The story of Pont du Gard

Discover the Roman Marvels of Provence at an Attractive Price

This 5-hour guided tour from Avignon offers a fantastic journey through Provence’s ancient Roman sites for $94.51 per person. Led by an engaging guide, the trip includes visits to the well-preserved Maison Carrée and Amphitheatre in Nîmes, the charming medieval town of Uzès, and the Pont du Gard aqueduct, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the tallest Roman bridge in the world. The tour is suited for those who enjoy history, architecture, and scenic landscapes, with a manageable group size of up to 8 travelers. It features air-conditioned transportation and a mobile ticket system for convenience.

While the tour’s pace is generally comfortable and includes ample time at each stop, it does not include lunch, so plan accordingly. The expert guide, known for her warmth and deep knowledge, enhances each experience with vivid storytelling. The tour does involve walking and some outdoor exposure, so comfortable footwear is recommended. This trip is perfect for history buffs and culture lovers seeking a compact but enriching exploration of Provence’s Roman heritage.

Key Points

• Price: $94.51 per person for a 5-hour experience
• Highlights: Nîmes’ Roman monuments, Uzès medieval town, Pont du Gard aqueduct
• Guide: Knowledgeable, engaging, and praised for her warmth and expertise
• Transport: Air-conditioned vehicle with a mobile ticket system
• Duration: Approximately 5 hours, including all stops and travel time
• Group Size: Small group of up to 8 travelers for a personalized experience

Starting Point and Tour Schedule in Avignon

The tour begins promptly at 9:00 am at the Office de Tourisme d’Avignon located at 41 Cr Jean Jaurès. The small-group format ensures a more intimate experience, with the tour ending back at the original meeting point. Since most travelers can participate, it’s accessible for a wide range of ages and mobility levels, though some walking is involved. The timing allows for a relaxed exploration without feeling rushed.

Traveling from Avignon to Nîmes and the Roman Monuments

This tour departs from Avignon and heads toward Nîmes, often called the “French Rome” due to its impressive Roman remains. The visit includes La Maison Carrée, one of the best-preserved Roman temples that still stands proudly after nearly 2,000 years. The Amphitheatre of Nîmes, built in 70 C.E., is remarkably intact and still hosts events today, making it a fascinating sight for history enthusiasts.

The admission to these sites is free, allowing more time to appreciate their architecture and history up close. The guide shares stories about the importance of these monuments, helping visitors connect with the Roman past in a vivid way. The stops are well-paced at about one hour in Nîmes, giving enough time for photos and questions.

Exploring Uzès: France’s First Duchy

Next, the tour visits Uzès, a medieval town full of charm and historical significance. Known as France’s first duchy, Uzès welcomes visitors with its narrow streets, ancient buildings, and a rich heritage. The 45-minute stop offers time to walk through the old town, admire the architecture, and soak in the lively atmosphere. The town’s history and well-preserved medieval structures make it a favorite among architecture lovers and history buffs alike.

There is no admission fee for this stop, and the guide provides insights into Uzès’ role as a duchy of France and its historical importance. The visit is brief but impactful, providing a taste of Provençal medieval life.

Visiting the Pont du Gard: A Roman Engineering Feat

The highlight of the tour is the Pont du Gard, an iconic Roman aqueduct that spans the Gardon River. Standing at nearly 2,000 years old, this UNESCO-listed World Heritage Site is the tallest Roman bridge still standing today. The 1-hour visit includes the option to enjoy panoramic views from the belvedere or take a walk across the river right beside the aqueduct, offering memorable photo opportunities and a chance to appreciate Roman engineering prowess firsthand.

The admission to the Pont du Gard is included in the tour package, making it a seamless visit. The site is well-maintained, and the guide shares fascinating stories about its construction and historical significance. Visitors can also explore the surrounding area, which offers additional viewpoints and walking paths.

Comfort and Convenience with Transportation

The tour includes air-conditioned transportation, ensuring comfort during the journey between stops. The mobile ticket system simplifies entry at each location, and the small group size ensures personalized attention from the guide. The overall timing balances sightseeing with enough leisure for photos and questions at each site.

Because the tour is designed for most travelers, there are no strenuous physical demands, but comfortable shoes are recommended for walking on uneven surfaces. The pickup and drop-off at the starting point in Avignon make logistics straightforward, with all travel included in the overall 5-hour duration.

The Engaging and Knowledgeable Guide

Reviews consistently praise Gordana, the guide, for her upbeat personality, deep knowledge, and friendly demeanor. Guests emphasize her ability to explain complex history clearly, share interesting stories, and keep the group engaged. Her positive attitude and infectious laugh make the experience enjoyable and memorable.

Many past participants note that her storytelling style adds depth and warmth to each site visit, transforming a sightseeing tour into an educational and personal experience. Her perfect command of English and attentive nature ensure all questions are answered, making the tour accessible and engaging.

Practical Details: Booking, Cancellation, and Accessibility

The tour operates with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility for changing plans. The activity is suitable for most travelers, with service animals allowed and proximity to public transportation making it easy to reach. The maximum group size of 8 helps keep the experience intimate and personalized.

The meeting point is conveniently located in Avignon, making it easy to access from the city center. The tour starts at 9:00 am, allowing for full-day exploration and flexibility afterward.

Who Will Most Enjoy This Tour?

This provençal Roman heritage tour is ideal for history enthusiasts, architecture admirers, and those interested in ancient engineering. The small group format and knowledgeable guide make it particularly appealing to travelers who appreciate detailed storytelling and personalized attention. It’s a good fit for those who enjoy walking, have comfortable shoes, and want a well-rounded introduction to Provence’s Roman past without feeling rushed.

Final Thoughts on the Pont du Gard and Provençal Heritage

This 5-hour tour from Avignon delivers a well-curated experience of some of Provence’s finest Roman monuments and medieval towns. The inclusion of UNESCO-listed Pont du Gard, combined with Nîmes’ ancient sites and Uzès’ medieval charm, provides a balanced mix of history, architecture, and scenic beauty.

The high praise for the guide underscores the value of this experience, especially for those who enjoy engaging storytelling and expert insights. While the absence of lunch means guests should plan ahead, the overall value and depth of knowledge make it a worthwhile choice.

In short, this tour combines convenience, cultural richness, and personalized service for travelers looking to explore Provence’s Roman legacy in a manageable and enjoyable way.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children or those with limited mobility?
Most travelers can participate, but some walking is involved at each stop. Comfortable shoes are recommended, and mobility limitations should be considered.

Does the tour include lunch?
No, lunch is not included. Guests should plan to bring snacks or eat prior to the tour, or explore local options after.

How early should I arrive at the meeting point?
Arriving a few minutes before 9:00 am ensures a smooth start. The meeting point is in central Avignon, accessible by public transportation.

Can I cancel this tour if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund.