Sarlat-la-Canéda Travel Guide
Facts and practical information
Nestled in the heart of the picturesque Dordogne region in the New Aquitaine region of France, Sarlat-la-Canéda is a charming commune that captures the essence of medieval France. With its narrow cobblestone streets, beautifully preserved heritage buildings, and a vibrant market scene, this town is a haven for history buffs and food enthusiasts alike.
One of the main highlights of Sarlat-la-Canéda is its stunning architecture, which dates back to the 14th and 15th centuries. As you wander through the town, you'll be enchanted by the well-preserved medieval houses with their intricate carvings and timber frames. The impressive Cathédrale Saint-Sacerdos is also a must-visit, with its Gothic style and stunning stained glass windows that transport you back to a bygone era.
Sarlat-la-Canéda is also renowned for its vibrant and bustling market scene. Every Wednesday and Saturday, the town comes alive as local vendors set up their stalls, offering an array of fresh produce, cheese, wine, and other regional specialties. The market is not only a feast for the senses but also a great place to immerse yourself in the local culture and interact with the friendly locals.
For those seeking outdoor adventures, the surrounding countryside of Sarlat-la-Canéda is a paradise waiting to be explored. With its rolling hills, verdant valleys, and meandering rivers, this region offers ample opportunities for hiking, cycling, and canoeing. The nearby Vézère Valley is also a UNESCO World Heritage site and is home to numerous prehistoric caves, including the famous Lascaux Cave, which features ancient cave paintings dating back thousands of years.
No visit to Sarlat-la-Canéda would be complete without indulging in the region's culinary delights. The town is known for its rich gastronomic heritage, with traditional dishes such as foie gras, truffles, and walnut-based specialties taking center stage. Don't miss the chance to dine at one of the charming local restaurants, where you can savor these delicacies while enjoying the warm hospitality of the locals.
Sarlat-la-Canéda Attractions - What to See and Explore
Sarlat-la-Canéda offers many attractions and places to visit. Here are the most important ones: Sarlat Cathedral, Château de Puymartin, Lanterne des morts XIIe siècle. Below you will find a complete list of places worth visiting.
Sarlat-la-Canéda – popular in the area (distance from the center)
In the vicinity of Sarlat-la-Canéda, it's worth seeing attractions such as: Château de Beynac (Beynac-et-Cazenac), Château de Castelnaud-la-Chapelle (Castelnaud-la-Chapelle), Prehistoric Sites and Decorated Caves of the Vézère Valley (Montignac-Lascaux).
Best Time To Visit Sarlat-la-Canéda
Learn when is the best time to travel to Sarlat-la-Canéda weather-wise and what to expect in each season.
Best Ways to Experience the Place
Food & drink
CuisineA guide to some of the best local dishes and drinks that you will meet in the region.
Duck
Duck meat, sourced from various species within the Anatidae family, is a cherished ingredient in kitchens worldwide. Renowned for its rich flavor, the meat is primarily obtained from the bird's breasts and legs. Unlike other poultry, duck meat is considered white meat...
Meat
French cuisine
French cuisine is a treasure trove of culinary delights that have evolved over centuries, drawing influences from various cultures and regions within France. It represents a harmonious fusion of local culinary traditions and flavors from neighboring countries such as...
Cuisine
Escargot
Escargots, or cooked edible land snails, are a cherished hors d'oeuvre in France and are also enjoyed in many other countries, including Germany, the United Kingdom, Italy, Portugal, Spain, Cyprus, Greece, and North African nations such as Tunisia, Algeria, and Morocco.
Dish
Cassoulet
Cassoulet is a hearty, slow-cooked casserole originating from southern France. This rich dish traditionally features a mix of meats, pork skin, and white beans, and derives its name from the "cassole" the earthenware pot in which it is cooked.
Dish
Raclette
Raclette is a delicious semi-hard cheese made from Alpine cow's milk, ideal for melting or enjoying in slices. It is also the name of a Swiss dish where the cheese is heated until it melts and then scraped off for serving.
Cheese
New Aquitaine