°F)in July.

In January, Canberra usually receives more rain than Toulousein July. Canberra gets 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain, while Toulouse receives 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures January and July
    Canberra 20°C (68°F) 
    Toulouse 22°C (72°F)

Should I visit Canberra or Toulouse in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Canberra as well as Toulouse. Most visitors come to Canberra for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, and the shopping scene during these months. Additionally, the autumn months attract visitors to Toulouse because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In April, Canberra is generally around the same temperature as Toulousein October. Daily temperatures in Canberra average around 17°C (63°F), and Toulouse fluctuates around 15°C (60°F).

Canberra receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Canberra usually gets more rain in April than Toulousein October. Canberra gets 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while Toulouse receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures April and October
    Canberra 17°C (63°F) 
    Toulouse 15°C (60°F)

Should I visit Canberra or Toulouse in the Winter?

Both Toulouse and Canberra are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Canberra because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Toulouse this time of year.

Canberra is much warmer than Toulouse in the winter. The daily temperature in Canberra averages around 11°C (52°F) in July, and Toulouse fluctuates around 6°C (44°F)in January.

In July, Canberra usually receives less rain than Toulousein January. Canberra gets 43 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Toulouse receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures July and January
    Canberra 11°C (52°F) 
    Toulouse 6°C (44°F)

Should I visit Canberra or Toulouse in the Spring?

Both Toulouse and Canberra during the spring are popular places to visit. The activities around the city are the main draw to Canberra this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Toulouse for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Canberra is a little warmer than Toulouse. Typically, the spring temperatures in Canberra in October average around 15°C (60°F), and Toulouse averages at about 12°C (54°F)in April.

Canberra usually gets more rain in October than Toulousein April. Canberra gets 95 mm (3.7 in) of rain, while Toulouse receives 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures October and April
    Canberra 15°C (60°F) 
    Toulouse 12°C (54°F)

Typical Weather for Toulouse and Canberra

Canberra Toulouse
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 20°C (68°F) 87 mm (3.4 in) 6°C (44°F) 55 mm (2.2 in)
Feb 20°C (68°F) 107 mm (4.2 in) 8°C (46°F) 55 mm (2.2 in)
Mar 19°C (67°F) 131 mm (5.2 in) 10°C (49°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Apr 17°C (63°F) 110 mm (4.3 in) 12°C (54°F) 64 mm (2.5 in)
May 14°C (58°F) 87 mm (3.4 in) 16°C (60°F) 73 mm (2.9 in)
Jun 12°C (54°F) 90 mm (3.5 in) 19°C (67°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Jul 11°C (52°F) 43 mm (1.7 in) 22°C (72°F) 41 mm (1.6 in)
Aug 12°C (53°F) 66 mm (2.6 in) 22°C (71°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Sep 14°C (56°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 20°C (67°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)
Oct 15°C (60°F) 95 mm (3.7 in) 15°C (60°F) 52 mm (2 in)
Nov 17°C (63°F) 104 mm (4.1 in) 10°C (50°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Dec 19°C (66°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 7°C (45°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)