uzes tour de france

Uzes travel guide

Visit Uzes (Occitanie, France)

Uzès is a town situated to the west of Avignon and north of Nimes in the Gard department of Languedoc-Roussillon. The centre of this active town is now a protected historical monument, with a good mix of medieval stone houses and fine townhouses to discover.

Explore Uzes

France This Way review: Uzès is very attractive with its large arcaded central square, numerous historic monuments, historic streets and alleys, broad tree-lined boulevards and lovely views across the countryside - one of our favourite towns in southern France and a visit is highly recommended.

It is easy to find your bearings in Uzès because the town is surrounded by a broad boulevard that completely surrounds the historic centre.

We suggest you start your visit at the north in Place Albert because Uzès Tourist Office is here and you can ask for a map of the town that includes all the places of interest and a suggested route to follow as you explore - although the pretty historic streets will tempt you away from the suggested route quite often!

The narrow streets of the old town are most noteworthy for the fine 17th century houses, many with ornate iron balustrades, dating from when it was a wealthy textile centre, and for the narrow streets of medieval houses.

On your way into the centre you can also see two particularly important townhouses: the 16th century Hôtel Dampmartin (on Place Dampmartin), which includes a tower with a staircase; and the Hôtel de Joubert (on Rue de la Republique) with its beautiful renaissance style doorway and windows.

The centre of Uzès is around Place aux Herbes, a pretty square surrounded by attractive stone houses and arcades and with a large stone fountain: the stonework of the arcades with its imposing arches is very impressive.

The Place aux Herbes is also the centre for the markets held in the town on Wednesday morning and Saturday all day, and has several cafes so it is a good place to take your morning coffee!

The major monument here in the centre of Uzes is the Duke's Castle, dating from the early medieval period. From the outside the castle walls are dominated by its three towers and donjon, while the interior has been furnished with period furniture and there is a lovely view across the town from the top of the donjon. Entrance charge 17 euros.

Two medieval towers in the town can be seen in the Medieval Garden: the 12th century Tour de l'Evèque and the 13th century Tour du Roi.

In fact the medieval garden was one of the highlights of our visit to Uzès: the garden itself was quite interesting but it also gives you access to climb the Tour de Roi for amazing views across the town and surrounding countryside. Access to the garden is a little hidden away on the Rue Port Royal in the south of the historic centre.

One particular highlight in Uzes is the 'window tower' (la tour fenestrelle) to the east of the centre. This is an Italian style round stone tower with several pairs of arched windows running up its height that stands 42 metres high and is next to the cathedral. The Cathedral of Saint Theodorit itself was rebuilt in the 17th century, and the facade added in the 19th century.

Near the tower you can enjoy very far reaching views across the Eure Valley and also see the Pavillon Racine. This is a small building with a domed roof that was originally one of the towers of the defensive walls of the town and is named for the famous writer Racine who spent a year in Uzes from 1819-1820 and enjoyed walking here to enjoy the views.

Another church, the 18th century Church of Saint-Etienne, is of interest principally because of its baroque facade and is to the south of the historic centre.

Although we can't list all the interesting buildings in the town we should mention those along the road that leads back into the town from the cathedral, along the Rue Rafin. There are several imposing townhouses here from the renaissance period onwards, with the Hôtel des Monnaies and the Hôtel Chambon de la Tour the highlights.

For shopping and a wide choice of restaurants you can follow the broad boulevards - principally the Rue Gambetta - that now surround the medieval centre.

If time permits you can follow your walk through the town with a walk through the large park just below the cathedral. As well as the peaceful setting you will also see the Roman aqueduct in the park.

Attractions nearby

North of Uzes, at La Cocaliere (between St-Ambroix and St-Paul-le-Jeune) you can visit one of the most impressive cave systems in France which includes both spectacular rock formations and evidence of prehistoric habitation.

Other popular attractions near Uzès include the water park in a lovely natural setting at Bouscarasse (along the road towards Alès); the Museum of 1900 and Toys at Arpaillargues (east); and the Haribo Museum, which celebrates 100 years of the most popular sweet manufacturer in France - one for the children!

