The 10 things to do in the Dordogne

Is it decided to visit the Dordogne on the list of your next adventures? Then discover our selection of the 10 best things to do in the Dordogne!

In charge of History, the Dordogne department is a French destination for holidays or a prolonged weekend. It is the seat of many legends worn by the walls of its many castles still standing and valiant.

Its lush green spaces, vineyards and natural curiosities invite you to the most total change. Let yourself be tempted and booked in the region! The range of things to do in the Dordogne is very wide and is suitable for a gourmet getaway in love and a week of adventure with family or friends.

1. Lascaux Cave

Visiting the Dordogne would be nothing without the discovery of the caves of Lascaux! One day of the year 1940, a group of young walkers noticed that their dog was in a cavity. Intrigued, they will go to discover what will later become the first prehistoric site of France.

A few weeks later, the site was ranked on the list of prehistoric monuments of France by the State of Pétain. Located in the commune of Montignac, the cave houses an impressive number of representations of parietal art.

Following irreversible degradation caused by mass tourism in the original cave, a reconstruction called Lascaux 2 opened its doors to the general public in 1983. An international travelling exhibition (Lascaux 3) complements all by the parts of the cave not reproduced by Lascaux 2.

Today, the extremely faithful Lascaux 4 gives you to admire all the works present in the original cave. It is a true journey in time through traditions and prehistoric art. Do not hesitate for a second before registering the site on your list of things to do in Dordogne!

2. Les Jardins de Marqueyssac

Around a castle of the early nineteenth century, the Jardins de Marqueyssac were originally acquired by Bertrand Vernet de Marqueyssac, a king’s advisor. One of his descendants, Julien de Cerval, was passionate about garden and very sensitive to aesthetics.

It is he who will rethink the layout of the spaces, plant new species and cultivate fruit trees, all in a romantic style directly imported from Italy. Much later, in 1996, a so-called Kléber Roussillon will undertake the rehabilitation of the gardens and add water paths, waterfalls and other avenues of rosemaries that integrate perfectly with the original spirit of the gardens.

Fearic walk through 6 kilometers of centenary buis carved by hand, the Jardins de Marqueyssac are an impossible to do in Dordogne. Perched on a rocky hill overlooking the surroundings, they offer an incredible panorama over the area.

The ornithologists in grass will be delighted: you will be welcomed on the scene as it is due to these beautiful birds that are the peacocks! Throughout the visit, a signage will inform you about the history of the valley, its fauna and flora. Because visiting the Dordogne is also discovering the nature that composes it.

3. The castles of the Périgord

The castle of Beynac

Visit the Dordogne without passing through one of its castles? No way! Let’s start with the most famous of them. In the town of Beynac-et-Cazenac, the Castle of Beynac stands proudly at the top of a cliff while overlooking the village and the river. Dating from the 12th century, it is one of the best preserved castles of Dordogne. Proof of these are the shootings at his places of Fanfan la Tulipe or Jeanne d’Arc, directed by Luc Besson.

Let yourself be transported to the Middle Ages and walk on the steps of Richard Coeur de Lion and the Marquis de Beynac. Spend yourself in the corridors of the fortress, explore the kitchens where the fabulous medieval banquets were prepared and rise to the dungeon. You will enjoy a wonderful view of the Dordogne valley. A dive in unforgettable time in the Dordogne!

The castle of Puymartin

You surely know this castle of the Périgord built in the 13th century without knowing it. Indeed, this is where the famous legend of the White Lady was born. Imprisoned in the walls of the castle by her jealous husband, it is said that the ghost of Thérèse de Saint-Clar always haunts the walls of the castle.

Restored in the 19th century, it is now open to the general public and retains family goods, period furniture and tapestries and paintings. To see in Dordogne if you are not cold in your eyes!

The castle and gardens of Milandes

Built at the end of the 15th century, the Château des Milandes in Castelnaud-la-Chapelle is known for being the home of Joséphine Baker. From Renaissance style, it will offer you a real dive in the castle life. You will even have the opportunity to enjoy a show of raptors and falconry workshops!

4. Oil

Saint-Front Cathedral

If you have decided to visit the Dordogne, it is impossible to make the impasse on its high place. The first notable monument to visit in Périgueux is undoubtedly the Cathedral of Saint-Front. Observable from the docks of the Dordogne, she surprises her majestic side. If you are a follower of religious monuments, enjoy it to make a detour by the Church of St. Stephen of the City.

Vesunna

Périgueux is the most famous Roman city in all Aquitaine. An exceptional Gallo-Roman site, Vesunna will reveal the Roman origins of the city. The museum site was built directly on the remains of the Domus de Vesunna, a large Gallo-Roman residence. The models and collections of archaeological objects content the way of life of the inhabitants of the time.

In the same spirit, pass a moment to the Jardin des Arènes, which was built on the site of the ancient Roman arenas. These could accommodate up to 20,000 spectators. Today, the park offers a relaxing environment sublimated by ancient ruins.

