Montauban becomes the latest town to taste Heineken Cup rugby this season, with Munster's red-shirted hordes on their way south. If you're thinking of paying Stade Sapiac a visit, read our guide to the sights and sounds of this historic town.

How to get there: Montauban is only half-an-hour by train from Toulouse, so a direct flight to France's rugby capital from any regional or London airport is the only way to arrive. The station's a good 20 minutes' walk from the old town across the river.

Where to stay: Montauban is a chain hotel fan's dream, but if you want to avoid the Ibis, Mercures and Campaniles, head for the centre of town and stay at the Hotel du Commerce, which offers surprisingly reasonable rates right opposite the cathedral. Other cheap hotels include the Lion d'Or and Hotel d'Orsay, outside the station.

The stadium: Stade Sapiac is just south of the town centre, on the east bank of the River Tarn. The easiest way to get there is to take the elevator from Allée de Consul-Dupuy down into Jardin des Plantes and follow the crowds.

L'atmosphere: You'll find the hardcore fans - Les Ultras - in the Tribune d'Honneur, and if the game goies off the boil you can always admire the views of Montauban's cathedral from your seat.

The bars: There are plenty of drinking dens scattered around the narrow lanes leading to Place Nationale. This red-brick town square is filled with tables and chairs in spring and summer, so take a seat and enjoy a cold beer or local vin rouge. It's a bit quiet at night, but beer fans can sup at Café le Flamand on Rue République until the small hours. Stade Sapiac itself has a large beer tent - La Bodega - for third-half entertainment on match days.

The restaurants: Again, the lanes are the place to find the town's best eateries, although the restaurants under the arches of the Place Nationale are too touristy for their own good. A hidden gem lurks just off the Place, on Rue Princesse where Le Contre-Filet offers the can't-go-wrong salad-steak-mousse combo.

The culture: Montauban itself is one big historic monument, it's oldest sight being the Pont Vieux. Built in 1335, the stone bridge stands high above the Tarn river, too high for some, especially given the indecently low handrail. At the end of the bridge is Musée Ingres, the former castle of the Counts of Toulouse which now houses works by Montauban-born painter Jean Ingres. The old town is a warren of pink-brick alleys, all of which lead to the 17th century Place Nationale at its centre, and its large open space surrounded by impressive stone arches.

Excursions: The town of Moissac is a short train ride away and sits on both the Tarn river and the Canal de Garonne, so ideal if you fancy a day on the water. The wine centre and historic town of Cahors is 35 miles to the north, but if you plan on trying the local vins you'll have to name a designated driver as there's no train route between the two.

Double-teter: Agen is only a train ride away, and more Pro D2 action can be found at nearby Albi (though it's another one for the hire car unless you go by train via Toulouse). Or head back to Toulouse to see Colomiers in the second division or catch more Top 14 action at Ernest-Wallon.

Going native: Wear green and black, shout 'Sapiac'.

Le Rugby's Tour rating: 7/10. A little quiet for a truly lively weekend but the bars in Place Nationale are great for pre-match food & drink.