Welcome to Sarlat La Caneda, a picturesque town in the heart of the Périgord Noir region in southwestern France. Sarlat is famous for its stunning architecture, charming narrow streets, and delicious gastronomy. The town is filled with attractions and activities that will delight every kind of traveler, whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or simply looking for a relaxing vacation. In this post, we’ll take you on a tour of the best things to do and places to visit in Sarlat La Caneda, ensuring you don’t miss out on any of its hidden gems. From exploring medieval castles to indulging in delicious French cuisine, there’s something for everyone in this stunning town. So, without further ado, let’s dive in!

The 3 Best Walking Tours in Sarlat La Caneda

1. Lascaux Ii Caves Cave Art Full Day Tour
2. From Sarlat Rocamadour Half Day Tour
3. Beynac Domme Villages Dordogne Boat Ride

The 3 Best Walking Tours in Sarlat La Caneda

1. Lascaux Ii Caves Cave Art Full Day Tour

This full-day tour takes you to the heart of prehistoric Dordogne, where you’ll discover the world-renowned Lascaux IV Cave and the stunning drawings and etchings inside the Rouffignac Cave. The tour starts with a visit to Les Eyzies de Tayac, where you’ll explore the National Prehistory Museum and discover the largest collection of prehistoric artifacts in the world. Then, continue to Montignac for a guided tour of Lascaux IV Cave, a perfect reproduction of the original cave that was discovered in 1940. You’ll also have the chance to see the original cave art at Rouffignac Cave, which dates back up to 20,000 years. With skip-the-line access included, this tour offers a unique opportunity to explore the fascinating history and art of prehistoric France.

2. From Sarlat Rocamadour Half Day Tour

Climb aboard a comfortable van and take a one-hour trip to reach Rocamadour from Sarlat. As you arrive in Rocamadour, you will visit one of the most beautiful medieval villages in France, that is built against a cliff face nestled in the heart of the Alzou canyon, a thousand-year-old historic UNESCO site. During the tour, the English-speaking guide will reveal the legends of this sacred place. After a climb of 216 steps of the Grand Pilgrim’s Staircase, you will discover the sanctuary, chapels, miraculous chapel, and its black virgin, the sarcophagus of St. Amadour, dug. Also, on the afternoon tours, you will get to see the last medieval fortified watermill still in operation and a beautiful Romanesque church. This half-day tour is an incredible experience to take while in Sarlat La Caneda.

3. Beynac Domme Villages Dordogne Boat Ride

Experience the best of the Dordogne on this full-day tour that includes a walking tour of the beautiful village of Domme, classified as one of the “Most Beautiful Villages of France”. Admire the trapezoid city plan of Domme and learn about its history including the imprisonment of Knight Templars in 1307 and its role during the Hundred Years’ War.

Next, discover the charming town of La Roque Gageac on a peaceful boat ride down the Dordogne River on board an authentic Gabarre. Along the way, admire the stunning castles that line the river and enjoy the tranquil scenery.

Finally, visit the picturesque village of Beynac and explore its historic castle. With a knowledgeable English-speaking driver guide, you’ll enjoy a stress-free day exploring the best of the Dordogne.

Frequently Asked Questions About Sarlat La Caneda, France

Sarlat La Caneda is a beautiful medieval town in the Dordogne region of southwestern France. This historic city is known for its beautiful architecture, rich history, and world-class cuisine. However, tourists often have questions about visiting Sarlat La Caneda. In this blog post, we will answer some of the most frequently asked questions about this charming French town.

1. What is the best time of year to visit Sarlat La Caneda?

The best time to visit Sarlat La Caneda is between May and October. During these months, the weather is mild and perfect for exploring the town on foot. The summer months are especially busy, with many tourists flocking to Sarlat La Caneda to enjoy its sunny weather and beautiful scenery.

2. What are the must-see attractions in Sarlat La Caneda?

Sarlat La Caneda is home to many historic and cultural attractions. Some of the most popular include:

• The Sarlat Cathedral
• The Lanterne des Morts
• The Chateau de Beynac
• The Gardens of Marqueyssac
• The Lascaux Cave Paintings

3. Is it easy to get around Sarlat La Caneda?

Yes, it is relatively easy to get around Sarlat La Caneda on foot. The town is relatively small and compact, and most of its attractions are within walking distance of each other. However, if you prefer to drive, there are also plenty of parking options available in the town.

4. What is the local cuisine like in Sarlat La Caneda?

Sarlat La Caneda is known for its world-class cuisine, which features many local specialties such as foie gras, truffles, and confit de canard. There are also plenty of restaurants in the town that serve traditional French cuisine as well as international dishes.

