A day in Roman Provence Nîmes Orange Pont du Gard

Exploring Roman Provence becomes effortless and enriching with this well-curated full-day tour from Avignon. Priced at $124.96 per person, the tour offers a perfect blend of history, stunning architecture, and local flavors, lasting around 7 to 9 hours. With a small group capped at 6 travelers, it promises an intimate experience guided by knowledgeable hosts, with audio guides enhancing each site visit. The tour has earned a perfect 5.0 rating based on 10 reviews, reflecting consistent praise for the depth of information, personalized attention, and high-quality stops.

This tour is ideal for history buffs, architecture lovers, and those wanting a comprehensive yet relaxed day exploring some of Provence’s most iconic Roman remains. The inclusion of a shared picnic lunch with fresh local produce makes it especially appealing during the warmer months, while the carefully planned itinerary ensures a smooth, well-paced journey through Orange, Pont du Gard, and Nîmes. A key consideration is the moderate physical activity involved, making it suitable for most visitors who are comfortable walking and standing.

Key Points

• Price and Duration: $124.96 per person for a 7-9 hour tour, with a focus on Roman sites.
• Small Group Experience: Limited to 6 guests, ensuring personalized attention.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable hosts provide engaging commentary at each site.
• Included Elements: Guided visits at Orange, Pont du Gard, and Nîmes, plus a picnic lunch with local produce.
• Site Highlights: The Ancient Theatre of Orange, Pont du Gard aqueduct, Maison Carrée, and the Nîmes Arena.
• Accessibility and Physicality: Moderate walking involved; not suitable for large luggage or walkers.

Starting Point and Overall Structure of the Tour

This tour departs from Hôtel Le Bristol in Avignon and runs from early morning until late afternoon, providing a full immersion into Roman history within Provence. The small group format and steady pace make it well-suited for those seeking both educational content and scenic beauty without feeling rushed.

The tour begins with a photo stop at the Arc de Triomphe in Orange, where a brief audio guide recounts the monument’s history, built in the 20s AD to honor the 2nd Gallic Legion. After this introduction, visitors explore the Roman Theatre of Orange, built around 20 BC, renowned for its impressive stage wall, still used today for performances.

Following Orange, the journey continues with a picnic overlooking Pont du Gard, set in a picturesque spot on the site of an ancient Roman aqueduct built around 50 AD. After lunch, visitors walk around the magnificent bridge, which was part of a 52 km aqueduct supplying water to Nîmes. The walk offers close-up views of the grand structure, showcasing Roman engineering at its finest.

Exploring Orange: The Arc de Triomphe and Roman Theatre

The tour’s first stops focus on Orange’s Roman ruins, starting with the Arc de Triomphe, built in the 20s AD to honor the 2nd Gallic Legion. This monument’s historical significance is brought to life through an audio guide, giving insights into its construction and purpose. The photo opportunity here is a chance to capture one of Provence’s most striking Roman landmarks.

Next is the Ancient Theatre of Orange, a majestic structure built around 20 BC. Its well-preserved stage wall and seating area remain remarkably intact, offering a vivid glimpse into Roman entertainment and architecture. The audioguide enriches the experience, describing how the theatre continues to host events today, blending ancient craftsmanship with modern use.

The proximity of these two sites makes for a seamless exploration, with roughly 30 minutes allocated for each. Visitors can appreciate the grandeur of Roman engineering and their artistic legacy in this UNESCO-listed town.

The Pont du Gard: A Roman Engineering Marvel and Picnic Spot

The highlight of the tour is the Pont du Gard, an astonishing Roman bridge and aqueduct that still stands as a symbol of ancient ingenuity. Built around 50 AD, it was part of a 52 km aqueduct system designed to channel water to Nîmes. The site’s towering arches and meticulous construction inspire awe, especially during a picnic set on a scenic overlook.

