Dordogne River Cruises 2023/2024

Dordogne Travel Guide

Dordogne River Cruises Things To Do

• 
  Lascaux

  These caves are the most popular in this area. They are prehistoric and have drawings, pieces of the past, and more hidden within the walls. It is a place full of mystery and wonder. Of course, some of the cave has been closed off, but you can still walk around, learn more, and visit the caves next to this one to get a glimpse into the past.   

  Best Time To Visit

  It is recommended that you go when it is not raining outside, as you will have to walk outside of the cave. You can prepare ahead of time and make sure to dress for the weather.   

   

  You Should Know

  Parts are closed off from having visitors go inside, so you may not be able to see the entire cave. You can purchase tickets for this attraction ahead of time and skip the lines that might be waiting.
• 
  The Marqueyssaac Gardens

  These gardens are the most elaborate in the entire area. They were built to look almost like a maze. With a natural beauty about them, they whisper to you when you walk through. This is a garden that is a must-see if you love nature and you want to feel the tranquility that this area has to offer.  

  Best Time To Visit

  Since the attraction is located outside, it is best to go when the weather is comfortable and when it is not raining. You can go when it is cooler out, just make sure to grab a sweatshirt or a light jacket.     

   

  You Should Know

  The chateau that is located on the garden grounds was built in the 17th century and showcases some of the best historic beauty. The cliffs to the side overlook the Dordogne Valley.
• 
  Castelnaud-la-Chapelle Castle

  If you want to be brought back in time, then this medieval fortress has everything you could possibly want and more when you visit inside. You can take a look into the large building, huge rooms, decorated walls, and more. Most of the castle is open for you to walk through, giving you a great way to get out, explore, and take in a bit of history firsthand.   

  Best Time To Visit

  You can go at any point in time since the majority of this attraction is inside. You don't have to worry about the outside elements while here. The inside of the castle can be a bit chilly, so grab a light jacket or sweater.      

   

  You Should Know

  The castle was originally erected to face its rival. The castle overlooks and it is right on the Dordogne River. You can stop right at the castle right off the cruise ship.  
• 
  Grotte de Font-de-Gaume

  If you are still in the mood for more prehistoric history, then the Grotte de Font-de-Gaume has cave paintings for you to make use of. You can look through the various areas where they were originally put down and even read more about how they were translated. This is one of the cooler sites to see.  

  Best Time To Visit

  The best time to see this attraction is when it is warmer out, but beware, when the weather is nice, this attraction can become quite packed with tourists so you may want to plan ahead.    

   

  You Should Know

  There are over 200 images that have been identified and found in this area. Read about the hours, prices, and more before you come so you can plan ahead and make sure it is open.
• 
  Commarque Castle

  This castle is another one that is filled with history and wonder. The serene surroundings of this one make you feel like you are almost secluded from the outside world. Located right on a hillside, you can look over the fortress walls to the world below. The view itself is breathtaking. Walkthrough the walls of the castle where royalty once lived in the past.  

  Best Time To Visit

  Since the majority of this attraction is inside, you can make the most of your visit any time of the year. You don't have to worry about it being rainy or cold outside, though it can become cold inside the castle so plan accordingly.   

   

  You Should Know

  There are no guides, so you will have to do a self-guided tour throughout, but you can look up information on your phone.
• 
  Chateau des Milandes

  This is a Renaissance castle that was built in the past to showcase a bit of the showbiz history about it. You can find that inside the castle still stands a theater room complete with everything they used in these shows. It is definitely a great view into how they used to entertain one another in the past, and something that you can take part in during your visit.   

  Best Time To Visit

  You can see this attraction at any time. It is mostly inside, so even if it is cold and raining outside, you can be sure to walk the halls away from the outside elements found outside the castle walls.  

