France is a beautiful country to explore, especially for couples on a romantic holiday. There are jaw-dropping castles, charming villages, and cathedrals towering over cities and towns. While strolling through the streets of the Dordogne region in France, make sure you explore some of its highlights, which include the caves at Lascaux, the Marqueyssac Gardens, Périgueux Cathedral, and more. In addition to exploring the attractions, always spare some time to explore the French food scene. Every part of France has its own distinct cuisine. Savour it all and enjoy the irresistible charms that this side of the country has to offer. Check out some of the best things to do in Dordogne, France.
1. Visit Castle Commarque
Founded in the 12th century, Castle Commarque is a medieval chateau with caves that were once used as homes. It is located close to Sarlat and Les Eyzies, just 40 miles (64 kilometres) from Bergerac. Once you are here, you will surely enjoy the visit. Guests have countless activities to indulge in, including exploring the caves, learning the art of calligraphy, archery, stone carving and more, all which were practised during the ancient times.
Castle Commarque
Address: Château de Commarque, 24620 Les Eyzies-de-Tayac-Sireuil, France
Website: Castle Commarque
2. Stroll through the Marqueyssac Gardens
If you love anything to do with horticulture, you cannot miss the opportunity to explore these famous manicured gardens. Over 22 hectares (54 acres) big, the Marqueyssac Gardens is strategically located in between the charming villages of La Roque-Gageac and Beynac. It boasts outstanding views of Dordogne Valley. At the gardens, you will find more than 3.7 miles (6 kilometres) of shaded alleys, hundred-year-old trees, a playground, and a Gothic chapel, among others. Given the size of this place, you may not be able to explore the whole area, but one place you cannot afford to miss out on is the castle - it has so many artefacts on display for you to discover.
The Marqueyssac Gardens
Address: Les Jardins de Marqueyssac, 24220 Vezac, France
Website: The Marqueyssac Gardens
Opening hours: 10am - 6pm (daily)
3. Explore the corridors of Château des Milandes
Constructed in 1489, Chateau des Milandes is undoubtedly one of the most popular castles in Dordogne thanks to its architectural beauty. At one point in history, the castle belonged to the lords of Caumont, but it was abandoned after the French Revolution. Currently, it is home to Josephine Baker, a famous entertainer who restored it in the late 1940s. While you are here, you can learn more about Baker’s life, stroll through the beautiful gardens, or enjoy the Birds of Prey show, which features some of the best birds in the castle’s falconry.
Château des Milandes
Address: 24250 Castelnaud-la-Chapelle, France
Website: Château des Milandes
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4. Check out the historic Grotte de Font-de-Gaume
Located in Les Eyzies, Grotte de Font-de-Gaume is an incredible preservation site that is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This is the only cave in France that features polychrome paintings. Here, you will find more than 200 animal representations, including mammoths, horses, and reindeer, either in paintings or as engravings. Please note that for conservation reasons, the daily number of visitors is limited. Also, note that access to the caves is through guided tours only, and no bags or bulky jackets are allowed inside the caves.
Grotte de Font-de-Gaume
Address: 1-4 Avenue des Grottes, 24620 Les Eyzies-de-Tayac-Sireuil, France
Website: Grotte de Font-de-Gaume
Opening hours: Sun - Fri: 9:30am - 5:30pm; (closed on Sat)
5. Learn more about the history of Cloister of Cadouin
Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Monument, Cloister of Cadouin is a Gothic church dating back to 1115. Today, this place attracts visitors from all over the world who are all eager to discover its history. Those who visit this site get to admire the architectural beauty and the amazing scenery that makes this site such a serene place. Children will love the tour, as they can enjoy interactive workshops, which are as informative as they are fun. To have the complete experience, make sure you tour the place with an audio guide.
Cloister of Cadouin
Address: Place de l'Abbaye, 24480 Le Buisson-de-Cadouin, France
Website: Cloister of Cadouin
Opening hours: Sat - Thu: 10am - 12:30pm, 2pm - 5:30pm (closed on Fri)
6. Be inspired by prehistoric art at Lascaux II
Lascaux is one of the most famous cave sites from the Stone Age in all of Europe. These caves were discovered by four teenagers in 1940, but it was only in 1948 when the caves were opened to the public. With the aim of preserving the prehistoric art found inside, the Ministry of Culture invested in making a replica, and that’s how Lascaux II came to be in 1983. It contains the main sections of the original cave and allows visitors to explore some of the painted panels. Even though these are replicas, the accuracy is astounding. This site is a must-visit for anyone interested in history.
