Dordogne, France Travel Guide

Explore Dordogne, France: A mesmerizing blend of medieval charm, stunning natural landscapes, prehistoric wonders, and culinary delights in the heart of southwestern France.

Nestled in the heart of southwestern France, Dordogne is a region renowned for its stunning landscapes, rich history, and charming villages. As you travel through its rolling hills and lush valleys, you'll encounter medieval castles, prehistoric caves, and picturesque towns that seem frozen in time. One of the highlights of Dordogne is the ancient town of Sarlat-la-Canéda. With its beautifully preserved medieval architecture and vibrant market, Sarlat offers a delightful glimpse into the past. Wander through its narrow cobblestone streets, taste local delicacies, and soak in the atmosphere of one of France's most enchanting towns. For nature enthusiasts, the Dordogne River provides endless opportunities for outdoor activities. Whether you're kayaking along its gentle waters, hiking through the verdant countryside, or simply enjoying a leisurely picnic by the riverbank, the natural beauty of Dordogne is sure to captivate your senses. History buffs will be enthralled by the region's prehistoric sites, including the famous Lascaux Caves, which house some of the world's most remarkable Paleolithic art. The caves offer a fascinating insight into early human life and creativity, making them a must-visit for anyone interested in the dawn of civilization. Dordogne is also a food lover's paradise. The region is famous for its truffles, foie gras, and locally produced wines. Be sure to indulge in the local cuisine at one of the many charming bistros and restaurants that dot the landscape. The culinary delights of Dordogne are a testament to the region's rich agricultural heritage and dedication to quality produce.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Dordogne.

Visit in autumn to enjoy a quieter experience and witness the stunning fall foliage.
Book your visit to the Lascaux Caves in advance, as spots are limited and fill up quickly.
Rent a car for the best way to explore the region and its many hidden gems.
Don't miss the local markets, especially in Sarlat, for fresh produce and handmade crafts.
Try to learn a few basic French phrases; locals appreciate the effort and it can enhance your experience.

Explore Dordogne: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Best attractions in Dordogne

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Gouffre de Padirac

Explore the breathtaking Gouffre de Padirac, a stunning underground cavern in France featuring magnificent rock formations and a serene underground river.

4.7

Castelnaud-la-Chapelle Castle

Discover the enchanting Castelnaud-la-Chapelle Castle, a historic gem in the Dordogne region, offering stunning views, rich history, and captivating exhibits.

4.6

The Marqueyssac gardens

Explore Les Jardins de Marqueyssac in Vezac, France - a stunning garden filled with manicured hedges, scenic views, and tranquil pathways.

4.6

Château des Milandes

Discover the enchanting Château des Milandes, a stunning castle in Dordogne offering rich history, beautiful gardens, and delightful French cuisine.

4.7

Best landmarks in Dordogne

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Rouffignac Cave

Discover the prehistoric wonders of Rouffignac Cave, where ancient artistry meets stunning natural beauty in the heart of France.

4.5

Castelnaud-la-Chapelle Castle

Explore a meticulously restored medieval fortress with stunning views and a fascinating museum of medieval warfare in the Dordogne Valley.

4.6

Grotte de Font-de-Gaume

Explore a UNESCO World Heritage site featuring original polychrome paintings from the Magdalenian period in one of the last accessible caves.

4.4

The Marqueyssac gardens

Wander through a sculpted landscape of boxwood, offering panoramic views of the Dordogne Valley and a romantic garden experience.

4.6

Best restaurants in Dordogne

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Alfred s'invite à Barnabé

Discover the unique blend of French cuisine and fun at Alfred s'invite à Barnabé, where great food meets vibrant entertainment.

4.3

La Petite Tonnelle

Savor authentic French flavors at La Petite Tonnelle in Beynac-et-Cazenac - a culinary delight amidst stunning scenery.

4.4

Bistro Régent

Experience authentic French cuisine at Bistro Régent in Périgueux – where every meal is a celebration of culinary tradition.

3.9

Famille Moutier

Discover the authentic taste of France at Famille Moutier in Thénac – where tradition meets culinary excellence.

4.8

Best bars in Dordogne

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Watson's Pub

Discover the vibrant atmosphere and rich flavors at Watson's Pub in Périgueux, where every meal is a celebration of local cuisine.

4.3

Le Café de la Place Périgueux

Discover Le Café de la Place Périgueux: A charming bar, restaurant, and brewery in the heart of Périgueux offering delightful local flavors and a vibrant atmosphere.

4.0

PQP - Over The Perfect

Experience the heart of Bergerac's nightlife at PQP - Over The Perfect, a bar offering a vibrant atmosphere and an array of delightful drinks.

4.4

La Taverne

Discover the charm of La Taverne in Saint-Cyprien, where authentic French cuisine meets a warm, inviting atmosphere, perfect for travelers.

4.3

Best nightclubs in Dordogne

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Z'N - Creysse

Discover the electrifying nightlife of Z'N - Creysse, a vibrant disco club where music, dancing, and unforgettable memories await.

3.5

Discothèque le SUN7

Immerse yourself in the vibrant nightlife of Sarlat-la-Canéda at Discothèque le SUN7, the ultimate disco club experience with electrifying beats and dazzling lights.

3.6

L'Ubu Club - Périgueux

Experience the lively nightlife at L'Ubu Club in Périgueux, where vibrant music and an energetic atmosphere await every party-goer.

3.6

Le Lucky

Unleash your energy at Le Lucky, the vibrant night club in Siorac-en-Périgord, where music meets fun in a delightful atmosphere.

4.2

Best shops in Dordogne

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Centre Commercial La Feuilleraie

Discover shopping, dining, and entertainment at Centre Commercial La Feuilleraie, a vibrant hub in Trélissac for tourists and locals alike.

4.1

Maisons du Monde

Explore Maisons du Monde in Boulazac Isle Manoire, the ultimate destination for unique home decor, furniture, and gifts that reflect French elegance.

4.0

CBD Shop France Périgueux

Discover the best CBD products and relaxing teas at CBD Shop France in Périgueux, a unique destination for wellness enthusiasts.

5.0

celio

Explore Celio, a top men's clothing store in Boulazac Isle Manoire, offering stylish apparel and accessories for every occasion.

4.5

Explore Dordogne on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Dordogne, mapped for you.

Dordogne Essentials

Dordogne is located in southwestern France, and the nearest international airport is Bergerac Dordogne Périgord Airport (EGC). It is also accessible from Bordeaux-Mérignac Airport (BOD) and Toulouse-Blagnac Airport (TLS). From these airports, you can rent a car or take a train to reach Dordogne. The journey by car from Bordeaux takes approximately 2 hours, while from Toulouse it takes around 2.5 hours. Trains from Paris to Périgueux, the capital of Dordogne, are also available, with high-speed TGV services connecting Paris to Bordeaux, from where you can transfer to a local train.
Public transportation in Dordogne mainly consists of regional trains and buses. Renting a car is highly recommended for exploring the region, as many attractions are in rural areas not well-served by public transit. Bicycles are also a popular option for getting around, particularly for short distances and scenic routes. Taxis are available but can be expensive. The larger towns like Périgueux, Sarlat-la-Canéda, and Bergerac have local bus services that connect to nearby villages.
The official currency in France is the Euro (EUR). Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops, but it is advisable to carry some cash, especially when visiting smaller towns and rural areas. ATMs are available in most towns, and it is a good idea to withdraw sufficient cash before heading to more remote locations.
Dordogne is generally a very safe destination for tourists. However, standard precautions should be taken, such as avoiding poorly lit areas at night and securing personal belongings in crowded places. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, but it is always wise to remain vigilant and aware of your surroundings.
In case of emergency, dial 112, the European emergency number, for immediate assistance. Local police stations and medical facilities are available throughout Dordogne. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Pharmacies are common and can provide over-the-counter medications for minor health issues.
Fashion: Do dress comfortably but neatly; casual is fine, but avoid overly revealing clothing, especially in religious sites. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions; when visiting churches, dress modestly and be quiet. Public Transport: Do be respectful and offer your seat to the elderly or those with disabilities. Don’t eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with 'Bonjour' and a handshake or cheek kiss, depending on the level of familiarity. Eating & Drinking: Do try local foods and wines; accepting food and drink offerings graciously is considered polite. Don’t rush meals; dining is a leisurely activity in France.
To experience Dordogne like a local, visit the weekly markets in towns like Sarlat-la-Canéda, Périgueux, and Bergerac, where you can buy fresh produce, cheeses, and other regional specialties. Engage with locals and try to learn a few French phrases; even basic attempts are appreciated. Don’t miss the local festivals and events, which often include traditional music, dance, and food. Explore the lesser-known medieval villages and take advantage of the many hiking and biking trails to fully appreciate the natural beauty of the region.