5. Bergerac, her alleys and Cyrano

During your visit to Bergerac, do not miss the two statues, one of wood, the other of iron, dedicated to the famous Cyrano de Bergerac! A literary hero from Edmond Rostand’s pen, he has contributed greatly to the reputation of the commune. To find them, walk through the streets and address the premises.

You will end up falling on it and it’s a nice excuse to get lost in the city center. By the way, stroll a little into the narrow Clar Street and admire its half-timbered houses. Then stop Place Pélissière and Place Mirpe, the most charming of the city. If you have any time after your petrifications, plan the visit of the Maison de Vins de Bergerac.

6. The gum of Proumeyssac

Explored lately, the Gouffre de Proumeyssac is still the theater of legends since the night of time. The largest cavity in the Périgord, it bears the sweet nickname of Cathedral of Cristal. This huge underground cave is populated with extraordinary crystallizations that will leave you an imperishable memory.

A grandiose light makes this cavity and its walls one of the most amazing things to do in the Dordogne. You can choose to make a 45-minute commentary visit to the cave or to discover the swell in an optimal way by descending into a nacelle. In this case, you will do so with a reduced group.

7. Sarlat-la-Canéda

The capital of Perigord Noir, Sarlat-la-Canéda is one of the most beautiful places you will have the opportunity to visit in Dordogne. In addition, the commune has the reputation of sheltering in its territory the highest density of Historical Monuments in the world. As much as you say you’d better plan to camp for a few days if you want to see them all!

The first thing to do is to plan a commented visit to the city centre, to learn more about its history and about life in the Middle Ages in general. Other monuments such as the Manoir de Gisson, the Church of Saint Mary and its panoramic elevator or the Cathedral of Saint Sacerdos are exciting to visit if you stay in Sarlat a few days.

And especially don’t forget to taste the atmosphere and products of the market during your visit.

8. The Bournat

In Bugue, the Bournat theme park takes you back into a blink of an eye in 1900! Built with authentic Perigord stones, this village and its restored farm are a pretext for exploring life as it was in the early last century. Customs, traditions and trades of the former Perigord will have no secrets for you!

Throughout your exploration of the park, meet the geese, horses, goats and other sheep that populate the park. Visiting the Dordogne is also a real happiness for nature lovers and regional traditions.

9. Monbazillac, its vineyards and its castle

Celebrating vineyards, Monbazillac is a mandatory step in the Dordogne region. Its castle, open all year round, blends defensive elements typical of the Middle Ages with a Renaissance style. Surrounded by vineyards, it is especially in its enclosure that some cuvées of wine of the same name are produced.

As long as you are there, push the visit and make a detour through the domain of La Grande Maison. On a hill overlooking the banks of the Dordogne, it is located between the walls of a 14th century residence. You will have the opportunity to visit its cellars and taste its best organic wines. Your palace will remember!

10. To see and do also in Dordogne

Abbaye de Boschaud

Founded in the 12th century and partly destroyed during the religious wars, the Abbey of Boschaud is located a bit on the margins of the village of Villars. This haven of spirituality to be seen in the Dordogne is planted in the heart of a pretty and green estate. For a long time left to abandon, its ruins will allow you to visualize the whole style of life, from dormitories to the cloister. His visit is free and free.

Bambousaie de La Roque-Gageac

Located in the heart of La Roque-Gageac, this botanical park is an opportunity to explore the different species of bamboo and many other exotic plants. Let yourself be impressed by the vertiginous heights they can reach! A pleasant and refreshing ride to make in Dordogne.

Univerland

Located in the Bugue on Vézère, this theme park divided into four zones will offer you an unforgettable experience. Dispute some golf games on a jungle setting at the Jungle Golf. In Big Bird, enjoy the largest air route in Europe, more than 22 meters high.

At the Black Perigord Aquarium, you can see more than 6000 fish and alligators. Finally, in the time of the cro-magons, measure yourself to the prehistoric labyrinth, an ideal escape game to make in the Dordogne during a family trip!

How do I go to Dordogne?

In Dordogne, we count two airports : that of Périgueux, ensuring internal flights, and that of Bergerac. You will also have the opportunity to board a plane landing at Brive-la-Gaillarde Airport, located just behind the border with the Corrèze.

If you arrive from abroad, the solution to remember will be to look at flights to Bordeaux , located less than an hour and a half from Bergerac. The most wise is to use a comparison of flights as Skyscanner which will help you find the best solution according to your starting point. You'll see better! If you prefer, you can also reach the towns of Périgueux or Bergerac by train .

Where to stay in Dordogne?

During a tourist circuit throughout the department or a relaxing weekend in a dordogese town, find the accommodation that looks like you! To help you choose it well, browse the typical host room offers, classified hotels, campsites and other apartments available on this Compare hotels , which will help you to see at one glance what accommodation best meets your expectations.

The most practical cities are Périgueux and Sarlat. They allow to radiate around the department and give access to a wider offer. In fact, there are many Airbnb .

So now that you know what to do in Dordogne, it's time to pack your bags!