Visiting the Pont du Gard: the practical guide

Almost two thousand years old, the Pont du Gard is the tallest Roman aqueduct in the world and one of the most visited sites in France. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, it crosses the Gardon with three tiers of golden arches. Here is everything you need for a successful visit. From our stays in the Gard, it is less than twenty minutes away.

When to go

The site is open all year. To avoid the crowds and enjoy the best light, go early in the morning or late in the afternoon. At sunrise the stone turns gold and the site is almost empty, a suspended moment, especially from L'Oustal Di Fabre, a few minutes away.

What to do on site

• Cross the bridge and walk along the bank to grasp the scale of the structure.
• The museum, to understand how the aqueduct carried water all the way to Nîmes.
• Swimming and canoeing on the Gardon in summer: one of the best ways to admire the bridge, from the water.
• The memory trails: marked walks through the garrigue, scented with thyme and rosemary.

Practical side

• Parking and access are paid per vehicle for the day; shuttle and pedestrian access from the neighbouring villages.
• Bring a hat, water and comfortable shoes in summer.
• Summer illuminations and night shows are worth the trip.

Extending the day

After the Pont du Gard, head for the surrounding villages, Castillon-du-Gard, Vers-Pont-du-Gard, Saint-Quentin-la-Poterie, or go back and cool off in the pool. La Jungle d'Uzès is ideal for combining visits and downtime.

Fancy a stay a few minutes from the site? See our houses and villas with a pool and book direct.