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Getting Around Toulon

Getting Around Toulon

Cote Dazur, France

Comprehensive Overview of Public Transit Systems

The RMTT (Réseau Mistral) is Toulon's main public transport system. It includes a comprehensive network of bus lines that serve Toulon and its surrounding urban area, including nearby towns like La Seyne-sur-Mer, Six-Fours-les-Plages, and Ollioules.

Toulon does not have a metro or tram system. The bus network effectively covers the city and connects different areas.

Public Transport Features

  • RMTT Bus Network: Main system covering Toulon and surrounding towns.
  • Téléphérique du Mont Faron: A cable car system to Mont Faron summit, offering panoramic views.
  • Main Hub: "Toulon Liberté" station (Gare Routière), next to the train station, close to city center.
  • RMTT Mobile Application: Offers real-time bus tracking and route planning.

Single Ticket

Purchase a single-journey ticket directly from the bus driver. Cost: €1.40 - €2.00.

Multi-trip Tickets

Carte 10 voyages (10-trip card) and Pass Journée (Day Pass) offer cost savings. "La Ola" rechargeable card. Obtain at RMTT agencies or tabacs.

Validation

Always validate your ticket every time you board the bus by scanning it on the machine near the driver. Failure to validate can result in a fine.

Hours of Operation and Frequency

Bus Services
  • Buses operate from early morning (around 5:00-6:00 AM) until late evening (typically 9:00 PM - 1:00 AM).
  • Frequency varies: Main lines during peak hours might have buses every 10-15 minutes.
  • Less busy lines or services during evenings and weekends may run every 30-60 minutes.
Téléphérique du Mont Faron
  • The cable car operates daily from spring through autumn.
  • It typically closes for a period in winter for maintenance.
  • Check current operating hours and maintenance schedules on the official website before your visit. Weather conditions (e.g., strong winds) can also lead to temporary closures.

Accessibility Information & Efficiency Tips

Accessible Buses

Most newer RMTT buses are wheelchair accessible with ramps and dedicated spaces.

Download the App

The official RMTT app provides real-time bus locations and route planning.

Multi-trip Tickets

Buying multi-trip tickets saves money and time compared to single fares.

Traffic Awareness

Traffic congestion can impact bus schedules; allow extra travel time.

Taxis and Ride-Sharing

Taxis and ride-sharing services give convenient alternatives to public transport, especially for direct routes or late-night travel.

Licensed Taxi Identification and Hailing

  • Identification: Licensed taxis in Toulon are usually white, with a "Taxi" sign on the roof that lights up when available. They have a visible meter inside.
  • Hailing: You can hail a taxi on the street if its roof light is green (available).
  • Taxi Stands: Located at specific points like the train station, the port, and Place de la Liberté.
  • Booking: Book a taxi by phone through a local taxi company or via taxi-hailing apps.

Typical Fares and Payment Methods

  • Fares: Taxi fares are metered. The cost includes a base fare plus a per-kilometer rate, which is higher at night, weekends, and public holidays.
  • Short Ride: A short ride within the city center might cost between €8-€15. Airport transfers often have fixed rates or metered fares with additional surcharges.
  • Payment: Cash is always accepted. Many taxis accept credit cards, but it is wise to confirm with the driver before starting your journey, especially for smaller rides.
  • Recommended Apps: Uber is available, but driver numbers can be lower than in larger cities. Free Now (formerly MyTaxi) connects users with licensed taxi drivers. BlaBlaCar is for intercity carpooling, not local rides.

Safety Considerations for Taxi and Ride-Sharing

  • Licensed taxis operate under regulation and are generally safe.
  • When using ride-sharing apps, always verify the driver's name and vehicle details (make, model, license plate) match the information provided in the app before you enter the car.
  • Share your trip details with a friend or family member for added security.
  • Be aware of surge pricing during peak demand.
  • Set your pick-up location accurately in the app to avoid confusion.

Recommended Ride-Sharing Apps and Services

Uber

Available in Toulon. Driver availability might be less extensive compared to larger cities like Marseille or Nice. You may experience longer wait times, especially outside peak hours.

Free Now

Formerly MyTaxi, this app connects users directly with licensed taxi drivers. A convenient way to book and pay for taxi services digitally.

BlaBlaCar

Mainly a carpooling service for intercity travel within France. Not typically used for local, in-city rides.

Rental Options

Rental options in Toulon cover cars, motorcycles, scooters, and bicycles, giving flexibility for exploring the city and beyond.

Car Rental Procedures and Requirements

  • Requirements: Generally 21+ (some 25+), valid driving license held for 1-2 years.
  • International Driving Permit (IDP) needed if domestic license is not from EU/EEA.
  • Major credit card in main driver's name for security deposit.
  • Major Companies: Avis, Hertz, Europcar, Sixt, Enterprise, Budget. Find at airports and downtown Toulon.

