Things To Do
in Sarlat-la-Canéda
Sarlat-la-Canéda is a beautiful medieval town located in the Dordogne region of France. Its charming cobblestone streets are lined with well-preserved historic buildings dating back to the 14th century. The town is known for its bustling market scene, where visitors can find fresh produce, local specialties, and artisan crafts.
Sarlat-la-Canéda is also surrounded by stunning countryside, making it a popular destination for exploring the scenic landscapes of the Dordogne Valley.
- "Bonjour" - Hello
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "S'il vous plaît" - Please
- "Comment ça va?" - How are you?
- "Au revoir" - Goodbye
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $80 - $200
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $40
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $70
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at a local café. Afterward, explore the medieval streets of Sarlat and admire the impressive architecture.
Visit the popular Sarlat market, where you can taste local delicacies and purchase artisanal goods. Spend the afternoon wandering through the picturesque alleys and soaking up the vibrant atmosphere.
Enjoy a traditional French dinner at a bistro, sampling the region's famous dishes. Conclude your day with a leisurely stroll through the illuminated town.
Start with a breakfast featuring fresh pastries and coffee. Then, take a guided tour of nearby vineyards to learn about the local wine production.
Participate in a wine tasting session and savor the distinct flavors of the Dordogne region. Later, enjoy a picnic lunch with local cheeses and bread in a scenic vineyard.
Return to Sarlat and dine in a local restaurant renowned for its gourmet cuisine. End the evening with a glass of local wine on a terrace overlooking the square.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich historical and cultural heritage with beautiful medieval architecture.
- Vibrant local markets offering fresh produce and regional specialties.
- Stunning natural landscapes and proximity to the Dordogne River for outdoor activities.
- Pleasant climate, particularly in spring and summer, ideal for tourism.
- Culinary delights with exquisite restaurants showcasing local cuisine.
- Tourist crowds can make the town feel crowded during peak seasons.
- Limited public transportation options, making a car necessary for exploration.
- Higher prices for accommodation and dining during peak tourist months.
- Some attractions may have limited accessibility for individuals with mobility issues.
- Potential language barrier for non-French speakers in local establishments.
Best Activities in Sarlat-la-Canéda
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the stunning landscapes of the Dordogne Valley while canoeing. It's a perfect way to enjoy the serene beauty of the river and view the historic châteaux along its banks.
Discover various hiking trails that offer breathtaking views of the Vezere Valley and its prehistoric sites. Trails vary in difficulty, making it suitable for all skill levels.
Experience the charm of Sarlat's medieval market. Enjoy local products, artisan crafts, and regional delicacies in a vibrant open-air setting.
Rent a bike and explore the picturesque countryside surrounding Sarlat. There are many scenic routes especially suitable for leisurely rides.
Visit the beautiful gardens of this historical manor, showcasing local flora and offering a peaceful place to relax and enjoy nature.
Experience breathtaking views of the Dordogne from above while enjoying a hot air balloon ride. This unique perspective highlights the region's stunning landscapes.
Tours
Uncover the best of Sarlat-la-Canéda with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Sarlat-la-Canéda
Visit one of these nice places.
The main square of Sarlat, featuring charming medieval architecture and a lively atmosphere, perfect for capturing the essence of the town.
A beautiful garden located near the historical center, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape, ideal for nature photography.
This picturesque street lined with historic buildings is great for street photography and capturing the character of Sarlat.
The magnificent cathedral is an architectural gem with impressive details, perfect for architectural photography.
A viewpoint that offers panoramic views of Sarlat and the surrounding countryside, fantastic for landscape photography.
Walk along the ancient ramparts for unique perspectives of the town and the beautiful Dordogne landscape.
A charming square with lovely fountains, providing a great backdrop for photos, especially during markets or events.
Capture the vibrant colors and bustling atmosphere of the local market, where fresh produce and regional products are sold.
Food in Sarlat-la-Canéda
Sarlat-la-Canéda Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A must-try specialty of the region, Sarlat is renowned for its delectable foie gras. Locals and tourists can savor this rich delicacy at various restaurants throughout the town. Recommended places to try include Restaurant Le Bistro and Le Bistro de l'Octroi.
Must-Try!
Sarlat is celebrated for its truffles, often incorporated into dishes to provide a unique and earthy flavor. La Petite Borie and Le Bistro de l'Octroi are known for their truffle-infused dishes, providing an authentic taste of the region.
A delightful dessert with a distinct local flavor, walnut cake is a beloved treat in Sarlat. It can be found in numerous patisseries and bakeries such as Pâtisserie Massoulier, where visitors can relish its nutty goodness.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Sarlat-la-Canéda better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
The Sarlat Market is a vibrant hub of local flavors and gastronomic treasures. Visitors can explore stalls brimming with fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, charcuterie, and other regional specialties. The market also offers street food such as savory crepes, freshly baked bread, and local delicacies like confit de canard.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Sarlat-la-Canéda, it’s customary to greet people with a polite 'Bonjour' during the day, and 'Bonsoir' in the evening. A friendly smile is also important. When meeting someone for the first time, a handshake is appropriate.
