Know Before You Go...®

France is a country known for its rich culture, history, and diverse landscapes. From the bustling city of Paris to the charming villages in the countryside, there is something for everyone to discover in this beautiful country. Each region in France has its own unique charm and beauty, offering a variety of experiences for travelers. From the sunny beaches of the French Riviera to the rolling hills of Provence, and the picturesque vineyards of Bordeaux, France boasts an abundance of natural beauty and cultural treasures. So, whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or gastronomic delights, France has it all.

Why Dordogne, France?

  • Aquitaine is home to the largest forest in France, the Landes de Gascogne.
  • The city of Bordeaux in Aquitaine is the world’s most famous wine-producing region.
  • The Basque Coast in Aquitaine is renowned for its stunning beaches and surf spots.
  • The region is also home to an impressive number of prehistoric cave paintings.
  • Aquitaine is one of the sunniest regions in France, with over 2,000 hours of sunshine per year.

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

Overview

Once the playground of French royalty, you’ll find a glamorous edge to this south-western corner of France. To the west, wide, whitewashed beaches and stylish seaside towns and to the east, the gentle rolling hills of France’s most famous vineyards. Hole up in a sprawling country mansion, the perfect point from which to take in the all this renowned region has to offer.

Start with the culinary delights that await you in the region’s capital Bordeaux. Nestled on the Garonne river, this historic city is France at its finest. There’s a noble grandeur to the buildings, a sophisticated sense of superior southern living. Sample fresh oysters and crisp white wine at one of the market stalls, or take a quick whisk round the stunning Musée des Beaux Arts.

In the sweet surrounding countryside, enjoy thousands of acres of vineyards - the region reading like a carefully selected wine list, from Médoc, St. Emilion, Margaux to Pauillac. Take a drive round the fabulous Dordogne, pausing to admire medieval villages and stunning chateaux, before returning to your own piece of history - your sumptuous country mansion. As your chef prepares dinner on the terrace, the smell of truffles drifting from the kitchen, you’ll feel you’ve stepped back into another era entirely.

History

Aquitaine, located in southwestern France, has a rich history shaped by its position between the Atlantic Ocean and the Pyrenees Mountains. Originally inhabited by the Aquitani, a Celtic people, the region was conquered by the Romans in the 1st century BC. Under Roman rule, Aquitaine became an important trade hub, with cities like Bordeaux flourishing, and its wine industry began to grow.

After the fall of the Roman Empire, Aquitaine became part of the Visigothic Kingdom and later the Frankish Empire. In the 12th century, Eleanor of Aquitaine married Henry Plantagenet, bringing much of southwestern France under English control. This sparked centuries of rivalry between France and England. During the Hundred Years’ War, Aquitaine was a key battleground, eventually becoming fully integrated into France after the English defeat.

In modern times, Aquitaine developed into a major agricultural and industrial region, with Bordeaux wine continuing to thrive. In 2016, it merged with neighboring regions to form Nouvelle-Aquitaine, but it remains a cultural and historical center, known for its landscapes, historical sites, and gastronomic traditions.

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

  • Valid Passport: Ensure it’s valid for at least 3 months beyond departure.
  • Visa: Check French Ministry of Foreign Affairs for visa requirements based on nationality.
  • Proof of Accommodation: Have confirmation of hotel or lodging.
  • Proof of Funds: Be ready to show you can cover your stay (bank statements or sponsorship letter).
  • Return Ticket: Show onward travel plans.
  • Travel Insurance: Recommended for health coverage.
  • Arrival Form: Complete if required.
  • COVID-19 Documents: Check latest travel advisories and COVID-19 requirements from reliable sources.

Departure Tax

No specific departure tax in Europe for American citizens; European countries typically include departure taxes in airline ticket prices, applying to all passengers, to fund airport services. Best to check with airline or airport website for any updates.

