Private Provence Tour: In the Footsteps of the Romans

Highlights

  • Your private historical tour of Provence begins with morning or afternoon pickup by minivan from your Avignon hotel. Over the course of four hours, follow in the footsteps of the Romans, viewing some of the world’s best preserved Roman ruins and hearing stories and mysteries of the ancient empire.  Arrive first at the UNESCO-listed Pont du Gard, a massive aqueduct on the Eure River. Considered an ancient work of art, this three-tiered construction is the highest of all elevated Roman aqueducts at 160 feet (49 m) tall. View the perfectly preserved masterpiece of ancient engineering and the rushing Gardon River below. Learn how the structure was built and how it delivered water to the nearby city of Nîmes – which is your next stop!  Take a short ride to the Roman city of Nîmes, home to some of France's best-preserved ancient monuments. Lose yourself in story as your guide explains the city’s main relics – some from 4th century BC! See Maison Carrée, a temple built in 16BC by Marcus Vipsanius Agrippa to honor Emperor Augustus’ two heirs. Hear how the temple has been used over the centuries, and how that has contributed to its near perfect preservation. Explore the Arènes de Nîmes (Nîmes Arena), a formidable Roman amphitheater built in the 1st century, and the Tour Magne (Magne Tower), standing at the highest point of the city. Learn about the tower’s original function as a strategic stronghold and its (relatively) modern role in the Hundred Years’ War. From this lofty vantage point, see Nîmes as a Roman sentry would have thousands of years ago!. After your insightful tour, relax for the short ride back to your hotel in Avignon.

Summary

Your private historical tour of Provence begins with morning or afternoon pickup by minivan from your Avignon hotel. Over the course of four hours, follow in the footsteps of the Romans, viewing some of the world’s best preserved Roman ruins and hearing stories and mysteries of the ancient empire.  Arrive first at the UNESCO-listed Pont du Gard, a massive aqueduct on the Eure River. Considered an ancient work of art, this three-tiered construction is the highest of all elevated Roman aqueducts at 160 feet (49 m) tall. View the perfectly preserved masterpiece of ancient engineering and the rushing Gardon River below. Learn how the structure was built and how it delivered water to the nearby city of Nîmes – which is your next stop!  Take a short ride to the Roman city of Nîmes, home to some of France's best-preserved ancient monuments. Lose yourself in story as your guide explains the city’s main relics – some from 4th century BC! See Maison Carrée, a temple built in 16BC by Marcus Vipsanius Agrippa to honor Emperor Augustus’ two heirs. Hear how the temple has been used over the centuries, and how that has contributed to its near perfect preservation. Explore the Arènes de Nîmes (Nîmes Arena), a formidable Roman amphitheater built in the 1st century, and the Tour Magne (Magne Tower), standing at the highest point of the city. Learn about the tower’s original function as a strategic stronghold and its (relatively) modern role in the Hundred Years’ War. From this lofty vantage point, see Nîmes as a Roman sentry would have thousands of years ago!. After your insightful tour, relax for the short ride back to your hotel in Avignon.

Tour info

Duration
4 hours
Group Size
Pricing (From)
Commentary
Meeting Point
Dropoff location

Why take this tour?

Discover the fascinating Roman remains of Provence! On this private tour from Avignon, learn about the time when southern France was a part of the Roman Empire as you drive to the city of Nîmes with your private guide. Visit the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Pont du Gard aqueduct near Uzès and venture to Nîmes to see several landmarks: the Arena of Nîmes and the must-see Maison Carrée (Square House), considered one of the best-preserved Roman temples in the world.

What’s included?

  • Transport by air-conditioned mini-coach (max 8 passengers)

  • Professional guide

  • Hotel pick-up and drop-off

  • Pont du Gard entrance fee

  • Entry/Admission - Pont du Gard

  • Gratuities

  • Food and drinks, unless specified

  • Arena and Square house tickets entrances

  • Entry/Admission - Arenes de Nimes

  • Entry/Admission - La Maison Carrée

Things to know

Before you book

  • Duration: 4h

  • Mobile tickets accepted

Covid Policy

  • Guides required to regularly wash hands
  • Face masks required for travelers in public areas
  • Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff

Please note that the European sanitary pass or vaccination certificate is mandatory to attend our experiences Social distancing, wearing a mask, disinfecting minivans, bikes and equipment, hydroalcoholic gel available. We strictly apply all the sanitary measures in force

Cancellation Policy

    For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.

Operated by:

A la Francaise! Provence

About operator:

Discover Provence’s ancient roots and winemaking traditions on a half-day tour of the Gigondas and Châteauneuf-du-Pape vineyards from Avignon. Wind through the verdant vineyards of the Rhône Valley to distinguished wine estates in both areas to sample fine wines and learn about local varietals. Explore the ruins of the Pope's formal summer residence in Châteauneuf-du-Pape before heading back to Avignon.

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