Visit Sarlat
Nos idées de visites / activités à faire
The capital of Périgord Noir
Sarlat-la-Canéda, a medieval jewel of the Dordogne, is an invitation to epicureanism and architectural discovery. Every street corner in the capital of Périgord Noir is a celebration of the senses, where colorful markets rub shoulders with the elegant cathedral of Saint-Sacerdos.
Located in the Nouvelle Aquitaine region of southwest France, Sarlat is the epicenter of a rich heritage, bordered by exceptional villages such as Domme and Castelnaud, and just a short distance from our Sarlat campsite. Visitors to Sarlat-la-Canéda enjoy a welcoming climate all year round, with the summer months being particularly suitable for visits under the generous sunshine. May, October and November offer appreciable peace and quiet, ideal for admiring the autumn-tinted landscapes.
Sarlat’s rich historical heritage includes the Saint-Sacerdos cathedral, the Maison de La Boëtie and the Château de Puymartin. Stroll through the historic center to soak up the atmosphere of the old buildings and squares, including the famous Place de la Liberté. The covered market is a must for epicureans in search of the flavours of Périgord. Sarlat is not content with its medieval heritage, and comes alive with cultural festivals, including the Festival des Jeux du Théâtre and the Festival des Arts en folie, which transform the town into an open-air art scene.
For gourmets, the Fest’oie is a celebration of the Périgord Noir goose, combining culinary discovery and festivities. The area around Sarlat is dotted with villages that are well worth a visit, such as Beynac-et-Cazenac, Domme and La Roque-Gageac, offering breathtaking panoramas and a centuries-old heritage. Local gastronomy can be savored in the restaurants of the historic center, where foie gras, truffles, wines and Cabécou du Périgord are the order of the day.
Sarlat-la-Canéda covered market
In the heart of the medieval city, Sarlat-la-Canéda’s covered market stands as a symbol of the local gastronomic tradition. Rooted in history, this gourmet market occupies the space of theformer Sainte-Marie church, redeveloped by architect Jean Nouvel. It’s an ideal stopover for residents and visitors in search of authentic flavors.
This market is a showcase for the culinary diversity of the Périgord, with stalls brimming with local produce. Expertly crafted cheeses, famous Sarlatan potatoes and black truffles illustrate the richness of the local gastronomy. Once you’ve filled your basket with these delights, the idea of enjoying them at home is tantalizing.
But ifyou’re in the mood for a moment of sharing, why not opt for lunch in one of the welcoming downtown restaurants?
A Hidden Belvedere in the Heart of Sarlat
Theformer Sainte-Marie church, now a covered market, is home to a well-kept secret: a belvedere offering breathtaking views.
Take thepanoramic elevator, a glass-walled creation by architect Jean Nouvel, to reach this privileged vantage point. At the top, you’ll see the typical lauze roofs of the medieval town, the church and the cobbled streets, living witnesses to theheritage of the Périgord Noir.
Take the opportunity to immortalize this panorama of Sarlat with a memorable photograph.
Then let yourself be carried away by the intoxicating charm of this city with its preserved past.
In the heart of Sarlat, the Place de la Liberté
Place de la Liberté stands like the beating heart of Sarlat.
This central space is the stage for the city’s major events. The half-timbered houses lining the square are a real eye-catcher.
Stop in front of the Saint-Jean Baptiste de la Canéda church to admire its architecture. Every week, the square comes alive with an open-air market, a veritable showcase for local gastronomy.
An authentic immersion awaits you among the stalls of local produce.
Enjoy a meal on the terrace in one of the traditional restaurants for an open-air culinary experience. Enjoy foie gras toast, followed by a piece of cabécou du Périgord, for a well-deserved gourmet break.
An ideal place to recharge your batteries before continuing your exploration of Sarlat-la-Canéda’s cultural treasures.
Visit to Château de Puymartin
Just a short distance from the heart of Sarlat, Château de Puymartin invites you to a mysterious, historic experience. Built in the 13th century, this bastion stands as a preserved witness to thehistory of the Dordogne.
Stories of spectres surround the walls of Puymartin, where the Lady in White occupies a special place in local legends. Thérèse de Saint-Clar, as she is known, was condemned to confinement and sealed in the north tower by her husband.
When you visit, be prepared to be captivated by the tales ofFrance’s most famous apparition. Be on the lookout for unsuspected presences…
Your cultural itinerary in Sarlat: the House of Étienne de la Boëtie
Continue your cultural discovery with a stop at the Maison d’Étienne de la Boëtie. This 16th-century jewel in the heart of the Périgord Noir region reveals the captivating story of this illustrious French writer. Although full access to the house isn’t always possible, there are some parts that are open to you.
During temporary exhibitions, the first floor comes alive and welcomes you. Étienne de la Boëtie’s bedroom invites you to take a trip back in time, but only during the Heritage Days. This delicately restored home is a window on the writer’s daily life and his impact on the philosophy of his time.
Sarlat-la-Canéda invites you to immerse yourself in the life of a man who left his mark on French intellectual history.
Saint-Sacerdos Cathedral, Sarlat
Built in the 12th century, the Cathédrale Saint-Sacerdos stands as a landmark in Sarlat-la-Canéda. Born of an abbey past, this monument captivates visitors with its majestic allure and rich history.
Visitors are invited to discover its refined facades, testimony to centuries of history. The most impressive feature?
Its nave, a jewel of Gothic architecture, stands out for its grandeur and elegance. A veritable treasure trove of Sarlat’s heritage, Saint-Sacerdos Cathedral enriches any visit to the capital of Périgord Noir.
Discover the Périgord Noir from Sarlat-la-Canéda
In the heart of the Dordogne, Sarlat-la-Canéda shines like the jewel of the Périgord Noir and is the ideal starting point for exploring the Dordogne valley. From the fortress of Castelnaud to elegant Monpazier, via the medieval town of Domme, the surrounding area offers a mosaic of unspoilt villages, all of which have been named among the Most Beautiful Villages in France.
TheSarlat experience is enriched by many discoveries: the Château de Beynac and its cultural immersion, the Jardins de Marqueyssac where nature becomes a work of art, or La Roque-Gageac, a troglodytic village on a cliffside. Each stop in these villages of character promises a journey back in time and an immersion in the Perigordian art of living.
