Crowned by the striking Cathédrale Sainte-Cécile, Albi is also famous as the birthplace of Belle Epoque artist Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec. Nestled on the banks father Tarn River, it’s the region’s main hub, and a wonderful destination for culture and history buffs. You’ll find medieval streets studded with charming B&Bs as well as luxurious urban hotels and rural retreats. Chosen for their exceptional location, amenities and design, the best places to stay in Albi promise a superb base for a trip to remember.

Begin your explorations in the medieval old town, where you’ll also find the city’s main sights. Constructed in the 13th Century, the Cathédrale Sainte-Cécile was once the world’s largest brick building. It’s still a hugely imposing landmark. Alongside it, the Musée Toulouse-Lautrec, now occupies the old archbishop’s palace and contains a diverse collection as well as more than 500 works by Toulouse-Lautrec himself. Stroll through the manicured Les Jardins de la Berbie, admiring river views from the gardens, or visit the Cloitre de la Collegiale Saint Salvy for a scenic amble.

Cross the old arched bridges to discover both sides of the city, before picking a perch at a colourful café or eatery. Retreat to one of the best places to stay in Albi for a restful afternoon before heading out to sample this little city’s top bars and restaurants.

The Best Places to Stay in Albi

For an Intimate B&B

• Villa Caroline offers four charming rooms in the heart of Albi. Pick this place for the central location — just along from the Vieux Pont and across the river from the cathedral — and the beautiful rooftop views. The family room sleeps four guests, and the Toulouse-Lautrec room has a private patio. An intimate B&B with a communal kitchen for independent guests.
• Hôtel Saint-Antoine is a historic townhouse with six appealing rooms in medieval Albi. Expect bold wallpapers, antique furnishings and modern bathrooms. The sunny conservatory and big breakfasts are a real treat. Lovely and quiet.
• La Maison, Albi also has just three stylish rooms in a 19th-century house. Five minutes from the centre of town, this B&B boasts a verdant enclosed garden and fresh, contemporary interiors. Small and welcoming.
• L'Autre Rives will appeal to wellness-minded travellers, who can unwind in the sauna and garden swimming pool after hitting the gym. Explore Abli on complimentary bicycles before returning to one of five spacious rooms with modern furnishings and stacks of old-school charm. A chic B&B choice.

For Art Deco Luxury

• Hôtel Alchimy is a lavish, family-run boutique hotel with just seven striking guest rooms and suites in the heart of Albi. A sensitive renovation has preserved the building's Art Deco soul, adding sophisticated modern twists in the bar, atrium brasserie and elegant rooms. Trendy and romantic.

For a Rural Retreat

• La Reserve, Albi is an indulgent 22-bedroom escape on the banks of the Tarn River, just north of Albi. Hide away in sumptuous suites, soak up the views from the leafy gardens and enjoy fishing, sailing and tennis. A luxurious rural choice for romantics, with a great restaurant.

FOR AN APARTMENT OR HOLIDAY Villa

• If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

TRAVEL INFORMATION

• Fly to Toulouse–Blagnac Airport, just under an hour by car or two hours by train from Albi. Regular trains from Paris via Toulouse offer another easy way to cross the country.
• The Tarn region is wonderful for a road trip! Contact our online partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car.
• Visit in July or August for the warmest weather, but bear in mind that this is also peak season. For cooler temperatures and fewer crowds, travel in May - June or September - October.

STILL NOT SURE?

• Explore our list of all the best places to stay in Cordes-sur-Ciel.
• Alternatively, expand your search to see our pick of the best places to stay in the Tarn.
• Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.