The Pont du Gard is a famous Roman aqueduct to the south-east of the town, and there are several villages to explore in the region: our favourites are Lussan to the north and Saint-Victor-la-Coste and Saint-Laurent-des-Arbres to the north-east.

You can find more travel ideas in the Gard guide and the Languedoc-Roussillon guide .

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Pont du Gard

The Pont-du-Gard is a 2000 year old Roman aquaduct, an extraordinary feat of engineering and one of the most impressive Roman monuments in Europe

Lussan is a pretty village of character in Languedoc-Roussillon with two ancient castles

Saint-Victor-la-Coste

Saint-Victor-la-Coste in Languedoc-Roussillon has several historic monuments including an ancient castle on the hill behind the village

Nimes contains some of the most complete ancient Roman monuments to be seen anywhere in France

La Roque-sur-Ceze

It is very lovely exploring the steep streets in the ancient village of La Roque-sur-Ceze

The village of Vézénobres, north-west of Nimes, is a delightful small village quite overlooked by most visitors

... or see ALL recommended places to visit in Gard

Tourist classifications for Uzes

Uzes has received the following tourist classifications: listed town of Art and History ; historical protected town centre' (secteur sauvegardé)

Address: Uzès, Nîmes, Languedoc-Roussillon, 30700, France || GPS coordinates: latitude 44.013, longitude 4.4205

Plan your visit to Uzes, Gard

Sightseeing & tourist attractions to visit nearby.

• Cathédrale Saint-Théodorit et Fenestrelle Tower (Uzes): religious monument
• Pont du Gard : grand site of france (12 km)
• Jardins de la Fontaine: remarkable garden (20 km)
• Nimes : secteur sauvegarde (20 km)
• Cascades du Sautadet: site of natural beauty (21 km)
• La Roque-sur-Ceze : most beautiful village (22 km)
• Beaucaire : recommended detour (29 km)
• Ales: ville fleurie 4* (30 km)
• Fort Saint-Andre: national monument (31 km)
• Villeneuve-les-Avignon : secteur sauvegarde (31 km)
• Notre-Dame-de-Bon-Repos de Montfavet (Avignon): religious monument (32 km)
• Avignon Centre : heritage site (32 km)

Market days in Uzes, France

Regular market(s) are held in Uzes each Saturday. (Markets are held in the morning unless stated.)

The French version of this page is at Uzes (Francais)

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A Day Trip to Uzès, France – Immerse Yourself in Medieval History

One of the most beautiful day trip destinations in the South of France is Uzès, a pretty medieval town that is an easy day trip from Avignon or Nimes.

I spent a day in Uzès this summer and was mesmerized by the well-preserved historic city center, where cobblestone pathways led the way to ancient castles, hidden gardens and picturesque squares.  I was amazed by how few tourists there were as I explored the compact, walkable old town district.

I highly recommend that you consider a day trip to Uzès if you’re in Provence or Occitanie. If you have a little bit of room in your schedule, you might even want to stay in Uzès overnight to experience the evocative tranquility that falls over the town at dusk.  Trust me, when you look back on your trip to France, your time in Uzès will be among your most memorable moments.

The History of Uzès, France

Uzès is a small town in the Languedoc-Roussillon, or Occitanie, region of the South of France. If you drew a triangle connecting the cities of Avignon, Nimes and Ales, Uzès would be right in the middle of that triangle.

The origins of Uzès date back to the first century BCE, when it was a point along the (long!) aqueduct that now contains the famous UNESCO World Heritage Site Pont du Gard .  By the 700s, the town had expanded and fortified, and over the years it became an important center for cloth-making.

However, Uzès is most famous for its title of First Duchy of France.  In 1565, Antoine de Crussol was awarded the title of Duke, and his chateau became a duchy. The castle in the centre of Uzès has stayed in the de Crussol family for the past 450 years, and the descendants of the original duke still maintain the historic property today.

Things to Do in Uzès

The best things to do in Uzès are concentrated in the historic city center, which is inside the town’s circular ring road.  I recommend starting your visit with a trip to the town’s tourist information office on Place Albert 1er. Here, you can pick up a free city map with a well-marked walking route that will guide you to all of the most beautiful spots in Uzès.

