Private Tour Nimes, Orange, Pont du Gard

A Day of Roman Wonders in the South of France

Imagine wandering through ancient ruins that have withstood the test of time for over 2,000 years. This private tour from Aix-en-Provence takes you on a carefully curated journey through some of the most iconic Roman sites in France: Nimes, Orange, and the Pont du Gard aqueduct. For $1,434 per group (up to eight people), you get a full day with expert-guided insights, manageable travel, and the chance to see some truly remarkable architecture.

What we love about this experience is how it balances history and scenery in a relaxed setting. First, the guides are praised for their knowledgeable storytelling, which brings the ruins to life far beyond textbook descriptions. Second, the tour includes the Pont du Gard, a breathtaking engineering feat that leaves you in awe.

However, consider that the entrance fees to sites like the Nimes Coliseum and Orange Amphitheater are not included, so you’ll want to budget a little extra for those. This tour is best suited for history buffs or curious travelers eager to see major Roman relics without the hassle of organizing separate visits.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Expert local guides help you appreciate the history behind each site.
• Flexible private group ensures a personalized experience.
• The tour includes Pont du Gard entrance, but other site tickets are extra.
• The itinerary offers a combination of scenic drives and immersive visits.
• Duration is a full day, making it a compact, content-rich experience.
• Suitable for those comfortable with walking and a bit of sightseeing.

Exploring the Highlights of the Roman South of France

This tour is carefully designed to give you a comprehensive snapshot of Roman influence scattered across the southern landscape. It isn’t just about seeing ruins; it’s about understanding their significance and marveling at their durability.

Starting Point: From Aix-en-Provence

The experience kicks off with a convenient pickup from one of two locations—either the Marseille Provence Cruise Terminal or the Tourist Information Center. From there, we’re on the road, heading east toward three major stops that promise a blend of history, architecture, and scenic views.

Nimes: Roman History in the Modern Day

The city of Nimes has a reputation for its remarkably preserved Roman monuments, notably the Coliseum and Maison Carrée. The coliseum, which in its prime hosted gladiatorial games, still impresses with its size and preservation, offering a tangible connection to ancient entertainment. The Maison Carrée, a Roman temple, is considered one of the best-preserved examples of Roman architecture of its kind.

What makes Nimes special? Its combination of functional Roman architecture and thriving modern city life. The guided tour here typically lasts about two hours, allowing you to stroll around and absorb the history. In some reviews, travelers mention they loved the way their guide explained the architectural features, making the history accessible and engaging.

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Orange: The Amphitheater’s Grandeur

Next, we head to Orange to visit the colossal Roman amphitheater. Measuring 103 meters long and 37 meters high, it’s one of the largest surviving Roman structures of its kind. Here, you’ll get a close look at the craftsmanship that allowed such a massive stone structure to stand for over two millennia.

While the entrance fee to the Orange amphitheater isn’t included, many find the viewing platform and the architecture alone worth the visit. You’ll have some free time to walk around and enjoy the views of the surrounding countryside, which is particularly scenic in the late afternoon.

Pont du Gard: Engineering Marvel

The Pont du Gard ranks as one of the most impressive Roman engineering feats still standing. Built by Agrippa, the son-in-law of Emperor Augustus, this aqueduct once carried water from Uzes to Nimes across the Gardon River. Its three tiers of arches make it an awe-inspiring sight, especially for lovers of ancient engineering.

Most travelers love the magnificent scale and durability of the aqueduct, with several reviewers noting how it’s almost surreal to stand beneath such a structure that has endured for over 2,000 years. The Pont du Gard entrance fee is included in the tour, which adds great value considering how iconic and well-preserved it is.

Navigating the Itinerary

The tour offers a well-paced schedule—starting with pickup, followed by about two hours of sightseeing at Nimes, then a stop at Orange, and finally the highlight: Pont du Gard. Both pickup and drop-off are available at the Marseille Provence Cruise Terminal or the Tourist Information Center, making it convenient for cruise passengers or those based in Aix-en-Provence.

