Things To Do
in Bergerac
Bergerac sits on the Dordogne River in southwestern France, blending medieval charm with a renowned wine culture. Its old streets are lined with timber-framed houses, riverside quays, and picturesque squares that invite wandering. The surrounding vineyards produce the famous Pécharmant and Monbazillac wines, with châteaux and castles dotting the countryside.
In town, museums, markets, and bistros showcase the region's rich gastronomy and warm hospitality.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day by wandering through the charming streets of Bergerac's Old Town. Marvel at the well-preserved medieval architecture and take a moment to visit the iconic statue of Cyrano de Bergerac. Don’t forget to stop by a local café for a delightful cup of coffee and a fresh croissant.
After lunch at a traditional French bistro, visit the Bergerac Wine Museum to learn about the region's rich viticulture history. You can sample some of the local wines and even purchase a bottle to enjoy later. Spend the rest of your afternoon relaxing by the riverside or taking a scenic boat ride along the Dordogne.
As dusk falls, enjoy dinner at a riverside restaurant that offers stunning views of the sunset over the water. Savor regional dishes paired with exquisite local wines. Finish your evening with a stroll along the promenade, soaking in the romantic ambiance of Bergerac under the stars.
Begin your day with a drive through the picturesque vineyards surrounding Bergerac, stopping at a local winery for a guided tour. Learn about the winemaking process and enjoy a tasting of some delightful white and red wines. Capture the stunning landscape with your camera as you soak in the beauty of this wine-producing region.
Indulge in a leisurely picnic lunch amidst the vineyards while enjoying the views of the rolling hills. After lunch, visit more wineries to expand your palate and deepen your appreciation for Bergerac wines. Engage with passionate winemakers who will share the local history and the essence behind each bottle.
Return to Bergerac and treat yourself to a gourmet dinner at a popular local eatery. Enjoy dishes that highlight local ingredients, perfectly paired with the wines you tasted earlier. Conclude your night by visiting a local pub to enjoy live music and mingle with locals.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍽️Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🏨Budget hotel room (per night) | $60-120 |
| ☕Coffee or café drink | $3-5 |
| 🚆Public transit day pass | $4-8 |
| 🛒Groceries for a week | $60-140 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning wine country with easy access to Pécharmant, Monbazillac, and other vineyards
- Walkable, charming old town with riverside scenery
- Excellent markets, cuisine, and wine culture
- Family-friendly, safe, and relatively relaxed pace
- Limited nightlife compared to bigger cities
- Some attractions are seasonal or time-limited
- English may be less common outside tourist zones
- Parking can be challenging in the peak season in the old town
- "Bonjour" - Hello
- "S'il vous plaît" - Please
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "Parlez-vous anglais ?" - Do you speak English?
- "Où est le marché ?" - Where is the market?
- "L'addition, s'il vous plaît" - The check, please
- "Je voudrais…" - I would like…
- "Pouvez-vous recommander un restaurant ?" - Can you recommend a restaurant?
Places to Visit in Bergerac
Visit one of these nice places.
Half-timbered houses, quaint courtyards, and narrow lanes provide classic Dordogne postcard shots, especially around Place de la Maison des Vins and the Gallo-Roman gateway.
Calm river reflections, boats, and soft morning light along the Quai de Boisseau for serene landscape and street photography.
Gothic and Romanesque church architecture with a lively square offering architectural details and people-watched moments.
Panoramic shot opportunities across rolling vineyards, especially during golden hour with distant château silhouettes.
Food in Bergerac
Bergerac Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Rich duck or goose liver pâté often served as a pâté or mousse; a regional specialty found in markets and upscale eateries.
Must-Try!
Duck breast cooked to a rosy finish, typically served with berry or reduction sauces and a staple of Dordogne dining.
Slow-cooked duck leg rendered to tender, flavorful perfection; a classic crusty-skin dish in many local bistros.
Small vanilla-rum cakes with a caramelized crust, ideal as a dessert or coffee stop in town.
Seasonal black truffles celebrated in markets and refined kitchens across the Perigord region.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Vibrant weekly market in Place de la Résistance offering local produce, cheeses, meats, pastries, and prepared street bites.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Polite greetings matter: say 'Bonjour' (or 'Bonsoir' in the evening) when entering shops or cafés, and 'Au revoir' when leaving.
Keep conversations courteous; meals are leisurely and enjoyed at a relaxed pace. Use 's'il vous plaît' and 'merci' often.
Queue, respect personal space, and handle foods in markets with care; ask before photographing vendors.
Safety
Tipping in Bergerac
Ensure a smooth experience
In France, service is often included (indicated as 'service compris'), but rounding up the bill or leaving 5–10% for good service is appreciated in discretionary situations, especially in smaller cafés or markets.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; contactless payments are common. Cash is handy for markets and small vendors.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures with flowers in bloom; great for walking tours and outdoor markets. Some attractions open seasonally, so check hours in advance.
Warm to hot days with long hours of daylight; ideal for river activities and terrace dining. Expect crowds around wine festivals and markets.
Harvest season and wine festivals—excellent for cellar door tastings and picturesque vineyard vistas. Pleasant weather for outdoor excursions.
Quieter streets with fewer crowds; cozy cafés and museums provide warmth and culture. Some outdoor activities may be limited by colder, wetter days.
Bergerac at Night
Hiking in Bergerac
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Gentle riverside paths with scenic views of the Dordogne and nearby villages; suitable for all ages.
Rolling vineyard hills with viewpoints toward the town and châteaux; a moderate hike with wine-country scenery.
Forest trails near Biron suitable for longer hikes and wildlife spotting, offering shaded routes and diverse terrain.
Airports
How to reach Bergerac by plane.
Small regional airport serving domestic and seasonal international flights; short drive to Bergerac town and surrounding communes.
Major international airport about 1.5–2 hours by road or rail; good option for longer trips or connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Strong family-friendly amenities, with markets, parks, and safe walking areas in the town center.
Close proximity to Pécharmant, Monbazillac, and other vineyards makes this a premier spot for wine lovers.
Known for a relaxed pace, cultural events, and a high quality of life with accessible services.
Popular destination for day-trippers from Bordeaux and international travelers seeking Dordogne charm.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A traditional outdoor bowl game popular across villages; great for socializing in town squares and parks.
Local clubs and matches reflect the regional sports culture; engaging for visitors who want to watch a game.
Scenic routes through vineyards and countryside suitable for all levels; cycling can be combined with winery visits.
On the Dordogne or nearby streams, offering a peaceful way to view the landscape from the water.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Bergerac.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
In Dordogne, vegetarian options are available in most restaurants, especially seasonal veggie plates and salads. Look for dishes featuring legumes, mushrooms, cheese, and eggs; most kitchens can adapt meat-heavy dishes or offer fish-free versions if requested.