An easy first stop on your walking tour of Uzès is the Ducal Palace, also known as the Duchy. This huge castle is a mix of medieval, Renaissance, 17th-century and modern architecture.  Inside there are luxurious apartments, ancient wine cellars, a chapel and a bell tower that you can ascend for panoramic city views.  Or so I’ve heard, as when I visited in August 2022 the doors were firmly locked and there were no signs of the duchy being open to the public.  Check the castle’s website before you go to see current opening days, times and prices.

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The Medieval Gardens

The Medieval Gardens in Uzès are open seasonally, from April to October.  However, before my day trip to Uzès I saw a comment from their staff on Google Maps, where, in response to someone who noted that the gardens were rather barren in the summer, staff had written:

Come in the spring or autumn.  The weather is milder and the garden more beautiful.

Since I was there in August during a heatwave, it didn’t seem prudent to pay €6 to see dry gardens.  If you are in Uzès during the spring or autumn, you can visit the gardens here to see more than 450 species of plants and learn about how they were used medicinally during the Middle Ages.

The Medieval Gardens are also home to two medieval towers. Visitors who climb the 100 stairs up the King’s Tower are rewarded with beautiful views of the town’s rooftops.

Place Aux Herbes

Did I mention that the skies opened and it poured rain for the entire drive from Nimes to Uzès, and then the rain miraculously stopped the minute I stepped off the bus in Uzès?  Yes, my visit to Uzès was rather serendipitous!

On a normal day, Place aux Herbes is the bustling heart of Uzès, with cafe tables spilling out onto the square and carefully-restored medieval homes lining its edges. On the morning of my visit Place aux Herbes was empty as people waited cautiously to see if the rain would return (it didn’t!).

This is also where you’ll find Uzès’ famous market.  If you time your visit for a Wednesday morning or a Saturday morning or afternoon, you can expect Place aux Herbes to be full of market vendors selling fruits, vegetables, cheese, bread, meats, flowers, handicrafts and more.  Some people consider the Uzès market to be one of the best in all of the South of France, which means it can draw quite a crowd. Consider learning some French for travel before your visit, so that you can interact with the market vendors more authentically.

Eglise St. Etienne

If you visited Uzès eight hundred years ago you would find many more churches than are left standing today (you’d also be a time traveler, so…).  Most of the churches in the center of Uzès were destroyed during the Religious Wars, when Protestants and Catholics fought for power during the latter half of the sixteenth century.

St. Etienne is one of the few churches that still stand in Uzès today, although only its bell-tower and door predate the Religious Wars (the rest was reconstructed in 1767).

If you’re following the map from the tourist information office it recommends that you now detour to see The General Hospital.  I recommend that you skip this stop as it’s literally just a modern hospital – there are no elements of the historic building that are still accessible to the public, and wandering around a hospital parking lot is kind of weird.

Cathedral of Saint Theodorit

Built, destroyed, rebuilt, destroyed, re-rebuilt… Uzès’ cathedral has a storied history.  The current building dates back to the 1600s, and the decorative facade was updated in the late 1800s.  At the time of my visit to Uzès there was a wedding taking place in the cathedral, so I opted to take photos from the panoramic viewing terrace below the church, on Promenade Racine.

Near the cathedral you’ll also find the old Tour Fenestrelle – this bell tower is not open to the public. There is also a small domed building devoted to the writer Jean Racine, who is known to have written many letters to his contemporaries during the years he spent in Uzès.

Medieval Streets of Uzès

Really, though, the greatest pleasure of a day trip to Uzès is simply getting lost in its labyrinth of medieval cobblestone streets.  Ducking under stone archways, sitting beside an ancient fountain, imagining the barons and peasants who once walked the same streets… it’s the kind of escapism that you can only get from a great travel experience. Plan to spend at least one or two unstructured hours simply wandering, following your eyes and ears as you experience this delightful town.

