Plizio Visual Lab
Les Eyzies
Les Eyzies-de-Tayac-Sireuil stands as a testament to the dawn of human creativity, located in the heart of the Dordogne's 'Valley of Mankind'. In 1868, the remains of Cro-Magnon man were discovered here, forever marking the village on the archaeological map. The National Museum of Prehistory, perched dramatically on a cliff ledge, houses an unparalleled collection of Palaeolithic artifacts and art. Nearby, the Grotte de Font-de-Gaume remains one of the last caves in the world where visitors can still witness original, multi-colored prehistoric cave paintings in situ. The village layout is striking, with many structures built directly into the overhanging limestone cliffs, creating a unique 'troglodyte' aesthetic. Beyond its ancient roots, Les Eyzies is a hub for exploring the Dordogne region, offering peaceful canoe trips down the Vézère river and hikes to nearby medieval fortresses. The local cuisine is legendary, featuring black truffles, walnut cakes, and rich duck dishes. For the best experience, visit during late spring or early autumn to enjoy the lush landscapes and mild weather without the peak summer crowds.
- Location: Nouvelle-Aquitaine, France
- Top sights: Gisement préhistorique de Laugerie-Haute · Abri du Poisson · Grotte de l'Oreille d'Enfer
- Nearby: Sarlat-la-Canéda (17 km)
- Population: ~909 (2016)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 4 | 5 | 8 | 11 | 15 | 19 | 21 | 21 | 18 | 14 | 8 | 5 |
| Rain mm | 73 | 51 | 68 | 76 | 82 | 67 | 52 | 56 | 52 | 66 | 74 | 71 |
📋 Practical info
Geography
Facts
- UNESCO World Heritage site
- Discovery site of Cro-Magnon man
- National Prehistory Museum location
- Home to Font-de-Gaume cave art
- Situated in the Vézère Valley
- Heart of the Périgord Noir
- Unique cliffside architecture
- Over 140 prehistoric sites nearby
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Les Eyzies (10)
Abri du Poisson🏺 historical
Abri du Poisson (Fish Shelter) is a rock shelter known for a carved fish figure from the Paleolithic.
Grotte de l'Oreille d'Enfer🌿 nature
Cave with an ear-shaped entrance called „Ear of Hell“ in the cliffs of Les Eyzies.
Musée de l'Abri Pataud🏛 museum
Museum of the prehistoric Pataud rock shelter, featuring Cro-Magnon artifacts in Les Eyzies.
Abri Cro-Magnon📍 landmark
The Cro-Magnon shelter is the discovery site of the famous Cro-Magnon human fossils, a listed monument.
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Why is Les Eyzies called the 'World Capital of Prehistory'?
What can you see at the Musée National de Préhistoire?
Are there painted caves nearby?
Is Les Eyzies suitable for children?
Can you visit the rock faces directly in the town?
Les Eyzies: where is it located?
Les Eyzies: what is there to see?
Les Eyzies: when is the best time to visit?
Les Eyzies: why is it worth visiting?
Nearby cities
