Things To Do
in Périgueux
Périgueux is a charming town located in southwestern France, known for its well-preserved historical buildings and Roman ruins. The town is situated on the banks of the River Isle and is surrounded by picturesque countryside. Visitors can explore the medieval streets, visit the impressive Saint-Front Cathedral, and sample delicious local cuisine in the traditional restaurants.
Périgueux is also a gateway to the stunning Dordogne region, famous for its castles, caves, and scenic landscapes.
- "Bonjour" - Hello
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "S'il vous plaît" - Please
- "Comment ça va?" - How are you?
- "Au revoir" - Goodbye
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $60 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $4
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1.50 - $2.50
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the historical Périgueux Cathedral, marveling at its stunning architecture. Stroll through the quaint streets nearby, taking in the local shops and cafes.
For lunch, try a local bistro serving traditional Perigord dishes. In the afternoon, explore the Vesunna Gallo-Roman Museum to discover the rich history of the region.
Enjoy dinner at a riverside restaurant, savoring local wine. Take a leisurely walk along the Isle River to end your day.
Begin with a market visit at the Place du Gour de l'Arsenal to sample fresh produce and local delicacies. Engage with local vendors to learn about Périgueux's culinary heritage.
Participate in a cooking class to create your own regional dishes using local ingredients. Enjoy the meal you prepared amidst the ambiance of Périgueux.
Dine at a Michelin-starred restaurant for an elevated taste of French cuisine. Relish a dessert paired with a fine local dessert wine.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich historical and architectural heritage, including the Saint-Front Cathedral and several medieval buildings.
- Beautiful natural surroundings with access to nearby parks and the Vézère Valley.
- Vibrant local markets offering fresh produce and regional specialties.
- Cultural events and festivals throughout the year that celebrate local traditions.
- Pleasant climate, conducive to outdoor activities and exploration.
- Relatively small size may limit entertainment and shopping options compared to larger cities.
- Public transport may not be as frequent or extensive, making it less convenient for travel.
- Higher reliance on tourism can lead to seasonal fluctuations in the economy.
- Cost of living can be higher than in rural areas due to its appeal as a tourist destination.
- Limited job opportunities in certain sectors, particularly for younger people or specialized fields.
Best Activities in Périgueux
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the picturesque countryside and charming villages along this scenic 17km cycle route.
Enjoy a leisurely paddle along the tranquil waters of the River Isle, surrounded by stunning natural beauty.
Discover the rich history and medieval architecture of Périgueux with a guided walking tour of its enchanting old town.
Places to Visit in Périgueux
Visit one of these nice places.
This stunning cathedral offers panoramic views of Périgueux from its bell tower.
A beautiful garden with an amphitheater and scenic views of the city.
This historic castle provides a picturesque backdrop for photos with its impressive architecture and surrounding grounds.
Food in Périgueux
Périgueux Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Indulge in the luxurious flavors of Périgord black truffles, often served with scrambled eggs or layered in a creamy sauce. You can savor this delicacy at Le Moulin du Pont and Le Bistrot de la Truffe.
Must-Try!
Try the succulent pan-seared duck breast, a Périgord specialty. La Parenthèse and Le Clos Saint Front are renowned for their exquisite renditions of this dish.
Experience the richness of Périgord cuisine with these sautéed potatoes cooked in duck fat, often accompanied with garlic and parsley. Enjoy this dish at Aux Délices de l'Isle.
Conclude your meal with a delectable walnut cake, showcasing the region's bountiful walnut orchards. Be sure to visit Boulangerie Guignard for an authentic taste.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Explore the vibrant Périgueux Market, where local vendors offer an array of fresh produce, cheeses, and traditional specialties like foie gras and confit de canard. Don't miss the chance to savor hot crêpes and freshly prepared regional dishes from the market stalls.
