Sarlat: Things to See and Do
Beautiful Sarlat is a medieval town that developed around a large Benedictine abbey of Carolingian origin. The medieval Sarlat Cathedral is dedicated to Saint Sacerdos. Because modern history has largely passed it by, Sarlat has remained remarkably preserved and is one of the towns most representative of 14th century France. The centre of the old town consists of impeccably restored stone buildings and is largely car-free. There are many things to see and do in Sarlat, and also many things to see and do in the wider Dordogne region.
Sarlat owes its current status on France's Tentative List for future nomination as a UNESCO World Heritage site to the enthusiasm of writer, resistance fighter and politician André Malraux. As Minister of Culture (1960–1969), he restored the town and many other sites of historic significance throughout France. His efforts helped preserve Sarlat’s exceptional medieval and Renaissance heritage for future generations.
Things to See and Do in Sarlat
Sarlat Place de la Liberté
Bordered by traditional 16th–17th century houses showing a series of restored passageways. This lively square is at the heart of Sarlat’s old town and a focal point for markets, events and daily life. The Tourist Office has maps to help you explore all the things to see and do in Sarlat.
Why visit? It’s the vibrant centre of the medieval town, perfect for soaking up the atmosphere, people-watching and starting your exploration of Sarlat’s historic streets. The square is surrounded by cafés and restaurants, making it an ideal spot to relax and enjoy the medieval ambiance.
- Traditional 16th–17th century houses
- Restored medieval passageways
- Central square for markets & events
- Surrounded by cafés and restaurants
Sarlat Saint Sacerdos Cathedral
Originally part of the church of a Benedictine Abbey built in the 12th century. Although modified in the 14th, 16th and 17th centuries, it retains some of its original Romanesque style. The large entrance was added in the 17th century; the statues here are of unknown origin and date. The cathedral is a key landmark in Sarlat’s historic centre and a beautiful example of religious architecture evolution.
Why visit? A beautiful example of Romanesque and later Gothic architecture, offering insight into Sarlat’s monastic and religious past. The interior features impressive vaulting and historic details.
- 12th-century Romanesque origins
- Modifications from 14th–17th centuries
- 17th-century large entrance
- Impressive vaulting and historic details
Sarlat Chapel of St Benoit
A small 12th-century Romanesque chapel restored in the 17th century. This quiet, intimate space is a hidden gem in Sarlat’s old town, offering a peaceful contrast to the bustling streets outside.
Why visit? It offers a peaceful contrast to the bustling town, with beautiful Romanesque architecture and a sense of Sarlat’s ancient religious history. A perfect spot for quiet reflection.
- 12th-century Romanesque chapel
- Restored in the 17th century
- Quiet, intimate atmosphere
- Hidden gem in the old town
Sarlat Jardin des Enfeus
Behind the Cathedral, tombstones from the monastic cemetery are set in arched insets containing sarcophagi from the 14th and 16th centuries of the distinguished gentry of Sarlat. This serene garden is a peaceful place to reflect on the town’s history.
Why visit? A tranquil spot with historic tombs and a glimpse into the lives of Sarlat’s medieval elite, set against the backdrop of the cathedral. It’s a quiet, contemplative area away from the main streets.
- Monastic cemetery tombstones
- 14th- and 16th-century sarcophagi
- Peaceful garden setting
- Behind the Cathedral
Sarlat Plamon House (or Consuls’ House)
Rue des Consuls. One of Sarlat’s most remarkable houses, once owned by one of the most respected families in the area. Opposite is Vassal House (15th century), Saint Mary’s Fountain, Mirandol House and nearby is Tapinois de Betou House (15th century) with a magnificent 17th-century wooden staircase. The Tourist Office can give directions to all the things to see and do in Sarlat.
Why visit? These Renaissance and medieval houses showcase Sarlat’s architectural richness and the wealth of its historic families. The area around Rue des Consuls is one of the most beautiful and photogenic parts of the old town.
- Remarkable Renaissance house
- 15th-century Vassal House
- Saint Mary’s Fountain
- 17th-century wooden staircase
Sarlat La Boétie Residence
The birthplace of Etienne de la Boétie. One of the finest homes in Sarlat, it is characterized by an Italian Renaissance style façade. The residence is a masterpiece of Renaissance architecture in the heart of the medieval town.
Why visit? A beautiful example of Renaissance architecture and the birthplace of a key figure in French literature and philosophy. The façade is one of the most elegant in Sarlat.
- Birthplace of Etienne de la Boétie
- Italian Renaissance façade
- One of Sarlat’s finest homes
- Located in the historic centre
Sarlat Le Présidial
The seat of the Royal Justice under Henri II in the 16th century has an unusual façade and is set in a beautiful garden. It features a large central arch supporting a loggia, topped by a “campanile lanternon”, a structure of wooden props supporting the lanternon to light the vast interior staircase.
Why visit? A unique example of 16th-century judicial architecture in a lovely garden setting – a hidden gem in Sarlat’s old town with a distinctive architectural style.
- 16th-century royal justice seat
- Unusual façade with loggia
- Campanile lanternon structure
- Set in beautiful garden
Sarlat St Mary’s Church & Covered Market
Formerly the Sarlat parish church (14th & 15th century) of meridian Gothic style. It remained intact until the Revolution. It was badly damaged by successive pillages and sold in 1815. All that remains today are the two bays under a ribbed vault and the bell-tower with its steeple missing but featuring several interesting gargoyles. Renovated by architect Jean Nouvel, it works today as an active open market. There is an elevator that will take you to the top of the building which affords a stunning view across Sarlat.