   

  You Should Know

  There are people working here and they will tell you more about the castle and the history of it if you ask. You can plan ahead and purchase tickets for a tour, or a specific time if you want to skip the tourist lines.
• Chateau de Montaigne

  This castle is beautiful from the inside, out. You can not only walk through and get a sense of history but there are also vineyards right outside. You can taste the wine right in the same area, providing you with something delicious to enjoy during your time within the castle and the vineyards themselves.   

  Best Time To Visit

  There is no right or wrong time to visit this castle, but many like to visit when it is warmer out so they can enjoy their wine tasting on the outside terrace and in the vineyards.     

   

  You Should Know

  The castle was built in the 14th century. They close somewhat early during the day, so make sure to plan ahead if you are thinking about stopping by and checking it out.
• 
  Abri de la Madeleine

  If you are into history and archeology, then this is where you want to find yourself exploring. It is a rock shelter where a lot of artifacts have been unearthed. You can look at each one of the ones that were pulled from the ground and have an idea of how people used to live in the past in this area. Many of the pieces found are over 20,000 years old.  

  Best Time To Visit

  The attraction is the most ideal to see during the daytime when it is warm out and when it is not raining. This is because it is mostly outside. You want to be comfortable, but also want to make sure you can see while inside.

Dordogne River Cruise Packages

• Summer - July and August - Best Season

  Summer is the most popular time to cruise the Dordogne River. The temperatures are warm enough for any type of activity. Such as hiking, canoeing, cycling, or making a picnic in the picturesque valleys. 

• Spring- May and June - Low Season

  Prices are usually lower in the Spring, but there is also unpredictable weather during this time. There might be clear skies but there is also frequent rain during these days, so it best to plan a cruise in the Spring if your willing to change your plans according to the weather.  

• Winter - October to April - Good Season

  Winter is a great season to visit the Dordogne River. Like most destinations, during the winter, the streets and attractions are less crowded with other tourists. Meaning you will have more time and easier access to both popular attractions and hidden gems. Although, some activities might be closed, during this time some towns have Christmas Markets, which are a great place to buy souveniers or Christmas gifts. 

Dordogne River Cruises Frequently Asked Questions

• When is the Best Time to Take a Dordogne River Cruise?

  Depending on what you want out of the trip, you may want to go during the warmer months over the chillier ones. However, there is a high tourist season that does happen. This is generally between May to October. July and August are the warmest and busiest months out of all of those, though. When you go depends on what you want to do, so consider the excursions and activities you are going to want to take part in. It is recommended to go during May, September, and October because there is still plenty to do and the weather is definitely comfortable for almost all activities.

• What is a Dordogne River Cruise?

  A Dordogne River Cruise will take you down the Dordogne River in France. It usually brings you from Libourne to Bergerac located on the Southwestern portion of France. However, this is not the only waterway that the ship will coast over. You will have the pleasure of also going across the Gironde Estuary and Garonne River. Both of these have amazing sites along with them. The river cruise has everything you need inside and ensures you get a round trip vacation without having to book or plan a number of things like you normally would if you were just visiting the area.

• What is Included with a Dordogne River Cruise?

  Since river cruises are all-inclusive, you can expect your lodging, food, activities on the ship, and other things to be free of charge. This is all included in the stay on the ship. Extras such as excursions or specialty services on the ship, alcohol, and a few other things are extra. They can be added to the cost of the trip through a package though, if you choose to do it this way.

• What’s the Best River Cruise for a Dordogne River Cruise?

  The best river cruise line to take depends on what you want out of the trip. You can find that one might offer a better price, or another might have better amenities or rooms. Make sure to do a bit of research before choosing which you want to go with. However, passengers who have been on these cruises before do have recommendations on which is the best. These recommended ships and cruise lines to use for a trip such as this include Viking River Cruises, AmaWaterways, and Scenic Luxury Cruises and Tours.

• How Much Does a Dordogne River Cruise Cost?

  The price can range based on the room you choose, extras you add on, the cruise line, and how long you are going to be going for. The lengths can range from 3 days up to 15 or more days. The prices generally range from $1,299 to $11,999 per person.