Our journey begins at Place de la Halle, the centerpiece of medieval Figeac. This charming square, surrounded by beautiful townhouses, is the heart of the town and the place where locals and tourists meet. It's the perfect place to start exploring and feel the atmosphere of the old days. Place de la Halle is not only beautiful architecture, but also the center of social life - it is here that the local market is held, where you can buy fresh regional products and get a real taste of France.

Strolling through the narrow streets leading away from the square, we come to Place Gaillardy, another charming place that delights with its medieval architecture. It is here that we can admire some of the best-preserved buildings from the era, which take us back in time. Place Gaillardy, although less famous than the main square, offers a quieter atmosphere and the opportunity to contemplate the beauty of ancient architecture.

Nearby is Place Des Ecritures, a remarkable place dedicated to writing and its history. The centerpiece of the square is a huge reproduction of the Rosetta Stone, a reminder of Champollion's great discovery. It is not only a tourist attraction, but also an educational space that presents the history of writing in a fascinating way. Place Des Ecritures is where history meets contemporary art, creating an extraordinary urban space.

Comparing the three squares, each offers something unique. Place de la Halle is the most bustling, ideal for families looking for a French town atmosphere. Place Gaillardy is a quieter alternative, perfect for architecture and photography lovers. Place Des Ecritures, on the other hand, is the place for those interested in history and culture, offering a unique perspective on the development of writing.

It's worth noting that all of these places are close to each other, making it easy to visit even with young children. Each has its own unique character, but they share a common history and atmosphere of medieval Figeac. Whether you're a lover of history, architecture or just looking for picturesque places to take beautiful photos, these squares are sure to meet your expectations.

The next leg of our journey is the Commanderie des Templiers, an impressive monument of medieval architecture and a testament to the presence of the Templar order in Figeac. It's a place that takes us back to the time of the Crusades and knightly legends. Commanderie des Templiers is not only a beautiful example of defensive architecture, but also a testimony to the rich history of the region. A visit to this site is a fascinating history lesson that is sure to interest adults and children alike.

Not far from the commandery is the Tour du Griffon, a medieval tower that is one of the most prominent landmarks in the Figeac skyline. The tower offers incredible views of the rooftops of the old town and the Célé River valley. It's an ideal spot for photography enthusiasts and those looking for unforgettable views.

Comparing the two sites, the Commanderie des Templiers offers a more extensive tour with the opportunity to learn about the history of the order and the life of medieval knights. The Tour du Griffon, on the other hand, is a shorter but intense experience focused mainly on admiring the city's skyline. Both sites are perfectly preserved and are important points on the map of Figeac's medieval heritage.

For lovers of science and the history of writing, a must-see is the Musée Champollion - Les Écritures du Monde. This remarkable museum, dedicated to Jean-François Champollion and the history of writing, is a true gem of Figeac. The museum offers a fascinating journey through the history of written communication, from ancient hieroglyphs to modern forms of writing. Interactive exhibitions and a rich collection of artifacts make this a place where learning becomes an adventure for the whole family.

It's worth noting that all these sites are relatively close to each other, making it easy to visit. The Commanderie des Templiers and Tour du Griffon offer a more physical experience, ideal for active tourists, while the Musée Champollion is a paradise for intellectuals and those interested in cultural history.

Ticket prices vary, but are generally affordable. The Commanderie des Templiers offers tours for about €5 per person (as of 2023), while tickets to the Musée Champollion cost about €7 for adults, with free admission for children under 18. The Tour du Griffon can often be visited free of charge, although it's worth checking current information before visiting.

Each of these sites offers a unique look at the history of Figeac and the region. The Commanderie des Templiers takes you into the world of medieval chivalry, the Tour du Griffon provides a new perspective on the city, and the Musée Champollion fascinates with the history of writing and scientific discovery. Together, they form a comprehensive picture of the rich cultural heritage of this charming French town.

To conclude our tour of medieval Figeac, we suggest a visit to the Château de Saint Dau, an imposing castle located on the outskirts of the town. Towering over the Célé River valley, this majestic structure offers not only a fascinating history lesson, but also unforgettable views of the surrounding area. Château de Saint Dau is a true architectural gem, combining medieval elements with later Renaissance additions.

The château, recently restored, offers luxurious suites, making it ideal for those who want to feel like true aristocrats. Prices for a stay range from around €200 to €500 per night, depending on the season and type of apartment (as of 2023). It's definitely a more expensive option than typical hotels in downtown Figeac, but offers an unparalleled experience and comfort.

For those who prefer more affordable options, but still want to enjoy the beautiful views, we recommend a visit to the Monument Du Cingle. It's a lookout point located on a hill above the city, offering panoramic views of Figeac and the surrounding area. Admission to Monument Du Cingle is free, making it an attractive option for families and travelers on a budget.

Comparing the two places, Château de Saint Dau offers luxurious accommodations and the opportunity to fully immerse yourself in the atmosphere of a medieval castle. It is an ideal option for couples looking for a romantic getaway or families who want to spend a special weekend. On the other hand, Monument Du Cingle is an excellent choice for active tourists and hikers. The route to the top takes about 30 minutes and is relatively easy, although it does require some effort.

It's worth noting that both sites offer incredible views of Figeac and the surrounding countryside. Château de Saint Dau allows you to enjoy the panorama with the comfort of a luxury suite, while Monument Du Cingle requires a bit of effort, but rewards you with an even wider view of the entire area.

For those who want to combine sightseeing with active recreation, the area around Monument Du Cingle offers numerous hiking trails. This is a great opportunity to discover the beauty of the Lot region's natural landscape and enjoy the fresh air.

All in all, both the Château de Saint Dau and the Monument Du Cingle are the perfect culmination of a trip through medieval Figeac. Whether you choose the luxury of a château or the simplicity of a viewpoint, both places offer unforgettable experiences and breathtaking views. They are the perfect places to end your journey back in time and take with you beautiful memories of this charming French town.

Figeac, with its medieval monuments, museums and beautiful landscapes, is a true paradise for lovers of history and culture. Whether you're an architecture enthusiast, a science enthusiast or simply looking for a picturesque vacation spot, this charming town has something to offer for everyone. Exploring its medieval charms is not only a history lesson, but more importantly an unforgettable adventure that you will long remember.