Haribo Candy Museum

This one is coming out of left field!  If you have a rental car (or don’t mind hopping in a taxi), Uzès is home to the Haribo Candy Museum.  Located about four kilometers south of the historic center, the Haribo Candy Museum in Uzès is ideal for families traveling with children. The museum features exhibits about the history of Uzès’ candy industry (it was actually an important producer of licorice), the candy-making process and candy advertising over the years. Of course, your visit ends in the Willy Wonka-esque museum shop, where you can buy all the Haribo that your heart desires. Admission is €10 for adults and €8 for children over the age of five.

Bus From Nimes to Uzès

The bus from Nimes to Uzès is #152.  It departs from the Nimes bus station (behind the train station).  Tickets currently cost €1.50 and can be purchased on board from the driver (cash, exact change recommended).  It takes about 45 minutes to travel from Nimes to Uzès by bus.

The bus from Nimes to Uzès drops you off at a stop called “Esplanade”, which is across the street from the post office shown above.  On the way back, you’ll catch your bus either at the same stop or in front of the post office, by the sign shown in the photo.  From both bus stops, it’s a one-minute walk to the historic center, and three minutes to the main historic square.  Check the bus schedule linked below to see which stop you need (depending on the day and time).

Occasionally, the bus from Nimes to Uzès stops at the edge of town (“Uzès – La Refuge”), rather than in the city centre.  If possible, avoid using this stop as it’s a fifteen-minute walk to the city center and it’s just not the nicest introduction to the city.  If you’re planning to return on a late bus, be careful to go to the correct stop so that you don’t get stuck in Uzès overnight (to be fair, that wouldn’t be terrible!).

Bus schedules vary seasonally, but you can usually find an updated timetable on the official transit website .  Set your “department” to “30 – Gard” and then choose #152.  Generally speaking “LaV” means “Monday to Friday”, “S” means “Saturday” and “D” means Sunday, and the different colors at the top (red, orange, yellow and grey) indicate the season.  If you need help understanding the bus schedule, ask at the tourist information office or at your accommodation.

Bus From Avignon to Uzès

The bus from Avignon to Uzès is #115.  It leaves from the Avignon bus station (beside the train station, sort of underneath the Ibis Hotel).  As with the buses from Nimes, tickets currently cost €1.50 and can be purchased on board from the driver (cash, exact change recommended).  It takes about 45 minutes to travel from Avignon to Uzès by bus.

According to the official transit website, buses to and from Avignon both use the Esplanade stop (so you’ll get off the bus and back on it at the same place – no need to cross the road on your way back).  You can get more details about the schedule here , by setting your “department” to “30 – Gard” and choosing #115.  See above for help with reading the schedule.

As with the bus to and from Nimes, not all of the buses between Avignon and Uzès stop in the city center. I recommend choosing a bus that goes from Avignon to “Uzès – Esplanade”.  Some of the buses only go as far as “Uzès – La Refuge”, which is a fifteen-minute walk from the historic center.  It’s not an unpleasant walk, but it’s just something to be aware of (especially on your way back – you don’t want to go to the wrong stop and miss the last bus to Avignon!).

Restaurants in Uzès

There are lots of restaurants in Uzès, but in the high season they tend to fill up quickly and it’s worth making a reservation if there is somewhere special that you want to eat.  Some restaurants in Uzès that you may want to consider include:

• Chez Cerise – This is where I had lunch, which is shown above.  They had a small menu on a chalkboard outside. One of the options was a “vegetarian plate”, which is my favorite thing to order in France as it’s always different and always surprising.  You can see that mine came with several different types of salads, a little bowl of ratatouille and fresh melon slices. Of course, I had it with a glass of rosé wine and a carafe of tap water.
• Les Terroirs – This was my back-up option if I wasn’t able to get a seat at Chez Cerise, since I knew beforehand that their menu had several vegetarian options (on top of more traditional French dishes).  They also have a little boutique selling many of the locally-made condiments they use to prepare their cuisine.
• Creperie La Bolée – Right beside the Tourist Information office, this little creperie is perfect for a light lunch or snack. They have both sweet and savory crepes.
• La Table d’Uzès – For a special event, this is Uzès’ only Michelin-starred restaurant.  As far as Michelin-starred restaurants go prices here are relatively affordable, with lunch starting at € 52 (before the wine pairing).

