Grotte de Font-de-Gaume
Step back 15,000 years to witness vibrant, polychrome Paleolithic art in one of France's last open decorated caves.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light
Grotte de Font-de-Gaume
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Step back 15,000 years to witness vibrant, polychrome Paleolithic art in one of France's last open decorated caves.
"A real privilege to see original artworks rather than reproductions."
🎟️ Book 'grotte de font de gaume tickets' early
Visitor numbers are limited; book online in advance to secure your spot.
👟 Wear comfortable shoes
There's an uphill walk to the entrance and steps inside.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Polychrome Bison
Main chamber
Marvel at the vibrant, multi-colored bison paintings, remarkably preserved for millennia.
Magdalenian Art
Throughout the cave
Witness art created 12,000-15,000 years ago, showcasing horses, reindeer, and ibex.
Last Polychrome Cave
Entrance
Experience one of the last polychrome caves in France open to the public, a true historical treasure.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Tickets in Advance
Prepare for the Walk
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Book 'grotte de font de gaume tickets' early
Visitor numbers are limited; book online in advance to secure your spot.
👟 Wear comfortable shoes
There's an uphill walk to the entrance and steps inside.
🚫 No bags allowed
Leave large bags and backpacks at your accommodation.
📸 Photography tips
Small torches provide enough light for handheld photos, but check current rules.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Book 'grotte de font de gaume tickets' early
Visitor numbers are limited; book online in advance to secure your spot.
👟 Wear comfortable shoes
There's an uphill walk to the entrance and steps inside.
🚫 No bags allowed
Leave large bags and backpacks at your accommodation.
📸 Photography tips
Small torches provide enough light for handheld photos, but check current rules.
🗣️ Guides are passionate
Enjoy the informative and engaging tours from knowledgeable guides.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Grotte de Font-de-Gaume for its incredibly well-preserved and vibrant prehistoric art, with many highlighting the passion and knowledge of the guides. The intimate tour experience and the privilege of seeing original artwork are frequently mentioned positives. Some visitors note the uphill walk to the entrance and the restriction on bags as minor inconveniences.
"My wife and I were staying in Le Bugue back in 2014, only a short ride from the cave itself. We arrived early rather than book and found students holding places for those who chose to arrive later but before opening. Our guide was polite and spoke good english for his small group of visitors (non French). It was a real privilege to see the original artworks rather than reproductions. The entrance to the cave is only a short uphill walk on a well maintained path. The cave itself is all walkable and nowhere tight. Seeing the pictures by a small torch added to the atmosphere and was just enough light to take some photos by, handheld. The ticket office and bookshop are modest but characterful. There is parking nearby and shops and amenities back down the valley in Les Ezies de Tayac Sireuil, where you will find the National Museum of prehistory. The village is served by a railway station and the ere is camping and hotels for the many visitors to this part of Perigord noir.
I think the experience has changed little in the past ten years.
Very much worth the effort to visit the area and this cave."
Nigel Huxtable
"I came to France to see the prehistoric cave art. This cave was my first stop. Reviews online indicated that the staff here is rude, but my experience was the opposite. The woman who guided our group was one of the best guides I had during my whole trip. She was passionate about the cave and history, as well as protecting it for the future. I wish I could go back and thank her for caring so much. She was excited to answer all our questions and gave good recommendations for other places to visit. She also was happy to take photos for us outside the cave. Be aware, there are a lot of steps to get up to the cave. Arrive early and come prepared, but remember you can't bring in any bags."
Ali Pe
"This is a wonderful experience, not only because of the amazing cave paintings from over 10,000 years ago that look like they were made yesterday, but also because of the excellence of our guide. He clearly was passionate about prehistoric peoples and their art and his interest was infectious. Highly recommended."
Geoffrey Orens
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Grotte de Font-de-Gaume is located in the Dordogne region of France. It's accessible by car, with parking available nearby. The nearest village with amenities and a train station is Les Eyzies de Tayac Sireuil.
