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
In food terminology, duck or duckling refers to duck meat, the meat of several species of bird in the family Anatidae, found in both fresh and salt water.
Meat
French cuisine
French cuisine consists of the cooking traditions and practices from France. French cuisine developed throughout the centuries influenced by the many surrounding cultures of Spain, Italy...
Cuisine
Escargot
Escargots, IPA:, is a dish consisting of cooked edible land snails. They are often served as an hors d'oeuvre and consumed by the French people, as well as people in Germany, Great Britain...
Dish
Cassoulet
Cassoulet is a rich, slow-cooked casserole containing meat, pork skin and white beans, originating in southern France. It is named after its traditional cooking vessel, the cassole, a deep...
Dish
Raclette
Raclette is a pungent semi-hard cheese that is usually fashioned into a wheel of about 6 kg. The Alpine cow milk based dairy product is most commonly used for melting, but is also consumed...
Cheese
New Aquitaine