When is the best time to visit Dordogne?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Dordogne

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Dordogne. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloBonjour
  [bon-zhoor]
- GoodbyeAu revoir
  [oh ruh-vwahr]
- YesOui
  [wee]
- NoNon
  [nohn]
- Please/You're welcomeS'il vous plaît/De rien
  [seel voo pleh/duh ryen]
- Thank youMerci
  [mehr-see]
- Excuse me/SorryExcusez-moi/Désolé
  [ex-kew-zay mwa/day-zoh-lay]
- How are you?Comment ça va?
  [ko-mohn sah vah]
- Fine. And you?Bien. Et vous?
  [byen. ay voo]
- Do you speak English?Parlez-vous anglais?
  [par-lay voo ahn-glay]
- I don't understandJe ne comprends pas
  [zhuh nuh kohm-prahn pah]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseJe voudrais voir la carte, s'il vous plaît
  [zhuh voo-dray vwahr lah kart, seel voo pleh]
- I don't eat meatJe ne mange pas de viande
  [zhuh nuh mahnj pah duh vyand]
- Cheers!Santé!
  [sahn-tay]
- I would like to pay, pleaseJe voudrais payer, s'il vous plaît
  [zhuh voo-dray pay-yay, seel voo pleh]
- Help!Au secours!
  [oh suh-koor]
- Go away!Allez-vous en!
  [ah-lay voo zahn]
- Call the Police!Appelez la police!
  [ah-pay-lay lah poh-lees]
- Call a doctor!Appelez un médecin!
  [ah-pay-lay uh may-duh-sahn]
- I'm lostJe suis perdu
  [zhuh swee pair-doo]
- I'm illJe suis malade
  [zhuh swee mah-lahd]
- I'd like to buy...Je voudrais acheter...
  [zhuh voo-dray zah-shtay...]
- I'm just lookingJe regarde juste
  [zhuh ruh-gard zhust]
- How much is it?Combien ça coûte?
  [kohm-byen sah koot]
- That's too expensiveC'est trop cher
  [say troh shair]
- Can you lower the price?Pouvez-vous baisser le prix?
  [poo-veh voo bay-say luh pree]
- What time is it?Quelle heure est-il?
  [kell er ay eel]
- It's one o'clockIl est une heure
  [eel ay oon er]
- Half past (10)Dix et demi
  [dees ay duh-mee]
- MorningMatin
  [mah-tan]
- AfternoonAprès-midi
  [ah-pray mee-dee]
- EveningSoir
  [swahr]
- YesterdayHier
  [yehr]
- TodayAujourd'hui
  [oh-zhoor-dwee]
- TomorrowDemain
  [duh-mahn]
- 1Un
  [uhn]
- 2Deux
  [duh]
- 3Trois
  [twah]
- 4Quatre
  [kat]
- 5Cinq
  [sank]
- 6Six
  [sees]
- 7Sept
  [set]
- 8Huit
  [wheat]
- 9Neuf
  [nuhf]
- 10Dix
  [dees]
- Where's a/the...?Où est...?
  [oo ay]
- What's the address?Quelle est l'adresse?
  [kell ay la-dress]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Pouvez-vous me montrer (sur la carte)?
  [poo-veh voo muh mohn-tray (soor lah kart)]
- When's the next (bus)?Quand est le prochain (bus)?
  [kahn ay luh proh-shahn (boos)]
- A ticket (to ....)Un billet (pour ...)
  [uhn bee-yay (poor)]

History of Dordogne

The Dordogne region is home to some of the world's most significant prehistoric art, notably the Lascaux Cave Paintings. Discovered in 1940, these Paleolithic cave paintings date back approximately 17,000 years. The intricate depictions of animals such as horses, aurochs, and deer provide a fascinating glimpse into the lives and beliefs of early humans. The cave complex, often referred to as the 'Sistine Chapel of Prehistory,' is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and represents one of humanity's earliest forays into artistic expression.
The Romans left a lasting imprint on the Dordogne region, particularly in the town of Périgueux, known in antiquity as Vesunna. Established around the 1st century AD, Vesunna was a significant Gallo-Roman city. Visitors can explore the Vesunna Gallo-Roman Museum, built around the remains of a grand Roman villa, and view the well-preserved Vesunna Tower. These ancient ruins provide insights into Roman urban planning, architecture, and daily life in the region.
Dordogne is dotted with medieval castles and fortresses, many of which played crucial roles during the Hundred Years' War between England and France (1337-1453). Notable sites include the Château de Beynac, which served as a strategic stronghold for French forces, and the Château de Castelnaud, held by the English. These imposing structures offer a vivid reminder of the region's turbulent past and the strategic importance of the Dordogne River in medieval military campaigns.
The Renaissance period brought architectural and cultural flourishes to the Dordogne region, exemplified by the Château de Hautefort. Originally a medieval fortress, the château was transformed into an elegant Renaissance residence in the 17th century. Set amidst meticulously manicured gardens, the château features grand halls, ornate décor, and an extensive art collection. It stands as a testament to the period's artistic and cultural achievements in the region.
During World War II, the Dordogne region became a hub of resistance activity against the Nazi occupation. The dense forests and rugged terrain provided ideal cover for the Maquis, groups of French Resistance fighters. The village of Oradour-sur-Glane, just north of Dordogne, is a poignant reminder of the war's brutal impact. Destroyed by the SS in 1944, it remains preserved as a memorial to the lives lost and the resilience of the local population.