How to Get to Sarlat-la-Canéda
Sarlat-la-Canéda, the medieval jewel of the Périgord Noir in the Dordogne, draws visitors for its honey-colored stone houses, vibrant markets, and proximity to world-famous châteaux, prehistoric caves, and Plus Beaux Villages. While rural, Sarlat is reasonably accessible by air (via nearby airports), train, car, or bus. A rental car is strongly recommended for exploring the surrounding Dordogne Valley, as public transport in the countryside is limited.
This 2026 guide details the main ways to reach Sarlat, with current practical information, approximate times, costs, and tips for a smooth journey to this enchanting historic town.
By Air
Sarlat has no commercial airport. Fly into one of the regional airports and transfer by car, taxi, train, or shuttle.
Nearest Airports (2026):
- Brive Vallée de la Dordogne (BVE) – Closest (~30-45 km, 40-50 min drive). Seasonal flights, including to/from London Stansted. Taxis/private transfers available; car rental on-site. Bus to Souillac station + train to Sarlat possible but infrequent.
- Bergerac Dordogne Périgord (EGC) – ~70-80 km (1 hour drive). Low-cost flights from UK/Europe (Ryanair, Jet2, etc.). Rent a car or taxi; train from Bergerac station to Sarlat (~1-1.5 h).
- Bordeaux-Mérignac (BOD) – ~190-200 km (2-2.5 h drive). Major international hub with wide connections. Shuttle/train to Bordeaux St-Jean station, then direct TER to Sarlat (~2.5 h total train from Bordeaux).
Tips: Rent a car at the airport for flexibility. Private transfers (Ophorus, local companies) €150-300 depending on airport/group. Taxis expensive for longer distances. Check airline schedules for seasonal routes.
By Train
Sarlat-la-Canéda has its own SNCF station (Gare de Sarlat) on the Bordeaux–Sarlat TER line via Bergerac and Le Buisson. Trains are scenic but regional and infrequent (5–6 daily).
Main Routes (2026):
- From Bordeaux St-Jean – Direct TER, ~2h 15–2h 30m, 5–6 trains/day. €25–50.
- From Paris – TGV Paris Montparnasse/CDG to Bordeaux (~2–3 h), then TER to Sarlat (total 5–7 h, €80–200). Or TGV to Brive-la-Gaillarde (~4–5 h), then regional train/bus to Sarlat (~1 h).
- From Bergerac – Direct TER, ~1–1.5 h.
- From Brive-la-Gaillarde – Regional train or bus via Souillac (~1 h).
Tips: Book via SNCF Connect or Trainline. Station is walkable to town center (~10–15 min). Taxis available for luggage. Fewer trains evenings/weekends; check schedules.
By Car
Driving is the most flexible and popular way to reach and explore the Dordogne, with good motorways and free parking in Sarlat.
Approximate Distances & Times (2026, normal traffic):
- From Bordeaux: ~190 km, 2–2.5 h (A89 then N21/D6089).
- From Bergerac: ~70 km, 1 h.
- From Brive-la-Gaillarde: ~50 km, 45 min–1 h.
- From Paris: ~520 km, 5–6 h (A10/A71/A20 then A89/N21).
- From Toulouse: ~200 km, 2–2.5 h.
Tips: Tolls on A89 ~€20–30 from Bordeaux. Sarlat center pedestrian; park in lots like Parking de la Canéda or near station (free/paid). Rent from airports/stations (Hertz, Avis, etc.). Scenic but winding valley roads—allow extra time in summer.
Other Options
Bus: Limited regional buses (e.g., from Souillac/Brive) or FlixBus from Bordeaux/Toulouse (infrequent, 3–6 h).
Private Transfer/Taxi: Convenient but expensive (€150–400 from Bordeaux/Brive). Good for groups or arrivals.
Cycling: Possible on greenways but impractical for long-distance arrival.
General Tips for 2026
- Spring and fall offer fewer crowds; summer books fast—reserve transport/accommodation early.
- A rental car is almost essential for day trips to Lascaux, Beynac, Rocamadour, or villages.
- Public transport is limited in rural Dordogne—plan connections carefully.
- Check real-time info on SNCF Connect, airport websites, or sarlat-tourisme.com.