The Victor Hugo District, in the center of Toulouse, is known for its namesake market. The area has a rich history and an intriguing relationship with French food. Learn about glorious French cuisine and culinary traditions in one of the largest food markets in the city.

Browse the range of stalls serving succulent seafood and regional specialties, such as foie gras. Visit the various delis and patisseries with typical French fruit tarts, macarons and other sweet delicacies. Dried meats from Spain and fresh fish from the coast adorn the many stalls. Chat with the vendors about their wine collections and try free samples.

Enjoy lunch at a small restaurant in this market or purchase some of the wonderful breads and cheeses to include in a picnic next to the nearby Garonne River. Sip white wine with your prawns and oysters.

In the Victor Hugo District surrounding the market are many boutiques, bakeries and bistros. See a film at the UGC Toulouse movie theater and watch people go by as you enjoy drinks at a café. Stroll through the green surroundings of the Jardin Pierre Goudouli and admire the Wilson Fountain.

The district takes its name from the preeminent 19th-century French writer Victor Hugo, famous for classic novels including Les Misérables and The Hunchback of Notre-Dame. It was named after the author in 1885, the year of his death.

Note that the market opens Tuesday through Sunday from early morning until afternoon. It is free to enter. Arrive early to miss the lines and crowds that tend to gather as the day progresses.

The Victor Hugo District is in the heart of the city center of Toulouse. It stretches north for a few blocks from the Place Wilson, which is adjacent to the Jean-Jaurès and Capitole metro stations. If you are driving, leave your car in the large parking lot at the southern end of the market.

Consider visiting nearby sights, such as the Place du Capitole, the Museum of Old Toulouse and the Museum of the Augustins.