Sarlat La Caneda is a treasure trove of medieval charm, delicious food, and scenic beauty. Beyond wandering its cobbled streets, you can deepen your visit with carefully curated tours that highlight the town’s history, artistry, and surroundings. Our favorites include a serene garden visit, a lively guided walk, and a creative sketchbook workshop—all offering unique ways to appreciate this Dordogne gem. Whether you’re passionate about gardening, history, or art, these experiences will add depth to your trip.
Of particular note is the Gardens of Eyrignac Manor, a beautifully maintained estate that transports visitors back in time with its topiary and reflective pools. For a more active exploration, the guided walking tour of Sarlat offers a fun and informative stroll through the town’s ancient streets. Art lovers will find the Travel Sketchbook workshop particularly engaging, combining sightseeing with creative expression. Each of these tours offers something special, depending on your interests and style.
1. Salignac-Eyvigues: Gardens of Eyrignac Manor Entry Ticket
At number one, the Gardens of Eyrignac Manor stand out for their exquisite landscaping and historical ambiance. For around $16 per person, you gain access to a 17th-century estate renowned for its topiary sculptures, fountains, and reflective waters. The gardens are a true showcase of French garden design, with over 300 meticulously hand-clipped topiaries arranged in intricate patterns.
What makes this experience unique is the harmony of artistry and tranquility. Strolling through the white garden, filled with roses and aromatic plants, offers a peaceful retreat from the busy tourist spots. The gardens are especially striking in spring and summer when the blooms are at their peak. The admission ticket grants a full day of exploration, allowing you to wander at your own pace and take in the classic landscape that has been cherished for centuries.
Guests often comment on the craftsmanship of the topiary artists, and the gardens’ serene atmosphere makes it perfect for quiet reflection. This tour is best suited for those who love horticulture, landscape design, or simply enjoy peaceful outdoor spaces. The only potential drawback is that it’s a one-day ticket, so if you’re pressed for time, plan to arrive early.
Bottom Line: A beautifully maintained historical garden that offers a relaxing, visually stunning experience, ideal for garden enthusiasts and those seeking tranquility.
2. Sarlat: Guided Walking Tour
For an intimate look at Sarlat’s medieval streets, the guided walking tour is hard to beat. Priced at just $9 per person, this one-hour tour is perfect for first-time visitors eager to understand the town’s architectural highlights and stories. Your local guide takes you through alleys lined with remarkable monuments, including the House of la Boétie, the Lantern of the Dead, and the former Sainte-Marie church.
What sets this tour apart is the guide’s ability to weave history with lively anecdotes, bringing the town’s past to life. The tour emphasizes Sarlat’s restoration efforts since the 1960s, explaining how the town preserved its medieval charm amid modern changes. Visitors appreciate the personalized attention and the ability to ask questions as they walk.
Guests have described the experience as “informative and charming,” noting how the guide’s local knowledge makes history accessible. The tour is ideal for history buffs, architecture lovers, or anyone who enjoys walking and exploring on foot. The short duration means it’s easy to fit into a busy sightseeing schedule, but it might leave those wanting more wanting a longer experience.
Bottom Line: An engaging, well-priced introduction to Sarlat’s medieval architecture and stories, perfect for a quick but meaningful overview.
3. Sarlat: Travel Sketchbook
For the artist in all of us, the Travel Sketchbook workshop is a creative way to experience Sarlat. Up to 12 participants gather for a 2-hour session led by a local guide, blending sightseeing with artistic techniques. Costing around $339 per group, this workshop is ideal for those who want to capture the town’s essence through drawing.
The session introduces the concept of keeping a travel journal, then guides you through sketching some of Sarlat’s most photogenic spots. You’ll learn techniques tailored to beginners and more experienced artists alike, making it accessible regardless of skill level. The focus is on observing details, capturing atmosphere, and enjoying the process of artistic creation.
Reviews note that the workshop is more than just drawing; it’s about connecting with the city’s history and environment in a personal way. It’s a superb choice for travelers who like to be hands-on, or for families wanting a memorable activity. Since it’s a small group, it offers plenty of one-on-one tips.
Bottom Line: A unique, artistic approach to experiencing Sarlat that combines sightseeing with creative expression, perfect for those looking to take home a handmade souvenir.
How to Choose
When picking your Sarlat experience, consider your interests and schedule. If you love gardens and tranquil landscapes, the Gardens of Eyrignac Manor offers a peaceful retreat with stunning topiary. For a quick, comprehensive introduction to the town’s architecture and history, the guided walking tour is excellent and budget-friendly. If you’re creative or want a memorable keepsake, the Travel Sketchbook workshop offers an engaging artistic experience.
Think about how much time you want to dedicate—gardens can take a whole day, while the walking tour is quick and easy to slot into your itinerary. Budget-wise, the guided walk is the most affordable, while the sketchbook workshop is a slightly higher investment but offers a unique, hands-on activity.
Final Thoughts
Sarlat La Caneda offers a diverse range of tours and experiences that cater to different interests and timeframes. If you’re seeking a peaceful escape into beautifully manicured gardens, the Gardens of Eyrignac Manor should be your top choice. For a quick dive into its storied streets and architecture, the guided walking tour is hard to beat. And for those wanting to combine sightseeing with a creative activity, the Travel Sketchbook workshop offers a memorable way to connect with the town.
Booking early is recommended, especially for the more popular tours. Whether you’re an architecture lover, a garden enthusiast, or an aspiring artist, these experiences will enrich your time in Sarlat and leave you with lasting memories.