Pont de France - a river running through a lush green hillside
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Pont de France

4.6
·491k reviews·Namur, Belgium

A breathtaking UNESCO World Heritage site, this ancient Roman aqueduct is a marvel of engineering and a stunning testament to history.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring & Fall mornings

Pleasant weather, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
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Pont de France - a river running through a lush green hillside

Pont de France

Best Time

Spring & Fall mornings

Pleasant weather, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A breathtaking UNESCO World Heritage site, this ancient Roman aqueduct is a marvel of engineering and a stunning testament to history.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"An absolute must-see in France, the Pont du Gard is an engineering marvel that will leave you speechless."

Vertical photo
TIP

Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore the site and surrounding trails. :athletic_shoe:

Book Tickets Online

Save time and guarantee entry by purchasing your tickets in advance, especially during peak season. :admission_tickets:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Majestic Aqueduct

The Majestic Aqueduct

Pont du Gard

Marvel at this ancient Roman marvel, a testament to engineering genius. Its sheer scale and preservation are breathtaking.

Museum & Interpretation Center

Museum & Interpretation Center

Pont du Gard

Dive into the history and construction of this iconic structure. Interactive exhibits bring the Roman era to life.

Gorges du Verdon Views

Gorges du Verdon Views

Near Pont de Sainte-Croix

Experience stunning vistas of the Verdon Gorge, a dramatic canyon perfect for scenic drives and photography.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Everything

To truly soak in the grandeur of Pont du Gard, aim for early mornings or late afternoons. This avoids the midday heat and the largest crowds, offering a more serene experience. Consider visiting during the shoulder seasons for fewer visitors and pleasant weather.

Plan Your Visit

Pont du Gard is a UNESCO World Heritage site with extensive grounds. Allocate at least half a day to explore the Roman aqueduct, the museum, and the surrounding Mediterranean landscape. Booking tickets online in advance can save time, especially during peak season.

Best Times

When
Spring & Fall mornings
Why
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Summer evenings
Why
Golden hour light, cooler temps
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Avignon, une perle du sud de la France ! 🌞🇫🇷 Cette ville médiévale est connue pour son majestueux Palais des Papes et le célèbre Pont d’Avignon ! On vous invite à vous balader dans ses ruelles et profiter de l’art de vivre😍 👉🏼LIEN EN BIO : Découvrez toutes nos pépites sur notre application gratuite et disponible sur lOS & Android #Avignon #TourismeEnFrance #Provence #Voyage #Histoire #Culture ...
lespepitesdefrance
4.5K likes • 385.3K views

Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore the site and surrounding trails. :athletic_shoe:

Book Tickets Online

Save time and guarantee entry by purchasing your tickets in advance, especially during peak season. :admission_tickets:

📍Pont de Bir Hakeim 영화 인셉션 촬영지로 유명해서 스냅 사진 많이 찍는 곳이에요🩶 저도 처음 파리 왔을때 여기서 스냅찍있던게 생각 나네요✨ 개인적으로 낮보다 밤이 더 예쁜것 같아요🌉 #Travel #paris #paristravel #france #pontdebirhakeim #쪼헤트립인파리 #쪼헤트립 #파리 #파리여행 #비르하켐다리
chohyetraveler_
134 likes • 1.8K views
Pont du Gard France 🇫🇷🇵🇸 Le pont Al-Ghar, l’un des plus anciens ponts du monde, est inscrit sur la liste du patrimoine mondial de l’UNESCO.
eyes.palestina
361 likes • 3.8K views

Pack a Picnic

Enjoy a meal with a view! There are lovely spots to relax and savor local treats. :sandwich:

Stay Hydrated

Especially in summer, carry plenty of water as you explore the expansive grounds. :droplet:

Pont du Gard Gard (Occitanie) France 🇫🇷 ♻️Merci de respecter ce lieu, les déchets 🚮 #pontdugard #gard #occitanie #france #pont #viaduc #riviere #ruine #romaine #antique #merveille #monument
petit.coin.de.france
1.6K likes • 98.9K views

Tips

from all over the internet

Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore the site and surrounding trails. :athletic_shoe:

Book Tickets Online

Save time and guarantee entry by purchasing your tickets in advance, especially during peak season. :admission_tickets:

Pack a Picnic

Enjoy a meal with a view! There are lovely spots to relax and savor local treats. :sandwich:

Stay Hydrated

Especially in summer, carry plenty of water as you explore the expansive grounds. :droplet:

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Pont du Gard for its awe-inspiring Roman architecture and historical significance. The on-site museum and the beautiful natural setting, including the Gardon River, are also frequently highlighted as major draws. Some find the parking and entrance fees a bit high, and during peak season, it can get quite crowded.

What People Like

Majestic Roman architecture
Fascinating history and museum
Beautiful river setting

What People Dislike

Parking/entry fees
Summer crowds

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Pont du Gard is accessible by car, with parking available on-site. The nearest major cities are Nîmes and Avignon. Public transport options are limited, so driving is often the most convenient way to reach this ancient Roman aqueduct. Instagram

While direct public transport is scarce, some regional buses may serve nearby towns. It's advisable to check local schedules or consider a taxi from Avignon or Nîmes if you're not driving. Reddit

From Avignon, take the D6081 towards Remoulins, then follow signs for Pont du Gard. From Nîmes, take the A9 motorway towards Montpellier, exit at Remoulins, and follow the signs. Instagram

Yes, there is a large parking area available for visitors. A fee is typically associated with parking, which often includes access to the site. Instagram

Absolutely! Pont du Gard is a popular day trip from Avignon, typically taking about 30-40 minutes to drive. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Admission fees generally cover parking and access to the site, including the museum. Prices can vary, so it's best to check the official Pont du Gard website for current rates. Reddit

