Albi is the Epsilon Reticuli B of France, an unassuming, low-key city dwarfed by its big brother, Toulouse, 85 kilometres to the southwest. It is an unknown star that combines a proud and important history, culture, art, nature, and gastronomy. It should definitely be included in all visitors’ itineraries travelling through the southwest of France. Read on to discover what to see, do and love in our Albi City Guide.
Where is Albi?
Exactly! We’re feeling extremely ignorant not to have known Albi before. The city developed on the banks of the Tarn River. Those in the know call it The Red City and tell of its remarkable red-brick architecture, an impressive cathedral that dominates the skyline for miles, and rich cultural heritage.
Whether you’re a French history buff, an art lover, or simply seeking a picturesque destination, Albi should be on your travel radar.
What is there to see, do and love?
Albi Tourisme offers you this great read of 10 Good Reasons To Visit Albi.
A UNESCO World Heritage Site
In 2010, Albi’s Episcopal City was recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and as soon as you take a wander, it’s easy to see why. The stunning combination of its medieval past and well-preserved architectural treasures create an experience that transports you back in time.
Albi City Pass
We used an Albi City Pass, which offers the following
- Entry to the Toulouse-Lautrec museum
- Entry to the Grand Choir of the Sainte-Cécile Cathedral
- Reduced rates to other museums and activities
Costs €15 per person
More City Pass details here
Cathedral of Sainte-Cécile
At its heart of Albi, you can not miss the imposing Gothic Cathedral of Sainte-Cécile Cathedral one of the most awe-inspiring in Europe. The dramatic cathedral is the seat of the Archbishop of Albi and is, according to locals, the largest building made entirely of brick in the world.
It and the Bishop’s Palace next door, which now houses the Toulouse-Latrec museum, look more like fortified castles than places of worship and ecclesiastical learning. This is down to the Roman Catholic church in the 13/14th century seeking to dampen any enthusiasm for the Cathar movement that the church felt could undermine its doctrines and position of power.
The cathedral is stunning, filled with statues, friezes and frescoes, such as the dramatic “Last Judgement,” and well worth the 6 Euros for a self-guided tour. There is an additional 5 Euro charge to visit the Grand Choir at the side of the cathedral.
Don’t miss the chance to climb the bell tower for sweeping views of the city and the surrounding countryside—it’s worth every step.
Website: Albi Cathedrale
Address: 5 Bd Général Sibille, 81000 Albi, France
Included in the Albi City Pass.
Albi’s Museums
Albi has plenty of museums for all tastes, starting with the most famous Toulouse-Lautrec and including others that we did not make it to but look interesting!
See a complete list of Albu Museums and exhibitions here.
Show your Albi City pass and benefit from a reduced rate or a preferential offer.
Musee Toulouse-Latrec
The Toulouse-Lautrec Museum is housed in the splendid Palais de la Berbie, an ancient bishop’s palace adjacent to the cathedral. Most people assume that Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec, the post-impressionist painter, was an out-and-out Parisien, but in fact, he was born in Albi, and the most extensive collection of his sparkling work is held there.
The collection contains over 1,000 works, including his famous posters for the Moulin Rouge, and provides an intimate look into the life and art of one of France’s most iconic artists. The exhibition shows his earliest work, from his childhood in the Albi countryside under his mother’s watchful eye to his last days on his mother’s estate near Bordeaux.
It is a must for any art lover and can easily be combined with a tour of the cathedral for a memorable half-day.
Included in the Albi City Pass.
The Musee Lapérouse
The Musee Lapérouse is in the same complex as the Mercure Hotel and is worth a quick wander around. Most Europeans won’t know who Jean-Francoise de Galaup de Laperouse was. Still, to Australians, he’s a reminder of old history lessons, as Captain Cook’s rival in the exploration of the Pacific.
Jardin du Palais de la Berbie
Do not miss the Jardin de la Berbie, a stunning formal garden behind the Toulouse-Lautrec Museum. The meticulously manicured gardens offer a tranquil retreat with breathtaking views of the Tarn River below and the rolling hills of the Tarn region.
