Dubbed "La Ville Rose" (The Pink City) due to its distinctive terracotta buildings, Toulouse is the vibrant capital of the Occitanie region in southern France and offers a rich blend of history, culture, and modernity. Its charming squares, like the bustling Place du Capitole, are framed by elegant 18th-century façades. Verdant parks, such as the Jardin des Plantes, offer tranquil retreats, shaded by ancient oaks. Historic buildings, some dating back to the Roman era, blend seamlessly with Gothic and Renaissance treasures, creating a vibrant mosaic of history and architecture.Most visitors arrive via Toulouse-Blagnac Airport (TLS), located in Blagnac about 7 kilometres (4.3 miles) northwest of the city center. The airport serves as a key hub for both domestic and international flights, connecting Toulouse to major cities across Europe and beyond, including historic London in the United Kingdom, the buzzing east coast city of New York in the USA, Spain’s Catalan coastal city of Barcelona, and Brussels. The airport has a hire car rental zone so that arrivals can enjoy a seamless journey and pick up a hire car once they’ve hauled their luggage from the carousel. Simply collect your keys and begin your exploration of this beautiful city and you’ll soon be strolling its historic streets, enjoying its fine food and wine, or venturing out into the picturesque countryside. To truly experience Toulouse and its surroundings, renting a car is highly recommended as it offers unparalleled flexibility, allowing you to sightsee entirely at your pace. If you’re staying within the city, a compact or economy car is ideal for navigating the narrow streets and finding parking near popular spots like the Place du Capitole and the picturesque banks of the Garonne River. The city’s historical centre is best explored on foot, but with a car, you can easily reach the charming neighbourhoods of Saint-Cyprien or the vibrant Port Saint-Sauveur area. For those looking to explore the region more extensively, consider renting a mid-sized SUV or a crossover. These vehicles provide ample space and comfort for longer drives, whether you're heading to the nearby town of Carcassonne to visit its famous medieval citadel or driving south towards the vineyards of the Languedoc-Roussillon region. Beyond the city, Toulouse is ideally located for a variety of road trips. The charming towns of Albi and Castres, known for their medieval architecture and scenic beauty, are just a short drive away. For a longer journey, head towards the Pyrenees mountains for hiking, skiing, or simply enjoying some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the whole of France. A hire car from Toulouse gives you the freedom to explore these areas with ease.