Bergerac is a town large enough to have its own distinct history and character, yet small enough that one can comfortably traverse the main streets and quickly acquire familiarity with the general layout of the town. Like Paris, Bergerac is divided by the river into ‘left’ and ‘right’ banks and coincidentally, also has its own Notre-Dame Church, designed by Paul Abadie and built in the neo-Gothic style. The old town area— ‘vielle ville’ — is on the northern (or right) bank of the Dordogne and features a distinct architecture and charming cobbled streets. Boat trips and water activities are available on the river during the warmer months.

Bergerac also lays claim to soldier and dramatist, Cyrano De Bergerac, although the link is somewhat tenuous.

There are numerous historical towns and villages close by, including the historically-classified village of Sarlat. The area also has many châteaux open to the public, such as the château in the village of Beynac-et-Cazenac, one of the most beautiful villages in France with an unhindered view of the Dordogne Valley.

The sixteenth century medieval Chateau Monbazilliac and winery is only ten minutes from Bergerac. The town of Monbazilliac also has a Michelin-starred restaurant, La Tour des Vents, which features spectacular views, as well as spectacular food!

Among many boutique shops, cafes and restaurants, Bergerac has a twice weekly outdoor market on the right bank at Place Gambetta, and a weekly fish market in Place de la Madeleine, on the left bank.