Why visit? The transformation of a Gothic church into a vibrant covered market is unique – plus the elevator ride offers one of the best panoramic views of the town. It’s a perfect blend of history and everyday life.
- 14th–15th century meridian Gothic style
- Renovated by Jean Nouvel
- Active open market
- Elevator to stunning rooftop view
Sarlat La Lanterne des Morts
An unusual monument that once overlooked the cemetery and whose original use is very controversial. Named in the 17th century “The Fanal” or beacon light, it is a distinctive landmark in Sarlat’s old town. Theories about its purpose range from a funerary lantern to a beacon or memorial.
Why visit? Its mysterious purpose and unique shape make it a fascinating and photogenic feature of Sarlat’s historic landscape.
- Unusual medieval monument
- 17th-century name “The Fanal”
- Overlooked the cemetery
- Mysterious original purpose
Sarlat The Fountains Courtyard – Canon Courtyard
Here you will find two public fountains used by the abbey and where the water still runs freely. The courtyard is a peaceful spot amid Sarlat’s historic centre, offering a quiet place to rest and enjoy the sound of flowing water.
Why visit? A tranquil place to pause and enjoy the sound of flowing water in a historic setting – a lovely hidden corner of Sarlat.
- Two historic public fountains
- Used by the abbey
- Water still runs freely
- Peaceful courtyard setting
Sarlat Hotel de Gisson
Situated on Place de la Liberté, it was built in the 17th century. It features a hexagonal stone-roofed tower, providing a spectacular backdrop for photographs. The tower and Renaissance details make it one of Sarlat’s most distinctive buildings.
Why visit? The tower and Renaissance architecture make it one of Sarlat’s most photogenic and distinctive buildings, perfect for photography and admiring historic detail.
- 17th-century construction
- Hexagonal stone-roofed tower
- Spectacular backdrop on Place de la Liberté
Sarlat Passage Henri de Ségoigne - Impasse des Violettes - Place André Malraux
This ancient quarter was restored after the Malraux law on the Protection of Historical Towns was passed on 4th August 1962. Several houses dating from the 13th, 15th and 16th centuries with half-timbering, corbels and stone roofs. The area showcases Sarlat’s architectural evolution and the success of preservation efforts.
Why visit? A beautifully restored medieval quarter showing Sarlat’s architectural evolution and the success of Malraux’s preservation efforts – a perfect example of historic restoration.
- 13th-, 15th- and 16th-century houses
- Half-timbering, corbels & stone roofs
- Restored under Malraux law
- Charming narrow streets
Sarlat Chapelle des Récollets
Formerly the chapel of the Friars convent, it now houses a school. The chapel is a quiet reminder of Sarlat’s religious past and monastic history.
Why visit? A peaceful historic building offering insight into Sarlat’s monastic history and architectural heritage – a lesser-known gem in the old town.
- Former friars’ chapel
- Now used as a school
- Quiet historic site
- Monastic heritage
Sarlat Market
The famous Sarlat markets are held twice a week in the old town. Wednesday mornings are dedicated to food with local produce providers setting up their stalls in and around Place de la Liberté. On Saturday the food producers are back in and around Place de la Liberté in the morning until around 1pm. General traders with a variety of goods can be found along rue de la République for the entire day. The market is one of the most vibrant and authentic in France.
Why visit? One of the most vibrant and authentic markets in France – a feast for the senses and a perfect way to experience local life and produce.
- Twice-weekly market (Wednesday & Saturday)
- Food stalls in Place de la Liberté
- General traders along rue de la République
- Vibrant & authentic atmosphere
Sarlat Hotel de Gérard
Has a splendid Renaissance gallery. In the courtyard there are exhibition rooms for art works and a large room decorated in the 17th century style. The building showcases Sarlat’s artistic and architectural heritage.
Why visit? The Renaissance gallery and historic courtyard offer a beautiful example of Sarlat’s architectural heritage and a space for art and culture.
- Splendid Renaissance gallery
- Exhibition rooms in courtyard
- 17th-century decorated room
Sarlat Ramparts - Hangman's Tower - Rue du Siège
A high arched gateway leads to the outer boulevard which was once a dry moat. The Hangman's Tower from the 16th century is one of the last two remaining towers out of the eighteen which once protected the city. The area offers a glimpse into Sarlat’s defensive past.
Why visit? The ramparts and Hangman's Tower offer a glimpse into Sarlat’s defensive past and provide scenic views over the town and surrounding countryside.
- 16th-century Hangman's Tower
- Former dry moat boulevard
- High arched gateway
- Scenic views over town
Sarlat Covered Market
In St Mary’s Church, sells a selection of local produce. Open hours are: Off season – everyday (except on Thursday) from 8.30 am to 1 pm; High season – everyday from 8.30 am to 2 pm. On Friday from 9.30 am to 8 pm. The market is housed in a historic Gothic church, creating a unique atmosphere.
Why visit? A historic church transformed into a vibrant covered market – a unique and atmospheric place to buy fresh local produce and experience Sarlat’s heritage.
- Located in former St Mary’s Church
- Local produce & regional specialties
- Extended hours in high season
- Historic Gothic setting
Sarlat Truffle & Foie Gras Markets
Place Boissarie (near the covered market) on Saturday from 9 am to 12 am, in December, January and February. This winter market specializes in the region’s famous black truffles and foie gras products, with specialist vendors and seasonal tastings.
Why visit? A rare opportunity to buy authentic Périgord truffles and foie gras directly from producers during the peak winter season, with expert advice and a festive atmosphere.
- Winter market (Dec–Feb)
- Black truffles & foie gras
- Saturday mornings 9 am–12 pm
- Near the covered market