Things To Do
in Toul
Toul is a small historic town in northeastern France, perched near the Lorraine countryside. Its compact center is anchored by a grand cathedral, medieval streets, and well-preserved ramparts that reveal its fortified past. The town serves as a relaxed base for exploring Lorraine’s markets, riverside scenery, and nearby châteaux.
With a friendly, provincial vibe, Toul offers an intimate window into daily French life and regional cuisine.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a leisurely stroll through the charming historic center of Toul. Marvel at the well-preserved medieval buildings and the impressive Basilica of Saint-Etienne, which showcases stunning architecture. Allow yourself to enjoy a warm croissant and a coffee at a local café while soaking in the vibrant atmosphere.
After lunch, visit the heart of Toul's history, the Place des Martyrs, where you can admire various monuments and the local market if it's a market day. Take your time to explore artisanal shops and boutiques, where you can find unique souvenirs and handcrafted goods. Don’t miss the chance to interact with friendly locals who often share captivating stories of the city.
As night falls, enjoy dinner at a traditional French bistro, savoring regional specialties such as Quiche Lorraine. After your meal, take a gentle walk along the Moselle River, where you can enjoy the serene views of the water and the twinkling lights reflecting from historic buildings. Cap off your night with a glass of local wine at a nearby wine bar.
Start your day by hiking up to Toul's iconic citadel, where you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of the city and surrounding countryside. The crisp air and historical significance of the site will surely take your breath away. Take your time to explore the fortifications and learn about their impressive history.
After exploring the citadel, head back into town for lunch at a local restaurant, sampling some delicious regional dishes. Spend your afternoon wandering through the artisanal small shops and galleries, where you can find exquisite crafts and local artworks. Make sure to visit the nearby museum to deepen your understanding of Toul's rich history.
For dinner, indulge in a meal at a riverside café that specializes in fresh, seasonal ingredients sourced from the region. Afterward, attend a local cultural event or concert if available, as Toul often hosts musical performances and art exhibitions. As the evening winds down, find a cozy bar to relax and reflect on the day’s adventures.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🧀Local cheese and baguette | $5-10 |
| 🚆Public transit ticket (one-way) | $2-3 |
| 🏨Budget hotel per night | $60-120 |
| 🍷Glass of wine in a café | $5-8 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Compact, walkable historic center
- Rich Lorraine culture and cuisine
- Good base for day trips to Nancy, Metz, and nearby villages
- Limited nightlife compared to bigger cities
- Can feel quiet outside peak hours
- Some attractions close on Sundays or Mondays
- "Bonjour" - Hello / Good morning
- "S'il vous plaît" - Please
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "Parlez-vous anglais?" - Do you speak English?
- "Où est... ?" - Where is... ?
- "L'addition, s'il vous plaît" - The bill, please
- "Pouvez-vous recommander un restaurant ?" - Can you recommend a restaurant?
- "Je suis perdu(e)" - I am lost
Places to Visit in Toul
Visit one of these nice places.
A Gothic cathedral with soaring windows and intricate stonework; morning light through the nave makes for dramatic interior photos.
Historic ramparts and gates offering vantage points over the town and surrounding countryside.
Central square framed by historic buildings, ideal for people-watching and street photography.
Quiet riverside scenes perfect for sunset shoots and reflections in the water.
Food in Toul
Toul Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
The iconic Lorraine quiche, rich with bacon, eggs, and cream; widely available in bakeries and bistros.
Must-Try!
A slow-cooked meat and vegetable stew, traditional in colder months and served in many local brasseries.
Desserts and tarts made with Mirabelle plums, a signature sweet of the region.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market in central squares offering fresh produce, cheeses, meats, bread, and prepared foods; best visited in the morning for the freshest picks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with 'Bonjour' (good day) or 'Bonsoir' (good evening) and use 'Monsieur' or 'Madame' in formal settings. A handshake is common in business; in casual settings, a kiss on the cheek (la bise) may occur among friends.
Keep hands visible on the table, wait to begin until everyone is served, and say please and thank you ('s'il vous plaît' / 'merci').
Being on time is appreciated for appointments; social events are generally relaxed, but late arrivals should be minimal.
Safety
Tipping in Toul
Ensure a smooth experience
In France, service is often included (service compris) in many restaurants. If service is not included, a tip of 5–10% is appreciated for good service. Rounding up the bill at cafés or bakeries is common but not required.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; contactless payments are common. Cash is useful for smaller shops and markets, but cards are preferred in most restaurants and larger establishments.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures and fresh gardens; great for strolling the ramparts and markets without crowds.
Warm days with long evenings; stay hydrated, wear sunscreen, and enjoy outdoor cafés and light festivals.
Harvest time brings markets alive with produce and pastries; colorful foliage enhances riverbank and park photos.
Cool to cold with occasional snow; warm interiors, Christmas markets, and convivial cafés provide cozy attractions.
Toul at Night
Hiking in Toul
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic loop along the town’s ramparts offering views of the rooftops and surrounding fields.
Forest trails near Nancy with gentle climbs and shaded paths suitable for day hikes.
Rural routes through farmland and woodlands within a short drive, ideal for longer walks or multi-hour hikes.
Airports
How to reach Toul by plane.
Regional airport offering connections to major European cities; typically about 1–1.5 hours by car or train from Toul.
International airport within a reasonable drive; useful for broader international travel from the Lorraine region.
Major hub options; a longer journey from Toul but with extensive international connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many families live in Toul, attracted by safety, schools, and a slower pace of life.
Some residents are students or young professionals commuting to nearby cities for work or study.
A portion of residents are retirees who enjoy the town’s quiet charm and regional cuisine.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The region has a strong local football culture with community clubs and regional competitions.
Scenic routes through the Lorraine countryside; suitable for casual rides and more ambitious cyclists.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Toul.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many Lorraine dishes are meat-focused, but you can find cheese plates, vegetable sides, omelets, and seasonal vegetarian options. When ordering, ask for meat-free versions or substitutions and enjoy local cheese and vegetable garnishes.