by Gary / 10 comments - Orginally published:27th April 2018
A feat of Roman engineering
This architectural marvel has stood for around 2,000 years and dominates the landscape in this slice of Provence.
The exact date of construction of the Pont du Gard is unknown, but it is believed to have been built between 19 BC and 13 AD, during the reigns of the emperors Augustus and Claudius.
So, if you find yourself in the South of France, perhaps pottering around Provence, or exploring the underrated Languedoc-Roussillon region, then you really must find time to explore the Pont du Gard.
Why not Pin it for later?
Where is the Pont du Gard
How to get to the Pont du Gard
- By Train
Take the TGV train to Nîmes station. From there, you can take a bus or taxi to the Pont du Gard.
- By Bus
There are regular buses from Nîmes to the Pont du Gard. You can also take a bus tour from other major cities in the region, such as Avignon, Marseille, and Montpellier.
- By Car
Take the A9 motorway to exit 23 (Remoulins). Follow the signs for the Pont du Gard.
Exploring Provence
A hidden past to discoverThe Pont du Gard is an ancient Roman aqueduct bridge built to carry water over 50 km (31 mi) to the Roman colony of Nemausus (Nîmes). It crosses the river Gardon near the town of Vers-Pont-du-Gard in southern France.
A view of the Pont du Gard
It was added to UNESCO's list of World Heritage sites in 1985 because of its exceptional preservation, historical importance, and architectural ingenuity.
Discovering Provence
Nearly 2,000 years of historyThe walk to the bridge from the entrance & museum transports me back in time through a landscape you feel has not changed much in that time.
It is a truly awe-inspiring sight to behold, and there are many ways to enjoy a visit to this ancient Roman aqueduct bridge.
An ancient olive tree on the approach to Pont du Gard
Wander past an ancient olive tree that has seen so much in its lifetime.
Here are a few tips for visiting the Pont du Gard:
- Wear comfortable shoes: You will be doing a lot of walking, so it is important to wear comfortable shoes.
- Bring sunscreen and water: The sun can be very strong in southern France, so it is important to protect yourself and stay hydrated.
- Arrive early: The Pont du Gard is a popular tourist attraction, so it is best to arrive early to avoid the crowds.
- Be prepared for crowds: The Pont du Gard can be very crowded during the summer months. Be prepared for long lines and large crowds, especially if you are visiting on a weekend.
History in Provence
In the steps of the RomansYou can stroll over the lower level of the bridge, which gives stunning views over the River Gardon, or even venture to the top level of the Aqueduct on a guided tour.
There is also a museum on site that tells the story of the Pont du Gard and its construction.
The Gardon river from the Pont du Gard
Under the bridge, the water flows peacefully by in mid-October.
The Gardon, or Gard is 127.6 km (79.3 mi) long, and takes its source in the commune of Saint-Martin-de-Lansuscle, in the Cévennes mountain range
Across the river of Gardon at the Pont du Gard
The Gardon is a popular river for swimming, kayaking, canoeing, and fishing. It is also a popular destination for hiking and camping. The river flows through a scenic region with vineyards, olive groves, and picturesque villages.
If you love Provence as much as we do, you'll want to start planning your visit now.
I so enjoy using the DK Eyewitness books, as they are extremely informative, easy to follow and the pictures and maps tempt you into discovering more.
We used a previous version of this book to plan our Provencal road trip, now you can grab the revised copy.
The River Gardon in Provence
The best place to admire the Pont du GardYou are afforded the best views of the magnificent 3 tiers from the far side.
There are hiking trails around the beautiful French landscape, or just stroll across the Pont du Gard, which is suitable for all fitness levels. The choice is yours.
A great view of the Pont du Gard
Of course, you can just pack a picnic, sit on the river's edge and admire the incredible Pont du Gard in the wonderful provencal countryside.
