Things To Do
in Brive-la-Gaillarde

Brive-la-Gaillarde is a charming commune located in the Corrèze department of southwestern France. Known for its rich history and vibrant culture, this picturesque town offers stunning architecture, including the 12th-century Saint-Martin Church and traditional market squares. The town is famous for its culinary delights, particularly its regional specialties such as foie gras and truffles.

Visitors can enjoy a blend of both urban amenities and the serene beauty of the surrounding countryside.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring the Heart of Brive
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Brive Market, where you can sample local cheeses and pastries. Then, take a leisurely stroll through the historic center to admire the medieval architecture.

afternoon
:

Visit the Museum of Art and History, where you can explore the local art scene and learn about the history of the region. Enjoy lunch at a nearby café with a view of the river.

evening
:

Dine at a traditional restaurant serving regional dishes, followed by a walk along the banks of the Corrèze River to enjoy the sunset.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Take a short drive to the nearby Parc Naturel Régional de Millevaches for a morning of hiking and enjoying the natural beauty of the region.

afternoon
:

Return to Brive for lunch and visit the beautiful Church of Saint-Martin, followed by exploring local boutiques and shops.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a bistro, then experience the vibrant nightlife in the town square, where you can find live music and local bars.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a Restaurant$15-$30
Coffee$2-$4
🏨Hotel Night$70-$150
🚌Local Transport Fare$2
🍺Beer at a Bar$4-$7

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage
  • Delicious local cuisine
  • Beautiful natural surroundings
  • Limited public transport options
  • May be quiet outside of tourist season
  • Language barrier for non-French speakers
  • "Bonjour" - Hello
  • "Merci" - Thank you
  • "S'il vous plaît" - Please
  • "Où est le restaurant?" - Where is the restaurant?
  • "L'addition, s'il vous plaît" - The bill, please

Places to Visit in Brive-la-Gaillarde

Visit one of these nice places.

Saint-Martin Church

This stunning 12th-century church features beautiful Romanesque architecture, perfect for capturing historic charm.

Place Charles de Gaulle

The lively town square, ideal for capturing the essence of local life and architecture.

Corrèze River Banks

The scenic riverside offers picturesque views, especially at sunset.

Culinary Guide

Food in Brive-la-Gaillarde

Brive-la-Gaillarde is a culinary haven, offering a delightful array of local dishes that reflect the region's agricultural bounty.

Brive-la-Gaillarde Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Foie Gras

A luxurious delicacy made from the liver of a duck or goose, often served as a pâté.

Must-Try!

Truffles

These prized fungi are often used in gourmet dishes and enhance the flavor of many local specialties.

Civet de Sanglier

A rich wild boar stew cooked with red wine, showcasing the region's game meats.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Brive Market

Held every Saturday, this market features fresh produce, cheeses, meats, and artisan goods.

Street Crêpes

Enjoy delicious crêpes from street vendors, filled with sweet or savory options.

Climate Guide

Weather

Brive-la-Gaillarde experiences a temperate oceanic climate, characterized by mild winters and warm summers. Average temperatures in winter range from 1°C to 10°C (34°F to 50°F), while summer temperatures can reach up to 30°C (86°F). Rainfall is distributed throughout the year, with May and June typically being the wettest months.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greeting

A polite greeting with 'Bonjour' is customary when entering shops or restaurants.

Dining Etiquette

It’s polite to wait for everyone to be served before starting to eat.

Dress Code

Dress neatly, especially when dining out; casual wear may be acceptable but avoid overly casual attire.

Safety Guide

Safety

Brive-la-Gaillarde is generally considered a safe destination for travelers. However, it's advisable to stay aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded places. Keep your valuables secure and be cautious when using ATMs.

Tipping in Brive-la-Gaillarde

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

While service is included in restaurant bills, leaving a small tip for exceptional service is appreciated.

Payment Methods

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; however, having some cash is advisable for smaller establishments.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect mild temperatures and blooming flowers, making it a lovely time for outdoor activities.

Summer

Warm and sunny weather attracts tourists; vibrant festivals and markets are abundant.

Autumn

The foliage turns beautiful shades of orange and red, ideal for photography and outdoor walks.

Winter

Cold temperatures may bring some snow; the town is quieter, perfect for those seeking a peaceful retreat.

Nightlife Guide

Brive-la-Gaillarde at Night

Brive-la-Gaillarde boasts a vibrant nightlife scene with a mix of casual bars, lively pubs, and dance clubs. The town’s central square often hosts live music events and outdoor gatherings, creating a friendly atmosphere. Many venues offer local wines and beers, and you can often find themed nights or events throughout the week.

Hiking in Brive-la-Gaillarde

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Sentier des Vignes

A beautiful hiking trail through vineyards, offering stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

Circuit des Grands Sites

This trail takes you through historical landmarks and natural beauty, providing a comprehensive outdoor experience.

Airports

How to reach Brive-la-Gaillarde by plane.

Brive–Souillac Airport

Located about 20 km from Brive-la-Gaillarde, this small airport offers flights to and from several domestic destinations.

Getting Around

Walkability

Brive-la-Gaillarde is highly walkable, with most attractions situated within a short distance of each other in the town center. The well-maintained sidewalks and pedestrian-friendly streets make it easy for visitors to explore on foot. Additionally, the scenic routes along the Corrèze River offer pleasant walking paths.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Residents

The population is primarily made up of French locals, with a strong sense of community and tradition.

Tourists

Visitors from various countries come to explore the town's history, culture, and natural beauty, especially during the summer months.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Rugby

Rugby is a popular sport in the region, with local teams competing in various leagues.

Cycling

The scenic countryside and rolling hills make cycling a favored sport among locals and tourists alike.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Brive-la-Gaillarde is generally light compared to larger cities, making it easy to navigate by car or on foot. Public transportation includes local buses that connect various parts of the town and surrounding areas, though schedules may be limited on weekends.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Brive-la-Gaillarde.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it is advisable to check in advance.

Gluten-Free Options

Some establishments provide gluten-free meals, but it’s best to inquire beforehand.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Brive-la-Gaillarde is accessible, with a number of clinics and a hospital available for both locals and tourists. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 15 for medical assistance. Travelers are advised to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses.

Discover France

Read more in our France 2025 Travel Guide.

France Travel Guide