From Marseille: Roman Towns of Provence Shore Excursion

This 7.5-hour private tour offers a comprehensive look at some of France’s most celebrated Roman sites, perfect for history buffs and lovers of ancient architecture. For $1,112 per group (up to 8 people), you’ll visit Arles, Nîmes, and Uzes, with a knowledgeable driver-guide leading the way in a comfortable, air-conditioned minivan. The tour includes visits to well-preserved Roman amphitheaters, temples, and the breathtaking Pont du Gard aqueduct—each site full of stories and spectacular views.

What makes this excursion stand out is the opportunity to explore well-preserved Roman architecture firsthand, with plenty of time to wander, photograph, and soak in the history. We also love the flexibility of a private guide, which means your experience can be tailored somewhat to your interests. Plus, the scenic drive through the Provençal countryside offers a lovely backdrop.

A possible drawback? The tour’s tight schedule might leave some feeling rushed, especially if you’re eager to spend more than a short time at each site. Also, entrance fees, food, and drinks are not included, so budgeting for those extras is wise.

This tour suits travelers who appreciate authentic historical sites and want a flexible, guided exploration, especially if you’re eager to see Roman architecture in context rather than just read about it in books.

Private, guided experience with a driver-guide for personalized attention
Excellent Roman architecture in Arles, Nîmes, and Uzes
Spectacular views at Pont du Gard aqueduct, one of the best-preserved Roman aqueducts
Time efficiency with a well-paced 7.5-hour itinerary
Ideal for history enthusiasts and those seeking authentic, off-the-beaten-path sites
Additional expenses for entrance fees, lunch, and drinks are not included

What’s Included and What’s Not

This private tour includes fuel surcharge, parking, gratuities, a driver/guide, hotel/port pick-up and drop-off, and transport in an air-conditioned minivan. It’s designed to provide a hassle-free experience with all logistics taken care of. However, you’ll need to budget separately for entrance fees, lunch, and drinks, which are not included. This allows you to choose your own meal options—many of the local cafes in Nîmes and Uzes offer delicious Provençal fare, and you can pick what suits your taste and budget.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Journey Begins in Marseille

The adventure starts with a pick-up from your Marseille cruise port or hotel, giving you a relaxed start. Within a short drive, you arrive in Arles, a city known for its Roman and Romanesque monuments. Here, your guide will lead a walk along the Cours de la République, where you’ll see the lively atmosphere of cafes and shops set against a backdrop of ancient architecture.

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Exploring Arles: Roman and Romanesque Marvels

In Arles, the highlight is the Roman amphitheater, still standing proudly and used for events today. We loved the way it towers over the old town, giving a real sense of the city’s past as a major Roman settlement. The Romanesque architecture also catches the eye, blending medieval elements with Roman foundations. Walking through the narrow streets, you’ll see beautifully preserved structures and charming boutiques. One reviewer said, “We really wanted to see the Roman sites, and that’s exactly what we got. Highly recommend this tour.”

Moving on to Nîmes: A Roman Icon

After exploring Arles, the journey continues to Nîmes, often called the French Rome for its impressive collection of Roman ruins. Here, you have time to independently explore and grab lunch—many travelers enjoy the local cafes, like Brunswick House, for a casual meal.

Key sights include the Maison Carrée, one of the best-preserved Roman temples, and the Nîmes arena, which rivals the Colosseum in Italy for its size and preservation. The arena still hosts events and is a fascinating glimpse into Roman entertainment. As one reviewer noted, the guide’s commentary added a lot to their appreciation of these structures, making the visit more than just a photo opportunity.

Uzes and the Spectacle of Pont du Gard

From Nîmes, the tour heads to Uzes, a charming town with its own Roman roots, before reaching the Pont du Gard, arguably the most famous Roman aqueduct in the world. This spectacular structure in excellent condition offers incredible photo opportunities and a tangible sense of Roman engineering prowess.

You’ll have some free time to walk around, take pictures, and marvel at the scale of this ancient feat. It’s the perfect way to conclude the sightseeing, with many travelers remarking on the stunning views and the well-preserved state of the aqueduct.

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Ending the Day Back in Marseille

The tour wraps up with a comfortable drive back to Marseille, arriving in the late afternoon. This allows you to relax and reflect on a day packed with history, architecture, and scenic beauty.

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Authentic Experiences and Genuine Value

The reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides, with one traveler praising Djilani as “wonderful” and another mentioning the luxury vehicle making the experience more comfortable. The views, especially at Pont du Gard, are described as “spectacular,” and guests also appreciate the chance to learn about Roman engineering firsthand.

While some travelers felt a little rushed—”I would have liked more time at each site”—most agree that the organized, private nature of the tour offers excellent value for those wanting a curated experience without the hassle of self-driving or group tours.

Comparing Value and Experience

For roughly $1,112 per group, this tour offers a comprehensive, personalized exploration of Provence’s Roman heritage. When considering entrance fees and transportation costs if done independently, the price reflects not just access but also the convenience and guided expertise.

This is especially true for those who prefer private, flexible tours with a guide who can share insights and adapt to your interests. The stunning Roman monuments, combined with scenic drives and charming Provençal towns, make this a worthwhile choice for history lovers and architecture enthusiasts alike.

Who Should Book This Tour?

If you’re eager to see Roman architecture and appreciate well-maintained ancient sites, this tour is a perfect fit. It’s ideal for travelers who want a personalized and efficient day, rather than rushing between sites on a large bus. Those interested in photography, history, or local culture will find plenty to enjoy.

However, if you crave more time at each site or are traveling with a tight budget, you might want to consider how the additional expenses for entrance fees and meals could add up. Also, if you’re nervous about a tight schedule, discuss options with the tour provider for potential adjustments.

This From Marseille to Roman Towns of Provence tour offers a well-rounded experience for anyone intrigued by ancient history and Roman engineering. The private guide and vehicle provide comfort and flexibility, allowing you to explore at your own pace, within a structured itinerary that covers Arles, Nîmes, and Uzes, plus the awe-inspiring Pont du Gard.

The sites chosen are iconic and well-preserved, offering authentic glimpses into the past, while the scenic countryside and charming towns add a lovely Provençal touch. The tour’s value lies in its combination of expert guidance, convenience, and access to major Roman monuments, making it a very practical choice for those who want to see the highlights without hassle.

Ideal for history enthusiasts, small groups, or anyone craving a personalized day trip filled with stunning views and ancient marvels, this experience delivers a satisfying taste of Roman Provence with enough flexibility to suit well-prepared travelers.

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes transport in an air-conditioned minivan, with hotel or port pick-up and drop-off, making the day smooth and comfortable.

Are entrance fees included?
No, entrance fees are not included, so you’ll need to pay separately if you wish to go inside sites like the amphitheater or Maison Carrée.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 7.5 hours, allowing time to explore each site, although some reviews mention feeling a bit rushed.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Since it’s a private tour, there’s some flexibility. Discuss your preferences with your guide to potentially extend time at favorite sites or include additional stops.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included, but you can choose to eat at local cafes in Nîmes or Uzes, with plenty of options for casual Provençal meals.

What is the group size?
The tour is designed for small groups, up to 8 people, ensuring a more personalized experience and direct interaction with your guide.

This private tour of Roman Provence combines history, scenic beauty, and comfort—perfect for those wanting an authentic, hassle-free day immersed in ancient architecture.