Holidays in Périgord: Complete Travel Guide for 2025

Plan perfect holidays in Périgord and discover why this corner of southwest France is one of the country’s best-kept secrets. Located in the Dordogne département, Périgord offers a rich mix of medieval towns, prehistoric caves, and exceptional food culture. 

Think stone villages, Renaissance castles, ancient cliff art, and markets filled with truffles, duck confit, and walnut tarts. Just a short trip from Paris or Bordeaux, it feels worlds away—calm, authentic, and steeped in tradition. One weekend, you can wander through Sarlat-la-Canéda, paddle down the Dordogne River, and dine on dishes shaped by centuries of local pride. 

Whether you’re drawn by history, food, or the romance of the French countryside, Périgord delivers. This guide outlines a two-day itinerary, essential tips, the most charming villages, and where to stay—including a standout château retreat in the heart of it all.

Key Takeaways

Here’s a brief overview of the following article:

• Périgord is a historic region in southwest France known for its medieval towns, prehistoric caves, castles, and world-class food culture rooted in duck, truffles, and walnuts.
• Traveling by car is essential to explore villages, rivers, and countryside sites; the region is rural, and public transport is limited.
• A weekend itinerary includes visits to Sarlat, Dordogne castles, prehistoric caves, local markets, river canoeing, and scenic villages like Domme and Saint-Léon.
• Château de Lasfonds offers a private, fully restored 19th-century castle stay, blending heritage architecture with modern comfort for families or small groups.
• Visitors can enjoy hot air ballooning, wine tasting, and rustic dining, with extra activities available through local guides or concierge services.

Book your stay at Château de Lasfonds and explore Périgord at your own pace.

Know Before You Go

Before setting off on your Périgord adventure, get familiar with these travel basics:

When to Visit Périgord

For the best experience, aim for late spring or early fall. May, June, September, and October have mild weather, greenery or harvest colors, and fewer crowds than the peak summer. 

Summer (July–August) is warm and lively but busiest – expect more tourists and higher prices then. Winter is off-season (many sites shorten hours), but it can be quiet and atmospheric, especially around holiday truffle markets. Overall, shoulder seasons are ideal for comfortable weather and a relaxed pace.

How to Get There

Getting to Périgord requires a little planning, but the journey is part of the charm. Since the region is primarily rural, combining train, air, and car travel is often the best approach.

From Paris by Train + Car

Many visitors start their journey in Paris. The fastest route is by high-speed TGV train from Paris Montparnasse to Bordeaux, which takes around 2 to 2.5 hours.
Once in Bordeaux, you can rent a car or take a regional train to Dordogne. For example:

• Bordeaux to Périgueux: ~1 hour by car
• Bordeaux to Sarlat-la-Canéda: ~2 hours by car

Driving from Paris

If you prefer to drive the entire way, the journey from Paris to central Périgord will take 5 to 6 hours, depending on your destination.

Flying In

For international travelers, flying into Bordeaux Airport is the most common option.
Other nearby airports include:

• Bergerac Airport: Offers seasonal flights from the UK and some European hubs
• Toulouse Airport: A larger international option, about 2–3 hours from Périgord

All airports have car rental services, which are strongly recommended.

Do You Need a Car?

Yes—renting a car is highly recommended.
Périgord consists of small villages, castles, and countryside attractions spread out and often inaccessible by public transport. With a car, you can explore at your own pace, stop at scenic overlooks, and reach hidden gems off the tourist trail.

If you don’t drive, you can base your trip in a larger town like Sarlat-la-Canéda, where you can use local taxis or hire private guides for excursions. However, this option offers less flexibility and can be more expensive for visiting multiple locations.

Where to Stay

Périgord offers a range of accommodation styles to suit different preferences and budgets:

• Stone cottages and riverside gîtes are ideal for those seeking a quiet, authentic stay in the countryside.
• Boutique hotels in towns like Sarlat-la-Canéda and Périgueux provide more amenities and walkable access to restaurants and shops.
• Charming B&Bs and country inns are scattered across the region, offering local character and warm hospitality.
• Camping is popular in the summer, especially near rivers and forested areas.