5. What are some popular day trips from Sarlat La Caneda?

There are many popular day trips to take from Sarlat La Caneda. Some of the most popular include:

• The Castles of the Dordogne Valley
• The Prehistoric Sites of the Vezere Valley
• The City of Bergerac
• The City of Bordeaux
• The Wine Region of Saint-Emilion

6. What is the nightlife like in Sarlat La Caneda?

Sarlat La Caneda is a relatively small town, and the nightlife is relatively low-key. However, there are still plenty of bars and cafes where you can enjoy a drink or a meal in the evening.

7. What is the best way to get to Sarlat La Caneda?

The easiest way to get to Sarlat La Caneda is by flying into either Bordeaux or Toulouse airport. From there, you can take a train or rent a car to travel to the town.

8. Is Sarlat La Caneda wheelchair friendly?

Sarlat La Caneda is a historic town, and some of its streets and buildings may be difficult to navigate for those in wheelchairs. However, many of the town’s attractions are accessible, and there are also plenty of wheelchair-friendly restaurants and cafes in the town.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Sarlat La Caneda

Sarlat La Caneda, a picturesque town located in the Dordogne region of France, is known for its well-preserved medieval architecture and its lively markets. If you’re planning a visit to this charming town, you may be wondering what activities to do and what sights to see. In this guide, we’ll share some tips on how to spend your time as a tourist in Sarlat La Caneda.

1. Take a Walking Tour

Exploring Sarlat La Caneda on foot is the best way to discover its charms. There are many walking tours available in the town, and you can choose from a number of themes, such as the medieval architecture tour, the market tour, the culinary tour, and the art and history tour. Walking tours usually last around 2 hours and are conducted in French, English, and other languages.

2. Visit the Local Markets

Sarlat La Caneda is famous for its markets. The biggest market takes place on Saturdays, while a smaller one is held on Wednesdays. At the markets, you can find an array of local products, such as foie gras, cheese, wine, honey, and truffles. The markets are also a great place to buy souvenirs, such as postcards, ceramics, and textiles. Don’t be afraid to haggle – it’s a part of the market culture in France!

3. Explore the Historical Center

The historical center of Sarlat La Caneda is a UNESCO World Heritage site, with well-preserved medieval architecture and narrow cobblestone streets. Some of the highlights of the town include the Sarlat Cathedral, the Place de la Liberte, the Maison de la Boétie, and the Place des Oies. You can also admire the town’s many towers and turrets.

4. Visit the Museums

Sarlat La Caneda has several museums that are worth a visit. The Musée de Sarlat et du Périgord Noir is dedicated to the history and art of the Périgord Noir region, while the Maison de la Boétie is a museum dedicated to the writer and philosopher Étienne de La Boétie. The Sarlat Discovery House is a multimedia museum that showcases the history and culture of the town.

5. Go on a Canoe Ride

The Dordogne River runs through Sarlat La Caneda, making it an ideal location for a canoe ride. You can rent a canoe or kayak and paddle down the river, admiring the scenery and stopping at the many small towns and villages along the way. Don’t forget to bring a picnic lunch – there are plenty of spots along the riverbank to stop and enjoy a meal.

6. Take a Hot Air Balloon Ride

For a truly unique perspective on Sarlat La Caneda and the Dordogne region, consider taking a hot air balloon ride. You’ll soar above the town and the surrounding countryside, enjoying panoramic views of the landscape. Hot air balloon rides are usually conducted early in the morning or in the late afternoon, and advance booking is recommended.

7. Attend a Festival

Sarlat La Caneda is known for its lively festivals, which take place throughout the year. Some of the biggest festivals include the Truffle Festival in January, the Goose Festival in February, the Film Festival in November, and the Christmas Market in December. These festivals are a great way to experience the local culture and traditions, and are fun for the whole family.

8. Try the Local Cuisine

The food in Sarlat La Caneda is a highlight of any visit. The town is known for its foie gras, truffles, and other local specialties. Be sure to try the confit de canard (duck confit), the cassoulet (a hearty bean stew), and the walnut tart. You’ll also find plenty of excellent restaurants in town, ranging from casual bistros to Michelin-starred establishments.

Book Your Tour Now

Sarlat La Caneda is a charming town with plenty to offer tourists. From exploring the historical center to visiting the local markets, there’s something for everyone here. Don’t forget to try the local cuisine and attend a festival during your visit. With this guide, you’re sure to have a memorable time in Sarlat La Caneda.