Pont du Gard travel guide

Emerging from the lush landscapes of Vers-Pont-du-Gard, the Pont du Gard is an imposing ancient Roman aqueduct, a testament of architectural brilliance and engineering prowess.

Built around the first century AD, it was part of a nearly 50-kilometer system designed to carry water from springs in Uzès to the Roman colony of Nemausus, now modern-day Nîmes. This three-tiered construction stands at a staggering height of 48.8 meters, making it the highest of all elevated Roman aqueducts.

In the Middle Ages, the aqueduct's lower level was transformed into a toll bridge. Throughout centuries, it withstood the ravages of time and war, although some arches were destroyed and later restored. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1985, the Pont du Gard is admired worldwide for its historical significance and architectural beauty. It continues to attract millions of tourists every year, offering a fascinating peek into the Roman era.

The Pont du Gard is a masterpiece of ancient Roman engineering, notable for its impeccable design and preservation. Its three-tiered construction, consisting of 50 arches on the bottom level, 11 on the second, and 35 on the third, is a testament to the architectural prowess of the Romans. Each stone, weighing up to six tons, was expertly carved to fit precisely without the need for mortar, making this feat even more astounding.

The aqueduct has a very slight gradient, dropping only 2.5 centimeters per kilometer, which allowed water to flow at the perfect speed. Furthermore, the Pont du Gard stands out for its dual role as a bridge for pedestrians on its lower level, a highly unusual feature for Roman aqueducts. Its preservation is also exceptional, with the majority of its original stonework surviving today. The aqueduct's integration into the natural landscape, crossing the Gardon River amid lush greenery, adds to its unique aesthetic appeal.

Located in the dynamic Vers-Pont-du-Gard, the popular Pont du Gard is easy to find and can be explored during a short weekend escape in the beautiful region of Nîmes or as a stop on your countrywide road trip through France.

Nîmes is a perfect holiday destination for those who crave a mix of history, culture, and modern amenities. With its distinct architecture, famous museums, and delicious culinary scene, Nîmes offers something for everyone.

Take a stroll through the charming streets and alleys to discover hidden gems and enjoy the local atmosphere. Visit this popular landmark in Nîmes and immerse yourself in the city's rich history and culture at top attractions, including the remarkable Haribo Candy Museum, Jardin de La Fontaine, Towers and Walls of Aigues-Mortes, Cascades du Sautadet, and Museum Romanité.

Whether you're looking to indulge in shopping or explore the nightlife, Nîmes has it all. Don't forget to sample the delicious cuisine, from traditional dishes to modern fusion.

Experience the best of both worlds in Nîmes, a place where the past meets the present, and you'll create unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime.

Click the travel guides below to learn more and get ready to make unforgettable memories in France!

Pont du Gard is conveniently accessible by various transportation options in Nîmes, France. If you're flying in, Marseille Provence Airport is approximately 49 miles (78.8 km) away from Nîmes. From there, you can easily reach Pont du Gard by taxi or shuttle.

For those already in Nîmes, buses, taxis, and walking are viable options to reach Pont du Gard, which is located 6.2 miles (10 km) from the city center. You can also rent a car and drive to Pont du Gard, providing flexibility to explore at your leisure. Its exact address is 30210 Vers-Pont-du-Gard, France.

With your transportation plans sorted, get ready for an unforgettable experience at Pont du Gard!

The best time to explore Pont du Gard is during the spring months of April through June, and the fall months of September and October. These periods offer mild weather, making it comfortable to stroll around the ancient Roman aqueduct. Summer can also be a good time to visit, especially if you plan to swim in the Gardon River, but expect larger crowds and hotter temperatures. Throughout summer, the site hosts 'Les Féeries du Pont', spectacular night time illuminations of the bridge, which can be a memorable addition to your visit. However, if you prefer a quieter experience, spring and fall provide lower visitor numbers. In October, the annual 'Gard Gourmand' food and wine festival takes place nearby, providing an opportunity to indulge in local cuisine after sightseeing. While the Pont du Gard is open year-round, winter visits can be chilly and daylight hours are shorter. Whenever you choose to visit, ensure to check the site’s opening hours and any special events planned during your stay.

To truly enjoy your visit to Pont du Gard, joining a tour that features this popular arch bridge in Nîmes is highly recommended. As one of France's most iconic attractions, Pont du Gard draws visitors from around the world. Booking a tour in advance allows you to skip the lines and ensures a smooth, enjoyable experience.

Find the best and most popular tours and tickets to Pont du Gard starting at just 85 EUR below.

Conveniently explore Pont du Gard and plenty more captivating attractions in Nîmes by staying at a top-rated hotel in the center of the region. With comfortable accommodations and easy access to Pont du Gard and other notable landmarks, wake up well-rested every day, ready to explore all that Nîmes has to offer.

Discover the best hotels for visiting Pont du Gard below.

Aside from Pont du Gard, Nîmes is home to numerous other top attractions waiting to be explored. From museums and architectural masterpieces to sculptures and natural wonders, the region offers a diverse range of sights to behold. For the ultimate sightseeing tour around Nîmes, there are a number of attractions every itinerary should include, namely Haribo Candy Museum, Jardin de La Fontaine, and Towers and Walls of Aigues-Mortes.

Haribo Candy Museum is a bucket-list museum and top attraction in Nîmes, drawing numerous travelers and locals every year. As evident by its average rating of 4 out of 5 stars in 17,000 reviews, this attraction is a popular place to visit for anyone with time to spend in the region. The exact address of Haribo Candy Museum is Pont des Charrettes, Chem. Du Moulin de Bargeton, 30700 Uzès, France.

Another appreciated attraction in Nîmes is Jardin de La Fontaine. Like Haribo Candy Museum, this is one of the most popular sites to visit in the region. With an impressive average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars among 15,000 visitors, it’s also one of the highest-rated. The exact address of this park is 26 Quai de la Fontaine, 30000 Nîmes, France.

Towers and Walls of Aigues-Mortes is also a clear favorite among travelers seeking to experience the uniqueness of Nîmes. This establishment and top attraction in Nîmes has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 9,600 visitors. This attraction is located at the address of Logis du gouverneur, Pl. Anatole France, 30220 Aigues-Mortes, France.

Check out our full list of top attractions in the region of Nîmes below.