This magnificent medieval town is one of the region's must-not-miss touristic sites. The capital of Black Périgord, awarded the French “Town of Art and History” label, attracts around 1.5 million visitors every year given the beauty of its historical heritage and its local treasures.
Kick off your visit in the town's historic centre.
Sarlat's historic abbey church was built in 1317 and boasts a magnificent Gothic-style nave. It also has an elegant Romanesque bell tower-porch.
Sarlat's historic abbey church was built in 1317 and boasts a magnificent Gothic-style nave. It also has an elegant Romanesque bell tower-porch.
It features highly-original (shell-shaped) architecture, which continues to intrigue and contributes to the town's architectural appeal, is located just behind Saint-Sacerdos Cathedral and hosted a flame (or lantern) to indicate tombs or a cemetery, part of an ancient tradition. It dates back to the 12th century.
Jump on-board the Panoramic lift. This lift, located inside the former Sainte-Marie Church, whisks you up for a breathtaking 360° vista over the old town - a must-do and accessible to all.
Jump on-board the Panoramic lift. This lift, located inside the former Sainte-Marie Church, whisks you up for a breathtaking 360° vista over the old town - a must-do and accessible to all.
This "food-lovers' paradise" is located inside the former Sainte-Marie Church.
Make a stop-off and delight in buying local specialities (the market is open every morning during the summer season and offers a wide range of local seasonal products). The site, which was bought by the municipality, was entirely restored by the architect Jean Nouvel.
What's more, you also have the outdoor market, place de la Liberté, held every Saturday and Wednesday. A great opportunity to taste regional specialities (foie gras, truffles, ceps, figs, strawberries, walnuts, chestnuts, etc.).
Stop off at the birthplace of Etienne de la Boëtie, one of Montaigne's closest friends. The house was built in 1525 and features interesting architecture, blending medieval and renaissance styles (not visitable).
Stop off at the birthplace of Etienne de la Boëtie, one of Montaigne's closest friends. The house was built in 1525 and features interesting architecture, blending medieval and renaissance styles (not visitable).
This square was the place where people would come to sell geese; what's more, in the middle of the square, you'll see 3 geese sculpted in bronze that conjure up its origins.
Right next to it, you can visit Gisson Manor, the home of one of Sarlat's bourgeois families (exquisite furniture) and the cabinet of curiosities in the cellars.
Find out more about Sarlat-la-Canéda markets
The best way for children to discover the town in a fun-filled way is by taking part in a trail Tèrra Aventura. In Sarlat, Zéfaim will accompany you on the "Delicious Périgord" trail. The free geocaching app for the region invites you to stroll around its medieval streets and to find out more about the wonderful town.
The best way for children to discover the town in a fun-filled way is by taking part in a trail Tèrra Aventura. In Sarlat, Zéfaim will accompany you on the "Delicious Périgord" trail. The free geocaching app for the region invites you to stroll around its medieval streets and to find out more about the wonderful town.
Make sure you continue your visit as the sun's setting to delight in the incredible play of light reflecting off the Renaissance houses.
Worth noting: Sarlat Tourist Office proposes dramatized visits with La Belle Sarladaise where you can discover the town's secrets!
Sarlat is also the perfect starting point for discovering the Dordogne Valley and for visiting a host of charming villages, listed amongst the Plus Beaux Villages de France (the Most Beautiful Villages of France) like: Beynac-et-Cazenac, Domme, Castelnaud, La Roque-Gageac and Monpazier.
It goes without saying, Sarlat is a remarkable place to visit and definitely deserves its reputation as a magnificent medieval town!
More info here: www.sarlat-tourisme.com
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