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Discover Aquitaine | A Visitor's Introduction to Aquitaine

Recommended places to visit, places to stay and things to do throughout Aquitaine

Why is Aquitaine worth a visit? Aquitaine shines with its incredible diversity — think world-class wines, golden Atlantic beaches, Georgian architecture, medieval bastides, and unspoiled countryside. Bordeaux, the region’s beating heart, is a UNESCO-listed city famous for its elegant boulevards, riverside quays, and gastronomic delights. Coastal favourites like Arcachon and Biarritz offer sea breezes and surf culture, while inland hide medieval villages, spa towns, and quiet rivers. Aquitaine’s unique identity also includes Basque and Gascon traditions, adding vibrant cuisine, music, and festivals into the mix.

Includes the départements: Dordogne Gironde Landes Lot-et-Garonne Pyrénées-Atlantiques

Arcachon

Arcachon, a seaside town in southwestern France, is famed for its oyster farming and the majestic Dune du Pilat, Europe's tallest sand dune. The town is divided into four districts, each representing a season. Its elegant 19th-century architecture, sandy beaches, and mild climate make it a popular holiday destination. The Bay of Arcachon offers a stunning backdrop for watersports and leisure activities.

Agen

Agen, located in southwest France, is known for its sweet prunes and relaxed charm. The Garonne River runs through this historic town, home to Roman ruins, half-timbered houses, and the impressive Saint-Caprais Cathedral. With museums, markets, and easy access to canal-side cycling paths, Agen offers a gentle mix of culture, history, and countryside living.

Bergerac

Bergerac is a picturesque town known for its wine and tobacco production. It boasts a charming medieval old town with half-timbered houses and narrow streets. The town is a hub for the Bergerac wine region, featuring numerous vineyards and wine-tasting opportunities. Bergerac's statue of Cyrano de Bergerac pays homage to the legendary literary character.

Biscarrosse

Biscarrosse, nestled between forest, lakes, and the Atlantic Ocean in southwest France, is a haven for nature lovers and watersports fans. Its long sandy beaches attract surfers, while calm lakes are perfect for swimming and paddleboarding. With nearby pine trails and a laid-back vibe, it’s an ideal escape for families and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

Bordeaux

Bordeaux, a port city on the Garonne River in southwestern France, is globally acclaimed for its wine industry. It boasts a rich cultural heritage, evident in its 18th-century architecture and historic landmarks like the Place de la Bourse. The city is also home to the expansive Bordeaux Wine School, reflecting its status as a world-renowned center for wine production and education.

Brantôme

Brantôme, often called the “Venice of the Périgord,” charms with its riverside setting and historic Benedictine abbey built into limestone cliffs. Surrounded by the Dronne River, it’s ideal for peaceful canoe trips and scenic strolls. The town’s blend of medieval architecture, lush gardens, and relaxed pace makes it a picturesque retreat in the Dordogne region.

Les Éyzies-de-Tayac

Les Éyzies-de-Tayac, in France’s Vézère Valley, is known as the “Capital of Prehistory.” Home to the National Prehistory Museum and remarkable cave art sites like Font-de-Gaume, it offers a deep dive into early human history. Surrounded by limestone cliffs and river landscapes, it’s perfect for archaeology lovers and those seeking a tranquil, culturally rich escape.

Périgueux

Périgueux, the capital of France’s Dordogne region, blends Roman heritage with medieval charm. Its centerpiece, the Byzantine-style Saint-Front Cathedral, anchors a maze of cobbled streets lined with markets and cafés. Roman ruins, including a well-preserved amphitheatre, add historical depth, while the town’s relaxed atmosphere makes it ideal for leisurely exploration and savouring classic Périgord cuisine.

Sarlat-la-Canéda

Sarlat-la-Canéda, often simply known as Sarlat, is a medieval town in the Dordogne region of France. Renowned for its well-preserved old town with narrow cobblestone streets and Gothic and Renaissance architecture, it's a quintessential example of 14th-century France. The town is also famous for its local cuisine, particularly foie gras and truffles, and hosts a popular weekly market.

Saint-Cyprien

Saint-Cyprien, set in the heart of the Dordogne Valley, is a quiet medieval village known for its hilltop views and weekly market. Its charming stone houses, 12th-century abbey, and proximity to top sites like Beynac and Les Eyzies make it a great base for exploring the region. Enjoy a slower pace with authentic Dordogne character and cuisine.

Saint-Émilion

Saint-Émilion, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in southwest France, is famed for its prestigious red wines and medieval architecture. Cobblestone streets wind past Romanesque churches, underground catacombs, and centuries-old wine cellars. Surrounded by scenic vineyards, this hilltop village offers wine tastings, panoramic views, and a timeless atmosphere that captures the essence of Bordeaux’s Right Bank.

Saint-Jean-de-Luz

Saint-Jean-de-Luz, on France’s Basque coast, blends beachside charm with rich maritime history. Its sheltered bay is ideal for swimming, while the old town features colourful half-timbered houses and a bustling market. Known for seafood and Basque culture, it’s a lively yet relaxed seaside destination, just minutes from the Pyrenees and perfect for coastal walks and cultural exploration.

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