3 day itinerary for Perigueux

Itinerary

Périgueux is a charming town in the Dordogne region of France, rich in history, culture, and delicious cuisine. Here’s a delightful 3-day itinerary that will help you soak in the best of what Périgueux has to offer!

## Day 1: Explore the Heart of Périgueux

Morning:

• Breakfast at a Local Café: Start your day with a buttery croissant and a café au lait at a local café. Try Café de la Paix for a cozy atmosphere.
• Visit the Vesunna Gallo-Roman Museum: After breakfast, head to this fascinating museum designed by the architect Jean Nouvel. It showcases the remnants of a Gallo-Roman villa and offers a glimpse into the ancient history of the region.

Afternoon:

• Lunch at a Traditional Bistro: Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a bistro like Le Café de la Gare, where you can savor local dishes like confit de canard or a hearty salad.
• Stroll through the Historic Center: After lunch, wander through the charming streets of the old town. Don’t miss the stunning Saint-Front Cathedral, with its unique Byzantine architecture. Take your time to admire the intricate details and perhaps climb the bell tower for a panoramic view of the city.

Evening:

• Dinner at a Local Restaurant: Treat yourself to dinner at La Table de Périgueux, where you can indulge in regional specialties. Be sure to try the truffles if they’re in season!
• Evening Walk: After dinner, take a leisurely stroll along the banks of the Isle River. The evening lights reflecting on the water create a magical atmosphere.

## Day 2: Nature and Culture

Morning:

• Breakfast at your Accommodation: Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at your hotel or a nearby bakery.
• Visit the Jardin des Arènes: Start your day with a peaceful walk in this lovely park, which features beautiful gardens and a Roman amphitheater. It’s a perfect spot to relax and enjoy the morning sun.

Afternoon:

• Lunch at a Local Market: Head to the Périgueux market (held on Wednesdays and Saturdays) to sample local cheeses, cured meats, and fresh produce. Grab a few goodies for a picnic!
• Picnic at Parc Gamenson: Find a nice spot in this park to enjoy your market finds. It’s a lovely place to relax and soak in the local atmosphere.

Evening:

• Visit the Périgueux Museum of Art and Archaeology: Spend your afternoon exploring the museum, which houses a rich collection of art and artifacts from the region.
• Dinner at a Wine Bar: For dinner, head to a wine bar like Le Vin et la Mer, where you can pair local wines with delicious small plates. Don’t forget to ask for recommendations!

## Day 3: Day Trip to the Surrounding Countryside

Morning:

• Breakfast at a Local Bakery: Grab some pastries and coffee to-go from a local boulangerie.
• ## Day Trip to Sarlat-la-Canéda: Take a short drive (about 30 minutes) to Sarlat, a picturesque medieval town. Spend the morning wandering its cobbled streets, admiring the stunning architecture, and visiting the local shops.

Afternoon:

• Lunch in Sarlat: Enjoy lunch at a café in Sarlat, perhaps trying the famous duck dishes or a hearty quiche.
• Visit the Lascaux Caves: After lunch, head to the Lascaux II or Lascaux IV caves (depending on availability) to see the incredible prehistoric cave paintings. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage site and a must-see!

Evening:

• Return to Périgueux: Head back to Périgueux in the late afternoon.
• Farewell Dinner: For your last evening, enjoy a special dinner at a fine dining restaurant like Le 7, where you can indulge in a gourmet meal and reflect on your wonderful trip.

Tips:

• Local Markets: If you’re there on a Wednesday or Saturday, don’t miss the bustling market in Périgueux!
• Transportation: Périgueux is quite walkable, but renting a bike can be a fun way to explore the surrounding areas.
• Language: While many locals speak English, brushing up on a few French phrases can enhance your experience!

I hope this itinerary helps you have a fantastic time in Périgueux! Enjoy every moment of your adventure! 🌍✨