Stroll through Place de la Clautre to relish the enticing aromas of street food, including savory crêpes, roasted chestnuts, and grilled sausages.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Périgueux, it's customary to greet people with a handshake or kiss on the cheek, even when meeting for the first time. It's important to be aware of these greeting customs to show respect and politeness.
When dining in Périgueux, it's essential to observe proper dining etiquette. This may include waiting for everyone to be served before starting to eat, using utensils properly, and engaging in polite conversation during the meal.
Périgueux has a rich cultural heritage, and it's important to show respect for local traditions and landmarks. Visitors should be mindful of their behavior in historical sites, churches, and other significant places, and adhere to any specific rules or guidelines pertaining to these locations.
Safety
Tipping in Périgueux
Ensure a smooth experience
In Périgueux, France, tipping is not obligatory as a service charge is often included in the bill at restaurants. However, it is appreciated to leave a small tip for exceptional service, usually around 5-10% of the total bill.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in Périgueux, and it is common to use them for most transactions. However, it's advisable to carry some cash, especially for smaller purchases or in establishments that may not accept cards.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring is a great time to visit Périgueux, with comfortable temperatures, blooming flowers, and the chance to witness local festivals and events.
Summer is the peak tourist season in Périgueux, with warm weather, lively outdoor markets, and plenty of cultural and historical attractions to explore.
Autumn in Périgueux brings cooler temperatures, beautiful foliage, and the opportunity to enjoy local harvest festivals and culinary delights.
Winter is a quieter time in Périgueux, with fewer tourists, charming Christmas markets, and the chance to experience a more tranquil and cozy atmosphere in the city.
Périgueux at Night
Hiking in Périgueux
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A beautiful garden with walking trails that offer scenic views and a peaceful environment, located in the nearby town of Terrasson-Lavilledieu.
This trail runs along the banks of the Isle River, providing a relaxing hiking experience with nature and river views.
A vast forest area that offers multiple hiking trails, perfect for those looking to immerse themselves in nature and enjoy a longer hike.
A picturesque trail along the Auvézère River, known for its lush surroundings and gentle paths, suitable for all skill levels.
This hiking circuit features traditional huts and beautiful landscapes, encouraging exploration of the local heritage and nature.
Aiports
How to reach Périgueux by plane.
The largest international airport near Périgueux, located about 120 km to the southwest.
An international airport located approximately 60 km to the east, serving several European destinations.
Located about 130 km to the north, this airport offers international flights mainly to the UK.
Located approximately 200 km southeast of Périgueux, it is one of the major airports in southwestern France.
Situated about 170 km to the east, this airport serves both domestic and limited international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A significant portion of the population is aged between 45 to 64 years, followed by the 30 to 44 age group, and the smallest percentages are found in the under 15 and over 65 brackets.
The population is fairly balanced between males and females, with a slight female majority.
The predominant ethnic group is Caucasian, with small percentages of other ethnic backgrounds.
A large portion of the population has completed secondary education, with a smaller percentage holding a university degree.
Many residents are employed in the service sector, with a notable number also in agriculture and manufacturing.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football, also known as soccer, is a very popular sport in Périgueux, with several local clubs and a dedicated fan base.
Rugby enjoys a strong following in Périgueux, where local teams compete in regional leagues.
Basketball is increasingly popular in Périgueux, with various clubs and initiatives to engage youth in the sport.
Cycling is a favored recreational activity, with many scenic routes around Périgueux attracting both serious cyclists and leisure riders.
Athletics includes various track and field events and is supported by local clubs that organize competitions and training.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Périgueux.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While Périgueux's traditional cuisine leans heavily towards meat and dairy, several restaurants like Les Jardins d'Harmonie and Le 520 offer inventive vegetarian and vegan dishes showcasing the region's bountiful produce.
Visitors with gluten restrictions can enjoy gluten-free options such as salads, omelettes, and grilled fish at Le Grain de Sel and Le Clos Saint Front, which prioritize accommodating dietary needs.