The old town of Cahors is almost entirely enclosed by a loop of the River Lot, giving it the feel of an island. Within this natural boundary, the medieval street plan survives largely intact — narrow lanes and half-timbered houses from the 13th to the 15th centuries cluster around the cathedral and spread towards the river on both sides.
The best streets for wandering are rue du Château du Roi, rue Nationale, and the lanes around Place Chapou. Look for the hôtels particuliers — wealthy merchants' townhouses with ornate stone façades — that give Cahors its quietly prosperous medieval character. The influence of the Moors, who occupied the region briefly, can be seen in some of the arched window details. The town is small enough to cover on foot in an hour or two, and unhurried enough that you will likely have many of the best lanes to yourself.