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

Should you visit Dusseldorf or Toulouse?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Dusseldorf and Toulouse. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Dusseldorf

Dusseldorf is a vibrant, historic, and fun-filled 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 vibrant, friendly, and relaxed city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Dusseldorf and Toulouse: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Public transit not as usable


Is there more to do in Dusseldorf or Toulouse?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Toulouse than Dusseldorf. While Dusseldorf is larger than Toulouse, Toulouse has more sights and attractions for tourists. Dusseldorf is more touristy than Toulouse and is popular for its music and art scene, as well as being the fashion capital of Germany. Toulouse is well known for its impressive old town, many museums, and delicious local cuisine. Also, Toulouse is famous for Basilique Saint-Sernin.

How is Dusseldorf different from Toulouse?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Dusseldorf
Toulouse

Toulouse is a great destination for its museums and landmarks. Also, Dusseldorf is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

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.

Dusseldorf offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are museums, palaces, and many cultural sights. Make sure you check out Schloss Benrath, the Rheinturm, the North Rhine-Westphalia Art Collection, and Museum Kunstpalast.


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

Dusseldorf
Toulouse

Toulouse is very popular for its restaurant scene. Also, Dusseldorf is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Eat your way through Toulouse, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. 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.

Dusseldorf has a huge number of terrific restaurants. You'll find a mix of regional specialties and international restaurant options. Traditional dishes include Rheinischer Sauerbraten (Rhine style marinated roast), Haxe (shin), Flönz (blood sausage), and Ähzezupp (pea soup).

Is Dusseldorf or Toulouse Better for Nightlife?

Dusseldorf
Toulouse

Toulouse is a great destination for nightlife. Also, Dusseldorf is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife and partying.

The people in Toulouse know how to have a good time. 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.

If you're looking for night time activities Dusseldorf has a few options to choose from. You'll find the highest concentration of bars and pubs in the old town area. Try to find a brewerie where you can try Dusseldorf's famous altbier.

Is Dusseldorf or Toulouse Better for its Old Town?

Dusseldorf
Toulouse

Visitors enjoy the very good old town areas in both Dusseldorf and Toulouse.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Dusseldorf. The old town is popular for its bars and pubs, which serve up the local altbier. The atmosphere is charming and there are restaurants that spill out onto the streets.

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.


Is the Shopping Better in Dusseldorf or Toulouse?

Dusseldorf
Toulouse

Toulouse is a great destination for shopping. Also, Dusseldorf is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping opportunities.

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.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Dusseldorf. Head to the popular shopping street of Königsallee. You'll find luxury brands and boutique shops. The city also has department stores and large shopping malls.

Is Dusseldorf or Toulouse Better for Families?

Dusseldorf
Toulouse

Both Dusseldorf and Toulouse are very good family-friendly destinations.

Dusseldorf is a very family-friendly place to visit. It has many great playgrounds and parks where kids can run around. Animal lovers will appreciate Aquazoo Löbbecke Museum and Grafenberger Wald which has about 100 animals. If the weather's nice you can head to Unterbacher See, which is a lakefront beach. Other kid-friendly activities in town include the Neanderthal Museum and Museum Kunstpalast.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Toulouse is very family-friendly. 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 Dusseldorf or Toulouse Better for Couples?

Dusseldorf
Toulouse

Dusseldorf and Toulouse both very good destinations for a couple.

Couples visit Dusseldorf frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. There is live theater, spa hotels, historic palaces, and many parks and gardens where couples can enjoy their time together. Popular activities for couples in town include visiting Rheinturm, taking a Rhine River cruise, and exploring Schloss Dyck.

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.


Is Dusseldorf or Toulouse Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Dusseldorf
Toulouse

Dusseldorf is a city with good options for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Toulouse is not a good destination for backpackers.

Dusseldorf is a good city to visit for backpackers. There are plenty of hostels and activities around town. There are also affordable restaurants and a nice nightlife scene.

Toulouse is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not a major stop off for many backpackers in Europe so you won't find as many hostels as you do in other cities.

Is Dusseldorf or Toulouse Better for Students?

Dusseldorf
Toulouse

Toulouse is a good destination for students. However, Dusseldorf is not popular with students.

Toulouse is popular with students. You'll find a diverse student population with many international students.

Dusseldorf is not popular with students.

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

Dusseldorf
Toulouse

Dusseldorf is a must-visit destination for times when you don't have a car. Also, Toulouse is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its public transit.

Dusseldorf has a world-class public transit network to take passengers everywhere in the city. All of the public transportation in town is operated by Rheinbahn. There's a city railway, (U-Bahn), suburban trains (S-Bahn), trams, and buses. Dusseldorf is also easily connected to the many other nearby towns and cities including Cologne.

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


Is Dusseldorf or Toulouse a more walkable city?

Dusseldorf
Toulouse

Dusseldorf and Toulouse both are very good when exploring on foot.

Dusseldorf is very walkable. It's easy to explore most of the city on foot.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Toulouse or Dusseldorf?

How long in Dusseldorf or Toulouse?

It's fun to spend time in either Dusseldorf 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 Dusseldorf, and 2-4 days is enough time in Toulouse.

Families should spend more time in Toulouse than Dusseldorf. 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 Dusseldorf. 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.


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

One day in Dusseldorf or Toulouse?

The city of Dusseldorf 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.

With museums and nightlife around the relaxed city of Toulouse, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. One of the main draws to the area is the food. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Dusseldorf or Toulouse?

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

With nightlife and food around the destination of Toulouse, there's plenty to do. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. One of the main draws to the area is the food. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.


Five days in Dusseldorf or Toulouse?

Dusseldorf 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, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Dusseldorf or Toulouse?

Dusseldorf is a great place to explore. 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.

Toulouse is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One of the main draws to the area is the food. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Munich, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Berlin, The Best Historical Tours in France, and The Best 10-Day Tours in France.


Which place is cheaper, Toulouse or Dusseldorf?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Dusseldorf is €185, while the average daily cost in Toulouse is €125. 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 Dusseldorf and Toulouse in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Dusseldorf 95
    Toulouse 67
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Dusseldorf 190
    Toulouse 134
Compare Hotels in Dusseldorf and Toulouse

Looking for a hotel in Dusseldorf 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 Dusseldorf


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: Dusseldorf Hotel Prices and Toulouse Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Dusseldorf 1.63
    Toulouse 41

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Dusseldorf

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Dusseldorf:

  • Arrival Private Transfer Dusseldorf Train Station or Port by Car: $92
  • Dusseldorf Airport Transfers : Airport DUS to Dusseldorf in Luxury Car: $86
  • Dusseldorf Airport Transfers : Dusseldorf to Airport DUS in Luxury Car: $86
  • Dusseldorf Airport Transfers : Airport DUS to Dusseldorf in Luxury Van: $77
  • Dusseldorf Airport Transfers : Airport DUS to Dusseldorf in Business Car: $73
  • Dusseldorf Arrival Private Transfers from Airport DUS to Dusseldorf: $73
  • Dusseldorf Airport (DUS) to Dusseldorf - Arrival Private Transfer: $49

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Toulouse

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

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

Is it cheaper to fly into Dusseldorf or Toulouse?

Prices for flights to both Toulouse and Dusseldorf 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
    Dusseldorf 76
    Toulouse 34
Typical Food Prices in Dusseldorf

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Dusseldorf:


  • Salami
    1.99
  • Nutella
    1.00
  • Yogurt
    1.00

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Dusseldorf

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Dusseldorf.

  • Culinary Flingern – The Food Tour: $48

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.
    Dusseldorf 25
    Toulouse 15

Tours and Activities in Dusseldorf

Here are a few actual costs in Dusseldorf for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Beer tour with tasting in Dusseldorf: $34
  • Best Intro Tour of Dusseldorf with a Local: $141
  • City game scavenger hunt Düsseldorf - independent city tour I discovery tour: $44
  • City game scavenger hunt Duisburg - independent city tour I discovery tour: $44
  • Düsseldorf 2-Hour Evening Cruise: $27
  • Düsseldorf Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $7.10
  • Düsseldorf Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $11
  • Düsseldorf Segway Rhein Tour: Rhine River Experience: $86
  • Düsseldorf Segway Tour: Classical City Experience: $86
  • Düsseldorf Self-Guided Audio Tour: $9.00
  • Düsseldorf Sightseeing round-trip Cruise: $19
  • Dusseldorf : Private Walking tour with A Guide (Private Tour): $51

Tours and Activities in Toulouse

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

  • Toulouse : Self-guided Reading Tour: $2.13
  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.21
  • Toulouse : Walking tour with audio guide: $5.29
  • City Exploration Game and Tour on your Phone: $6.36
  • Toulouse Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self Guided Tour: $6.56
  • Highlights Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt & Tour: $6.95
  • City Exploration Game and Tour: $6.95
  • Toulouse's Timeless Splendor: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $11
  • Self-Guided Audio Tour: $11
  • Toulous: Glory of Occitania Audio Tour: $15
  • Aeroscopia Admission Ticket: $16
  • Sightseeing Tour by Open-Top Minibus: $17

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Dusseldorf 23
    Toulouse 7.50
Typical Alcohol Prices in Dusseldorf

Some typical examples of the costs for nightlife and alcohol in Dusseldorf are as follows:


  • Night Out Drinking
    25

Sample the Local Flavors in Dusseldorf

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Dusseldorf:

  • Brewery Tour Düsseldorf in English (inc. 3 beer): $29

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 Dusseldorf and Toulouse, we can see that Dusseldorf is more expensive. And not only is Toulouse much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Toulouse would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Toulouse 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 Dusseldorf would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Dusseldorf than you might in Toulouse.