Lascaux II
Address: Lieu-dit Lascaux, 24290 Montignac, France
Website: Lascaux II
7. Admire the limestone wall at La Roque St. Christophe
Situated in one of the most beautiful landscapes in France, exactly halfway between Les Eyzies and Montignac, La Roque St. Christophe is a 0.6-mile-long (1-kilometre) and 80-metre-high (262-feet) limestone wall that was used to house cave dwellers thousands of years ago. The walls were later abandoned and became a fortress that protected the town during the Middle Ages up to the Renaissance. Exploring this site will allow you to understand how people from the past once lived. You will get to see their kitchens, their shrines, and their machines that really worked. This is the perfect tour for history buffs.
La Roque St. Christophe
Address: Roque Saint-Christophe, 24620 Peyzac-le-Moustier, France
Website: La Roque St. Christophe
8. Wander the streets of Parc Le Bournat
Located at the heart of Perigord Noir Region, right at the banks of river Vezere, Parc Le Bournat is a reconstructed village that will remind you of the good old days, when craftsmanship made up the people’s livelihood. The village features merry-go-rounds, a school, a farm with animals, a mill, and a restaurant serving local cuisine. This is the perfect destination for a family day out, especially for those who are looking forward to enjoying country walks and picnics. In addition to being accessible to the disabled, parking is offered and leashed dogs are allowed.
Parc Le Bournat
Address: 191 Allée Paul-Jean Souriau, 24260 Le Bugue, France
Website: Parc Le Bournat
9. Enjoy a tour of Castelnaud-la-Chapelle Castle
Located on the left side of Dordogne River, Castelnaud-la-Chapelle is a famous castle in France. This site was once home to a powerful local lord, Bernard de Casnac, who was said to be very cruel to Catholics. Currently, the castle is owned by Philippe and Veronique Rossillon. Exploring the castle can take up to an hour, and you will be able to discover its interiors, which includes the artillery tower, the guard room, the equipment room, and the machinery rooms, among other chambers.
Castelnaud-la-Chapelle Castle
Address: 24250 Castelnaud-la-Chapelle, France
Website: Castelnaud-la-Chapelle Castle
10. Visit the legendary Grottes de Maxange
Located in the valley of the Dordogne is the impressive Grottes de Maxange, a cave complex. It features two linked caves: the upper and lower parts. The upper cave is where you will find a long, narrow cavern with a stunning ceiling composed of tiny stalactites growing in all directions. What makes this site so special is the fact that there are just a handful of caves under these conditions, and out of all the others, none promises the kind of view that Grottes de Maxange has to offer.
Grottes de Maxange
Address: 24480 Le Buisson-de-Cadouin, France
Website: Grottes de Maxange
11. Commune with nature at Périgord-Limousin Natural Regional Park
Périgord-Limousin Natural Regional Park is set on land that measures 180,000 hectares (444,789 acres), extending over the Dordogne and Haute-Vienne departments. Just like most other parks, this features lakes, streams, forests, and amazing scenery. But what makes it so unique is the number of attractions housed within the property. There is so much to discover here, including Chateau de Richemont and the ruined medieval castle of Chateau de Chalus-Chabrol, among other sites. The best way to explore this destination is by bike or on foot.
Périgord-Limousin Natural Regional Park
Address: Maison du Parc La Barde, 24450 La Coquille, France
Website: Périgord-Limousin Natural Regional Park
Opening hours: Mon - Thu: 8:30am - 6pm; Fri: 8:30am - 5pm (closed on Sat & Sun)
12. Check out Grotte du Grand Roc
Grotte du Grand Roc is another destination that history buffs have to visit. Even if you are not a history buff, this site will amaze you as well. Located along the banks of the Vezere River, Grotte du Grand Roc is a cave that was used as a home mainly by the Cro-Magnon thousands of years ago. Today, it is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It has stunning features, including stalagmites, eccentric stalactites, pillars and many more. All you need to do is to make a reservation to enjoy an educational tour.
Grotte du Grand Roc
Address: Route de Périgueux, 24620 Les Eyzies-de-Tayac-Sireuil, France
Website: Grotte du Grand Roc
Opening hours: Sat - Thu: 10am - 12:30pm, 2pm - 5:30pm (closed on Fri)
13. Enjoy a meal at Cabanoix et Châtaigne
Posted by Cabanoix, Châtaigne & Cie on Friday, 29 March 2013
After a day of exploring, be sure to stop for some food in between tours. The beautiful Cabanois et Chataigne in the commune of Domme is the perfect place to dine. It is famous for serving a good selection of local cuisine from different menus that range in price. This restaurant is always busy, so make sure you reserve ahead to guarantee a spot.
Cabanoix et Châtaigne
Address: 3 Rue Geoffroy de Vivans, 24250 Domme, France
Website: Cabanoix et Châtaigne
14. Have a drink at Watson's Pub
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Watson’s Pub is known for providing its customers with a unique collection of whiskey, rum and beer that are sourced from different parts of the globe. There is also a restaurant here dedicated to serving both local and international cuisines. You will love their wide range of meats, salads and burgers. Watson’s Pub serves brunch from 10 am to 1 pm, so make sure you stop by and taste their fares.
Watson's Pub
Address: 17 Rue Saint-Front, 24000 Périgueux, France
Opening hours: 8am - 2am (daily)
15. See the exhibits at Pôle Expérimental Métiers d'Art de Nontron et du Périgord-Limousin
Ever since it was created in 1999, the main aim of Pôle Expérimental Métiers d'Art de Nontron et du Périgord-Limousin is to promote and create awareness of the arts and crafts sector in France. The museum is famous for hosting several thematic exhibitions that are devoted to arts and crafts such as ceramics, tapestry, contemporary mosaic, brassware and many more. During the winter and summer seasons, it also hosts demonstrations and courses. Visiting this place is not only fun but also educational for both adults and children. A parking space is available for guests.
Pôle Expérimental Métiers d'Art de Nontron et du Périgord-Limousin
Address: Château, Avenue du Général Leclerc, 24300 Nontron, France
Website: Pôle Expérimental Métiers d'Art de Nontron et du Périgord-Limousin
Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 10am - 1pm, 2pm - 6pm (closed on Sun)
16. Explore Périgord Museum of Art and Archaeology
Located in Périgueux, Périgord Museum of Art and Archaeology was established in 1835 with the aim of preserving artefacts for the knowledge of future generations. The museum is home to more than 33,500 items, hence it presents a great selection of remarkable findings. Some exhibits that can be found at the museum include items from prehistoric periods and artworks from the medieval period, among others. This is the perfect place to enjoy a day out with your family.
Périgord Museum of Art and Archaeology
Address: 22 Cours Tourny, 24000 Périgueux, France
Website: Périgord Museum of Art and Archaeology
Opening hours: Mon, Wed - Fri: 10am - 5pm; Sat - Sun: 1pm - 6pm (closed on Tue)
17. Learn more about prehistoric art at Lascaux International Center of Art Parietal
Located in Montignac, France, Lascaux International Center of Art Parietal is a recently opened art centre that is dedicated to preserving prehistoric findings and educating visitors about their significance. The centre offers visitors an educative experience of the prehistoric Lascaux cave paintings. One of the most significant ones you will find here is the ‘Sistine Chapel of Prehistory’, which has both a spiritual and historical significance and is thousands of years old.
Lascaux International Center of Art Parietal
Address: Avenue de Lascaux, 24290 Montignac, France
Website: Lascaux International Center of Art Parietal
Opening hours: 10am - 6pm (daily)
18. Be inspired at Galerie Bénédicte Giniaux
Established in 2011 at the heart of Dordogne, Galerie Bénédicte Giniaux is an art gallery that displays 20 permanent exhibits composed of paintings of animals and humans as well as nudes and scenes from daily life. In addition to paintings, the gallery also features poetry and humorous life stories signed by professional artists who are very passionate about their masterpieces. You will find everything here, be it photography, drawings, engravings or oil paintings. This art gallery is a paradise for anyone who loves and appreciates art.
Galerie Bénédicte Giniaux
Address: 3 Place du Dr Cayla, 24100 Bergerac, France
Website: Galerie Bénédicte Giniaux
Opening hours: Wed - Sun: 3:30pm - 7:30pm (closed on Mon & Tue)
19. Visit the art museum Le Jardin d'Hélys-oeuvre
Another art museum worth visiting is Le Jardin d'Hélys-oeuvre. It is located in the commune of Saint-Médard-d'Excideuil and is famous for displaying some of the most amazing art creations in the country. There is a marvellous garden where you will find a combination of plastic art, poetry and botany surrounding a 19th-century mansion. Some of the features that will fascinate you while exploring are the garden and some unique statues outdoors. This is definitely a place that art lovers will appreciate.
Le Jardin d'Hélys-oeuvre
Address: Route Départementale 705, Les Gissoux, 24160 Saint-Médard-d'Excideuil, France
Website: Le Jardin d'Hélys-oeuvre
Opening hours: 3pm - 7pm (daily)
20. Understand French culture at François Mitterrand Cultural Space
If you want to understand French culture while in France, pay a visit to François Mitterrand Cultural Space. Here, you will discover everything to do with the French culture, including its art and music, traditions and practices, and many more, all through performances and exhibits. This is not only a place to educate yourself about France but also the perfect destination to have fun with your family and friends. You might even catch a live performance on your visit.
François Mitterrand Cultural Space
Address: Parc Georges Pierre, 76380 Canteleu, France
Opening hours: Tue, Thu, Fri: 4pm - 7pm; Wed, Sat: 10am - 12:30pm, 2pm - 5:30pm (closed on Sun & Mon)
21. Stroll through National Museum of Prehistory
If you are in France and looking for a place where you can see the best collection of Paleolithic artefacts, then National Museum of Prehistory is one of the first places you should visit. It is located at the heart of Les Eyzies, and you won’t be able to miss it thanks to its striking appearance - it is built on the edge of the cliffs and has a statue of Neanderthal outside. Inside the museum, you should expect to find bones of prehistoric animals like the cave bear, some human skeletons, and other important archaeological findings. Additionally, you will get stunning views of the town from this place.
National Museum of Prehistory
Address: 1 Rue du Musée, 24620 Les Eyzies-de-Tayac-Sireuil, France
Website: National Museum of Prehistory
Opening hours: Wed - Mon: 9:30am - 12:30pm, 2pm - 5:30pm (closed on Tue)
22. Discover history at Abri de la Madeleine
Loosely translated as “the Magdalene Shelter”, Abri de la Madeleine is a rock shelter under a cliff that is located in Tursac in the Dordogne department. It was used more than 50,000 years ago, and to prove that, many prehistoric findings were discovered here, including a carved bison, harpoons, and some shell jewellery. There are some rules concerning a visitation here, such as no rock climbing and no moving or taking anything from the site.
Abri de la Madeleine
Address: Le Petit marzac, 24620 Tursac, France
Website: Abri de la Madeleine
23. Marvel at the limestone cliffs of Brantome Abbey
Also known as Saint Peter of Brantome, Brantome Abbey was supposedly founded by former king Charlemagne sometime during the 8th century. It has since gone through several restorations over the centuries, with the latest one being in the late 19th century. One of the most striking features on the property is the limestone cliffs that are situated behind the abbey, which were used by monks and turned into quarries. It also features dozens of caves that functioned as dwellings, plus a cloister and a bell tower.
Brantome Abbey
Address: 14 Boulevard Charlemagne, 24310 Brantôme, France
Website: Brantome Abbey
Opening hours: 10am - 5pm (daily)
24. Enjoy a unique shopping experience at Centre Commercial La Feuilleraie
For a unique shopping experience during your visit to the Dordogne region in France, you should head to Centre Commercial La Feuilleraie. Hosting more than 200 department stores, this is the one-stop-shop for everything you want, be it jewellery, shoes, clothes, electronics or groceries - you will find it all here. In case you get hungry after shopping, the mall also features a food court, fancy restaurants, and cafes. To make your life much easier at the shopping centre, you will have access to important facilities such as free internet, free parking, a smartphone charging station, and a locker.
Centre Commercial La Feuilleraie
Address: 239 Avenue de l'Automobile, 24750 Trélissac, France
Website: Centre Commercial La Feuilleraie
Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 9:30am - 7:30pm (closed on Sun)
25. Unwind with a cup of coffee at French Coffee Shop
After exploring all the gems that Le Havre has to offer, there is nothing better than taking a break with a cup of coffee or a decadent hot chocolate. Stop by French Coffee Shop on 5 Rue Albert André Huet. This café is preferred by many locals not only because it serves the freshest and tastiest coffee in town but also because of its delicious breakfast options and the wide selection of daily specials for lunch.
French Coffee Shop
Address: 5 Rue Albert André Huet, 76600 Le Havre, France
Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 8:30am - 6:30pm; (closed on Sun)
26. Discover the secrets of Périgueux Cathedral
Also known as St Front Cathedral, Perigueux Cathedral is a stunning Roman Catholic church in the charming town of Périgueux. One of the most notable features of this structure is the 62-meter-high (203-foot) bell tower which is the oldest in France and the only Byzantine-style bell tower in the world. The structure didn’t start out with Romano-Byzantine architecture, but thanks to numerous modifications and restoration work throughout the years, it now boasts outstanding features.
Périgueux Cathedral
Address: Place de la Clautre, 24000 Périgueux, France
Website: Périgueux Cathedral
27. Admire Château de Beynac
Located in the commune of Beynac-et-Cazenac, just a 10-minute drive from the medieval town of Sarlat, Chateau de Beynac is one of the most preserved fortresses in the region. The 12th-century structure was carved out of a cliff rock 150 metres (492 feet) above the town, hence offering visitors magnificent views over the valley. One of the most notable features of the fortress is the wall and moat, both of which were built with the aim of making it difficult for attackers to come in.
Château de Beynac
Address: Route du château, 24220 Beynac-et-Cazenac, France
Website: Château de Beynac
Opening hours: 10am - 6:30pm (daily)
28. See the cave drawings at Rouffignac Cave
Also referred to as the “Cave of a Hundred Mammoths”, Rouffignac Cave is eight kilometres long (five miles) and is famous for its mammoth drawings. The caves feature more than 250 drawings, and 158 of those are mammoths. What makes this site so special is the fact that mammoth drawings are quite rare in prehistoric art. Given the fact that the cave is explored using an electric train, children will definitely find it fun to visit. The train normally stops at some designated points, giving visitors time to admire the engravings and drawings. Please note that sometimes the train will pass through dark areas.
Rouffignac Cave
Address: 24580 Rouffignac-Saint-Cernin-de-Reilhac France
Website: Rouffignac Cave
29. Check out the amazing exhibit at VESUNNA, Gallo-Roman Museum
Located at the heart of Périgueux in Dordogne, VESUNNA, Gallo-Roman Museum is home to the remains of a grand Gallo-Roman site. One of the most amazing features of this residence is the painted plasterwork known as Domus de Vesone. Inside the museum, you will find structural elements made of lightweight steel and a raised wooden walkway for guests to walk on while they explore the amazing exhibits in this attraction and learn more about the lives of its former occupants.
VESUNNA, Gallo-Roman Museum
Address: Parc de Vésone, 20 Rue 26ème Régiment d'Infanterie, 24000 Périgueux, France
Website: VESUNNA, Gallo-Roman Museum
Opening hours: Tue - Fri: 9:30am - 12:30pm, 1:30pm - 5pm; Sat - Sun: 10am - 12:30pm, 2:30pm - 6pm (closed on Mon)
30. Enjoy canoeing on the Dordogne River
If you are looking for a more thrilling way to spend your vacation in France, you should try canoeing on the Dordogne River. This is one of the best ways to have fun while exploring this side of France. The activity will take you past ancient castles, rustic village inns, and other glorious sceneries. Even though some of Dordogne’s rapids can get challenging at times, especially during spring and early summer, the free-flowing river is usually easy to navigate regardless of skill. If you have not brought your canoe with you, worry not - there are numerous canoe rental companies along the river.
Explore all the highlights of Dordogne
Many will agree that France is a romantic country, and there are lots to discover here. However, it is understandable that at some point, you may run out of ideas on what to do during your visit. When that time comes, consider heading to the department of Dordogne in Southwest France and remember to refer to this article.
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