Pont du Gard Skip the Line Admission Ticket
No one really likes queuing, so with our partner, Get Your Guide, you can avoid that and purchase your tickets in advance to visit the Pont du Gard.
A feat of engineering from the Romans
Built to lastSeeing this magnificent structure reminds me of the opening chapter in Pompeii, the fabulous work of faction by Robert Harris. If you haven't read it then perhaps give it a try.
A different view of the Pont du Gard
It's all part of the ancient Roman art of moving water; with water, you had power. If you like, the oil of its day.
It is truly impressive and a wonder it has stood all this time.
An up-close view of the Pont du Gard
If you'd like to know more about the site and the events planned, don't forget to check out the official Pont du Gard site.
In our opinion
We love embarking on road trips, so our preferred mode of transport is always jumping in a car. We find it’s the best way to discover a country.
Discover more of Provence on a road trip like us, Rental Cars searches multiple well-known car hire brands and discovers the deals that suit you the best.
Visiting Pont du Gard
Where to stayPont du Gard nestles in the Provence countryside, so you will need to drive to it, but where from? Well, we have three obvious choices you may want to check out.
The first is Avignon.
Pont d’Avignon, Avignon
This historical city is just 16 miles/26 Km from Pont du Gard, and the centre is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
You will be spoilt for choice in accommodation and places to eat and drink.
Why not check out the options from Booking.com
If you want a little more Roman history, then why not try Arles?
The Roman Amphitheatre in Arles
In the historical centre of Arles you'll be amazed by the the Roman Amphitheatre.
Another UNESCO World Heritage site, a favourite of notable artists such as Gauguin and Van Gogh and later Pablo Picasso. There is also so much history to discover amongst its beautiful little lanes.
We are a little further away at just under 24 miles/38 km.
If you want another option a little closer, then we will recommend Nîmes.
The Arènes de Nîmes
Another city with a Roman Amphitheatre, and we are just under 14 miles/23 km from the Pont du Gard.
You may know this but the good old ‘Demin’ blue jeans derives its name from the textile city of Nîmes. ('De Nîmes' = Of Nîmes)
Like the other options, there's something for all budgets if you check Booking.com.
More on Provence
We have loved our visit to Provence; there are so many beautiful places to explore, all with tons of history and culture.
Why not take a look at some of our other posts on this rather unique region of France?
* This post may contain links to affiliated sites where we earn a small commission at no additional charge to you.
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amazing bridge #farawayfiles
The Pont du Gard is incredible, if you are in Provence it is a must to see.
Your beautiful photos alone are inspiring me to visit. I love all the Roman sights you can find around Provence. We absolutely loved exploring the ruins in the north of Provence, at Vaison-la-Romaine. #farawayfiles
I’ll pass on your lovely comments about the photos to Gary.
We haven’t visited Vaison-la-Romaine, but it looks wonderful. I think we will definitely be adding it to our list when we are next in the South of France.
Another travel blogger friend recently wrote about this and it seems super interesting! It’s also incredibly photogenic! #FarawayFiles
Yes, it is stunning to see, Gary and I love visiting Roman sights. There are ruins of a Roman town just outside of Saint-Rémy-de-Provence, which are also amazing.
Incredible photos that made so many memories of a wonderful day visiting the Pont du Gard come flooding back. Going to dig up my photos now! Thanks for sharing on #FarawayFiles
Thanks for the comments, the credit for the photos goes to Gary.
Glad, it brought back so many memories, I love it when you are reminded of a previous visit somewhere and you just can’t stop reminiscing about it.
Lovely photographs! We visited the Pont du Gard on our honeymoon 15 years ago. Such an impressive structure and a well deserved status as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Those Romans were pretty nifty at building impressive and useful stuff!! #farawayfiles
Thank you for the kind comments.
You’re right it is an amazing structure, it takes your breath away. If your travels ever take you through the southern region of Castile and León in Spain , you should try and visit Segovia, the Roman Aqueduct there is incredible.