Dordogne tours

Things to do in Dordogne

In Dordogne, the gentle murmur of the river blends with the rustle of leaves in old forests, beckoning you into a world where time flows leisurely. This region is a storybook with medieval castles on cliffs and villages in valleys. Your local guide turns Dordogne tours into tales of history and wonder. As you embark on a walking tour through Sarlat’s streets or a food and wine tour in Bergerac, you'll delve into the heart of French heritage. Feel the cool air of prehistoric caves, savour the flavours of foie gras, and let the region's beauty capture you. With private tours in Dordogne, every moment is a piece of living history. If you’re looking for more inspiration, take a look at our curated list of things to do in Dordogne. Explore Dordogne your way At ToursByLocals, we believe that how you explore is just as important as where you go. That’s why every Dordogne tour is private, flexible, and built around you: Move at your own pace, skip the crowds, make connections and follow your curiosity. Find local guides offering private tours in Dordogne for every interest, including: Nature and Wildlife tours: Paddle a canoe along the Dordogne River between La Roque-Gageac and Beynac while your guide helps you spot kingfishers and herons on quiet bends. Or follow a clifftop path at the Jardins de Marqueyssac to look for peregrine falcons and learn about local boxwood and oak habitats; truffle walks near Sorges can be added in season. History tours: Pair timed-entry to Lascaux IV with a visit to the National Museum of Prehistory in Les Eyzies to see tools and art from the Vézère Valley. Then compare siege stories at Château de Beynac and the rival stronghold of Castelnaud, with a stop at the troglodyte site of La Roque Saint-Christophe. City highlights tours: In Sarlat-la-Canéda, walk stone lanes to the Cathédrale Saint-Sacerdos, the Maison de La Boétie, and the Lanterne des Morts, hearing how the town grew around its market. On market day, taste walnuts, truffle products, and cabécou at stalls on Place de la Liberté, then ride the glass elevator inside the Église Sainte-Marie market hall for rooftop views. Sarlat’s old town is easy to explore on foot, but public transport around the region is limited; to link villages, caves, and châteaux, you can book a chauffeured tour or ask your local guide about private transportation. This isn’t a one-size-fits-all itinerary, you can tailor your private tour to match your interests, pace and personality with a local who knows Dordogne inside and out. Walking tours & neighbourhoods Explore Dordogne on a private walking tour, and let your local guide introduce you to its enchanting neighborhoods. Each area offers its own unique charm and caters to a variety of interests. - Sarlat-la-Canéda: With its medieval architecture and lively markets, this neighborhood is a treasure trove for cultural tourists and history enthusiasts. Its cobbled streets and beautifully preserved buildings transport you to another time. - Beynac-et-Cazenac: Perched on a cliff overlooking the Dordogne River, this village offers breathtaking views and a glimpse into the region’s storied past. Ideal for those fascinated by castles and ancient tales. - La Roque-Gageac: Nestled between the river and dramatic cliffs, this picturesque area is perfect for nature lovers and those seeking meaningful connections with the landscape. Its lush surroundings invite you to explore and unwind. Day trip ideas from Dordogne From Dordogne, you can branch out to nearby villages, river towns, and wine country on easy day trips that fit what you like to see and do. - Rocamadour: A cliffside village with stone lanes, viewpoints, and a famous sanctuary, it works for history fans and photographers, and your tour can weave in quiet chapels, goat cheese tastings, and time to take in the panoramas. - Saint‑Émilion: Medieval streets and a limestone church set the scene, and if you enjoy wine, cellar visits and tastings make this an easy pairing with a walk through vineyards and a pause in the main square. - Beynac‑et‑Cazenac: A fortress above the Dordogne River sets a strong profile, good for castle stories, river outlooks, and a calm pace along the quay, with options to add a short boat ride or more time in nearby La Roque‑Gageac. - Monpazier: A perfect bastide town with arcades and a central square, it suits you if you like clean lines, local markets, and craft shops, and you can keep the day slow with café stops and short strolls through its grid of lanes. - Brantôme: Rivers curl around an old abbey, so you can mix light paddling or a riverside walk with a look at troglodyte sites, making it a good pick if you want gentle nature, calm water, and simple heritage in one day trip. A private tour with a local guide is the best way to really get to know a place. Skip the crowds, follow your interests, and see a side of Dordogne most travellers miss.