Located on the northern banks of the Dordogne River in the western part of the Aquitaine region of France, the town of Bergerac is a favorite among visitors. As one of the largest and most important towns in the region, it boasts an array of attractive, half-timbered medieval buildings, particularly on La Rue Saint Clar.

The old town is located in the area immediately north of the river and is dotted with lovely squares and winding streets brimming with a marvelous selection of antiques. The main square, known as Place Pelissiere, is home to the St. Jacques church, which still has the original bell tower and balcony, and also features one of the town’s statues of Cyrano de Bergerac, although there is little in reality to connect the famous character with the town of Bergerac.

The homes on the Rue St. James offer some lovely places to have lunch, as well as a stunning 14th century building and interesting bas relief sculptures. The National tobacco museum is housed in one of the town’s most impressive buildings. Built in 1604, it has a charming corner turret and Renaissance mullion windows.