Toulouse (Matabiau Railway Stn)

Matabiau Station (Gare de Toulouse-Matabiau) serves as the primary railway gateway to Toulouse and a key transport hub for the Occitanie region.

It is important for passengers to know that navigation within the station is intuitively easy. The main building is connected to the platforms via underground passages equipped with escalators and elevators. The station has a direct exit to the Marengo-SNCF metro station (Line A), as well as convenient access to the bus station and taxi rank, making transfers as comfortable as possible.

To check the schedule and services at Matabiau Station, please use the following contact details:

• Official website: garesetconnexions.sncf
• Information hotline: 3635 (SNCF unified line)
• Address: 64 Boulevard Pierre Semard, 31000 Toulouse, France
• Opening hours: Daily from 04:30 to 00:00
• Luggage storage: Automatic lockers are available in the service centre; operating hours are usually from 07:00 to 20:00
• Accessibility: Accès Plus assistance service for passengers with reduced mobility (booking 48 hours in advance is recommended)

Getting to Matabiau Station is very simple thanks to its integration into the city's transport network. The fastest way is to use Metro Line A and alight at Marengo-SNCF station, which is connected to the railway station by a direct underground passage. This allows you to reach the trains while avoiding street traffic.

From Toulouse-Blagnac Airport, a dedicated shuttle bus, the Navette Aéroport, runs to the bus station (next to the railway station), taking approximately 25–40 minutes. If you are in the historic centre, for example near the Place du Capitole, a walk will take about 15–20 minutes. Taxis are also available, with a rank located at the main exit, though traffic congestion on the boulevard is possible during peak hours.

Matabiau Station offers a wide range of services for the convenience of travellers. Ticket counters and self-service kiosks are located in the main hall. For relaxation, there are waiting lounges, as well as zones equipped with power outlets for charging gadgets, which is extremely important for the modern tourist.

Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the station. Passengers have access to automatic luggage lockers, paid restrooms, and photo booths. For citizens with reduced mobility, the station is equipped with elevators and ramps, and a special escort service to trains is available.

Inside the station, you can grab a quick bite at popular chain cafes such as Paul or Brioche Dorée. They offer fresh pastries, sandwiches, and takeaway coffee, which is ideal if there is little time left before your train. The average bill for a snack will be around 8–12 Euros.

If you have some time to spare, we recommend stepping out of the building onto Rue de Bayard or Boulevard de Bonrepos. There, you will find numerous brasseries and restaurants where you can enjoy a full hot meal in a more relaxed atmosphere.

The history of Matabiau Station began in 1856, when the railway arrived in Toulouse. The name of the station comes from the district where, according to legend, a bull was killed (matar — to kill, biau — bull), an event linked to the martyrdom of Saint Saturnin. This event marked a turning point in the city's economic development.

The current monumental building was constructed in 1905 from stone and steel, becoming a striking example of the architecture of that era. The façade is decorated with the coats of arms of 26 cities with which connections were established. Over the years, the station has been modernized several times, including for the reception of high-speed TGV trains, while preserving its historic appearance.

Plan to arrive at the station at least 20–30 minutes before departure. The platform number is usually announced on the display boards 15–20 minutes prior to the train's arrival, and boarding for TGV trains closes 2 minutes before departure. Please watch the announcements and information screens carefully.

Be sure to attach a tag with your name to your luggage — this is a security requirement. If you have an old-style paper ticket (without a specific seat reservation), do not forget to validate it in the yellow machine before entering the platform to avoid a fine. In the evening, it is safer to wait for your train inside the secured station building.