Dordogne, France Guide

Know Before You Go...®

Why Dordogne, France?

  • Dordogne is home to some of the most impressive cave paintings in the world, including the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Lascaux.
  • The region is renowned for its truffles, walnuts, and foie gras.
  • It is one of the top destinations for outdoor enthusiasts, with numerous hiking trails, cycling routes, and water activities.
  • The Dordogne River is one of the most popular canoeing and kayaking spots in France.
  • The region is famed for its picturesque villages, including Sarlat-la-Canéda, the "Jewel of the Dordogne".

Dordogne, France Weather/Climate

Average Temperatures

January
48° F
° F
February
52° F
° F
March
57° F
° F
April
64° F
° F
May
73° F
° F
June
77° F
° F
July
79° F
° F
August
79° F
° F
September
77° F
° F
October
66° F
° F
November
55° F
° F
December
50° F
° F

Average Rainfall

January
4.3 inches
February
3.1 inches
March
3.5 inches
April
3.1 inches
May
3.5 inches
June
2.8 inches
July
2 inches
August
1.6 inches
September
2.8 inches
October
3.5 inches
November
3.1 inches
December
3.9 inches

Transportation on Dordogne, France

Getting to Dordogne, France and getting around. Our transportation tips will help make your trip smoother. More good sand advice.

Entry Documents

  • Passport valid for the duration of your stay.
  • Visa not required for most nationalities for stays of up to 90 days within the Schengen Area.
  • Return/onward ticket required for proof of departure.

Departure Tax

No specific departure tax; taxes are included in airfare.

Driving

  • Driving License: EU licenses are valid; non-EU licenses require an International Driving Permit (IDP).
  • Driving Side: Right-hand side.
  • Road Conditions: Roads are well-maintained, with scenic coastal routes and rural wine country roads.
  • Speed Limits: 50 km/h (31 mph) in urban areas, 90 km/h (56 mph) on rural roads, and 130 km/h (81 mph) on highways.
  • Traffic Rules: Be cautious of narrow roads in historic towns and limited parking in popular tourist destinations like Bordeaux.

Know Before You Go...® - Dordogne, France Travel Tips

Before making their way to Dordogne, France , vacationers like to know a little bit of helpful information to make them feel more at home during their stay. Take a look at our travel tips to make your time in villas in Dordogne, France even more relaxing.

Capital: Bordeaux
Population: 3.3 million (estimated)
Size: 15,800 square miles (estimated)
Electric Current: 230
Official Language: French is the official language, though English is commonly spoken in tourist areas.
Currency:
  • The official currency is the Euro (EUR).
  • ATMs are widely available in cities, towns, and tourist areas.
  • Credit/Debit Cards are accepted at most establishments (Visa, Mastercard, American Express).
  • Contactless Payments are common in restaurants, shops, and accommodations.
Tipping and Taxes:
  • Tipping is not obligatory but appreciated. In restaurants, rounding up the bill or leaving 5-10% is customary. Small tips are also common for taxi drivers and hotel staff.
  • VAT (Value Added Tax): 20% is typically included in the price of goods and services.
Dress Code: Aquitaine has a relaxed yet stylish dress code. Lightweight clothing is suitable for warm summers, while layers are recommended for cooler evenings or visits to the mountains. Smart casual attire is ideal for dining in Bordeaux or visiting wineries.
Topography: Aquitaine is celebrated for its diverse landscapes, including sandy Atlantic beaches, rolling vineyards, and picturesque countryside. It boasts stunning coastal areas, the Pyrenees mountains, and charming historic towns.
Telephone: Telephone: Country Code: +33 Mobile Networks: Reliable coverage across the region. Wi-Fi: Available in hotels, cafes, and public spaces.

Dordogne, France Weddings and Honeymoons

In Aquitaine, France getting married involves a few clear steps and required documents.

Apply for a marriage license at the Mairie (Town Hall) in the chosen municipality in Aquitaine.

Required documents include:

  • Valid passports or national ID cards for both parties.
  • Birth certificates (issued within the last three months, translated into French and certified with an Apostille).
  • Certificate of no impediment to marriage (certificat de non-opposition).
  • Divorce decree or death certificate (if applicable).
  • Proof of residence in the chosen commune (if applicable).

Civil ceremonies are legally binding and conducted in French by a registrar. An interpreter may be required if the couple does not speak French.

Costs: Marriage fees are minimal, usually under €100. Additional costs may apply for translations, certifications, and optional arrangements.

Optional Religious or Scenic Venue Ceremony: Aquitaine offers scenic venues for symbolic or religious ceremonies, including vineyards, beaches, and historic châteaux. These are not legally binding without a civil ceremony.