Spring (April–June) and early autumn (September–October) are the best times. The Lot valley is warm but not oppressive, the light is good for photography, and in October the truffle and mushroom season brings the best food to the markets. Summer is peak season: hot, but pleasant by the river, and the town fills with French holidaymakers. The Saturday market runs year-round but is at its most rewarding from spring through early winter.
The Cahors Blues Festival in July is one of the better music events in southwest France, taking over the streets of the old town for several days.