The Tarn River
Albi’s location along the Tarn River offers plenty of opportunities to enjoy the water and the surrounding nature. For a peaceful afternoon, take a boat ride along the river, which provides a unique perspective of the town’s landmarks.
The Pont-Vieux
Built in 1040, it is one of the oldest bridges in France. While we were there, it was undergoing renovations and did not look as pretty as the other bridges, so we are showing you the new bridge!! It is definitely worth crossing the river on any of the bridges, though, to get views of the old city.
Saint-Salvi Church & Cloisters
The Cloister and the Collegiate Church of Saint-Salvi are UNESCO wonders of the historic centre. Head for the pretty Place Saint Salvi (and its popular Les Arcades restaurant)
Saint Salvi is the oldest church in Albi. It was built near the tomb of St Salvi, who was Bishop of the city at the end of the 6th Century. Look out for the Great Organ inside.
Do not miss the peaceful Cloisters, which are free to enter.
Wander the Medieval Streets
Exploring Albi on foot is the best way to soak in its medieval charm. The well-preserved medieval half-timbered houses, stone buildings, and charming alleyways create the perfect backdrop for a leisurely stroll, making every corner of Albi feel like a scene from a storybook.
The central square is a great place to meander and sit, drink a coffee or a glass of wine, and watch the world go by.
The Castelviel
Visit the old centre of the episcopal city: the 𝐏𝐥𝐚𝐜𝐞 𝐒𝐚𝐯è𝐧𝐞 and the 𝐏𝐥𝐚𝐜𝐞 𝐝𝐮 𝐂𝐡𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐚𝐮 with its #𝐀𝐥𝐛𝐢 sign for a great souvenir photo.
Albi Office de Tourisme
If you want advice on what to do, stop by the Tourist Office, just off the central square. They also have a lovely souvenir shop for regional gifts.
Address: 42 Rue Mariès, 81000 Albi, France
Website: Albi Tourism
Wander the new Cordeliers district
To glimpse Albi’s modern side, visit the vibrant Cordeliers district and Place Laperouse, which has a dancing fountain.
The centrepiece is the stunning Grand Théâtre, an architectural marvel wrapped in a golden copper aluminium mesh. F. As you wander through the area, you’ll discover a lively cultural scene. The theatre hosts everything from shows and ballets to concerts and conferences.
Don’t miss the restaurant on the panoramic terrace, where you can enjoy sweeping city views while dining.
ABI Volunteers
Also, look out for the red t-shirts of the Albi volunteers, who are on hand to help all visitors during the summer months. They are a very friendly team of local residents of all ages willing to answer your questions, no matter how obscure.
What an incredible initiative to support the Tourist Office and the City of Albi for a first welcome outside the walls. They are posted at the entrance to the Cathedral car park, towards Place Sainte-Cécile and the neighbouring pedestrian streets.
On behalf of all visitors to Albi, we thank the ABI volunteers for their warm welcome, time, and information.
With my red frock on, I nearly signed myself up straight away!
Le petit train touristique Albigeois
Everyone, young and old, loves a little Train ride, right?
This guided tour of the city takes 40 minutes and departs from Place Sainte-Cécile, opposite the entrance to the Toulouse-Lautrec museum. The little train runs every day.
The route covers the historic centre and the right bank district and offers beautiful views of the Episcopal City. A commentary is broadcast on board in several languages thanks to individual audio guides.
Along this route, different neighbourhoods are revealed: Sainte-Cécile, Castelviel, Madeleine, Lices, Vigan, and Rochegude.
The cost is €8 per adult, and there is a price reduction with the Albi City pass.
Website: Le Petit Train
Where to Stay
Hôtel Mercure Bastides Albi ****
We stayed at the Mercure Bastide Hotel just over the river Tarn looking across at the centre. It has spectacular views of the Tarn, the weir and the Pont Vieux (Old Bridge). The building used to be a pasta factory, and vestiges of its past can be seen everywhere.
The Rooms
We had a great stay here. The rooms are small but comfortable but try to get a room on even-numbered floors to get a full window. The other floors only have a half window!