Motorcycle, Scooter, and Bicycle Rentals

  • Motorcycle/Scooter: Specialized agencies offer rentals. Helmets are mandatory.
  • Bicycle Rentals: Several shops offer standard and electric bikes. Excellent for city and coastal paths.
  • Bike Sharing: Toulon has Vélos Libres, a self-service bike rental system with various stations.
  • Specialty Vehicles: Tuk-tuks or jeepneys are not common; main choices are cars, motorcycles, or bicycles.

Driving Laws, Road Conditions, and Parking

Driving Laws

Drive on the right. Seatbelts are mandatory for all. No mobile phone use without hands-free. Legal blood alcohol limit is 0.05%.

Be aware of speed limits: 130 km/h (motorways), 110 km/h (dual carriageways), 80 km/h (rural), 50 km/h (urban).

Road Conditions

Roads in France are generally well-maintained. City roads in Toulon, especially in the Old Town, can be narrow and winding.

Roundabouts are very common. Traffic can be heavy during peak hours.

Parking Information

On-street parking in Toulon is mostly paid and often has time limits. Look for parking meters or payment kiosks.

Numerous underground parking garages (e.g., Liberté, Porte d'Italie) are available, offering secure options at a cost.

Tips for Rental and Driving

Booking and Rental Advice
  • Book your rental car in advance, especially during peak season, for better rates and preferred vehicle types.
  • For scooters/motorcycles, confirm specific license endorsements.
  • Helmets are mandatory for all motorcycle and scooter riders/passengers.
Driving Tips
  • At intersections, traffic coming from the right has priority unless signs indicate otherwise.
  • Most motorways are toll roads. Pay with credit card or cash. Liber-t tag for faster passage.
  • Be aware of reduced speed limits in wet weather.

Driving & Parking Cautions

  • Traffic can be heavy in and around Toulon, especially during peak hours and summer.
  • Driving while using a mobile phone without a hands-free system is illegal.
  • Ensure your rental car documents are complete before driving.
  • Parking in the city center can be challenging and expensive.
  • Roads can be narrow in the Old Town area.
  • Legal blood alcohol limit is 0.05%. Drive responsibly.
  • Look for underground parking garages for more secure options.
  • Children under 12 must wear helmets when cycling.

Walking and Cycling

Toulon is a city that lends itself well to exploration on foot or by bicycle, especially in certain areas.

Pedestrian-Friendly Areas and Walking Routes

  • Old Town (Vieille Ville): Narrow, charming pedestrian streets, ideal for leisurely exploration.
  • Port Area: Long, flat promenade for pleasant walking with views of naval vessels and restaurants.
  • Mourillon Beaches: Coastal path connects beaches for scenic walking or jogging.
  • Cours Lafayette: Market street is mostly pedestrianized during market hours, great for strolling.

Walking Tour Options

  • Guided Tours: Toulon Tourist Office offers tours on history, naval heritage, or the Cours Lafayette market. Check schedules.
  • Self-Guided Tours: Online resources and maps from the Tourist Office suggest routes for exploring at your own pace.
  • The Old Town features cobbled streets and uneven surfaces; comfortable shoes are recommended.
  • Some parts of Toulon are hilly (e.g., Mont Faron roads), challenging for casual cycling.

Bicycle Infrastructure

Toulon has some dedicated cycle paths, especially along the coast. Ongoing efforts to expand the network.

Cycling Safety

Be aware of traffic, especially outside dedicated cycle paths. Helmets are recommended for adults and mandatory for children under 12.

No-Go Areas

No specific "no-go" areas for pedestrians or cyclists. Exercise caution in heavy traffic or dimly lit, isolated areas late at night.

Specialized Transportation

Tour Buses & Water Transport
  • Petit Train Touristique: A "small tourist train" from the port area for a guided city tour.
  • RMTT Maritime Lines (Bateaux-Bus): Public "bus boats" connect Toulon port to La Seyne-sur-Mer, Les Sablettes, Saint-Mandrier.
  • Boat Tours: Private companies offer guided harbor tours and excursions to Porquerolles Islands.
Unique Local & Accessibility Transport
  • Téléphérique du Mont Faron: Unique way to ascend Mont Faron, with stunning panoramic views.
  • Accessibility Services: RMTT buses feature ramps and dedicated spaces for mobility needs.
  • Toulon city center terrain varies; port area is flat, Old Town has uneven surfaces.

Navigating Toulon Wisely

Whether by bus, taxi, rental car, or on foot, Toulon has diverse transport options. Planning your routes and knowing local customs makes moving around easier.