Roman Sites Small Group Day Trip from Avignon Including Nimes and Uzes

If you’re a history buff, you don’t want to miss the opportunity to experience the Roman sites of Provence that have been preserved for millennia. This small-group tour from Avignon provides the perfect opportunity to explore southern France’s Roman heritage in the company of an experienced guide.

Overview

The tour starts from Avignon and takes you to some of the most important Roman sites in the area. You will visit the ancient Roman amphitheatre and Maison Carrée (Square House) in Nîmes. Nîmes is home to some of the best-preserved Roman ruins in France. It was an important city during the Roman Empire and was once a key transportation hub. From Nîmes, the tour stops at Uzès, where you can visit the Episcopal Palace, the Fenestrelle Tower, and Saint-Théodorit d’Uzès Cathedral. The Fenestrelle Tower is a unique Romanesque structure with a unique spiral staircase, and it is one of the few remaining towers of its kind in the world. The tour also takes you to the magnificent Pont du Gard aqueduct, a UNESCO-listed site. The Pont du Gard is one of the most impressive and well-preserved Roman aqueducts in the world. The three-tiered structure is a remarkable feat of engineering and is an enduring symbol of the Roman Empire’s ingenuity. Finally, you’ll visit Orange, a town that is filled with ancient Roman sites. You’ll get a chance to explore the Roman Antic Theatre, one of the largest and best-preserved Roman theatres in the world.

Highlights of the Tour

The tour provides you with numerous opportunities to experience the rich history of Provence. Here are some of the highlights of the tour:

1. Nîmes’ Roman Amphitheater

The Roman amphitheatre in Nîmes is one of the best-preserved in the world. It could hold over 24,000 spectators and was the site of many gladiatorial games and public events in ancient Rome.

2. Maison Carrée

Maison Carrée is a well-preserved temple from ancient Rome. It was built during the reign of Augustus, early in the 1st century AD. It is one of the most iconic examples of Roman architecture, and its facade has inspired buildings around the world throughout history.

3. Fenestrelle Tower

The Fenestrelle Tower is a stunning example of Romanesque architecture. It is one of the few remaining towers of its kind in the world, and it is a unique building with a spiral staircase that has been well-preserved for centuries.

4. Pont du Gard Aqueduct

The Pont du Gard aqueduct is one of the most impressive structures from the Roman era. It was built to carry water to the city of Nîmes, and it was so well-built that it has survived for nearly 2,000 years.

5. Roman Antic Theatre in Orange

The Roman Antic Theatre in Orange is one of the largest and most well-preserved Roman theatres in the world. It is a remarkable example of ancient Roman architecture and engineering, and it is an essential destination for anyone interested in Roman history.

Why Travelers Choose This Tour

This tour is a small-group tour limited to eight people. This means that you’ll enjoy personal attention from your guide and will be able to ask questions and get a more intimate look at the sites. The tour also provides transportation, meaning you won’t have to worry about navigating the area on your own.

Booking

If you’re interested in booking this tour, you can do so through Viator. The tour costs $138.25 per person and lasts for 9 hours. To book the tour, click here.

Book Your Tour Now

If you’re a history buff or simply appreciate beautiful architecture and engineering, the Roman sites of Provence are a must-see. This small-group tour from Avignon provides an excellent opportunity to experience these ancient ruins under the guidance of an experienced guide, and it is a great way to spend a day exploring the beautiful scenery of southern France.

Frequently Asked Questions about Avignon, France

1. What is Avignon?

Avignon is a city located in southeastern France on the left bank of the Rhône river. It is the largest city and capital of the Vaucluse department and is known for its rich history, artistic heritage, and cultural offerings. The city is renowned for being home to the Palace of the Popes, which was the residence of multiple popes during the 14th century.

2. How do I get to Avignon?

The easiest and most convenient way to get to Avignon is by flying into the Avignon-Provence Airport, which is located approximately eight kilometers southeast of the city center. Other nearby airports include the Marseille Provence Airport and the Nîmes-Alès-Camargue-Cévennes Airport.

If you’re traveling from other cities in France, you can take the high-speed train (TGV) to the Avignon TGV train station, which is located just outside the city center. Alternatively, you can take a regional train to the Avignon Centre train station, which is located in the heart of the city.

3. What are some of the top tourist attractions in Avignon?

Avignon has a wealth of cultural and architectural attractions to explore. Some of the top tourist attractions include:

1. The Palace of the Popes: a UNESCO World Heritage site and the largest Gothic palace in the world
2. The Avignon Bridge: a famous medieval bridge immortalized in the song “Sur le Pont d’Avignon”
3. The Avignon Cathedral: a Roman Catholic cathedral that was built in the 12th century and features beautiful stained-glass windows and a magnificent organ
4. The Calvet Museum: a fine arts museum that has a collection of over 70,000 works of art from the 15th century to the present day
5. The Rocher des Doms: a beautiful park that offers stunning views of the city and the Rhône river below

4. What is the best time of year to visit Avignon?

The best time of year to visit Avignon depends on your interests and travel preferences. If you enjoy warm weather and outdoor activities, then the summer months (June-August) are an excellent time to visit. However, keep in mind that this is also the high tourist season, so expect larger crowds and higher prices.

