What to do in Figeac in 48 hours?

Written by Margauxtravelatlas

Published on July 5, 2024

Discover the Lot Valley by train with the Occitanie Rail Tour Pass !

1- Departure

To reach the village of Figeac, it will only take 3 hours and 30 minutes from the Clermont-Ferrand station.

This journey is included in the Occitanie Rail Tour Pass, which allows unlimited travel throughout Occitanie for just €10/day (with a minimum of 2 consecutive days)!

2- Accommodation

During this getaway I stayed at the Chambres d'hôtes Conquans. Located in the heart of Figeac's historic center. This authentic residence perfectly blends old-world charm with modern comforts. The warm hosts and comfortable rooms create a welcoming atmosphere!

Les Chambres d’hôtes Conquans, Figeac

3- Discovering the City & the Champollion Museum

When you arrive in Figeac, go to the tourist office to arm yourself with the “keys to the city”(clefs de la ville). This guided tour reveals the hidden treasures of this medieval town. The cobblestone streets and half-timbered houses tell the story of centuries of history and culture.

You can also visit the Musée Champollion - The Writings of the World. This museum is a tribute to Jean-François Champollion, the decipherer of hieroglyphs. Through interactive exhibits, you'll travel through the history of writing, a captivating and educational adventure.

4- A Little Culinary Break

In the evening, I enjoyed dinner at Restaurant La Racine et la Moelle. This refined restaurant offers inventive cuisine, featuring local seasonal produce. The dishes are exceptional both visually and in terms of taste. I highly recommend making a reservation in advance.

5- Exploring the Surroundings...

There's nothing better than renting an electric bike from La Bicycletterie to explore the surrounding area. This ecological and practical option lets you discover the Lot landscapes at your own pace.

The next morning, I set out to explore the Causses du Quercy line, accessible thanks to the Occitanie Rail Tour Pass.

After loading your bike on the train, you can stop at the majestic Château d'Assier. Despite its partial demolition, this 16th-century fortress is an impressive example of Renaissance architecture. The guided tour reveals ornate rooms and elegant gardens, testifying to the castle's former grandeur.

Chateau d'Assier

6- And of course... Rocamadour

No trip to the Lot would be complete without a visit to the iconic village of Rocamadour. After taking a train from Assier and pedaling through the fields for fifteen minutes, you'll arrive in one of France's most beautiful villages, clinging to the side of a cliff, this medieval village has been a place of pilgrimage for centuries. At the bottom of the village, you'll pass through narrow, lively streets.

I highly recommend finding the courage to climb the steps up to reach the Chapelle Notre-Dame, where you can admire a spectacular view.

Notre-Dame de Rocamadour

For lunch, I sampled local specialties at Restaurant Le Quercygnac in Rocamadour. This charming establishment offers traditional Quercy cuisine, with tasty and generous dishes. The warm welcome makes it the perfect occasion to enjoy Rocamadour cheese.

Restaurant Le Quercygnac, Rocamadour

7- Ending your stay on a high note

After this wonderful visit, it was time to return to Figeac, sstill enjoying the benefits of the Occitanie Rail Tour Pass.

I ended my day with dinner at Restaurant Le Safran. Situated in an elegant setting with a lovely indoor terrace, this restaurant offers a cuisine based on fresh local produce, and specializes in fish, shellfish and crustaceans.

A perfect conclusion to an unforgettable getaway!