The picnic offers a selection of local produce such as fresh bread, tapenade, goat cheese, and seasonal fruit, providing a taste of Provençal flavors amid breathtaking views. After eating, the tour continues with a walk on the site, allowing visitors to get up close to the stonework and learn about Roman water supply systems. The hour-long visit here emphasizes the grandeur and functionality of Roman engineering.

Following this, the group drives about 30 minutes to Nîmes, transitioning from the aqueduct’s engineering marvel to the city’s rich Roman history.

Nîmes: The Maison Carrée and the Roman Amphitheatre

In Nîmes, the Maison Carrée stands out as one of the best-preserved Roman temples. Built between 2 and 5 AD, this ancient monument is dedicated to the grandsons of Emperor Augustus. The photo stop here offers a chance to admire its classical architecture and well-preserved façade.

A short walk then leads to the Nîmes Amphitheatre, constructed around 105 AD. Its impressive size and architecture evoke comparisons to the Colosseum, and an audio guide helps explain its function as a site for gladiatorial games and public spectacles in Roman times. The amphitheatre’s lively history and remarkably preserved condition make it a highlight of the day.

The admission to the Nîmes Arena is included when visiting between April and October, adding value to the experience. The visit here lasts about 1 hour 45 minutes, allowing for plenty of time to explore and absorb the historical atmosphere.

End of the Tour: Return to Avignon with a Reflective Drive

After exploring Nîmes, the tour concludes with a 45-minute drive back to Avignon. The guide wraps up with final insights, reflecting on the impressive Roman architecture and how these ancient structures continue to influence modern cities.

The small group setting ensures a relaxed end to the day, with ample time for questions and sharing impressions. The tour ends back at Hôtel Le Bristol, making it convenient for guests to continue exploring Avignon or catch onward travel connections.

The Practicalities: Inclusions, Logistics, and Tips

This tour includes admission tickets and an audio guide for the Orange Theatre and Nîmes Amphitheatre, as well as entrance to Pont du Gard. A shared picnic lunch with fresh, local produce is available between April and October; however, it is not included from November to March. Each guest receives a bottled water during the day.

The meeting point is at Hôtel Le Bristol in Avignon, and the tour is designed for individuals with moderate physical fitness. Walking and standing are part of the experience, but large luggage or walkers are not accommodated in the vehicle.

With a maximum of 6 travelers, the experience emphasizes personalized attention and flexibility. The tour provider, Ventourisme, offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start, making it convenient to adapt plans if needed.

Why This Roman Provence Day Trip Is Worth It

This tour offers a carefully curated look at some of Provence’s most iconic Roman sites, with highlights including the ancient theatre in Orange, the Pont du Gard aqueduct, and the Nîmes Arena. The small-group format ensures detailed explanations and a relaxed atmosphere.

The inclusion of a picnic lunch adds a local flavor and scenic break, while the guided visits and audio guides make the experience informative and engaging. The moderate pacing and expert guides make it suitable for those who appreciate history, architecture, and Provence’s landscapes in a single day.

While the physical activity involved may be a consideration for some, this tour provides a comprehensive yet manageable way to discover Roman Provence’s enduring legacy.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The tour includes guided visits with audio guides at Orange and Nîmes, entrance tickets to Pont du Gard, and a shared picnic lunch with fresh local produce during the warmer months. Bottled water is also provided.

Can I cancel this tour if my plans change?
Yes, full cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the scheduled start, with a full refund. Cancellations made less than 24 hours in advance are not refunded.

Is this tour suitable for all fitness levels?
The tour requires moderate physical activity, including walking and standing at various sites. It is not suitable for large luggage or walkers, but generally manageable for anyone with average mobility.

What months is the picnic lunch served?
The picnic lunch is offered between April and October. Outside these months, the picnic is not included, but the rest of the tour remains the same.

How big are the groups?
The tour is limited to a maximum of 6 travelers, ensuring a personalized experience with plenty of opportunities to ask questions and receive detailed explanations.

What makes this tour stand out?
The focus on Roman architectural marvels, small-group intimacy, and the delicious local picnic make this tour a memorable way to enjoy Provence’s ancient past without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.