Booking tickets online in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons, to avoid queues and ensure entry. Reddit

Opening hours vary seasonally, typically opening earlier in the morning and closing in the evening. Always check the official website for the most up-to-date information. Instagram

The site is generally accessible, with ramps and designated paths. The museum also offers accessible facilities. Reddit

Swimming is permitted in the Gardon River during the summer months, offering a refreshing way to experience the area. Instagram

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

Beyond the aqueduct itself, you can explore the excellent museum, enjoy a picnic by the river, hike the surrounding trails, and even swim in the Gardon. Instagram

Most visitors spend at least 3-4 hours to fully appreciate the aqueduct, museum, and surrounding area. You could easily spend half a day or more. Reddit

Yes, guided tours are often available, providing in-depth historical context and insights into the Roman construction. Check the site's schedule for availability. Reddit

The classic view from the riverbank is iconic. For different perspectives, explore the walking trails on both sides of the river and the upper levels of the aqueduct. Instagram+1

Wi-Fi availability can be spotty. It's best to download any necessary information or maps beforehand. :iphone:

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, there are a few dining options on-site, including a restaurant and cafes, offering various choices from casual snacks to more formal meals. Reddit

Absolutely! Bringing a picnic is a popular option, with many scenic spots perfect for enjoying your own food and drinks. Instagram

The surrounding region, Occitanie, offers delicious Provençal cuisine. You can find local markets and restaurants in nearby towns like Remoulins. Instagram

Options can vary. It's advisable to check menus in advance or inquire with the restaurant staff about vegetarian or vegan choices. Reddit

On-site dining can be moderately priced. Bringing your own picnic is a more budget-friendly option. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Early morning or late afternoon offers the best light for photography, creating a warm glow on the ancient stones and fewer crowds. Instagram+1

Drone usage is typically restricted at UNESCO World Heritage sites to preserve the environment and visitor experience. Check the official site for current regulations. :noentrysign:

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the scale of the aqueduct. A telephoto lens can be useful for details on the upper levels. Don't forget a polarizing filter for the sky. :camerawithflash:

Photography is generally permitted throughout the site. However, be mindful of restricted areas and respect other visitors. Instagram

The classic view from the riverbank is a must. For unique angles, explore the walking paths on the opposite side of the river and the upper tiers of the aqueduct. Instagram+1

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Pont du Gard is a fantastic destination for families. The interactive museum is engaging for children, making history fun and accessible. The Gardon River offers a chance for kids to splash and play in a safe, supervised environment during summer. Instagram

Pack a picnic to keep little ones happy and save money. There are plenty of open spaces for them to run around. Consider bringing a stroller or carrier for younger children, as there's a fair amount of walking involved. The sheer scale of the aqueduct is often awe-inspiring for kids, sparking their imagination about ancient times. Instagram

🚶‍♀️ Active Explorers & Hikers

For those who love to explore on foot, Pont du Gard offers several walking trails through the surrounding Mediterranean landscape. These paths provide varied perspectives of the aqueduct and opportunities to discover local flora and fauna. Instagram

Don't forget to wear comfortable hiking shoes and bring plenty of water, especially during warmer months. The trails range in difficulty, so you can choose a route that suits your fitness level. The chance to hike with such an iconic historical monument as your backdrop is truly unique. Instagram

📸 Photographers

Pont du Gard is a dream for photographers. The golden hour light in the early morning and late afternoon casts a magical glow on the ancient stones, creating dramatic and beautiful shots. Instagram+1

Experiment with different angles: from the riverbanks, the upper levels of the aqueduct, and the surrounding hills. A wide-angle lens is essential for capturing the immense scale, while a telephoto can highlight intricate details. Be prepared for crowds during peak times, which might require patience to get that perfect, unobstructed shot. Instagram+1

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Engineering Marvel of Pont du Gard

The Pont du Gard is an iconic three-tiered Roman aqueduct bridge that spans the Gardon River in southern France. Built in the 1st century AD, it's a remarkable feat of ancient engineering, designed to carry water over 50 kilometers to the city of Nîmes. Its construction involved an estimated 1,000 workers and utilized over 50,000 tons of stone, all without mortar. The precision of the arches and the sheer scale of the structure are a testament to Roman ingenuity. Instagram+1

Visitors can explore the aqueduct from various vantage points, including walking across the lower levels and admiring its grandeur from the riverbanks. The site also features an excellent museum that delves into the history of the aqueduct, Roman water systems, and the daily life of the era. This immersive experience helps visitors understand the context and significance of this ancient monument. Reddit

The preservation of the Pont du Gard is exceptional, allowing us to witness firsthand the architectural prowess of the Roman Empire. It's not just a bridge; it's a symbol of human ambition and a vital piece of world heritage. Instagram

Exploring the Surrounding Landscape

Beyond the aqueduct itself, the Pont du Gard site offers a beautiful natural setting. The Gardon River flows beneath the ancient structure, providing opportunities for relaxation and recreation. During warmer months, visitors can enjoy swimming in designated areas of the river, offering a unique perspective of the aqueduct from the water. Instagram

Several walking trails wind through the Mediterranean garrigue surrounding the Pont du Gard. These paths allow visitors to explore the local flora and fauna and discover different viewpoints of the monument. Some trails lead to panoramic vistas, perfect for photography enthusiasts. The area is ideal for a leisurely stroll or a more vigorous hike, depending on your preference. Instagram

For those seeking a broader regional experience, the Gorges du Verdon and the Pont de Sainte-Croix are notable nearby attractions. While distinct from Pont du Gard, they offer equally stunning natural beauty, with dramatic canyons and turquoise waters, showcasing the diverse landscapes of the South of France. Instagram

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