Bergerac is the heart of Dordogne, France
Bergerac is about 100 kilometers (roughly 70 miles) east of Bordeaux.
If you’re driving, it takes around an hour and a half, depending on traffic. If you’re taking the train, it’s a bit over an hour from Bordeaux’s Saint-Jean station to Bergerac, with regular services running throughout the day.
Pretty doable for a day trip from Bordeaux!
A piece of history
Sitting proudly along the banks of the Dordogne River, Bergerac has been a hub of trade, culture, and good living since medieval times.
Walking through its old quarter feels like stepping into a time machine. Half-timbered houses lean toward each other like old friends sharing secrets, and narrow lanes twist and turn in that delightfully unplanned way European towns do so well.
One of my favorite spots to soak it all in is Place Pélissière, where the statue of Cyrano de Bergerac stands watch.
Yes, that Cyrano—the swashbuckling, big-nosed hero of Edmond Rostand’s famous play. While the real Cyrano wasn’t actually from here (sorry to burst any bubbles!), Bergerac has adopted him as its unofficial mascot, and you’ll find his likeness popping up everywhere.
Wine, glorious wine
Let’s talk about the real star of the show: Bergerac wine. If Bordeaux feels a bit too fancy or crowded for your taste, Bergerac is its laid-back, equally delicious cousin.
The region produces reds, whites, and rosés that are every bit as delightful as their more famous neighbors, but with a fraction of the pretension (and price tag!).
The reds, often made from Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon, are rich and velvety, while the whites—think Sauvignon Blanc and Sémillon—are crisp and perfect for a sunny afternoon.
Take a short drive into the countryside to visit a local vineyard. Many are family-run, and the owners are more than happy to share their passion (and their bottles) with visitors. Pair that with some local cheese or duck pâté, and you’ve got yourself a picnic that dreams are made of.
Speaking of food, duck is the local hero. Whether it’s confit de canard (slow-cooked duck leg) or magret (grilled duck breast), you’re in for a treat. Pair it with a glass of Monbazillac, a sweet white wine from just down the road, and you’ll understand why this region is a foodie’s paradise.
Beyond the town limits
While Bergerac itself could keep you busy for days, the surrounding Dordogne Valley is begging to be explored.
Castles perch atop cliffs like something out of a storybook: Château de Monbazillac is a short drive away and pairs its stunning architecture with that sweet wine I mentioned earlier.
The medieval town of Sarlat, with its winding streets is another easy day trip.
And if you’re a history buff, the prehistoric caves of Lascaux are within reach, offering a mind-blowing glimpse into humanity’s past.
