Metz to Sarlat-la-Canéda Road Trip Guide

The A31 autoroute from Metz to Dijon follows the Roman Agrippa road, built in 20 BC to link Lyon and Trier. This ancient path still dictates the modern traffic flow, with the 630 km journey crossing three distinct geological zones.

The A71 has long straight sections which can lead to driver hypnosis. Ideal rest areas are every 2 hours: Aire de la Haute-Borne (km 230, A31) with a dog park, and Aire de Chavanon (km 340, A89) with a playground.

• Family: Parc des Combes near Creusot (A71 exit 29) has zip lines and a small zoo.
• Pet-friendly: Aire de la Saône (A31) has waste bags and shaded walking paths.
• Fatigue: Aire de Mercurey (A6, near Dijon) has a café and quiet rest area. Avoid parking on autoroute shoulders; use official aires.

Safety note: The A89 through Massif Central has steep gradients (up to 6%) and sudden fog. Use low beams and keep high beams off in fog as per French law.

The journey from Metz to Sarlat-la-Canéda spans approximately 720 km, with an estimated driving time of 7-8 hours without breaks. The route primarily uses the A31, A38, A71, and A89 autoroutes, all well-maintained toll roads. The total toll cost is around €35-€40.

• Fuel stops: Every 30-40 km along A31 and A71; fewer on A89 south of Clermont-Ferrand.
• Recommended refuel: Near Troyes (Aire de Troyes-Torvilliers) and near Clermont-Ferrand (Aire de Combronde).
• Fuel efficiency: The hilly terrain in Massif Central can increase consumption by 10-15% compared to flat sections.

For the latest prices, check how to find the best stops and hidden gems between cities.

The route transitions from the Moselle valley's vineyards to the Burgundy Canal country, then climbs into the volcanic Chaîne des Puys, and finally descends into the Dordogne River valley. Each region offers distinct geology and agriculture.

• Metz to Dijon: Flat plains with wheat and sunflower fields; stop at Aire de la Saône for picnic with view of the Saône river.
• Dijon to Clermont-Ferrand: Rolling hills of Burgundy with famous Côte de Nuits vineyards; detour to Gevrey-Chambertin (5 min off A31) for wine tasting.
• Clermont-Ferrand to Sarlat: Volcanic landscape with Puy de Dôme (UNESCO-listed Chaîne des Puys); continue through Limousin and Périgord Noir with walnut orchards and truffle oaks.

Local market highlights: Gevrey-Chambertin (Wed/Sun), Le Puy-en-Velay (Sat), and Sarlat (Sat). Look for Burgundy escargots and Périgord foie gras.