Do you know the Pont du Gard? A veritable ancient treasure, it is one of France’s landmarks. If you’d like to see it up close, take a tour. You’ll be amazed at how well preserved this Roman-era structure is.
Pont du Gard: a timeless Roman edifice
The Pont du Gard is a jewel of ancient architecture, standing majestically in the middle of the Provencal landscape. This Roman aqueduct, built in the first century AD, is a remarkable testament to Roman ingenuity. Spanning the Gardon River at a height of 48.8 meters, it is the tallest structure of its kind in the world.
The purpose of this structure was to supply water to the city of Nîmes, some 50 km away. This technical feat ensured the city’s water supply for several centuries.
Its exceptional state of preservation has earned it UNESCO World Heritage status. A magical place, where past and present meet, that’s sure to fill you with wonder.
Right next to this impressive structure is the Pont du Gard Museum. Inaugurated in 2000, this modern, interactive museum plunges you into the history of the bridge’s construction.
It’s also possible to swim in the Gard. In fact, in summer, many tourists park their cars, pay no admission, and take advantage of the unique view of the building.
Highlights of a visit to the Pont du Gard
- The exceptional preservation of the building
- The site’s idyllic natural setting
- The Pont du Gard Museum, a plunge into Roman history
- The many hiking trails around the bridge
- Luminessences du Pont du Gard” night shows in summer
- Swimming at the foot of the bridge.
Disadvantages of visiting the Pont du Gard
- Rates (especially parking)
- Lots of summer visitors
What can you see at the Pont du Gard?
As well as admiring the aqueduct itself, a visit to the Pont du Gard offers a wide range of activities.
At the Musée du Pont du Gard, you’ll discover a world of exhibits dedicated to Roman history and ancient hydraulic engineering. The permanent exhibition, comprising several themed areas, shows you how the Romans took on the monumental challenge of building the aqueduct, and how they used it to transport water over many kilometers.
Temporary exhibitions explore various aspects of the Roman world and local heritage.
Outdoors, a stroll along the hiking trails around the Pont du Gard allows you to fully appreciate the site in its natural environment. You can take the Mémoires de Garrigue trail.
During the summer, don’t miss the Pont du Gard Luminessences show. This is a breathtaking projection of light on the bridge, retracing its history.
Finally, the more adventurous can try kayaking on the Gardon for an even more immersive approach to the site.
How much does it cost to enter the Pont du Gard?
Parking near the bridge is €9 a day. Approaching, photographing, and swimming are free. Additional visits are subject to a charge.
Admission to the museum is €6.50. It’s free for children.
Very interesting guided tours are also available in French and English. They last one hour. They cost €15.
Check out the current price on GetyourGuide.
How long does a visit to the Pont du Gard last?
A complete visit to the Pont du Gard, including the museum, hiking trails and time to admire the aqueduct, can take several hours. Allow at least half a day to take full advantage of all the facets of this exceptional site.
Where is the Pont du Gard?
Le Pont is located at the following address: 30210 Vers-Pont-du-Gard.
How do I get to the Pont du Gard?
If you’re traveling by car, the Pont du Gard is easily accessible via the A9 freeway, exit Remoulins, then follow the D981 and D19.
For those who prefer public transport, several bus routes serve the site from Avignon, Nîmes and Uzès. You can also take a train to Avignon or Nîmes, then a bus to the Pont du Gard.
What are the opening times for the Pont du Gard?
Access to the site and parking lots is possible every day of the year from 8:00 a.m. to 0:00 a.m.
Cultural spaces such as the museum are open:
- 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. November to February
- 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. in March and October
- 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. in April, May, June and September
- 9a.m. to 8p.m. in July and August.
My opinion of the Pont du Gard: a fantastic visit, but lots of tourists!
To be honest, I was really looking forward to visiting the Pont du Gard. For as long as I’d been hearing about it or seeing it on TV, I couldn’t wait to see it for myself. And I must say, I wasn’t disappointed.
The guided tour was a real highlight. The guide was very erudite and passionate, and held my attention from beginning to end. He brought the history of the Pont du Gard to life, as if we were transported back to Roman times. The anecdotes were interesting and added an extra layer to the overall experience.
The Pont du Gard Museum was another pleasant surprise. I had a great time there, discovering the secrets of the bridge’s construction and Roman hydraulic ingenuity. The exhibits were interactive and well thought-out, and I particularly appreciated the 3D models, which gave me a better understanding of how the aqueduct worked.
However, if I have one criticism to make, it’s, of course, the price of parking. 9€ for a few hours in the middle of nowhere is expensive.
As for swimming in the Gardon, I didn’t risk it. It was very crowded and noisy, which put me off a little. I imagine that during the week or out of season, the experience must be more pleasant.
In conclusion, a visit to the Pont du Gard is a must if you’re just passing through the region. The site is majestic, the guided tour fascinating and the museum highly instructive. Despite the cost of parking and the crowds at the water’s edge, I loved it.
What else can you do near the Pont du Gard?
Beyond the Pont du Gard, the region is full of wonders to discover. Here are a few suggestions to complete your visit:
- Explore the charming medieval town of Uzès
- Visit the Haribo Museum for gourmets
- Discover Château de Castillon and its gardens
- Stroll through the Uzès Market, one of the most beautiful in Provence
- Take a canoe trip on the Gardon River
- Visit the Cathedral of Saint-Théodorit and its Fenestrelle Tower in Uzès
- Treat yourself to a wine tasting at one of the nearby wineries
- Immerse yourself in nature in the Parc Naturel Régional des Alpilles
- Discover local crafts at the potters’ workshops in Saint-Quentin-la-Poterie.
DenisAs a professional blogger, I take advantage of my flexible schedule to travel a lot. I haven’t been everywhere, but it’s on my list!
