Step back in time in Monpazier, a stunning medieval market town in the heart of the Périgord
In Monpazier, everything seems to have stood still since 1284 in this bastide in the South-West. Regarded as the model bastide, its straight streets, its old market hall and its arcaded houses transport you back to the Middle Ages.
We linger in the magnificent Place des Cornières, chat with the artisans and savour the produce of the Périgord region during a short break in the Dordogne.
The Queen of the Bastides
Monpazier invites you on a stroll through a well-preserved medieval bastide. So, are you ready for a 100% Périgord experience?
A Monpazier legend
It is said that the ‘Gate of Paradise’ allowed outsiders to sneak into the fortified town. If they remained hidden for a year, they earned the right to live in the village… with all its perks!
Your experiences to live in Monpazier
©Instapades – Tourist Office for the Bastides of the Dordogne and Périgord
Explore the village on foot
Stroll through the narrow streets of Monpazier and let yourself be swept away by its medieval atmosphere. Make your way to the Place des Cornières and lose yourself beneath its historic arcades.
©Instapades – Tourist Office for the Bastides of the Dordogne and Périgord
Go to the market
Every Thursday morning, the main square comes to life! Sample local specialities from the Périgord – foie gras, walnuts, wines and porcini mushrooms, depending on the season – or admire the creations of local craftspeople. The perfect way to take a little bit of Périgord’s craftsmanship home with you!
Watch the sunset at Foirail Sud
Come and enjoy the sunset from this vantage point! The hills of the Périgord are bathed in light, offering a breathtaking view. Make yourself comfortable and savour this moment of tranquillity as the day draws to a close.
Follow the Moulin Vent walk
Discover Monpazier from a different angle on this walk! In an hour’s walk, explore the Dordogne countryside and take in the view of the bastide and Biron Castle.
Ideas for everyone, all the time
From Sept. 10, 2026 to Dec. 31, 2026
Marché traditionnel du jeudi
Every Thursday morning on the Place des Cornières in low season and on the square and in the streets from May from 07h to 13h, the bastide of Monpazier offers a traditional market.
Every Thursday morning on the Place des Cornières in low season and on the square and in the streets from May from 07h to 13h, the bastide of Monpazier offers a traditional market. English Bastide of the 13th century, (1284) in Purple Perigord, founded by Edward 1st, Monpazier remains the model Bastide, a jewel of the Middle Ages. On the market, regional products: duck, geese, chicken, strawberries, wines ... without forgetting arts and crafts, textiles and souvenirs.
Next dates:
- 09/10/2026
Open every day - 09/17/2026
Open every day - 09/24/2026
Open every day
The Sept. 19, 2026
Concours d'éloquence
Play Un air de famille by Théâtre du Roi de C?ur.
Next dates:
- 09/19/2026
The Sept. 19, 2026
Journées du Patrimoine : Visite guidée de Monpazier
Would you like to discover Monpazier in a different way? Come and discover this charming bastide during a guided tour on the occasion of Heritage Days. Free tour upon registration at the Tourist Office.
Next dates:
- 09/19/2026
The Sept. 20, 2026 from 9 a.m.
Marchés aux livres
This summer, Monpazier puts books in the spotlight with two Book Markets on Sundays, July 21 and August 18, 2024, from 9am to 7pm. In the idyllic setting of the Place des Cornières, meet a host of second-hand booksellers and discover the fascinating world of books. Free admission.
Next dates:
- 09/20/2026
Open every day
The Sept. 20, 2026
Journées du Patrimoine | Visite guidée de Monpazier
Would you like to discover Monpazier in a different way? Come and discover this charming bastide during a guided tour on the occasion of Heritage Days. Free tour upon registration at the Tourist Office.
Next dates:
- 09/20/2026
Treasure hunt: “Zéchopp, the squid who gobbles you up!”
Set off on a treasure hunt with the Tèrra Aventura app and follow Zéchopp around the bastide. Together, parents and children can learn more about the popular uprisings of the 16th and 17th centuries in the South-West as they investigate!
Walks – Buffarot Loop & Bastide Loop
Fancy stretching your legs and enjoying the Périgord countryside? These two circular walks, measuring 9.3 km and 11 km respectively, take you through villages, over hills and past medieval heritage sites for an afternoon in the countryside.
Torchlight tour
In July and August, come and discover Monpazier in an intimate and mysterious atmosphere! Stroll through the cobbled streets at dusk and let yourself be guided by the whispers of the past in this exceptional bastide town.
Artisans’ shops and workshops
Even in the rain, Monpazier has plenty of surprises in store for you! Explore the artisans’ workshops: ceramics, jewellery, stained glass, woodwork, leatherwork… Treat yourself to some unique, handmade souvenirs, and take a little piece of the village home with you.
Our recommendations
Hôtel Edward 1er
Château Edward 1er
Nestled in the heart of the Bastide, the four-star Hôtel Edward 1er invites you to enjoy a stylish getaway. It offers 17 cosy rooms, a peaceful garden with a swimming pool and an intimate restaurant, not to mention all the charm of a historic château
Bastideum
Bastideum
This visitor centre uses a modern and engaging exhibition to immerse you in the history of Monpazier.
Hotel Le Chevalier Bleu
Le Chevalier Bleu
Step inside this unique hotel, which is nestled within carefully restored 12th-century buildings. It offers a blend of historic charm and modern amenities, and is located just a stone’s throw from the Place des Cornières in Monpazier.
Map of Monpazier
Prepare your stay at Monpazier
Office de Tourisme Bastides Dordogne-Périgord
Accessibility
Monpazier
# Accessible aux personnes à mobilité réduite : Accessible aux personnes à mobilité réduite et aux poussettes
# Parking : Emplacements de stationnement pour vélos
# Parking : Stationnement gratuit toute l'année
# Aire de stationnement pour camping-car : Aire de stationnement pour camping-cars à moins de 15 mn à pieds
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Monpazier