Roman Provence Road Trip

The Roman Provence Road Trip is a 178 km journey through the stunning landscapes and historical sites of the Provence region of France. Starting in the city of Arles, you will journey through the towns of Nimes, Pont du Gard and Orange, ending in the city of Vaison la Romaine. This trip should be taken over at least three days to appreciate the attractions and views along the way. The best time of the year to drive this route is during Spring or Autumn when the temperatures are mild. Along the way, you will be able to visit many historical sites, including UNESCO Heritage Monuments such as the Pont du Gard. The roads along the route are generally in excellent condition, although some may be narrow. The Roman Provence Road Trip provides a great experience and will leave you with lasting memories. It is suitable for all drivers, although it may come with a higher budget due to the attractions and locations visited.

Arles in France is the perfect starting point for the "Roman Provence Road Trip". This beautiful city is located in the south of France and is full of history and culture. The most interesting sights in Arles include the Roman Amphitheatre, the Alyscamps, the Church of St. Trophime, the Place du Forum, and the ancient city walls. The closest international airport to Arles is Marseille Provence Airport (MRS), located just over an hour away. Car rental services are available at the airport, so you can start your road trip right away. The scenic drive from Marseille to Arles will lead you past rolling vineyards and picturesque villages, and will give you the perfect introduction to the beauty of Provence.

Embark on a beautiful road trip that starts in Arles, France and ends in Nimes, a mere 77 km away. This drive will take you less than two hours and you will pass through some of the most stunning landscapes you can imagine. Along the way, you will be able to see some of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites, as well as some of the more picturesque areas. Keep in mind that some sections of the road are narrow, so be sure to pay attention while driving. You will be able to find more information, including attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites, in the itinerary of this stage. Enjoy your journey and the beautiful sights that await you!

Embark on a road trip from Nimes to Pont du Gard, a 34km drive that will take less than one hour! As you drive, you will come across some of France's most iconic UNESCO World Heritage sites. Follow the narrow roads and be prepared to take in the stunning views of the French countryside. Along the way, take a break at the Pont du Gard to admire the historical aqueduct. Stop at the Nimes Arena to explore the Roman amphitheater, marveling at its 2000-year-old architecture. As you continue your journey, be sure to look out for the many archaeological remains and monuments you will pass by. For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along this route, visit the "Itinerary" section of this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and hit the road!

Welcome to the road trip stage between Pont du Gard in France and Orange! This 38 km route will take you less than an hour to drive, and along the way you can marvel at some incredible UNESCO World Heritage sites. Start your journey at the Pont du Gard, a Roman aqueduct bridge dating back to the 1st century AD. This is one of the best-preserved monuments from the Roman Empire, and is a must-see for any history buff. From there, you can move on to the city of Orange, where you can explore the ancient Roman Theatre, the Triumphal Arch, and the medieval town centre. To get the most out of your trip, make sure to take in the beautiful scenery and vineyards that you pass along the way. Keep your eyes peeled for the rolling hills and quaint villages that make this region so special. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, check out the Itinerary provided with this stage. Bon voyage!

Start your road trip in Orange, France and embark on a journey to Vaison la Romaine, a mere 29 km away. Along the way, you will enjoy breathtaking views of the breathtaking Provence countryside and discover some of its most iconic landmarks. An estimated driving time of under an hour makes this a great route for a short road trip. Begin the drive in Orange and make your way to the UNESCO World Heritage listed Triumphal Arch and Roman Theatre, both of which are well worth a visit. Continue on the scenic roads to Vaison la Romaine, where you will find the ruins of a Roman bridge as well as the remains of the ancient city walls. As you explore, keep an eye out for other attractions such as the Castle of the Popes and the ancient Roman forum. With its stunning landscapes and cultural heritage, this road trip is sure to be an unforgettable experience. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, check out the Itinerary for this stage of the journey. Bon Voyage!

Vaison la Romaine is a charming commune in south-eastern France located on the banks of the Ouvèze River. It is the perfect end of the “Roman Provence Road Trip”. This ancient town has been inhabited since antiquity, and was once the capital of the Celtic tribe of the Vocontii. Today, Vaison la Romaine is a popular tourist destination, offering a variety of attractions for visitors. The most impressive sight in Vaison la Romaine is the ancient city ruins. This archaeological site contains the remains of a Roman theater, a forum, baths, and a castle. The Monastère de Sainte-Madeleine is also worth a visit, as it is one of the oldest monasteries in Provence. Inside the monastery, visitors can admire the 11th-century frescoes. Another highlight of the town is the Musée archéologique, which houses a large collection of ancient artifacts and sculptures. Nature lovers will also find plenty to do in Vaison la Romaine. The commune is surrounded by the stunning landscapes of the Vaucluse Mountains, and there are several hiking and biking trails in the area. The nearby Mont Ventoux is especially popular among outdoor enthusiasts. For those traveling by air, the closest international airport is Avignon-Caumont Airport (AVN). The airport has regular flights to and from various European cities. From Avignon, it is a short drive to Vaison la Romaine. Enjoy the ultimate French road trip adventure and end it with a visit to Vaison la Romaine!

Before you set off

Embark on the Roman Provence Road Trip, an enriching 178-kilometer adventure through the heart of Provence in France, beginning in the ancient city of Arles and concluding in the town of Vaison la Romaine. This itinerary, ideally spread over at least three days, winds through picturesque towns and cities, each brimming with Roman history and Provençal charm.

Key Destinations and Top Sights:

• Arles: Step into the past at the Roman amphitheater, and walk in the footsteps of Vincent Van Gogh, exploring the locations that inspired his masterpieces.
• Nimes: Marvel at the remarkably preserved Nimes Arena, akin to a miniature Colosseum, and the Maison Carrée, one of the best-maintained Roman temples in existence.
• Pont du Gard: Witness the grandeur of the three-tiered aqueduct, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a testament to Roman engineering.
• Orange: Immerse yourself in the ancient world at the Roman theater, renowned for its exceptional wall, and the stately Triumphal Arch, both UNESCO-listed sites.
• Vaison la Romaine: Explore a treasure trove of history with its medieval village perched atop a hill and sprawling Roman ruins below.

Best Time to Go:

To experience the Provence landscape in its full splendor, plan your Road Trip during Spring or Autumn, when mild temperatures provide the perfect backdrop for exploration.

Potential Risks:

• Some stretches feature narrow, winding roads that may challenge inexperienced drivers.
• Popular tourist seasons can lead to overcrowded attractions and require strategic planning to avoid long lines.

Interesting Facts for Roadtrippers:

• The Roman Provence route is dotted with UNESCO World Heritage Monuments, including the Pont du Gard and the Roman theater in Orange.
• The roads along this route are well-maintained, offering a smooth driving experience amidst the scenic beauty of Provence.
• Budgeting for this trip should account for entrance fees to the historical sites, which help in the preservation of these ancient treasures, and accommodations that may reflect the area's touristic and historical value.

A good choice for:

The Roman Provence Road Trip is not only a journey through the idyllic landscapes of Southern France but also a voyage back in time to when Romans left an indelible mark on these lands. This travel experience is suitable for history aficionados, cultural enthusiasts, and anyone looking to discover the rich Roman legacy woven into the fabric of modern-day Provence.