One notable option near the edge of Périgord is Château de Lasfonds, a restored 19th-century castle less than an hour from Périgueux. Set on a peaceful hilltop estate, it combines historical architecture—turrets, stained glass, and a grand staircase—with modern comforts like Wi-Fi, air conditioning, and large guest suites. 

With multiple buildings, gardens, and space for up to 20 guests, it works well for couples, families, or small groups looking for a private base to explore the region. The setting is quiet and well-connected for day trips in every direction.

Travel Tips to Plan a Perfect Weekend in Périgord

Currency and Language

France uses the euro (€). Credit cards are widely accepted, but carrying cash for markets or small shops is helpful. French is spoken everywhere. A polite “Bonjour” and “Merci” go a long way. Many people in tourism speak some English, but learning a few basic phrases helps build goodwill.

Driving & Navigation

• Drive on the right-hand side.
• Roads are generally well-maintained but can be narrow and winding in villages—take your time.
• Use offline maps or GPS, as cell service may be spotty in rural areas
• In towns like Sarlat, park in designated lots outside the historic center (follow signs for “Parking”)

Market & Restaurant Hours

• Shops and markets usually close for lunch from 12:30 to 2:30 pm
• Restaurants typically serve lunch from 12:00–2:00 pm and dinner after 7:00 pm
• Plan your meals—long, leisurely lunches are a cherished local tradition

Tipping & Etiquette

• Tipping is not required (service is included), but rounding up or leaving a few euros for good service is appreciated.
• Always greet people with “Bonjour” before asking for help or making purchases.
• Dress modestly when visiting churches
• Expect a slower, relaxed pace—embracing it is part of the experience

Packing Essentials

Weather can vary widely, even in summer. Pack layers, especially if visiting caves, where temperatures are cool year-round. Bring:

• Comfortable walking shoes for cobbled streets and castle steps
• A refillable water bottle and small daypack
• Sunglasses, sunscreen, and a light rain jacket
• A power adapter if coming from outside Europe (France uses Type C and E plugs)

Day 1 – Explore Périgord Noir

Your first day begins in Périgord Noir, a region famous for its dense oak forests, medieval towns, and the winding Dordogne River. The area’s name refers to the dark canopy of its woodlands, but the experience is anything but shadowy—rich with light, flavor, and history. Start the morning in Sarlat-la-Canéda, then head out to explore castles and riverside villages in the afternoon.

Morning in Sarlat-la-Canéda

Image from unlimphotos. Visitors in the market hall of Sarlat in the Perigord region, France

Sarlat is the crown jewel of Périgord Noir. This beautifully preserved town has honey-colored limestone buildings and narrow medieval alleys. It’s especially lively on market days, every Saturday (all day) and Wednesday mornings.

Arrive early—around 8 to 9 a.m.—to catch the town at its most vibrant. The Place de la Liberté and its surrounding streets are filled with stalls offering:

• Local cheeses, truffles, and foie gras
• Duck confit and walnut pâté
• Seasonal fruits and vegetables
• Pastries, breads, and roast chickens

This market isn’t just for shopping—it’s a community hub. Mingle with locals, snack on samples, or gather picnic supplies for the afternoon.

Stroll through the old town when you’re ready to explore beyond the market. Don’t miss:

• The Sainte-Marie Church Market Hall is a deconsecrated church now used as a covered market. Its glass elevator offers panoramic views from the roof.
• The Saint-Sacerdos Cathedral is nestled among Renaissance-era mansions and charming stone façades.

By late morning, settle into a café terrace for coffee or a café gourmand and soak up the rhythm of Sarlat’s medieval heart. The architecture, aromas, and relaxed pace set the tone for the rest of your Périgord weekend.

Afternoon – Castles & Dordogne River

Image from unlimphotos. Bridge over the Dordogne River, Perigord France

After exploring Sarlat, head south about 15 minutes to the Dordogne River valley, here, medieval castles rise above the cliffs like scenes from a storybook. This stretch is famously known as the Valley of the Five Castles.

Château de Beynac is a dramatic 12th-century fortress perched on a limestone bluff. You can drive or walk up through the steep, cobbled lanes of Beynac-et-Cazenac to reach the castle gates. From the top, the views across the valley are stunning—you can even see rival Château de Castelnaud directly across the river, once held by the English during the Hundred Years’ War.

Inside Beynac, explore the original stone halls and towers and learn about its military history. If time allows, cross the river and visit Castelnaud, which houses a medieval warfare museum with siege engines, suits of armor, and interactive exhibits. Both castles are open daily in summer (10 am–6 or 7 pm) and charge around €10 per adult.

After your castle visit, pause for lunch with a view:

• In Beynac, riverside cafés offer shaded outdoor seating under the castle cliffs
• For a wider view, drive 15 minutes to Domme, a bastide village perched on a ridge
  • Domme’s panoramic viewpoint overlooks the entire Dordogne Valley
  • Order duck confit, truffle omelet, or a salad with local walnuts, paired with a glass of Bergerac wine

This midday pause is a reminder of how perfectly history, landscape, and cuisine come together in Périgord.

Evening – River Relaxation & Dinner

Image from unlimphotos. La Roque-Gageac scenic village on the Dordogne river, France

As the sun dips lower, spend your evening on the Dordogne River. The water is calm and slow-moving—ideal for a late-afternoon canoe or kayak trip.

Rental stations in Beynac and La Roque-Gageac offer hourly or half-day options. Paddling from Beynac past Castelnaud to La Roque-Gageac takes about 2 hours, including return transport. It’s a peaceful way to take in the cliffs, castles, and riverside villages—often accompanied by birds, dragonflies, and the occasional heron.

Do you prefer not to paddle? Opt for a barre cruise instead. These traditional wooden boats depart regularly from La Roque-Gageac, offering guided one-hour rides along the river with commentary in English or French.

After your river adventure, stay in La Roque-Gageac or return to Domme for dinner. Both villages are stunning in the evening:

Try magret de canard (duck breast), steak with truffle sauce, or a vegetarian plate of goat cheese, walnuts, and seasonal vegetables. Enjoy tarte aux noix and a glass of Monbazillac, the region’s golden sweet wine, for dessert.

As the sky turns to stars and the village quiets down, you’ll feel why so many travelers fall in love with Périgord by night.

Day 2 – History, Nature & Food

The second day explores Périgord’s prehistoric roots, tranquil countryside, and signature food culture. Spend the morning in the UNESCO-listed Vézère Valley, followed by a relaxed afternoon discovering riverside villages and artisanal flavors.

Morning – Caves of Prehistoric Art

Image from unlimphotos. The town of Montignac on the shore of the Vezere River

Start early and head to Montignac, about 30–40 minutes from Sarlat, to visit the famous Lascaux IV: International Center for Cave Art. This high-tech replica of the original Lascaux cave immerses you in 17,000-year-old Paleolithic paintings—bison, deer, horses—meticulously recreated with laser scanning and hand-painted accuracy.

Tours are guided (English available with booking), and the museum includes digital exhibits and archaeological insights that bring the “Sistine Chapel of Prehistory” to life. Allow around 2 hours for the whole visit. It’s popular, so reserve timed-entry tickets in advance, especially during summer.

For those wanting to see original prehistoric art, drive about 30 minutes to Rouffignac Cave, known as the “Cave of 100 Mammoths.” A small electric train takes visitors deep underground to view ancient engravings—less colorful than Lascaux but rich in atmosphere. It’s a hit with kids and a rare, immersive experience.

Alternatively, if caves aren’t your thing, continue directly to Les Eyzies for an overview of the region’s prehistoric heritage at the national museum.

Midday – Picnic & Prehistory in Les Eyzies

Arrive in Les Eyzies-de-Tayac by lunch. This small village is dramatically tucked beneath limestone cliffs. It’s known as the “world capital of prehistory”, where many of the region’s earliest archaeological discoveries were made.

Unwind with a picnic along the Vézère River. Bring supplies from the market—foie gras, goat cheese, crusty baguettes, ripe tomatoes, pastries—and enjoy a quiet lunch with views of the cliffs and flowing water.

After lunch, visit the National Museum of Prehistory. Even casual visitors will find the exhibits fascinating: Neanderthal tools, Cro-Magnon skeletons, and thousands of objects from local cave digs. Interactive displays (with English text) and life-size dioramas make the museum approachable for all ages.

Outside, don’t miss the Prehistoric Man statue perched on the cliff—a local icon—and the nearby Abri de Cro-Magnon, where the first Homo sapiens skeleton was discovered in 1868.

If time allows, caves like Font-de-Gaume or Les Combarelles offer original art but require bookings. If you’re planning a weekend trip, it’s best to save those for a more extended stay.

Afternoon – Villages & Farm Visits

Image from unlimphotos. Street with historical houses in Saint-Leon-sur-Vezere

Spend your afternoon enjoying the quieter side of Périgord.

• Just 10 minutes from Les Eyzies lies Saint-Léon-sur-Vézère, a tiny village in a river bend. Its 12th-century Romanesque church, stone cottages, and artist studios make it a peaceful place to stroll and snap photos.
• If not explored earlier, Montignac also deserves a wander. Its riverside lanes and half-timbered houses offer a relaxed, medieval feel.

Craving more food experiences? Stop at a local farm:

• Visit a foie gras or duck farm (“ferme auberge”) to learn about regional production and sample pâté
• Tour a walnut oil mill near Castelnaud or Martel for a tasting of nutty oils and confections

Prefer to move? A short hike near Les Eyzies reveals stunning cliff and river views. But don’t overdo it—the region rewards slow afternoons.

Evening – A Rustic Country Dinner

Wrap up your weekend with a hearty dinner at a traditional countryside inn (auberge). Périgord’s cuisine is rustic and refined; meals are best enjoyed slowly.

Expect a périgourdine salad (greens, duck gizzards, foie gras), grilled duck breast, or pommes sarladaises (potatoes fried in duck fat with garlic). Truffle accents appear in everything from omelets to sauces. Pair your meal with Bergerac red wine, and finish with tarte aux noix and a sip of vin de noix (homemade walnut liqueur).

If you’re staying at Château de Lasfonds, consider booking a private chef dinner or picnic in the garden—a magical way to end your stay with views, candlelight, and local flavors under the stars.

Top Villages to Visit

Périgord is peppered with charming villages, many of which carry the official label Les Plus Beaux Villages de France (“Most Beautiful Villages of France”). While you can’t see them all in one weekend, here are three villages that are especially worth visiting if you can fit them in:

Domme – Views from a Clifftop Bastide

Image from unlimphotos. Small tourist train of Domme

High above the Dordogne River, Domme is a medieval bastide that impresses before you even park—drivers pass through the original fortified gate. Once inside, cobbled streets, golden stone facades, and sweeping valley views await.

The Belvédère de la Barre offers one of the best panoramas in the region. You can also descend into the Grotte de Domme, a cave with stunning limestone formations beneath the village. In summer evenings, the square often fills with music and café chatter, making Domme an atmospheric stop by day or night.

Saint-Léon-sur-Vézère – A Riverside Gem

This peaceful village curls along a bend in the Vézère River. With its 12th-century church, warm-toned houses, and flower-draped stone walls, Saint-Léon-sur-Vézère feels like a living postcard.

