Writing for the Times, Jonathan Futrell said he was "seduced" by the wine and the truffles that are readily available in cafes and on market stalls.
He said that as well as great food, Cahors also has numerous award-winning gardens which give off an "intoxicating" aroma.
"No city has ever smelled so seductive," he remarked, referring to the combined fragrance of various floral, fauna, herbs and spices.
Cahors also boasts many medieval buildings and structures thanks to its beginnings as a fortified Roman town, which grew rich in the 13th century.
"The triple-towered Pont Valentre is considered the best medieval bridge left in Europe," Mr Futrell pointed out.
Families can stop off in Cahors during a boating holiday along the River Lot. Other highlights along their journey may include a visit to the stone village of St Cirq Lapopie, which is cut into the limestone cliffs above the water.
Cruises are available from the base at Douelle.