Yes, there is parking available near the cave entrance.
The entrance to the cave involves a short, uphill walk on a well-maintained path.
While a car offers the most flexibility for exploring the Dordogne, it may be possible to reach the area via public transport to Les Eyzies de Tayac Sireuil and then arrange local transport or a taxi.
Opening hours vary by season. It's best to check the official website for the most up-to-date information and to book your 'grotte de font de gaume tour' in advance.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
It is highly recommended to purchase your 'grotte de font de gaume tickets' online in advance due to limited visitor numbers.
Yes, large bags and backpacks are not permitted inside the cave.
Ticket prices can vary, and it's advisable to check the official website for current pricing and any potential discounts. Booking online is recommended.
While it might be possible to get tickets on the day if available, it's not guaranteed. Booking in advance is the safest way to ensure entry.
The walk to the cave is uphill, and there are steps inside. It may not be suitable for everyone. It's best to inquire directly with the site for specific accessibility information.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The 'grotte de font de gaume tour' is a guided experience led by passionate guides who share insights into the prehistoric art and the lives of ancient humans.
Tours typically last around 45 minutes to an hour, allowing ample time to appreciate the cave art.
Photography is often permitted with small torches, but rules can change. It's best to confirm with your guide.
You'll see over 200 colorful Paleolithic-era paintings, including depictions of bison, horses, and reindeer.
Visitor numbers are limited to preserve the cave, so tours are generally intimate. Visiting during off-peak times can further reduce crowds.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are shops and amenities back down the valley in Les Eyzies de Tayac Sireuil, which offers dining options.
No, food and drinks are not permitted inside the cave.
Les Eyzies de Tayac Sireuil offers a range of restaurants and cafes, from casual to more formal dining.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is often allowed with handheld cameras, using the provided torchlight. Always confirm with your guide as policies can change.
The low light inside the cave can be challenging. Using a tripod is usually not allowed, so practice handheld shots.
The polychrome paintings of animals like bison and horses are particularly striking.
Yes, the surrounding landscape and the cave entrance itself offer scenic photo opportunities.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
It's important to note that no bags or food are allowed inside, so ensure children have used the facilities and are not carrying unnecessary items. The guided tours are engaging, and guides often adapt their explanations to be accessible to younger audiences. Consider booking tickets well in advance, as family slots can fill up quickly.
🚶 Budget Travelers
Consider visiting during the shoulder seasons (late September/October) when accommodation and travel might be more affordable. Pack your own snacks and water to enjoy before or after your visit, as dining options directly at the cave are limited. The nearby village of Les Eyzies de Tayac Sireuil offers more budget-friendly food choices.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Art of Font-de-Gaume
+1The cave's preservation is exceptional, largely due to its limited public access. This careful management ensures that the delicate pigments and engravings remain intact for future generations. Visitors often express awe at the intimacy of the experience, feeling a direct connection to the artists who created these masterpieces thousands of years ago. The guides play a crucial role in bringing this history to life, sharing their passion and knowledge.
Font-de-Gaume holds a special place in prehistory as one of the last polychrome caves in France open to the public. This status underscores its importance as a cultural heritage site and a window into the minds and lives of early humans. The experience is not just about seeing art; it's about understanding the deep human drive for expression and connection to the natural world.
Planning Your Visit: Tickets and Logistics
Upon arrival, be prepared for a short, uphill walk to the cave entrance. Comfortable footwear is essential, not only for this initial ascent but also for navigating the interior of the cave, which involves steps. Remember that no large bags or backpacks are allowed inside, so pack light and keep essentials in your pockets or a small pouch.
The guided tours are a highlight, with guides often praised for their passion and English proficiency. They enhance the experience by providing context and stories about the prehistoric art. While photography is often permitted, it's wise to confirm the latest regulations with your guide, as policies can evolve.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit