Classified as a Ville d'Art et d'Histoire (City of Art and History) and recognized as a tourist resort in 2021, Montauban has succeeded in preserving and promoting its rich heritage while enhancing its appeal. Bordered by the river Tarn, this medieval city combines culture, relaxation and art de vivre. You can discover the traces of the great names who have marked its history - from the painter Ingres to the sculptor Bourdelle, not forgetting Olympe de Gouges - through museums and emblematic sites. So, what's there to see and do while you're here? From its beautiful cathedral to its famous Place Nationale and cultural events, here are 13 must-sees.
1. Notre-Dame Cathedral, a masterpiece of classical art
Dominating the old town from its highest point, Montauban's Notre-Dame cathedral is considered a true masterpiece of classical art. Decided by Louis XIV in 1692, the very year of the revocation of the Edict of Nantes, it was intended to assert the power of Catholicism in a former Protestant stronghold. Its construction lasted until 1739. With its immaculate facade contrasting with the surrounding red brick, it stands out in the urban landscape and is visible from the left bank of the Tarn.
The cathedral has been closed for safety reasons since 2020, but a partial reopening is planned for 2027.
Read more: Top 21 most beautiful cathedrals to visit in France
2. Visit the Musée Ingres-Bourdelle
Two artists, two talents from Montauban - one a painter, the other a sculptor - are brought together in a superbly renovated museum. Founded in 1820, the museum really took off in 1867, on the death of Ingres, when it inherited all the master's works. Jean-Auguste-Dominique Ingres is not the only artist celebrated here, however: over 70 sculptures by Émile-Antoine Bourdelle, another of the city's child prodigies, are also on display. Together, the painter and sculptor bequeathed Montauban an exceptionally rich collection: over 4,500 drawings and some 60 paintings by Ingres, plus the impressive creations of Bourdelle.
Did you know? Montauban is one of our ideas for a weekend getaway less than 2 hours from Toulouse.
3. What to do in Montauban Visit the Musée de la Résistance et du Combattant
Located in the heart of the Roseraie, in the Pôle Mémoire, the Musée de la Résistance et du Combattant offers a permanent exhibition dedicated to the Second World War. Born of an initial donation of objects and documents by a former deported resistance fighter, the museum has been gradually enriched by other donations and acquisitions. More than a place of remembrance, the museum invites visitors to reflect on conflicts and the questions they raise. The museum's varied collections, steeped in history, explore the major aspects of the Second World War.
4. Saint-Jacques church, typical of the Southern Gothic style, with its Toulouse-style bell tower
Founded in the 12th century and rebuilt in the following century, Saint-Jacques church was built by the bourgeoisie of Montauban to atone for their support of the Cathars. Typical of the Southern Gothic style, it features a single nave and an elegant octagonal bell tower in the Toulouse style. Inside, you can admire a stucco and marble altarpiece created by Ingres' father in the late 18th century. The church has an eventful history: transformed into a fortress during the Wars of Religion, it still bears the scars of the city's siege. Between 1630 and 1739, it was even Montauban's cathedral.
5. Montauban's Natural History Museum for families with children
Housed in the former palace of the Cour des Aides, the Natural History Museum - also known as the Muséum Victor Brun - retainsthe charm of a 19th-century cabinet, with its period woodwork and display cases. Here you'll discover an astonishing diversity of species from all over the world, whether crawling, flying or running. Its flagship collection is devoted to birds, with almost 3,000 specimens, including a large number of exotic species. A must-see for families with children in Montauban.
6. The toy museum, a family visit in Montauban
With 700 m² of exhibition space, this museum is a delight for children and adults alike. There's an area devoted to the world of railways - trains, stations and tracks - but also a section dedicated to the Tour de France and even a basin where the famous "pop-pop" boats float. One of the centerpieces is an impressive Mecano, whose gigantic crane required over 1,100 bolts to assemble. There's also a superb collection of sewing machines, wooden toys from various eras, retro board games, vintage cars and many other treasures.
7. What to do in Montauban Stroll around the Carmes convent
Tucked away behind the town hall parking lot, the Convent des Carmes is a former convent dating back to the early 18th century and home to a charming landscaped garden. Its rib-vaulted galleries resting on brick abutments invite you to take a stroll, while the murmur of a fountain accompanies the discovery of the plant beds. Refurbished in 2007 in the medieval spirit, the garden is divided into four plots devoted to medicinal, ornamental, vegetable and fruit plants. Today, the site is home to the Municipal Conservatory of Music and Dance.
