Plan Your Trip

Where to stay in the Dordogne?

The best place to stay depends mainly on what you want to explore, the season, and your travel plans. Here are some guidelines for choosing an area and then finding accommodations that suit your trip.

In the Dordogne, distances and landscapes change quickly. Rather than choosing a town at random, start by considering your priorities: heritage and prehistory, vineyards and fortified towns, nature and rivers, or a central location with more amenities.

Which vacation suits you best?

Select your priority to get industry advice and initial research ideas.

Heritage & Prehistory Vineyards & Country Houses Nature & Rivers City & Central Location

For prehistory and major sites, start by exploring the Périgord Noir.

Prehistory, the Vézère and Dordogne valleys, and the villages and castles make the Noir region a destination packed with things to see. It’s a great choice for a trip centered around Sarlat, les Eyzies , or Montignac; since the sites are spread out, choose a base near your top priorities rather than making multiple round trips.

Black Périgord Vacation Rentals in the Périgord Noir La Béquie in Limeuil Lascaux IV

For vineyards and bastides, choose the Périgord Pourpre.

Bergerac, the vineyard landscapes and fortified towns come together to create a trip that alternates between city tours and vineyard explorations. The region is ideal for couples or travelers looking for a varied itinerary; the wineries are spread throughout the campagne , and some require advance reservations.

Purple Périgord Vacation Rentals in the Périgord Pourpre Region Bellevue Cottage Wines and Vineyards

To enjoy the scenery and rivers, explore the Périgord Vert.

Around the Dronne River, Brantôme, Bourdeilles , and Nontron set the tone for a vacation focused on valleys, villages, and nature. This is a great choice if you’re looking for a more relaxed pace and outdoor activities; amenities and attractions are more spread out, and the season is ideal for outdoor activities.

Green Périgord Vacation Rentals in the Périgord Vert The Belvédère in Thiviers Castle of Bourdeilles

For a more central, urban location, check out the Périgord Blanc.

Around Périgueux, the historic center, Saint-Front Cathedral, and the Vesunna Museum provide a convenient urban base with nearby amenities. Le Blanc is a convenient starting point for combining city tours with excursions to the center of the department; however, visits to sites in the north and south require some planning.

The Périgord Blanc Bed and Breakfast Saint-Vincent Suite Vesunna Museum

Four areas, four ways to enjoy your stay

Choose an area based on the attractions that matter most to you, then check the distances between the listings and your stops. The regional pages and listings below will help you narrow down your initial search.

Black Perigord

The Vézère and Dordogne valleys combine prehistory, castles, and villages, with Sarlat, les Eyzies , and Montignac among the must-see destinations. There are plenty of options for a first heritage-focused trip; since the sites are spread out, staying near your top attractions will help you avoid long detours.

Destination Noir Vacation Rentals Bed and Breakfast La Béquie, in Limeuil Vézère Valley Lascaux IV

Purple Périgord

Bergerac, the vineyards and fortified villages invite visitors to enjoy a mix of cultural heritage, walks, and wine tastings. The area offers a base in town and tours of campagne ; not all wineries are open to walk-ins, and the attractions are spread out.

Purple Destination Vacation Rentals Bed and Breakfast Bergerac Wines and Vineyards Bellevue Cottage, near Bergerac

Green Perigord

La Dronne, Brantôme, Nontron, and the surrounding valleys offer a more natural setting, perfect for walks and exploring villages. It’s a great area to slow down or enjoy the outdoors; amenities and attractions are more spread out, and some activities depend on the season and the weather.

Green Destination Vacation Rentals Bed and Breakfast Le Belvédère, near Brantôme Bourdeilles His castle

White Périgord

Périgueux, the Saint-Front Cathedral, and the Vesunna Museum give the area an urban and historic feel. It’s ideal for travelers who want nearby amenities and a central base; however, getting to sites to the north or south requires some planning.

Destination Blanc Bed and Breakfast All Accommodations Saint-Vincent Suite Périgueux Vesunna Museum

Choose the type of lodging

The type of accommodation also affects your experience during your stay. Browse the available categories and check directly with each property for amenities, policies, operating hours, and availability.

Vacation rental or house

To have your own space and prepare meals at your own pace.

View the vacation rentals

Bed and Breakfast

For a homestay and a more personalized experience.

View guest rooms

Hotel

To find services and a plan that are easier to manage on a day-to-day basis.

View hotels

Campsite

For an outdoor getaway, check the dates and available amenities.

View Campgrounds

Unique Accommodations

To choose an unconventional setting, while ensuring comfort and accessibility depending on the season.

View unique accommodations

Compare all categories

View the listings available in the area.

All Accommodations

Are you also planning a backup plan in case of bad weather? Check out our guide to things to do when it rains.