Europe > France > Bergerac (EGC)
The Car or no Car advice for Bergerac can be broken down into three similar questions - do you need a car in Bergerac ; is it worth it (based on costs), and ultimately - should you rent one? (a balance of the two).🚆 🚌⛴️ Do we need to rent a car in Bergerac ?
These scores are based on the quality of public transport and other travel options. If these are good enough to see the main points of interest, then you don’t need to rent a car.
💰💶💳 Is it worth hiring a car in Bergerac?
These scores reflect the practical factors that affect whether renting a car is convenient, good value, and stress-free.
Opportunities to explore the Dordogne by train are relatively limited. The region is not well covered by north–south rail routes, and most services focus on connecting larger cities rather than rural destinations. As a result, many villages, valleys, and scenic areas are difficult or impractical to reach without road transport.
The two main railway lines in this part of southwest France run broadly east–west out of Bordeaux. Bergerac sits on a branch line rather than a major through route, which limits both frequency and onward rail connections. This makes train travel workable for reaching Bergerac itself, but less useful for exploring the surrounding countryside.
Bordeaux also offers a much wider choice of flights than Bergerac, with connections across France and Europe. Travelling via Bordeaux can therefore be more convenient, particularly outside peak seasons. Visitors arriving there can also expect a broader selection of rental car options, often at more competitive prices, before driving on to Bergerac.
If you are unable to find direct flights to Bordeaux, fast rail alternatives are readily available. High-speed trains run directly from Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport to Bordeaux Saint-Jean, making it possible to transfer seamlessly from air to rail. Connections are also available via Lille, where services link with Eurostar, offering another practical route into southwest France before continuing onward to Bergerac 🚄✈️.
Advantages
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Ideal for exploring the Dordogne region
A car makes it much easier to reach vineyards, river valleys, châteaux, and villages that are poorly served by public transport. -
Flexible day trips
Driving allows you to explore at your own pace without relying on infrequent rural buses or limited rail services. -
Convenient for rural accommodation
Many gîtes and countryside stays around Bergerac are only realistically accessible by car. -
Calm driving environment
Roads in the Dordogne are generally scenic and relaxed, making driving relatively stress-free 🚗🌄.
Disadvantages
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Unnecessary within Bergerac itself
The town centre is compact, and many local attractions can be reached on foot. -
Parking considerations
Central areas may have paid parking zones or time limits, especially during busy summer months. -
Additional costs
Car hire, fuel, and parking can cost more than local transport if your plans stay local. -
Limited value for very short stays
For brief visits focused only on Bergerac, a car may see little use.
Conclusion – should you rent a car in Bergerac
Renting a car in Bergerac is highly advantageous if you want to explore the wider Dordogne region, where rail coverage is sparse and many highlights lie beyond public transport routes 🚗🍇. However, if your stay is centred mainly on the town itself, walking and local transport may be sufficient. The right choice depends on whether Bergerac is your final destination or a base for exploring the surrounding countryside.
