10-Day Dordogne Road Trip Itinerary: 260km, 7 Stops, and a Slice of Authentic France

Explore charming villages, medieval towns, and riverside beauty with this unforgettable driving route.

Locals put together this itinerary to help you explore France differently — off the beaten path, at your own rhythm, and with a car or van to unlock the hidden corners of one of the country’s most beloved regions. This 10-day road trip through Dordogne covers about 260km and 7 stunning stops. It blends scenic drives, culture, nature, and gastronomy — all while keeping drive times short and the experience rich.

You'll need to rent a car or campervan for this itinerary, as many villages aren’t accessible by train or bus.

Table of contents

• Itinerary Overview 

• Detailed Itinerary

• Travel Tips for This Road Trip

Itinerary Overview

This 10-day road trip through Dordogne covers about 260km and 7 stunning stops.

Stop 1: Brantôme — The Venice of the Périgord

Set on a loop of the Dronne River, Brantôme feels like a fairytale village. The abbey’s reflection shimmers in the water, and stone bridges connect quiet paths. Rent a canoe, explore the cliffside caves behind the abbey, or enjoy a lazy afternoon sipping rosé by the water.

Do not miss:

✔️ Abbey of Brantôme

✔️ Canoe ride through the village

✔️ Artisan shops along the river

Stop 2: Limeuil — Where Rivers Meet

Limeuil is officially listed among Les Plus Beaux Villages de France — and for good reason. Perched at the confluence of the Dordogne and Vézère rivers, it offers gorgeous views, stone houses draped in vines, and a relaxed, riverside charm.

Do not miss:

✔️ Panoramic Gardens of Limeuil

✔️ Swimming or picnicking where the two rivers meet

✔️ The glassblowing workshop in the village

Stop 3: Beynac-et-Cazenac — A Cliffside Fortress

One of the most impressive medieval villages in the Dordogne, Beynac sits dramatically on a cliffside above the river. The 12th-century château overlooks the valley and once housed Richard the Lionheart. Wander the steep lanes and soak in the epic views.

Do not miss:

✔️ Château de Beynac

✔️ Viewpoints over the Dordogne River

✔️ Evening strolls through the stone alleyways

Stop 4: Sarlat-la-Canéda — A Medieval Gem

Sarlat is a feast for the senses. Cobbled lanes lead past Gothic churches, market stalls overflow with walnuts, foie gras, and truffles, and golden limestone buildings glow in the afternoon sun. Stay a couple of nights to fully enjoy the town’s vibrant energy.

Do not miss:

✔️ Sarlat Market (Wednesdays & Saturdays)

✔️ Climbing the Bell Tower of Saint Mary’s Church

✔️ Sampling local delicacies at a wine bar

Stop 5: Saint-Amand-de-Coly — Hidden Tranquility

This tiny village is a peaceful contrast to busier stops. Surrounded by woods and farmland, Saint-Amand is known for its massive fortified abbey and quiet beauty. It’s a perfect overnight stop for walkers and nature lovers.

Do not miss:

✔️ Abbey Church of Saint-Amand-de-Coly

✔️ Local honey and cheese shops

✔️ Country walks around the village

Stop 6: Saint-Léon-sur-Vézère — Riverside Charm

Another Plus Beau Village, Saint-Léon is nestled in a curve of the Vézère River. It’s the kind of place where you’ll want to slow down — paddle along the river, listen to the birdsong, and linger over dinner on a garden terrace.

Do not miss:

✔️ Canoe trip on the Vézère

✔️ The Romanesque church by the river

✔️ Local dining at La Poste or La Belle Etoile

Stop 7: Périgueux — Roman Roots and Modern Ease

End your journey where it began: in Périgueux. The town combines Roman ruins, Renaissance façades, and lively cafés. It’s the largest town in the region and a great place to wrap up your trip with a final feast.

Do not miss:

✔️ Saint-Front Cathedral (a mini Sacré-Cœur)

✔️ The Vesunna Gallo-Roman Museum

✔️ A farewell dinner in the old town

Travel Tips for This Road Trip

Navigation

• Driving: Roads are easy to navigate and scenic — just watch for narrow village lanes.

• Parking: Usually free or cheap outside old towns. Markets can get busy — come early.

• Fuel: Fill up in larger towns like Sarlat or Périgueux.

When to Go

• May–June and September–October are ideal — warm days, fewer tourists, and affordable stays.

• July–August is beautiful but can be crowded in popular towns.

Watch Out For

• Shops closing midday (typically 12–2pm)

• Closed restaurants on Mondays

• Low mobile coverage in remote areas (download offline maps)

This 10-day Dordogne road trip takes you off the main tourist tracks and into the soul of the French countryside. It’s a celebration of nature, heritage, food, and slow travel — perfect for those who want to experience the richness of France one charming village