A charming town in the heart of France, teeming with markets, layered with history, brimming with museums and boasting a beautiful historic centre, Brive is a fantastic place to go for culture vultures and history lovers. Lined with neo-classical mansions and Renaissance-era collegiate churches, the historic centre is a beautiful sight to behold, while budding gourmands will love the culinary scene: the markets, held on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays, are the best places to find quality foie gras and truffles, while the family-run Denoix Distillary is a must-see, where you can grab a bottle of walnut, chocolate or orange liquer. A great starting point for exploring the architecturally-rich and enchanting villages in the nearby area, like Turenne, Brive is a classic location for a romantic weekend away, and our pick of the best places to stay in Brive is ideally located to ensure you make the most of this city.

What not to miss

• Check out the Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday markets, and buy some top-of-the-range foie gras.
• Admire the Renaissance mansions in the historic centre of town.
• Visit the Museum of Art and History, with exhibits displaying everything from prehistoric artefacts to 17th century tapestries.
• See the Collegiate Church of St. Martin and its gorgeous neo-Romanesque bell tower.
• Be sure to visit the Museum of the Resitance and Deportation. Situated in the home of Edouard Michelet (a former member of the resistance) this fascinating place charts the history of World War II.
• Explore the Caves of St. Anthony of Padua, where the 12th century saint came to silently pray.
• Drive 15 minutes out-of-town to the picturesque village of Turenne, one of the most beautiful villages in France.

Full of history and jam-packed with culture, Brive is a beautiful place ideal for a short break. Browse our list of the best places to stay in Brive and start to plan your visit!

The best places to stay in Brive

Value chic

• Le Miel des Muses: a chic hotel that is incredible value for money, offering bright and contemporary rooms, a lovely rooftop terrace, a sumptous brasserie, and a wonderful indoor pool. The perfect base for exploring the city.

For an apartment or villa

• Our partner Booking.com has a wide range of villas and apartments in the nearby area.

Travel information

• The best time to visit is during the summer, when the temperature ranges between 12 and 28 degrees.
• Brive has its own airport, but this is only served by a couple of airlines. For better international options either fly in to Bordeaux (about 210km west of Brive) or Toulouse (205km south of Brive).
• If you want to rent a car, contact our partner Rentalcars.

Still not sure?

• Expand your search to include the neighbouring Dordogne region or the Lot,
• or the best places to stay in Limousin
• or contact one of our Gurus for advice.