The second largest town of the Lot region after Cahors. Figeac has at least as much architectural heritage as its big sister. It’s sort of encased in the hillside above the Célé, overlooking the Causse and Ségala plateaux. It’s an old fortress town, which is on the pilgrimage route to Saint-Jacques-de-Compostella and Rocamadour.

Figeac has been classified as being of artistic and historical interest. There are some amazing medieval houses, and Roman and gothic architecture blend together well. It’s great just getting lost in the tiny streets, although you are never lost for long, as the tiny squares that crop up everywhere will help you to get your bearings. The largest of these is the Place Vival. The magnificent 13th century Hotel de la Monnaie is now the Old Figeac Museum.

Also worth a visit before you leave: the Jean-Francois Champollion Museum. This gentleman was a world-famous Egyptologue. His home in the town is open to the public.