Things To Do
in Sarlat-la-Canéda
Sarlat-la-Canéda is a medieval gem in the Dordogne renowned for its honey-colored limestone and impeccably preserved historic center. Its winding lanes, Gothic cathedral and bustling markets evoke a living medieval tableau. The town sits at the heart of the Perigord Noir, famed for truffles, duck confit and chestnut desserts.
Cobbléd squares, shaded arcades and river views make it ideal for wandering, tasting and easy day trips to nearby châteaux.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your journey by wandering through the winding cobblestone streets of Sarlat-la-Canéda, soaking in the stunning medieval architecture. Visit the bustling market where local vendors offer fresh produce, artisan cheeses, and hand-crafted goods. Don’t forget to capture the beauty of the iconic Saint-Sacerdos Cathedral.
Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a quaint bistro, savoring traditional dishes like confit de canard. Post-lunch, explore the nearby Place de la liberté, lined with charming shops selling regional specialties. Discover the fascinating history of the town at the Museum of Sarlat, where you can learn more about its medieval past.
As dusk falls, find a seat at a terrace restaurant to enjoy a delicious dinner while overlooking the illuminated streets. The ambiance of Sarlat at night is magical, with lights twinkling against the ancient stone buildings. Wrap up your day with a stroll through the town, taking in the peaceful atmosphere.
Set out early for a trip to the stunning Dordogne Valley, where breathtaking landscapes and historic castles await. Begin your visit at the Château de Beynac, a remarkable fortress offering panoramic views of the valley. Spend some time exploring its impressive architecture and rich history.
After touring the castle, head down to the village of La Roque-Gageac, nestled along the riverbank. Enjoy lunch at a riverside café, sampling local specialties such as foie gras and walnut salad. Take a leisurely boat ride along the Dordogne River, passing by idyllic villages and lush green scenery.
Return to Sarlat in the evening, where you can indulge in a warm, comforting dinner at a traditional French restaurant. Enjoy regional wines paired with your meal, soaking in the local flavors. End your day with a quiet walk back to your accommodation, reflecting on the beautiful sights you've seen.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee/Tea | $2-5 |
| 🍷Local wine by the bottle | $8-25 |
| 🥗Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $40-60 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $100-180 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Historic architecture and UNESCO-like ambiance
- Excellent markets and renowned Perigord cuisine
- Crowds in peak season
- Nightlife is more low-key compared with larger cities
- "Bonjour" - Hello / Good morning
- "S'il vous plaît" - Please
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "Parlez-vous anglais?" - Do you speak English?
- "Où est…?" - Where is…?
- "Combien coûte ceci?" - How much is this?
Places to Visit in Sarlat-la-Canéda
Visit one of these nice places.
Open square framed by honey-colored facades and the silhouette of the cathedral; ideal for sunrise light and broad street compositions.
Gothic exterior with lancet arches and a dramatic doorway; interior offers serene chapels and stained glass windows.
A historic street with tall timber-framed houses and ornate facades, perfect for architectural detail shots.
An ancient stone house on a quiet lane, excellent for intimate, character-filled portraits and street photography.
Inside the market hall, colorful stalls create vibrant daytime scenes and aromatic backdrops.
Food in Sarlat-la-Canéda
Sarlat-la-Canéda Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A classic Périgord starter, often served on toast or brioche with a fruity preserve.
Must-Try!
Slow-cooked duck preserved in its own fat, typically paired with potatoes or greens.
Seared duck breast, a staple on many menus and excellent when paired with a light red wine.
Fresh truffles or truffle-infused dishes; available in season and featured in several pasta and omelet dishes.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Historic covered market in the heart of town offering foie gras, walnuts, cheeses and local produce.
Vibrant weekly market with stalls selling produce, bread, pastries and regional bites.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Begin interactions with bonjour or bonsoir; use polite titles when addressing staff and elders.
Keep hands visible, take time to enjoy meals, and avoid loud behavior in restaurants.
Chapels and historic sites deserve a quiet and respectful demeanor.
Safety
Tipping in Sarlat-la-Canéda
Ensure a smooth experience
Service is often included in France; a small extra tip (5-10%) for good service is common if not included.
Major credit cards are widely accepted; cash remains common in markets and small shops; contactless payments are prevalent.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures and flowering landscapes; comfortable for wandering the old town and gardens.
Warm to hot days; expect crowds around markets and viewpoints; carry water and wear sun protection.
Chestnut and mushroom season with harvest markets and colorful countryside.
Quieter streets with festive lights; occasional truffle-focused events and seasonal menus.
Sarlat-la-Canéda at Night
Hiking in Sarlat-la-Canéda
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Scenic walks along the river with views of châteaux and villages.
Hikes linking Beynac, La Roque-Gageac and Castelnaud for dramatic river panoramas.
Forest trails suitable for day hikes and wildlife viewing nearby.
Airports
How to reach Sarlat-la-Canéda by plane.
Approximately 1 hour by car; seasonal and year-round flights; connections to France and some international routes.
Smaller regional airport about 1.5 hours by car; seasonal services and domestic flights.
Larger regional airport about 2 hours by car; flights to major hubs and domestic destinations.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Long-term inhabitants with families and small local businesses.
Tourists flock to market days, river activities and historic sites in summer.
Residents and seasonal residents who own homes in the area.
Hospitality and service workers supporting seasonal tourism.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Paddling past cliffs, châteaux and scenic villages.
Rural lanes and gentle routes through the countryside.
Tastings and visits to nearby vineyards and food markets.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Sarlat-la-Canéda.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are available in most restaurants; look for seasonal vegetable dishes, mushroom plates, goat cheese salads, ratatouille and quiches; request vegetable stock or sides when needed.