Cheap flights from Birmingham to Toulouse from £40

Basilique Saint-Sernin is one of the symbols of Toulouse. Built between the 11th and 12th centuries, it is the largest building in Europe, constructed in the Romanesque style. After studying its magnificent facade, come inside to see its vast, richly decorated interior. The entrance is free, though you may have to pay for exploring the crypt and the tomb of St Sernin. It is best to explore this place in the morning quietness. On Sundays, you may be lucky to hear a children's choir.

Toulouse hosts the final assembly production of Airbus, the top producer of civil jetliners. Its gigantic 700-hectare factory is located near the airport in Blagnac, 10km from the city centre. You can take a tour to the A380 and A350XWB production lines. You'll also be able to come inside A400M military transport aircraft. Other sections of the site can be explored on a bus. Note that you might need to book a tour in advance. Alas, for security reasons, cameras aren't allowed.

French baguettes are to be consumed on the day of purchase. The boulangeries are full of them in the morning, but in the afternoon they might take a break for lunch or close altogether, if they run out of fresh bread. At that time of the day, you may find some artisan bread, but not a famous fresh baguette. Don’t forget to set your alarm clock!