The medieval heart of Sarlat offers several worthy guided experiences. Two standouts: The 4-hour Beynac & Domme excursion perfectly pairs France’s most dramatic castle with the best-preserved bastide town in the region. For prehistoric art enthusiasts, the half-day Lascaux IV tour provides convenient skip-the-line access to France’s finest cave art reproduction. My favorite is the Sarlat Gourmet Tour – it connects you with the real local culture through market visits and tastings of regional specialties like foie gras and truffles. Small groups and expert local guides make these experiences particularly meaningful. Let’s look at the best tour options in detail…
Key Points
- Explore Sarlat’s medieval charm on the Beynac & Domme Tour, featuring a walking tour of Domme and a visit to the 12th-century Beynac Castle.
- Discover the UNESCO-listed Lascaux IV caves and other prehistoric sites on the Full-Day Cave Art Tour.
- Indulge in local delicacies like duck, cheese, and wine on the Sarlat Gourmet Tour, a 2-hour culinary exploration.
- Access private prehistoric cave sites and learn about Paleolithic techniques on the Private Tours of Prehistoric Sites.
- Enjoy small group sizes, knowledgeable guides, and comprehensive itineraries across the various tour options in Sarlat.
From Sarlat : Beynac & Domme Tour & Dordogne Boat Ride
Departing from Sarlat-la-Canéda, this immersive 4-hour tour takes visitors on an exploration of two of the Dordogne region’s most picturesque villages – Beynac and Domme.
Capped at 8 participants, the tour offers an intimate experience with English-speaking guides. At Domme, guests will enjoy a walking tour of this fortified medieval town, known for its unique trapezoid city plan.
Next, they’ll venture to Beynac, home to a stunning 12th-century castle. Dependent on weather conditions, the tour also includes a boat ride along the Dordogne River on a traditional Gabarre.
Throughout the experience, guests will learn about the area’s rich history, from Templar imprisonment to the Hundred Years War.
With a 4.7/5 rating based on over 80 reviews, this tour offers exceptional value, quality transportation, and knowledgeable, passionate guides.
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended as the tour operates rain or shine.
Read our full review: From Sarlat : Beynac & Domme Tour & Dordogne Boat Ride Review
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From Sarlat: Half-Day Skip-the-Line Lascaux IV Tour
This half-day tour from Sarlat offers visitors a chance to skip the line and explore the renowned Lascaux IV International Center of Parietal Art, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in the Vezere Valley.
Priced from €97 per person, the 4-hour tour is limited to just 8 participants, ensuring an intimate experience.
Highlights include visiting the life-size facsimiles of prehistoric caves and the natural rock shelter in Les Eyzies and Saint Léon village.
With an English-speaking driver and guide, guests will travel in a comfortable minivan.
The tour earns high marks, with a 4.9/5 overall rating based on 32 reviews.
Visitors praise the knowledgeable and engaging guides, well-designed tour, and breathtaking cave experience.
The tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, and children under 4 aren’t permitted. Pets are also not allowed.
Most tours operate in French, with limited English tours and no simultaneous translation in the cave.
Read our full review: From Sarlat: Half-Day Skip-the-Line Lascaux IV Tour Review
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From Sarlat-la-Canéda: Lascaux IV and Cave Art Full-Day Tour
Visitors can embark on a comprehensive full-day tour from Sarlat-la-Canéda that explores the rich cave art and prehistoric history of the Dordogne region. Priced at $174.82 per person, the 9-hour excursion offers skip-the-line access to the remarkable Lascaux IV cave complex, a perfect reproduction of the original Paleolithic masterpieces.
The tour also includes visits to Les Eyzies de Tayac, home to Cro-Magnon skeleton discoveries, and the National Prehistory Museum, which houses the world’s largest collection of prehistoric artifacts. Guests will explore the significance of the Dordogne as the “world capital of prehistory” and marvel at the UNESCO-listed Rouffignac Cave’s original etchings and drawings.
With a small group size of 8 participants, the tour provides an intimate, informative experience led by knowledgeable guides. Highly rated by previous guests, this immersive exploration of Lascaux IV and the region’s cave art history is an ideal choice for visitors seeking a deeper understanding of humanity’s prehistoric past.
Read our full review: From Sarlat-la-Canéda: Lascaux IV and Cave Art Full-Day Tour Review
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Sarlat Gourmet Tour & Market Visit With Tastings
While in Sarlat-la-Canéda on market day, visitors can embark on a 2-hour gourmet tour that provides an immersive exploration of the town’s rich culinary heritage.
Priced from $51.42 per person and limited to 8 participants, this English-guided tour takes guests through the winding streets and colorful market stalls, where they’ll discover local delicacies and the town’s main sites.
Tastings include regional specialties like duck, cheese, walnuts, and wine, as well as an in-depth look at the Dordogne’s traditional gastronomy, including foie gras, black truffles, and Périgord strawberries.
Guests can also explore the Lantern of the Dead, Saint Sacerdos Cathedral, and the House of La Boétie.
Operated rain or shine, the tour requires a minimum of 2 adult passengers and has an impressive 4.6/5 rating based on 42 reviews, making it a must-do experience for foodies visiting Sarlat-la-Canéda.