Hotels in Uzès

I only visited Uzès for the day, so I can’t make a personal hotel recommendation. However, while I was exploring the town I noticed a few cute hotels that had great locations and that have good reviews online.  If you’re looking for a hotel in Uzès, these are good options to consider:

• Boutique Hotel Entraigues – This would be my first choice for a hotel in Uzès. Located in a renovated heritage building right in the historic center, the rooftop terrace here has beautiful views and on a hot summer day you won’t be able to resist their swimming pool.
• Hostellerie Provencale – A charming little hotel just on the edge of the historic center, the on-site restaurant here is regarded as one of the best in town.
• Patio de Violette – If you have a car, it’s a quick five-minute drive into Uzès from this countryside hotel.  Savor a continental breakfast on their pretty garden terrace.

Is Uzès Worth Visiting?

Yes, Uzès is worth visiting, and a day trip to Uzès from Avignon or Nimes will definitely be a highlight of your trip to the South of France!  There are many charming small towns around Provence and the surrounding areas, but few are as well-preserved as Uzès and its historic center.  Uzès is the perfect place to spend a day or two on your next trip to France.

If you love visiting small towns in the South of France, check out my guides to Saint-Remy-de-Provence , Saint-Paul de Vence and L’Isle-Sur-la-Sorgue .

If you have any questions about traveling to Uzès, leave a comment below and I’ll answer ASAP!

Planning a trip to the South of France?  Pin this post for later!

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Top Attractions In Uzès, A LovelyVillage in Southern France

“Oh little town of Uzes! If you were in Umbria, Parisians would be visiting you in herds!” — Andre Gide

Just west of Provence lies a storybook sunshine-y village, wrapped in golden hued limestone and perfect for flaneurs — Uzes.

I stopped in Uzès on my journey from Arles to Toulouse . I was delighted by the laid back little honeypot.

We felt like we landed in the “real” France, “France Profonde,” not just a tourist town denuded of its authenticity.

Officially, Uzès is not in Provence, but in Occitanie region, in the department of Gard.

But it looks and feels like Provence — with its pastel shutters, limestone facades, and cobbled lanes. It’s just a less crowded off radar gem, at least when it’s not market day.

Casually chic Uzès makes a perfect stop on your southern France road trip. Or it’s an easy day trip from from Arles , Montpellier, Nimes, or Avignon. Uzès was easily one of my favorite hidden gems towns in France .

You can visit Uzes on a guided day tour from Avignon .

Mini History of Uzes

Uzès was originally an “oppidum,” a fortified town. It was the site of an ancient settlement dating back to the 2nd century BC.

Just to the north of Uzès , the Romans founded Ucetia , a “lost city” that was recently discovered in 2017. From the 13th century, Uzes was an important trading center — silk, linen, and licorice.

In 1565, the first Duke of Uzès was installed as a Duke and French peer. There’s still a duke of Uzès, Jacques de Crussol d’Uzes. When he’s in residence, the flag is raised, just as when Queen Elizabeth is at Windsor Castle.

In the 16th century, King Charles IX elevated his rank to that of 1st Duke of France. This meant that the Count of Crussol, the first Duke of Uzès, became the 2nd most important person in France.

In 1965, André Malraux, Minister of Culture under General de Gaulle classified Uzès as a City of Art and History.

Attractions In Uzès: What To See

Here’s are the highlights of a visit to Uzès.

1. Take A Stroll

The main activity in Uzès is just to stroll the charming tangled lanes in the old town pedestrian zone, at a leisurely pace.

Uzès is an architectural jewel made for walking. And so I walked aimlessly, admiring the old village steeped in history and so different than the United States.

2. Place aux Herbes: Uzès Vibrant Center

The Place aux Herbes is the main square of Uzès, a lovely central meeting place. It’s a broad square filled with plane trees, café tables, and flanked by a squat limestone colonnade.