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


Which is Bigger, Dusseldorf or Toulouse?

Dusseldorf has a larger population, and is about 39% larger than the population of Toulouse. When comparing the sizes of Dusseldorf 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 Dusseldorf or Toulouse?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Dusseldorf or Toulouse in the Summer?

Both Toulouse and Dusseldorf during the summer are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Dusseldorf for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Toulouse because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Dusseldorf is generally cooler than Toulouse. Daily temperatures in Dusseldorf average around 19°C (66°F), and Toulouse fluctuates around 22°C (72°F).

In Toulouse, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the summer, Dusseldorf often gets less sunshine than Toulouse. Dusseldorf gets 195 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Toulouse receives 275 hours of full sun.

Dusseldorf usually gets more rain in July than Toulouse. Dusseldorf gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Toulouse receives 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Dusseldorf 19°C (66°F) 
    Toulouse 22°C (72°F)

Should I visit Dusseldorf or Toulouse in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Dusseldorf and Toulouse. The autumn months attract visitors to Dusseldorf because of the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Furthermore, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Toulouse this time of year.

Dusseldorf is cooler than Toulouse in the autumn. The daily temperature in Dusseldorf averages around 12°C (53°F) in October, and Toulouse fluctuates around 15°C (60°F).

Dusseldorf usually receives less sunshine than Toulouse during autumn. Dusseldorf gets 112 hours of sunny skies, while Toulouse receives 161 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Dusseldorf usually receives more rain than Toulouse. Dusseldorf gets 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Toulouse receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Dusseldorf 12°C (53°F) 
    Toulouse 15°C (60°F)

Should I visit Dusseldorf or Toulouse in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Dusseldorf as well as Toulouse. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Dusseldorf this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Toulouse for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

It's quite cold in Dusseldorf in the winter. In the winter, Dusseldorf is much colder than Toulouse. Typically, the winter temperatures in Dusseldorf in January average around 3°C (37°F), and Toulouse averages at about 6°C (44°F).

In the winter, Dusseldorf often gets less sunshine than Toulouse. Dusseldorf gets 45 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Toulouse receives 88 hours of full sun.

Dusseldorf usually gets more rain in January than Toulouse. Dusseldorf gets 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Toulouse receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Dusseldorf 3°C (37°F) 
    Toulouse 6°C (44°F)

Should I visit Dusseldorf or Toulouse in the Spring?

Both Toulouse and Dusseldorf are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Dusseldorf for the activities around the city. Also, many visitors come to Toulouse in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In April, Dusseldorf is generally cooler than Toulouse. Daily temperatures in Dusseldorf average around 9°C (48°F), and Toulouse fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

Dusseldorf usually receives less sunshine than Toulouse during spring. Dusseldorf gets 155 hours of sunny skies, while Toulouse receives 178 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Dusseldorf usually receives less rain than Toulouse. Dusseldorf gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Toulouse receives 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Dusseldorf 9°C (48°F) 
    Toulouse 12°C (54°F)

Typical Weather for Toulouse and Dusseldorf

Dusseldorf Toulouse
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 3°C (37°F) 67 mm (2.6 in) 6°C (44°F) 55 mm (2.2 in)
Feb 3°C (38°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 8°C (46°F) 55 mm (2.2 in)
Mar 6°C (44°F) 64 mm (2.5 in) 10°C (49°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Apr 9°C (48°F) 51 mm (2 in) 12°C (54°F) 64 mm (2.5 in)
May 14°C (57°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 16°C (60°F) 73 mm (2.9 in)
Jun 17°C (62°F) 86 mm (3.4 in) 19°C (67°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Jul 19°C (66°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 22°C (72°F) 41 mm (1.6 in)
Aug 19°C (66°F) 62 mm (2.5 in) 22°C (71°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Sep 16°C (60°F) 57 mm (2.2 in) 20°C (67°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)
Oct 12°C (53°F) 56 mm (2.2 in) 15°C (60°F) 52 mm (2 in)
Nov 7°C (44°F) 66 mm (2.6 in) 10°C (50°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Dec 4°C (40°F) 74 mm (2.9 in) 7°C (45°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)