The Dordogne region in France is known for its beautiful countryside, historic chateaux and charming towns. However, the cities in this region are often overlooked.

Brantôme

Brantôme, known as the Venice of Périgord, lies in Périgord Vert, named for its verdant landscapes, natural beauty, and iconic architectural features from barns with Périgordian towers, to castles, caves and churches.

Major sights and highlights:

• Explore the enchanting town of Brantôme: Often called the “Venice of Périgord”, the charming town of Brantôme is where the tranquil River Dronne embraces the rocky promontory that houses the unique Abbey Saint-Pierre. Stroll through the town’s picturesque streets, lined with beautiful stone buildings, or take a leisurely boat ride to admire Brantôme from the water.
• Discover Brantôme’s fascinating history: As you wander through the town, delve into the rich history ingrained in its ancient walls. Visit the Abbey Saint-Pierre, dating back to the 8th century, which bears the marks of various architectural styles. Don’t miss the opportunity to explore Brantôme’s troglodyte caves, hidden beneath the Abbey’s rocky cliff, where stories of monks and prehistoric dwellers intertwine.
• Relax in riverside parks and gardens: Brantôme offers charming green spaces perfect for picnicking or resting along the riverbanks. Relax under the shade of ancient trees as you soak in the tranquillity of this delightful town.

The city walks of Périgord Vert introduce you to a world of idyllic beauty, vibrant culture, and fascinating history. Meandering through these picturesque towns offers a glimpse into the heart and soul of the region, leaving you entranced by the alluring charm of Périgord Vert.

Bergerac

Bergerac is a charming city in the Dordogne region of France that is famous for its wines, tobacco and chocolates. However, beyond the delicious dining experiences, the city boasts an abundance of historic buildings, beautiful architecture and charming streets worth exploring, along with other popular circular walking routes.

Major sights and highlights:

• Start at Place Pélissière: A great starting point for your walk in Bergerac is Place Pélissière, a square located in the heart of the city. This square also happens to be the location of the stunning Saint Jacques Church. This beautiful 12th-century building is a must-see for visitors interested in the city’s rich history and is an excellent example of the Gothic style.
• Walk Along the Old Town: From Place Pélissière, it’s recommended to take a walk through the old town of Bergerac. The charming streets are lined with delightful medieval structures, such as half-timbered houses, picturesque alleyways and charming squares. As you explore the streets, stop and take in the beautiful architecture of each building.
• Visit the Statue of Cyrano: If you are a fan of historical literature, you may already know about Cyrano de Bergerac, a real-life person whose story inspired a famous French play by the same name. At the intersection of Rue des Conférences and Rue Porte de Pailh is the iconic statue of Cyrano that you should definitely stop and take a picture with.
• Go Beyond the City Walls: Step beyond the city walls and stroll along the river bank of the Dordogne River. It’s a beautiful spot to take in the outdoor scenery of the area, and on a sunny day, it can be particularly brilliant. Take a moment to relax and enjoy a view up to the imposing Château de Monbazillac, which sits high up on a hill, and is a recommended visit itself.
• Browse the Market Stalls: Every Saturday, the city’s bustling market can be found next to Place des Cornières, and it’s where you can taste some of the best local cheeses and produce in the area. It’s worth seeing the market’s vibrant atmosphere and picking up some local produce to snack on or bring back home.

Périgueux

Périgueux is a historic city in the Dordogne region of France that dates back to Roman times. With its rich history, beautiful architecture and quaint streets, there is plenty to see and do while taking a leisurely stroll through the city, and other outstanding trails to explore, once you have had your fill of beautiful Périgueux!

• Start at Place Francheville: Begin your visit to Périgueux at Place Francheville, a square located in the old town. Here you will find the Tour Mataguerre, a medieval tower at the entrance of Rue Limogeanne. Take a moment to admire the tower’s beauty and learn more about its history.
• Stroll Through the Labarthe Gardens: From Place Francheville, take a short walk through the Labarthe gardens. These beautiful gardens have been a fixture in the city since 1834 and are a great spot to relax and take in the fresh air. You can also enjoy seeing the beautiful views of the city and the iconic Saint Front Cathedral from here.
• Explore the Old Town: Périgueux’s old town is a great place to admire the wonderful architecture of the city. Take a leisurely walk through the picturesque streets and take in the unique sights, sounds and smells of this charming part of town. Look out for the Saint Etienne church, the ancient amphitheatre and the beautiful mansions along Rue des Consuls.
• Visit the Vesunna Museum: Périgueux is known for its Roman history, and the Vesunna museum highlights this history beautifully. The museum is built around the ruins of a Gallo-Roman villa and showcases various ancient artifacts and exhibits. Visitors can gain a fascinating insight into how the Roman occupation impacted the area.
• Walk over the Saint Georges Bridge: The Saint Georges bridge is an iconic landmark in the city and is renowned for its stunning views. Take a stroll across the bridge and enjoy the views of the Dordogne river and the city.

Sarlat

Sarlat or Sarlat-la-Canéda is often recognized as the “jewel of the Dordogne region” with its painstakingly preserved Medieval and Renaissance architecture. This delightful town demonstrates a harmonious blend of old and new, making it a must-visit destination when exploring the region on foot.

Major sights and highlights:

• Stroll through the enchanting streets of Sarlat’s old town: As you wander along the winding cobblestone streets, you’ll be transported back in time to a bygone era. Admire the intricately carved facades of the honey-colored stone buildings that line the quaint alleyways, and feel the vibrant history of this well-preserved town.
• Visit the impressive Saint-Sacerdos Cathedral: Constructed in the 12th century, the Saint-Sacerdos Cathedral stands majestically in the heart of Sarlat. This awe-inspiring Romanesque-Gothic building boasts a remarkable bell tower and a richly decorated interior, making it an essential stop on your walk through the historical center.
• Discover hidden courtyards and charming squares: Sarlat is filled with delightful gems just waiting to be discovered. Wander into tucked-away courtyards and gardens, where you’ll find the traditional French savoir-vivre on full display. The picturesque squares of Place de la Liberté and Place du Peyrou are perfect for people-watching and immersing yourself in the lively atmosphere of the town.
• Explore the bustling market at Place de la Liberté: On Wednesday and Saturday mornings, Sarlat comes alive with the sights, sounds, and tantalizing aromas of its famous market. This lively event is an excellent opportunity to sample delicious regional cuisine such as foie gras, truffles, and walnuts, or to purchase handcrafted souvenirs and artisan goods.