The riverbank is ideal for a picnic or a quiet break, and in summer, you’ll see canoes drifting past and families wading in the shallows. The charm here lies in its stillness—perfect for a short walk and a deeper exhale.

Montignac – Gateway to Prehistory

While best known for its proximity to Lascaux IV, Montignac deserves time alone. A graceful stone bridge spans the Vézère River, linking the town’s two halves.

The old quarter is full of medieval charm—half-timbered houses, narrow lanes, and shops selling regional specialties. If you’re there on market day (Wednesday), the riverside buzzes with local color. Enjoy a coffee or lunch by the water before or after your Lascaux visit.

Optional Add-Ons for Extended Stays

Image from unlimphotos. Brantome in the Dordogne department in France

If you spend more than a weekend in Périgord, you’ll have time to explore the region. These nearby areas offer stunning countryside, wine tastings, and unique adventures within 1–2 hours’ drive.

Périgord Vert – Gardens and Quiet Countryside

To the north, Périgord Vert is known for its green hills, rivers, and lush gardens. Visit Brantôme, often called the “Venice of the Périgord,” for its charming abbey, riverside cafés, and canoe routes. This area is less touristy and ideal for peaceful drives, picnics, and nature walks.

Périgord Pourpre – Wine Country near Bergerac

Head southwest to explore Périgord Pourpre’s vineyards, named for its deep red wines. Bergerac is the central hub, with wine estates offering tastings and tours. You’ll find everything from bold reds to sweet dessert wines like Monbazillac. Pair wine visits with a stroll through Bergerac’s historic old town.

Hot Air Ballooning – A View Like No Other

Image from unlimphotos. Hot air balloon flying over Dordogne in southwestern France

Want a truly unforgettable experience? Book a hot air balloon ride over the Dordogne Valley. Early morning flights offer panoramic views of castles, forests, and river bends cloaked in mist. Launch sites near La Roque-Gageac or Beynac typically operate from April to October and require reservations.

Caves, Markets & Castles Off the Beaten Path

With extra time, you can also:

• Visit Font-de-Gaume or Les Combarelles, two original prehistoric caves with limited access
• Explore Issigeac, a beautifully preserved medieval village with a bustling Sunday market
• Tour lesser-known castles like Château de Commarque or Château de Losse, often quieter than the big names but equally atmospheric

Extend Your Stay in Style: Discover Château de Lasfonds

After exploring castles, river valleys, and prehistoric caves, it helps to come home to somewhere with warmth, space, and a sense of place. Château de Lasfonds offers an elegant 19th-century estate tucked into the rolling countryside just outside Périgord.

The château sits on 6.5 hectares of private grounds with no immediate neighbors. It’s quiet, scenic, and surrounded by nature—yet only 35 minutes from Angoulême’s TGV station and under two hours from Bordeaux. It’s an ideal location if you want to explore the Dordogne by day, then return to peace and privacy each evening.

Inside, you’ll find classic French architecture blended with modern comfort. The main house has suites, guest cottages are nearby, and beautifully restored common areas are available for gathering, dining, or simply relaxing.

What to Expect

• Spacious accommodation for couples, families, or small groups (up to 18 guests)
• Heated pool, gardens, orchard paths, and furnished terraces
• Fully equipped kitchens, and the option to arrange private chef dinners or picnics
• Work-ready features like high-speed Wi-Fi and dedicated office space
• Game room, gym, and outdoor kitchen in converted outbuildings
• Onsite concierge partner for tailored experiences—from wine tours to massages

Chateau de Lasfonds

It’s not just a place to sleep—it’s a place to rest, reconnect, and live at your own pace. Mornings start with birdsong and fresh bread. Evenings wind down with sunset views, long dinners, and a sky full of stars.

If your weekend in Périgord is about slowing down, eating well, and seeing something beautiful, Château de Lasfonds fits the moment. Book your stay at Château de Lasfonds and live out your French château dreams.

Frequently Asked Questions to Plan a Perfect Weekend in Périgord