Périgueux

Located in the heart of the picturesque Dordogne region, the ancient city of Périgueux attracts travellers with its unique architecture, combining the heritage of the Roman Empire and the Middle Ages. You can reach this culinary capital, a source of pride for France, in various ways by planning a route through neighbouring major transport hubs. Whether you choose a plane, train, or a trip by car, travelling to Périgueux will be an immersion into the atmosphere of an authentic European province.

Although the city of Périgueux itself does not have a civil airport, the region is well connected to the outside world through the air hubs of neighbouring cities. The closest option for arrival is the airport in the city of Bergerac, located just 41 km from the destination.

Travellers can also consider flights to Brive-la-Gaillarde (63 km) or the larger transport hub — Limoges (84 km). The choice of airport depends on your original route, but any of these options will allow you to comfortably continue your journey to Périgueux by ground transport.

Rail connections in the region allow you to plan a trip with a transfer in neighbouring major cities, as there is no direct station in the very centre of the destination. It is most convenient for tourists to arrive via Bergerac (41 km) or Brive-la-Gaillarde (63 km), from where further transfer can be arranged.

Another popular transfer point is Limoges, located 84 km away. A train journey through this region, where France is located, offers the opportunity to enjoy the peaceful landscapes of the province from your window.

Bus routes connect Périgueux with neighbouring cities, offering a budget-friendly and convenient way to travel. The fastest trip awaits those travelling from the city of Bergerac: the bus covers the distance of about 49 km in approximately 1.3 hours.

There are also regular services from the city of Limoges (travel time ~1.6 hours) and Brive-la-Gaillarde, from where the road will take about 2.2 hours. This is an excellent option for those who want to leisurely view the surroundings on the way to their destination.

Travelling by car is one of the most comfortable ways to get to Périgueux, allowing you to plan stops independently. The drive from the nearest cities of Bergerac and Brive-la-Gaillarde will take less than an hour — approximately 0.9 h, making the trip quick and untiring.

If you are departing from the city of Limoges, the journey of about 99 km will take approximately 1.6 hours. The roads in this region are high-quality and picturesque, so renting a car or booking a taxi would be a good decision for tourists.

To ensure your trip to Périgueux is as comfortable as possible and leaves only pleasant impressions, it is worth considering a few local features in advance. Here is a list of useful recommendations that will help you adapt to the city faster:

1. Walking shoes: The historic centre is paved with cobblestones, so be sure to bring comfortable flat shoes or sneakers, avoiding heels for long excursions.
2. Lunch time: Remember that in the French province, restaurants strictly observe opening hours. Lunch is usually served from 12:00 to 14:00, after which the kitchen may close until the evening (19:00).
3. Market days: Try to be in the city on Wednesday or Saturday — these are traditional market days. It is there that you can buy the best local delicacies: truffles, foie gras, and walnuts.
4. Greeting: Local etiquette requires courtesy. When entering a shop or café, always say "Bonjour" (Good day) to the staff — this is considered a mandatory norm of decency.
5. Language: Although English may be spoken in tourist places, knowing a few basic phrases in French will be received by locals with great gratitude.
6. Transport: The city centre is compact and best suited for walking, but to explore the surroundings of the Dordogne region, renting a car is highly recommended.
7. Payment: Cards are accepted almost everywhere, but it is better to have some cash Euros with you for purchases at the market or in small shops.

By following these simple tips, you will be able to feel not just like a tourist in Périgueux, but a welcome guest, enjoying every moment of your stay in this wonderful corner of France.