Read our full review: Sarlat Gourmet Tour & Market Visit With Tastings Review
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Sarlat : Private Tour to an Original Prehistoric Cave
For those seeking an immersive journey into Sarlat’s prehistoric past, a private tour to an original cave offers a captivating experience. Lasting 2.5 hours, the tour provides exclusive access to a cave with 30,000-year-old cave paintings.
Guests can explore the cave’s stunning stalactites, stalagmites, and columns, along with demonstrations of Paleolithic fire-making and painting techniques.
The tour, priced from $112.09 per person, includes pickup and drop-off in Sarlat. Arriving 10 minutes early at the meeting point, you will embark on this immersive journey.
While the tour is conducted in both French and English, it may not be suitable for those with mobility or visual impairments. Comfortable walking shoes and warm clothing are recommended, as the cave temperature is around 12°C (55°F).
With an overall rating of 5/5 based on 4 reviews, this tour is highly recommended for groups seeking an authentic prehistoric experience.
Read our full review: Sarlat : Private Tour to an Original Prehistoric Cave Review
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Sarlat : Private Tour to Prehistoric Cave + Medieval Castle
Combining an immersive prehistoric experience with a visit to a well-preserved medieval castle, this 4.5-hour private tour in Sarlat offers a captivating glimpse into the region’s rich history.
Visitors will explore a prehistoric cave, witnessing 30,000-year-old cave paintings and learning about Paleolithic life. The tour also includes a private visit to Beynac, one of France’s best-preserved medieval castles, providing a unique opportunity to step back in time.
The tour, priced from $200.53 per person, includes transportation from the meeting point to the cave. Guests will enjoy a scenic drive along the Dordogne River valley and have the chance to witness demonstrations of fire-making techniques.
Bottled water is provided, and entrance fees are payable in cash. While the tour isn’t suitable for those with reduced mobility or visual impairments, it offers a comprehensive and enriching experience for history enthusiasts.
With a 5/5 rating based on 12 reviews, this private tour is a must-do for visitors to Sarlat.
Read our full review: Sarlat : Private Tour to Prehistoric Cave + Medieval Castle Review
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Sarlat: Private Tour to Rocamadour
Explore the medieval wonder of Rocamadour on this private tour from Sarlat, offering a captivating 3.5- to 4.5-hour journey through the region’s history.
This UNESCO World Heritage site is a must-see, with a medieval castle, Romanesque church, and the last operational medieval fortified watermill to discover.
Climb the Grand Pilgrims Staircase or take the elevator to the miraculous chapel, home to the Black Virgin and the legendary sword Durandal.
The tour includes round-trip transportation from Sarlat, with pickup available at the bus stop or your hotel if it’s not within walking distance.
While not suitable for those with reduced mobility, an optional lift is available for those who prefer not to climb.
With an overall rating of 4.9/5 from 13 reviews, this tour offers exceptional value, knowledgeable guides, and an unforgettable experience exploring one of France’s most iconic medieval sites.
Read our full review: Sarlat: Private Tour to Rocamadour Review
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Sarlat: Private Tour to the Dordogne Valley
Discover the stunning Dordogne Valley on this private tour from Sarlat. Priced from Kč 3,844 per person, this 3-4 hour excursion takes you through the picturesque “Golden Triangle” region, showcasing medieval villages, impressive castles, and breathtaking natural scenery.
Explore the charming town of Beynac, home to Richard the Lionheart’s castle, or visit the nearby Castelnaud from January to mid-February.
Wander through the quaint riverside village of La Roque Gageac and enjoy panoramic views from the hilltop town of Domme. The afternoon tour also includes a visit to Montfort village and a 12th-century Romanesque church.
With knowledgeable English-speaking guides, air-conditioned transportation, and all entrance fees included, this private tour offers an immersive experience in the Dordogne Valley.
Customer reviews praise the guides’ expertise, photo opportunities, and value for money. Just be aware that the tour isn’t suitable for those with mobility issues or large luggage.
Read our full review: Sarlat: Private Tour to the Dordogne Valley Review
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Book Tours in Multiple Languages?
Many tour providers in Sarlat la Caneda offer tours in multiple languages, allowing visitors to choose the option that best suits their needs. Travelers can often book tours in English, French, and other popular languages.
Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tours?
Many tour operators in the area offer tours in multiple languages to accommodate diverse travelers. As for age restrictions, most tours welcome guests of all ages, though some may have minimum age requirements for certain activities.
Are the Tours Wheelchair Accessible?
The tours are generally wheelchair accessible, though it’s best to check with the tour providers beforehand to ensure the specific tour routes and activities accommodate mobility needs. Some tours may have limited accessibility options.
Can I Customize the Itinerary for Private Tours?
Yes, you can typically customize the itinerary for private tours in Sarlat La Caneda. Many tour providers offer the flexibility to tailor the tour to your specific interests and accessibility needs.
Do the Tours Include Transportation to and From Sarlat?
Yes, many private tour operators in Sarlat provide transportation to and from the town. They’ll pick you up from your hotel or designated meeting point, ensuring a seamless and convenient experience throughout the tour.
The Sum Up
The best tours in Sarlat-la-Canéda offer a diverse range of experiences, from boat rides along the Dordogne River to visits to prehistoric caves and medieval castles. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or gastronomy, there’s a tour that caters to your needs. Visitors can explore the region’s rich heritage and stunning landscapes, making the most of their time in this charming French town.