8. Montauban's Place Nationale, the heart of the city
Montauban's Place Nationale, the heart of the city since 1144, is a lively crossroads where residents and visitors meet. Its arcades and red brickscontribute to the charm of this emblematic place. Around the square, restaurants, bars, grocery stores and secondhand booksellers all contribute to its convivial atmosphere. Listed as a historic monument since 1910, it has recently been enhanced by a water mirror, inviting everyone to sit back, stroll and enjoy this must-see Montauban setting. It's a charming square where you can stroll under the passageways.
9. Discover the city's history with a guide
A city walk in Montauban allows you to stroll through the city streets, visit its emblematic monuments, enjoy its squares and even do a little shopping. But to fully appreciate the city's rich architecture and history, nothing beats a guided tour with a tour guide. The Notre-Dame-de-l'Assomption cathedral, the old college, the Saint-Jacques church, the Pont-Vieux and the Place Nationale will soon hold no secrets for you! You can find the calendar of guided tours on the Montauban Tourist Office website.
Rates: €5.20 per adult; €2.70 per child (+ €3.50 for museum admission)
10. Art 27, a must for all contemporary art lovers
In the heart of Montauban, Art 27 is a new contemporary art gallery that catches the eye behind its colorful window. Conceived by the dynamic Edwige, previously based in Montjoi, it brings together some thirty artists - painters, sculptors, designers and visual artists. The place stands out for its eclecticism and non-conformist spirit, offering an unmissable rendezvous for contemporary art lovers. Here, works are unique, accessible and off the beaten track. It's impossible to remain indifferent to the creations of talents such as Amiel, Artorchis or Pradier.
11. Go for a walk in the Parc de l'Évêché
Parc de l'Évêché, near the headquarters of the Conseil départemental, is a magnificent garden for strolling. Originally, its parterres de fleurs, charmilles and orangerie made it an exceptional site, but it fell into disrepair after the Revolution. Passed through several owners, it was marked by the construction of Château de Montauriol in 1870, on the initiative of M. Fabre de Cahuzac. In the early XXᵉ century, the château became the bishops' residence before being acquired by the Département in 1974. Today, the park remains a pleasant place to stroll and enjoy the greenery.
12. What to do in Montauban Walk past the Hôtel de Ville, a former town hall
Montauban's town hall is an integral part of the city's historic circle. On the way down from Notre-Dame Cathedral to the Ingres Museum, it's hard to miss this former 18th-century town house, once owned by the prestigious Aliès de Réalville family of dressmakers. Behind its imposing façade, elegantly restored around a beautiful rectangular courtyard, you'll find most of the municipal services today. The building overlooks the river Tarn, whose peaceful course accompanies the stroll, whilea small alley nearby leads to the impressive Temple des Carmes.
13. Go to the Centre d'Interprétation de l'Architecture et du Patrimoine (CIAP) in Montauban
Montauban'sCentre d'Interprétation de l'Architecture et du Patrimoine (CIAP) offers guided tours of the city's various districts, from the historic heart to residential areas, to discover all its secrets. Housed in the main courtyard of the Ancien Collège, the CIAP also hasan exhibition space where you can learn more about monuments, restoration projects and urban development. It's the place to be if you're looking for a precise and comprehensive overview of Montauban's historical and architectural heritage, monuments and museums.
Where to stay in Montauban?
Montauban offers a wide range of accommodation to suit all tastes and budgets. From the historic center to the outlying districts, you can choose between comfortable hotels, budget establishments or modern residences.
Here are our recommendations:
- Our favorite: the Castel Bois Marie
Bookable right here, the Castel Bois Marie is a mansion nestled in a large two-hundred-year-old park close to the city center. The stylishly decorated rooms feature large walk-in showers, luxurious bathroom linen and top-of-the-range cosmetics. The homemade breakfast, served in the dining room or under the pergola, will introduce you to the flavors of the region. A remarkable quality of service for a confidential and unique establishment.
- Best located: Mercure Montauban hotel
Bookable herethe Mercure hotel is ideally located in the heart of the city, in an 18th-century building that combines the artistic heritage of the city of Ingres and Bourdelle with modernity and the expectations of its clientele. Warm and authentic, the hotel offers modern, comfortable accommodation anda superb dining area, where guests can relax under the splendid glass roof.
- A practical, affordable option: the Brit hotel
Bookable right here, located in the Albasud area on the edge of Montauban's historic center, this hotel is ideally situated for those wishing to visit the region by car, with easy access to major roads. Whether you're a couple or a family, you'll always find a suitable package, combining comfort with particularly affordable rates. And to get your day off to a good start, don't miss our all-you-can-eat buffet breakfast!