Driving

  • Non-EU/EEA tourists may need an International Driving Permit (IDP).
  • Ensure all occupants, including passengers in the back seat, wear seat belts.
  • Children under 10 or less than 135 cm in height must use an appropriate child safety seat.
  • Adhere to speed limits: Urban areas: 50 km/h; Non-urban roads: 80-90 km/h; Dual carriageways (expressways): 110-130 km/h; Motorways (autoroutes): 130-130 km/h
  • Using a mobile phone while driving is prohibited unless you have a hands-free system.
  • Vehicles coming from the right have priority unless road signs indicate otherwise. Always be cautious at intersections.
  • Yield to vehicles already in the roundabout and give way to the right.
  • Many highways have tolls; pay attention to toll booths and consider electronic toll devices available with some rental cars.
  • Use headlights at all times, even during the day.
  • In case of an emergency, call 112 and familiarize yourself with emergency service numbers.

Local Transportation

Aquitaine offers a variety of transportation options to explore its beautiful countryside and coast. Trains are a convenient way to travel between cities like Bordeaux and Bayonne, while rental cars provide flexibility for discovering vineyards, beaches, and historic sites at your own pace. In cities like Bordeaux, trams are a quick way to get around. Cycling is also popular, offering a scenic way to enjoy the region’s landscapes. With these options, Aquitaine makes it easy to experience the best of southwest France.

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: 1453Bordeaux
Population: 2021Approximately 3.3 million.
Size: 1801Unknown.
Electric Current: 220/240
Time: zone:+1 (GMT/UTC )
Official Language: The official language spoken in Aquitaine, a region in southwestern France, is French. However, the secondary language spoken in Aquitaine is Occitan, a Romance language with several dialects. Occitan is mainly spoken in rural areas, while French is more
Currency: Aquitaine, located in southwestern France, is a popular destination for tourists due to its beautiful landscapes, rich history, and delicious cuisine. When it comes to currency and payment options in Aquitaine, there are a few things to keep in mind. The official currency in Aquitaine, as well as the rest of France, is the Euro (€). This is the only currency accepted in most establishments, including hotels, restaurants, and shops. It is recommended to exchange your local currency for Euros before your trip, as it can be difficult to find currency exchange services outside of major cities. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in Aquitaine, especially in larger cities such as Bordeaux and Biarritz. Visa and Mastercard are the most commonly accepted cards, but it is always a good idea to check with your bank beforehand to ensure your card will work abroad. American Express is not as widely accepted, so it is recommended to have an alternative form of payment. ATMs are also
Tipping and Taxes: Tipping and taxes in Aquitaine, a region in southwestern France, are an important aspect of the local culture and economy. Tipping, although not mandatory, is widely practiced in restaurants, cafes, and bars. The typical tipping rate is around 10% of the total bill. This is considered a gesture of appreciation for good service, and it is customary to leave the tip in cash. In some establishments, a service charge may already be included in the bill, so it is important to check before leaving an additional tip. In addition to tipping, visitors to Aquitaine should be aware of the various taxes that may apply to their purchases. The most common tax is the Value Added Tax (VAT), which is included in the price of goods and services. The standard VAT rate in France is 20%, but there are reduced rates for certain items such as food and books. Visitors who are not residents of the European Union may be eligible for a tax refund on goods purchased in France, so it is important to keep the re
Dress Code: The dress code in Aquitaine is formal and traditional, with a focus on elegance and sophistication.
Topography: Aquitaine is a region in southwestern France with a diverse landscape including mountains, rivers, forests, and coastal areas.
Telephone: Country code: +33 Area code: 05

Dordogne, France Weddings and Honeymoons

Vacationers don’t just stay in Dordogne, France villas - they come to paradise to get married and celebrate their honeymoons! In France, getting married involves a few clear steps and required documents. Couples must apply for a marriage license at the local town hall (Mairie) in the area where one of the parties resides. Required documents include:

Valid passports or national ID cards for both parties.

  • Birth certificates (translated into French if necessary, and within three months of the application date).
  • Proof of residence in France for at least 40 days prior to the application (for at least one party).
  • Proof of marital status: If divorced, the final divorce decree; if widowed, the spouse’s death certificate.
  • Certificate of Celibacy (Attestation de célibat) or a certificate from your home country confirming that you are unmarried.

The cost of obtaining the marriage license is typically around €100 to €200, depending on the region. For weddings outside the town hall (e.g., at a venue), an officiant’s fee may range from €200 to €500. In addition, the marriage registration fee (around €30) may apply. It’s advisable to submit your application at least one month before the wedding date.

See our favorite France villas for weddings.