La Vermicellerie restaurant
One of the highlights of the stay was dinner each evening overlooking the river, Bishops Palace, and the Cathedral of Sainte-Cecile. Not only was the view one of the best you’ll find in the city, but the food was excellent, too. The Plat du Jour in the La Vermicellerie restaurant is great value—three courses for 25 Euros.
See our room tour here on IG @Littlewanderingwren/MercureAlbi.
Address: 41 bis rue Porta, 81000 ALBI
Website: Mercure Albi
Albi’s Culinary Delights
No trip to Albi is complete without wandering the streets searching for your new favourite restaurant to enjoy the local cuisine. Albi’s proximity to the vineyards of Gaillac means there’s no shortage of excellent wine to enjoy with your meals. Be sure to try local specialities like cassoulet, duck confit, and foie gras, which are staples of the region.
Le Solelhou
Address: 13 Rue du Plancat, 81000 Albi France
We could not fault sitting on the street at Le Solelhou enjoying a €14 Plat du Jour
Suggested restaurants:
Au Hibou – restaurant
Address: 21 rue saint Julien, Albi, France
Facebook: AuHibou Restaurant
Le Cascarbar
Address: 29 rue St-Julien 81000 Albi
Website: Le Cascarbar
Le Clos
Address: 3 Rue du Castelvie 81000 Albi, France
Facebook page: Le Clos Sainte Cecile
We wandered into The Marché Couvert (covered market), which is worth a look around. This is the place to sample some of the region’s finest produce, from cured meats and cheeses to freshly baked pastries. There was also masses of wine!
Getting to Albi
Albi is 45 minutes from Toulouse. For details, see Albi Tourism: How to Arrive in Albi.
By Air: The nearest Airport is Toulouse Blagnac. There are flights to 85 destinations across the globe, including Bristol, Birmingham, Dublin, and Edinburgh. There are 21 flights per week to London. Ten flights a week are to Montreal, Canada. Flights can also be found from and to Dubai and Doha.
By Train: Rail connections are provided to Albi. There are 17 connections daily from Toulouse to Albi. See all TER timetables or Sncf travel.
Rental Car: We rented our car with Europcar and returned it to their depot at Toulouse Airport.
Final Thoughts
We loved ALBI and wondered why it had taken us so long to get here. I hope you have enjoyed our Albi City Guide, there is lots to see, do and love. It is more than just a pretty medieval town; it’s a destination that combines rich history, art, and natural beauty. Whether you’re exploring its majestic cathedral, delving into the works of Toulouse-Lautrec, or simply wandering its cobbled streets, Albi leaves a lasting impression.
So next time you’re in the Southwest of France set aside time to discover the hidden gem that is Albi—you won’t be disappointed!
Disclosure: Little Wandering Wren was a Destination Occitanie guest exploring this region with Tourisme Tarn. All opinions are my own. A grand merci beaucoup from us!
Follow us on Social Media: Find more photos of my travels and stories on Instagram @littlewanderingwren
For more information on the region, see:
6 comments
This place looks like a fairytale! Thanks for all your practical tips I will certainly use them.
Thank you Danielle. Having seen your French trip this year and all the wonderful places you enjoyed, I’m sure your would love Albi and the surrounding Tarn countryside. Albi is like a fairytale and on a big scale! Such a fun place to visit.
Have a great week (somehow I know you will!)
Wren x
Hello,
Albi looks like a beautiful city to explore. Your photos are wonderful. Take care, have a great day and a happy new week!
Hello Eileen – Albi was such a lovely city to explore and photograph there was something interesting at every turn. I’m a pick up and click photographer with my phone, it truly was the place that was special and wonderful. Take Care and have a lovely week Eileen!
Wren x
Wow! ~ Looks like a wonderful place to visit and your. well provided info will help so much ~ thank you ~ photos are exquisite ~ ^_^
Wishing you good health, laughter and love in your days,
clm ~ A ShutterBug Explores,
aka (A Creative Harbor)
Thank you Carol – we loved Wandering Albi! Thank you for stopping by to see what there is to see, do and love in this wonderful part of Tarn, Occitanie, France. I’m glad it is useful.
Have a wonderful week.
Wren x