Things To Do
in Périgueux

Périgueux is a charming town in southwestern France, known for its rich history and beautifully preserved architecture. Nestled in the heart of the Dordogne region, it boasts a blend of medieval and Renaissance influences. The town is famous for its gastronomy, particularly its truffles and foie gras.

Visitors can explore ancient Roman ruins, delightful markets, and scenic riverside views, making it an ideal destination for culture and food enthusiasts alike.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Historical Périgueux
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the impressive Périgueux Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage site, to admire its stunning architecture. Then, take a leisurely stroll through the medieval streets of the old town.

afternoon
:

Head to the Vesunna Gallo-Roman Museum to discover the town's Roman history. Enjoy lunch at a local bistro, sampling regional specialties.

evening
:

Wind down with a scenic walk along the Isle River before dining at a cozy restaurant with terrace seating, enjoying the sunset.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culinary Delights
morning
:

Begin your day with a visit to the local market at Place du Coderc, where you can sample fresh produce and local cheeses. Don't miss the chance to taste truffles if they're in season.

afternoon
:

Visit the nearby Jardins de l'Imaginaire, a beautiful park featuring stunning gardens and art installations. Enjoy a picnic lunch surrounded by nature.

evening
:

Explore the vibrant nightlife by visiting a local wine bar or pub for some live music, followed by dinner at a traditional French restaurant.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a Mid-Range Restaurant$20
Coffee$3
🍷Glass of Local Wine$5
🥖Baguette$1
🚌Public Transport Ticket$2

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich historical and architectural heritage
  • Delicious local cuisine, particularly for food lovers
  • Charming small-town atmosphere with friendly locals
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities
  • Some attractions may have reduced hours in the off-season
  • Public transport can be infrequent
  • "Bonjour" - Hello
  • "Merci" - Thank you
  • "Où est...?" - Where is...?
  • "S'il vous plaît" - Please
  • "Parlez-vous anglais?" - Do you speak English?

Places to Visit in Périgueux

Visit one of these nice places.

Périgueux Cathedral

Capture the stunning façade and intricate details of this historic cathedral, especially beautiful at sunrise or sunset.

Jardins de l'Imaginaire

A picturesque park with beautifully landscaped gardens, perfect for capturing nature and art in a single frame.

The Isle River

The riverbanks provide a scenic backdrop for sunset photos, with reflections of the town’s architecture in the water.

Culinary Guide

Food in Périgueux

Périgueux offers a delightful culinary experience, highlighting the best of the Dordogne region's flavors and traditions.

Périgueux 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 or terrine.

Must-Try!

Truffles

Known as the 'black gold' of the region, these aromatic fungi are a must-try, frequently used in many local dishes.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Place du Coderc Market

A bustling market held on Wednesdays and Saturdays, where you can find fresh fruits, vegetables, cheeses, and local delicacies.

Climate Guide

Weather

Périgueux experiences a temperate oceanic climate, characterized by mild winters and warm summers. Average temperatures range from 3°C (37°F) in January to 29°C (84°F) in July. Rainfall is fairly distributed throughout the year, with May and October being the wettest months. Overall, the climate is conducive to year-round visits, though spring and autumn are particularly pleasant for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greeting with a Kiss

It's customary to greet locals with a kiss on both cheeks, especially in casual settings.

Using 'Bonjour'

Always greet shopkeepers and restaurant staff with 'Bonjour' upon entering; it's considered polite.

Dining Etiquette

When dining, keep your hands on the table (but not your elbows) and wait for everyone to be served before starting.

Safety Guide

Safety

Périgueux is generally a safe city for tourists, with low crime rates. However, standard precautions should be taken, such as securing personal belongings and being aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas. It's advisable to avoid poorly lit streets at night and to use reputable transport services.

Tipping in Périgueux

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is not mandatory in France, but rounding up the bill or leaving a small tip (5-10%) is appreciated for good service.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, but having some cash on hand is advisable for smaller establishments and markets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild temperatures and blooming flowers make spring an ideal time to visit. Expect lively markets and outdoor activities.

Summer

Summer can be warm, perfect for enjoying outdoor dining and festivals. Tourist attractions may be busier during this season.

Autumn

Autumn brings cooler weather and beautiful fall foliage. It's a great time to enjoy truffle hunting and local food festivals.

Winter

Winters are cold, with occasional snowfall, creating a picturesque setting. The town is quieter, offering a more intimate experience.

Nightlife Guide

Périgueux at Night

Périgueux's nightlife is vibrant yet laid-back, featuring a mix of wine bars, pubs, and occasional live music venues. The atmosphere is generally friendly, with locals and visitors mingling comfortably. Most bars offer a selection of local wines and craft beers, making it a great place to unwind after a day of exploration. The town also hosts seasonal festivals that often include evening entertainment.

Hiking in Périgueux

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Les Gorges de l'Auvézère

A beautiful hiking area featuring stunning gorges, diverse wildlife, and scenic views, suitable for various skill levels.

Sentier des Douaniers

A scenic coastal trail offering breathtaking views of the coastline, perfect for both hiking and photography enthusiasts.

Airports

How to reach Périgueux by plane.

Bergerac Dordogne Périgord Airport

Located about 60 km from Périgueux, this airport offers flights to various destinations in France and the UK, making it a convenient entry point for travelers.

Getting Around

Walkability

Périgueux is highly walkable, with many attractions located within a short distance of each other. The town's layout features pedestrian-friendly streets, especially in the historical center, making exploration easy and enjoyable. Sidewalks are well-maintained, and outdoor seating areas in cafes contribute to a pleasant strolling experience.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Residents

The majority of residents are French, with a mix of older and younger families who contribute to the town's cultural fabric.

Tourists

Périgueux attracts a diverse range of tourists, including history buffs, food enthusiasts, and nature lovers from around the world.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Rugby

Rugby is a popular sport in the region, with local clubs and a passionate fan base, reflecting the cultural heritage of the area.

Cycling

With its beautiful landscapes and numerous trails, cycling is a favored activity among locals and tourists alike, especially during the warmer months.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Périgueux is generally light, especially compared to larger cities. The town is easily navigable by foot or bicycle, and parking is available for those who choose to drive. Public transportation is available but may have limited schedules, particularly on weekends.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Périgueux.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian options, but it's advisable to check in advance, especially for traditional cuisine.

Gluten-Free Options

Some establishments cater to gluten-free diets, but options may be limited; inquire when making reservations.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Périgueux is accessible, with a range of medical facilities available, including hospitals and specialized clinics. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 112, and most doctors speak at least basic English. It is advisable for tourists to have travel insurance that covers healthcare expenses while abroad.

Discover France

Read more in our France 2025 Travel Guide.

France Travel Guide