Ten best things to do in Cahors, France

Welcome back to The Velvet Runway and our guide to the ten best things to do in Cahors, France. As an avid traveler, I’ve had the pleasure of visiting numerous stunning destinations across the globe. One place that truly captured my heart is Cahors (so much so that I nearly bought a house there!), a hidden gem nestled in the picturesque region of Occitanie, France.

The area around Cahors was first settled by the Gauls, a Celtic people, around the 4th century BC, and the town itself was founded by the Romans in the 1st century BC and was initially known as Divona Cadurcorum. During the Middle Ages, Cahors became a prosperous city and the capital of the County of Quercy. It was (and still is) known for its strategic location along the pilgrimage route to the Spanish city of Santiago de Compostela.

Today, Cahors is known for its well-preserved medieval architecture, including the famous Pont Valentré, a fortified bridge constructed in the 14th century. The town is also renowned for its wine production, particularly the dark and robust red wine, “Cahors”, made from the Malbec grape.

With its rich history, breathtaking landscapes, and charming atmosphere, Cahors offers a plethora of unforgettable experiences. Join me as we embark on a journey through time, discovering the hidden gems and must-see attractions that make Cahors a true historical gem.

The best months for good weather in Cahors are from May to October, with July and August being the warmest months. We visited in June and, as you can see, the weather was beautiful!

Here is my guide for the ten best things to do in Cahors, and why Cahors should be on your travel bucket list. 

Ten best things to do in Cahors, France

1. Wander Through the Historic Center

To truly immerse yourself in Cahor’s captivating ambiance, start by exploring its historic center. The medieval architecture, narrow cobblestone streets, and charming squares will transport you back in time.

As you meander through the labyrinthine alleyways, don’t forget to visit the iconic Pont Valentré, a magnificent 14th-century fortified bridge that stands proudly over the Lot River.

2. Marvel at the Pont Valentré:

One of the most iconic landmarks in Cahors is the Pont Valentré, a stunning fortified bridge that spans the Lot River. As I stood on the bridge, admiring its three defensive towers and intricate stone carvings, I couldn’t help but marvel at the engineering prowess of the 14th century.

Legend has it that the bridge was completed thanks to a pact with the devil, which adds an intriguing layer of folklore to its already captivating allure.

3. Visit the Cathédrale Saint-Étienne

No visit to Cahors would be complete without exploring the magnificent Cathédrale Saint-Étienne. This Gothic masterpiece, with its imposing bell tower and intricate stained glass windows, is a true architectural gem.

The stunning stained glass windows, imposing vaulted ceilings, and serene atmosphere create a sense of awe and tranquility. Take your time to appreciate the intricate details and soak in the spiritual ambiance of this remarkable cathedral.

Don’t forget to wander around the cloisters, and climb the bell tower for breathtaking panoramic views of the city and surrounding countryside.

Cahors is also on the Chemin de Saint-Jacques de Compostelle, whose route is marked by brass scallop shells set into the pavements. The route passes in front of the cathedral, traverses the town and then crosses the River Lot by the Pont Valentré.   

4. Explore the Musée de Cahors Henri-Martin:

Created in 1833 and installed in the former Concordat episcopal palace of Cahors, the museum presents the work of the neo-impressionist painter Henri Martin, and houses collections relating to archaeology, ethnography, history and fine arts.

Price: 8€, free for children under 18 and free every 1st Sunday of the month.
Hours: Open From 11:00 am to 06:00 pm, Wednesday to Sunday

5. Uncover the Secrets of Cahor’s Secret Gardens

In the heart of the historic centre of Cahors hides a series of enchanting secret gardens waiting to be discovered. These hidden oases offer a peaceful retreat from the bustling streets.

You have to explore Cahors on foot to admire the 25 Secret Gardens, all different and surprising, and cultivated with talent by the team of gardeners from the city of Cahors.

The secret gardens are free to visit all year round, although they are particularly beautiful during the flowering season, from May to September. These gardens are perfect for a leisurely stroll, a picnic, or simply finding a quiet spot to sit and reflect.

6 Take a cruise along the Lot River or simply just stroll along the river bank

To experience Cahors from a different perspective, embark on a leisurely boat cruise along the meandering Lot River. As you glide through the tranquil waters, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside, adorned with vineyards, charming villages, and lush green landscapes. Sit back, relax, and let the beauty of Cahors unfold before your eyes.

Or you could just take a walk along the banks of the Lot; which is the perfect post-lunch activity and will also allow you to see some more sights like churches and a water mill.

7 Stop by The Fontaine des Chartreux

The Fontaine des Chartreux, also known as the Fountain of the Carthusians, is a significant landmark located in Cahors, France. This natural spring is a limestone resurgence that was once used by Romans, and was once the place to worship Divona, the Celtic goddess of water after which Cahors was originally named (Divona Cadurcorum).

The discovery of many Roman coins in 1989 testify to the cult paid to the source in the 1st century BC and the 1st century AD.

In the Middle Ages, a mill used the waters of the fountain, then in 1360 it was ceded to the monastery of the Carthusians, hence its current name.

8 Explore the vineyards

For wine enthusiasts, a visit to Cahors is incomplete without exploring the picturesque vineyards that blanket the rolling hills of the region.

Many vineyards offer wine tastings and vineyard tours, providing a unique opportunity to learn about the winemaking process and to sample the delicious Malbec wines.

There are even wines growing in the town itself, next to the Pont Valentré.

9 Visit the Farmer’s Market

Immerse yourself in the vibrant local culture by visiting the bustling Market in Cahors, held on Wednesdays and Saturdays.

The Cahors marché is located right in the historic center, next to the cathedral. The market is open from 8 AM to 1 PM on Wednesdays and Saturdays. If you’re not visiting on market day, you can find some local specialties at la Halle de Cahors, just across the street.

10 Indulge in local gastronomy 

One cannot visit Cahors without delving into its delectable culinary scene. Known for its rich red wines, the city is a haven for food enthusiasts. Head to the bustling farmers’ market, open on Wednesdays and Saturdays, and sample the mouthwatering local produce, including succulent cheeses, fresh fruits, and aromatic truffles.

Delight your taste buds with regional specialties such as confit de canard (duck confit), truffles, foie gras, and Rocamadour cheese. Don’t forget to pair your meal with a glass of the region’s famous wine for an unforgettable culinary experience.

Final thoughts on the ten best things to do in Cahors, France

Cahors, with its captivating history, culinary delights, and stunning landscapes, offers an enchanting experience for every traveler. From exploring the medieval streets to indulging in local delicacies and sipping exquisite wines, this charming city has something to offer for everyone. So, pack your bags, embrace the allure of Cahors, and create memories that will last a lifetime.

I hope you enjoyed this post on the ten best things to do in Cahors, France and I will be back soon with more style, lifestyle and travel inspiration and don’t forget to subscribe to make sure you never miss a post,

 

With love,