Alternatively, if you prefer cooler temperatures and fewer crowds, then consider visiting in the shoulder seasons (April-May and September-October). The weather is still pleasant during these months, and you can experience Avignon’s cultural offerings without the high tourist traffic.

5. What are some recommended restaurants in Avignon?

Avignon has a vibrant food scene, with many great restaurants serving traditional French cuisine. Some popular options include:

• Chez Lulu: a cozy bistro that serves classic French dishes and has an excellent wine list
• Le 46: a Michelin-starred restaurant that offers creative and refined dishes made with fresh, seasonal ingredients
• La Cuisine du Dimanche: a casual eatery that specializes in hearty, rustic French fare
• Le Bar à Thym: a charming restaurant located in a 16th-century building that serves traditional Provencal dishes with a modern twist

6. What are some activities for children in Avignon?

Avignon has several family-friendly activities that children will enjoy. Some popular options include:

• The Petit Train: a miniature train that takes you on a guided tour of the city’s top attractions
• The Festival Off d’Avignon: a performing arts festival that runs throughout July and features many family-friendly shows and events
• The Musée du Petit Palais: a fine arts museum that has a collection of paintings, sculptures, and ceramics from the 14th to the 16th centuries
• The Parc des Libertés: a large park featuring playgrounds, a skate park, and a small zoo with animals native to the region.

7. What are the best shopping areas in Avignon?

Avignon has many excellent shopping areas, with something to suit every taste and budget. Some popular options include:

• The rue de la République: a pedestrian shopping street lined with high-end fashion stores, jewelry shops, and gift boutiques
• The Les Halles indoor market: a bustling market where you can find fresh produce, meats, and cheeses as well as artisanal food products and souvenirs
• The Place Pie: a square that hosts a daily market selling local handicrafts, antiques, and vintage clothing
• The Rue Saint-Agricol: a street featuring local specialty shops, such as olive oil boutiques, clothing stores, and bookstores.

Book Your Tour Now

Avignon is a beautiful city with a rich history and cultural offerings that cater to a variety of interests. Whether you’re interested in exploring the Palace of the Popes or trying the local cuisine, there is something for everyone in this vibrant city. By using this FAQ as a guide, you can plan your trip to Avignon with confidence and make the most out of your visit.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Avignon

If you’re planning a trip to France, be sure to include the historic city of Avignon on your itinerary! This ancient city is nestled in the heart of Provence, surrounded by rolling hills, vineyards, and fields of lavender. Avignon is known for its impressive architecture, rich culture, and fascinating history. In this guide, we’ll share some tips to help you make the most of your time as a tourist in Avignon.

1. Visit the Palais des Papes

A great place to start your tour of Avignon is the Palais des Papes, the largest Gothic palace in the world. It was built in the 14th century as the home of the Papacy, when Avignon was the center of the Catholic world. Walk through the impressive building to see the grand halls, chapels, and apartments once used by the Popes, and admire the stunning views of the Rhone River from the top of the tower.

2. Take a Stroll through the Historic Center

Avignon’s historic center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, boasting narrow streets and charming squares filled with lively cafes and boutique shops. Spend a day wandering through the streets, admiring the traditional Provençal architecture, and stopping to sample some of the local delicacies such as tarte Tatin or macaroons.

3. Visit the Pont d’Avignon

The Pont d’Avignon, also known as the Pont St. Bénézet, is a famous bridge that crosses the Rhone River. Originally built in the 12th century, the bridge was destroyed several times by floods but was rebuilt each time. Today only four of the original 22 arches remain, but it still attracts visitors who come to admire its historic significance and stunning views of the river.

4. Explore the Calvet Museum

The Calvet Museum is one of Avignon’s best art museums, showcasing a variety of collections ranging from ancient works to modern art. The museum is home to more than 70,000 paintings, sculptures, and other pieces of art, including works by Van Gogh, Cezanne, and Picasso. Spend an afternoon exploring the museum’s exhibits and taking in the beauty of the artwork on display.

5. Discover Avignon’s Religious History

Avignon has a rich religious history, with many beautiful churches and chapels scattered throughout the city. Some of the most notable include the Church of St. Agricol, the Chapel of the White Penitents, and the Church of St. Pierre. Be sure to also visit the Cloitre Saint Louis, a stunning courtyard filled with arcades and a fountain that dates back to the 16th century.

6. Attend the Avignon Festival

One of the highlights of the year in Avignon is the famous Avignon Festival, a celebration of theatre, music, and dance that takes place annually in July. The festival attracts performers and visitors from around the world, and features a wide range of shows and events that showcase the city’s vibrant cultural scene.

7. Take a Day Trip to the Luberon

Located just a short drive from Avignon, the Luberon is a stunning, mountainous region filled with picturesque villages and breathtaking natural beauty. Take a day trip to explore the charming villages of Gordes, Bonnieux, and Lacoste, and spend some time hiking or biking through the hills and valleys of this enchanting region.

Book Your Tour Now

Avignon is a city that offers something for everyone, whether you’re interested in history, art, culture, or simply enjoying the beauty of the Provence region. With so many things to see and do, it’s easy to spend several days or even a week exploring all that the city has to offer. Whether you’re traveling solo, with friends or family, make sure to include Avignon on your itinerary for a truly unforgettable experience.