When dining in restaurants, it is polite to wait for the host to begin the meal before starting to eat. Keep your hands on the table (but not your elbows) and use utensils for most foods. Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory, as service is usually included in the bill.
Sarlat tends to have a slightly formal dress code, especially in restaurants and shops. Dressing smartly is a sign of respect. Avoid overly casual attire, such as flip-flops or beachwear, when exploring the town or visiting local establishments.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Sarlat-la-Canéda with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Sarlat-la-Canéda
Ensure a smooth experience
In Sarlat-la-Canéda, as in much of France, tipping is not as customary as in some other countries. Service is typically included in the bill at restaurants and cafes, which means that patrons are not required to leave a tip. However, it is appreciated if customers round up the bill or leave small change. For exceptional service, a tip of about 5-10% may be given, but it is not expected.
Payment methods in Sarlat-la-Canéda are quite diverse. Most establishments accept credit and debit cards, including Visa and MasterCard. However, small businesses and markets may prefer cash. It is advisable to carry some euros in cash for small purchases, particularly in local markets or small shops. Payments at restaurants are typically settled at the table, and it is customary to ask for the bill (l'addition) when ready.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Sarlat-la-Canéda.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring (March to May) is a wonderful time to visit Sarlat-la-Canéda as the weather begins to warm up and the gardens bloom. Expect mild temperatures, fewer crowds, and vibrant local markets filled with fresh produce. It's ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the medieval architecture without the summer hustle.
Summer (June to August) is the peak tourist season in Sarlat-la-Canéda, known for its warm weather and lively atmosphere. Expect crowded streets, numerous festivals, and outdoor events. While the cafes are bustling, it’s advisable to book accommodations in advance and enjoy the local cuisine in the evening when temperatures are cooler.
Autumn (September to November) brings cooler temperatures and beautiful fall foliage. Expect a quieter experience than summer as the tourist crowds decrease. It's a great time for wine tasting and enjoying seasonal harvest events. The climate is pleasant for hiking and exploring the surrounding countryside.
Winter (December to February) is the off-season in Sarlat-la-Canéda, characterized by cold weather and fewer visitors. Expect a peaceful atmosphere and the chance to see the town decorated for the holidays. While some attractions may have limited hours, the local cuisine is very comforting, making it a cozy time to enjoy the culture.
Sarlat-la-Canéda at Night
Hiking in Sarlat-la-Canéda
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic trail leading to Montfort Castle, providing stunning views of the Dordogne River.
Multiple trails around Sarlat that offer beautiful landscapes, quaint villages, and historical landmarks.
A picturesque hike along the banks of the Dordogne, featuring charming views of surrounding hills and valleys.
A family-friendly trail through the water gardens, with educational exhibits and beautiful flora.
A flat, easy walking path suitable for all ages, perfect for leisurely walks and bike rides.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Sarlat-la-Canéda through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Sarlat-la-Canéda by plane.
Located approximately 60 km from Sarlat-la-Canéda, this airport serves several international destinations.
About 25 km away, this airport offers limited international flights mainly to the UK.
Situated around 200 km from Sarlat-la-Canéda, this major international airport offers numerous global connections.
Located approximately 150 km away, this airport provides access to various European destinations.
Around 200 km from Sarlat-la-Canéda, this is one of the largest airports in the region with extensive international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
This demographic group makes up a significant portion of Sarlat-la-Canéda's population, reflecting the area's appeal to retirees and older adults.
Comprising the majority of the labor force, this group includes individuals engaged in various occupations within the hospitality, tourism, and arts sectors.
This group includes students and young children, contributing to local schools and community activities.
A smaller subset of the population, this group often includes students attending local educational institutions.
The Soul of Sarlat-la-Canéda
Discover the essence of Sarlat-la-Canéda through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is a widely popular sport in Sarlat-la-Canéda, with local teams participating in regional leagues.
Rugby has a strong following in Sarlat-la-Canéda, with community clubs and events promoting the sport.
Cycling is a favored activity due to the scenic countryside and opportunities for both recreational rides and competitive events.
Tennis is enjoyed in the community, with several clubs offering facilities for players of all levels.
Hiking is popular in and around Sarlat-la-Canéda, with numerous trails showcasing the area's natural beauty.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Sarlat-la-Canéda.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While the traditional cuisine of Sarlat often features meat and dairy, many restaurants and cafes in the town offer excellent vegetarian and vegan alternatives. Visitors can enjoy a variety of flavorful dishes crafted from fresh, locally sourced produce.
Visitors with gluten restrictions can explore numerous eateries in Sarlat that provide delectable gluten-free options. From inventive culinary creations to classic French dishes, there are ample choices to cater to gluten-free dietary needs.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Sarlat-la-Canéda with these cultural adventures.