The driving distance between sites is manageable, providing scenic views of the Provençal countryside that many find charming. The guide is adept at making the journey informative, often sharing stories about the region’s history and landscape.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour includes the Pont du Gard entrance, which is a significant saving for such an iconic site. However, tickets to the Nimes Coliseum and Orange Amphitheater are not included, so you might want to budget a few extra euros if you’re keen to explore inside those structures.

The tour is a private group, meaning it’s just your family or friends—ideal for those who prefer a more intimate, tailored experience. Guides are fluent in French, English, and Spanish, providing options for diverse groups.

What to Expect from the Experience

This tour is designed for history enthusiasts and curious travelers who want to see the most significant Roman sites without the hassle of planning each visit. The guides are praised for their knowledgeable and engaging storytelling, which helps bring the ruins to life.

You can expect a comfortable vehicle and a flexible schedule, with enough time at each site to explore and take photos. The scenic drive through lush Provençal landscapes adds to the overall enjoyment, giving you a break from walking while still soaking in the region’s beauty.

Walking and Accessibility

While most sites have accessible paths, travelers should be prepared for some walking on uneven surfaces, typical of ancient ruins. The tour is wheelchair accessible, making it suitable for most mobility needs.

Time Management and Pacing

Given the full-day itinerary, the pace is steady but not rushed. You’ll have enough time to appreciate each site’s highlights and ask questions. Reviewers mention that the two-hour guided tour in Nimes and the free time in Orange strike a good balance.

Value and Practical Tips

At around $1,434 for up to 8 people, the price breaks down to roughly $180 per person, which is quite reasonable considering the private nature of the tour and inclusion of Pont du Gard entrance. When you factor in the convenience of door-to-door pickup and expert guides, it becomes a very practical way to see these major sites.

A few practical tips: carry some water and sunscreen—it can get warm and sunny. Be prepared for some walking, and consider bringing a camera or smartphone to capture the impressive ruins. Budget for extra entries to Nimes and Orange if you wish to explore their interiors.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers who appreciate history and architecture but prefer a relaxed, guided approach. It suits those who want to see major Roman sites with minimal fuss, especially if they’re coming from Aix-en-Provence or on a cruise. The private aspect means it’s perfect for families, couples, or small groups who seek a personalized touch.

If you’re eager to understand the significance of Roman engineering and architecture firsthand, and enjoy scenic drives through Provençal countryside, this tour offers excellent value and memorable moments.

The Sum Up

This private day trip to Nimes, Orange, and Pont du Gard delivers a focused, well-paced exploration of Roman heritage in France. The knowledgeable guides, combined with the chance to see some of the most outstanding ancient ruins, make it a worthwhile experience for anyone interested in history or architecture. The inclusion of Pont du Gard’s entrance fee adds value, and the private group setup offers a flexible, intimate experience.

It’s particularly suited for travelers who want a rundown without the hassle of organizing multiple tickets or transportation, or those seeking a comfortable, guided exploration of Roman civilization’s enduring legacy.

While it’s a full day, the mixture of guided storytelling and scenic drives keeps things engaging. For anyone looking to connect with the timeless presence of Roman engineering, this tour offers a practical and rewarding way to do so.

FAQ

What locations are visited on this tour?
The tour visits Nimes, Orange, and the Pont du Gard aqueduct, showcasing some of the most iconic Roman sites in southern France.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, the tour includes a private vehicle for the entire day, making travel between sites comfortable and efficient.

How long is the tour?
The experience lasts approximately one full day, with about two hours dedicated to sightseeing in Nimes and additional time at Orange and Pont du Gard.

Are entrance fees included?
The Pont du Gard entrance fee is included, but entrance to the Nimes Coliseum and Orange Amphitheater is not included.

Can the tour accommodate wheelchair users?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, though some walking on uneven surfaces at the sites may be required.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides speak French, English, and Spanish, offering options for diverse groups.

What should I bring?
Bring water, sunscreen, comfortable walking shoes, and a camera. You might want extra funds for the sites where tickets aren’t included.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the manageable pace and engaging storytelling make it suitable for families, though younger children should be prepared for some walking and outdoor exposure.

This detailed, balanced review hopefully helps you decide if this Roman-themed day trip fits your travel plans — a perfect choice for history lovers looking for a meaningful, hassle-free adventure in southern France.

You can check availability for your dates here: