Sunday, February 2, 2025 - We take brunch outdoors by the Capitole Square, and we cross the Garonne River. Sunny 55° F (13°C)

Today we slept in, because it's Sunday! Had a lazy breakfast of baguette and sliced apples. And coffee. There's always coffee.

Then we ventured out for a long walk. We first went by the Marché Victor Hugo, a huge indoor market with food vendors and restaurants. It was very crowded. I had to check the time, because there were what seemed like hundreds of people all sitting and standing around, munching on charcuterie and drinking wine; full open bottles of wine. It was 11am. People here know how to enjoy life I think.

We continued wandering around, soaking up the sun and checking out places to grab brunch. We eventually ended up back at the Place du Capitole, where a row of restaurants lined the opposite side of the square from the Capitole building. After perusing the menus and dithering a bit, we settled on a place that had some tables in the sun, and a menu that we could decipher. Only later did we discover that it was called Grand Café Le Florida, and is somewhat famous - it has an illustrious history as both a chocolatier and a brewery, extending back to 1874.

We enjoyed a delicious brunch of steak and potatoes and salmon tartare.

Oh and of course, we shared a bottle of wine!

After eating, we noticed that, across the square, the door to the Capitole was open. According to Harry the guide (see: Walking Tour of Toulouse), if the door is open, the Capitole is open and you can freely explore. So of course, we had to investigate. The Place du Capitole is a historic municipal building and it's spectacular.

The inside housed a gorgeous staircase:

And many paintings and opulence:

In the fascinating Salle du Paul Gervais, Paul Gervais painted three large works along one wall depicting love at ages 20, 40, and 60. Apparently this room was where marriages were held.

And then there was the Salle des Illustres It must have been hard to get municipal work done surrounded by such opulence.

So much history and art to enjoy and learn about!

After leaving the Capitole, we walked down to the Garonne river. On the way we passed many local businesses, including this one. Any poutine fans out there?

When we reached the river, we decided to cross over via the Pont Saint-Pierre. We considered touring the Chapelle Saint Joseph de la Grave, but ultimately decided not to. One can only visit so many churches. Apparently, it's the most photographed building in Toulouse; probably because everyone looks at if from across the river.

It was such a beautiful day to see the city from across the river

We sat for awhile and enjoyed the view

On the way back, we walked along the other side of the river, and noticed more than a few other folks also enjoying the scene. Mostly winters are frequently cloudy here, so people are taking advantage of the sun and blue skies.

We are really enjoying Toulouse!