Its vaulted arcades are filled with tony boutiques, artisan gelato shops, and trendy cafes.

We had a delicious lunch under the ribbed vaults of Ten , a fabulous restaurant that I highly recommend. Pop into Les Terroirs.

Inside it’s part restaurant (mostly sandwiches) and part posh market. The shelves are crammed with artisanal olive oils, terrines, and wines.

3. The Duke’s Castle

Uzès most dominant landmark is the medieval Duke’s Castle, called the Duchy.

It’s a walled structure smack in the middle of the town, complete with turrets, that serves as the Duke’s residence.

The dukes of Uzès have lived in the castle for over a thousand years. The present duke is #17. The castle serves as his summer home.

The castle’s a bit of an architectural mishmash with a 12th century tower, Gothic chapel, and Renaissance facade.

After the French Revolution, the castle was partly in ruins. Beginning in 1951, the Marchioness of Crussol set about restoring the Duchy. The present Duke and Duchess of Uzes continue to renovate.

Tucked behind the Duchy is a modern recreation of Uzès’ medieval gardens. From there, you can climb the King’s Tower (100 steps) for a panoramic view.

Your castle entry fee includes access to the viewpoint atop the donjon.

Legend hold that there was there a tunnel from the Duchy to Place Aux Herbes.

4. Uzès Cathedral & the Fenestrelle

Uzès Cathedral, known as the La Cathédrale Saint-Théodorit, was formerly the seat of the Bishops of Uzès, until the diocese was abolished.

The cathedral was rebuilt in the 17th century, after centuries of damage. The neo-Romanesque façade was added in 1873, after the French Revolution.

The cathedral has an ornate Romanesque bell tower, the Tour Fenestrelle, which is more interesting than the church. The Fenestrelle is essentially Uzès’ leaning tower of Pisa. It has a series of cylinders pierced with narrow windows, and is thus sometimes called the Window Tower.

It’s the only remaining original part of the church. And it’s the only round bell tower in France.

5. Pont de Gard: A UNESCO Site Right Next Door to Uzès

Just 20 minutes away from Uzès stands the Pont du Gard, a surviving scrap of a Roman aqueduct that’s a UNESCO site.

The aqueduct originally took water from Uzès to Nimes. The aqueduct soars over the Gardon River and its dramatic gorge.

The aqueduct is massive. The bridge is 48.8 meters high, 275 meters long, and boasts 52 arches. Pont du Gard was the highest aqueduct in the Roman Empire.

In late June, the temperature had soared to the mid-90s. So after our visit, we dipped our feet in gate Gardon River to cool off. From here, you have a great perspective view of the aqueduct.

Click here to book a skip the line ticket to the Pont du Gard.

Practical Information For Visiting Uzès:

Getting There : The closest train service to/from Uzès is from Nimes and Avignon.

Tourist Office : Chapelle des Capucins, place Albert 1er BP 13129

Pro tip : Market days are Wednesday and Saturday.

Hotels : The best place to stay is the luxury boutique hotel, Maison d’Uzès

The Duke’s Castle:

• Addres s: Place du Duche, 30700, Uzes
• Hours : Daily 10:00 am – 12:00 pm & 2:00 pm – 6:00 pm
• Entry fee : 20 € — pretty steep, but the views from the tower are great.

I hope you’ve enjoyed my guide to the top attractions in Uzes. You may enjoy these other southern France travel guides:

• 10 day itinerary for southern France
• Charming hidden gems in Provence
• Hilltop villages of the Luberon Valley
• Historic landmarks in southern France
• Beautiful villages in Occitanie
• Guide to Arles
• Guide to Toulouse
• Guide to Carcassonne
• Guide to Albi

If you’d like to visit Uzes, pin it for later.

2 thoughts on “Top Attractions In Uzès, A LovelyVillage in Southern France”

Hi there! This is super helpful, I loved it! I’m curious as to how you found driving to all the smaller towns in the mountainous regions? Was it super scary? Thanks!

No, not at all. I didn’t have any trouble and I wouldn’t say it was really “mountainous.” Just park outside the historic center and walk in.

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Last Updated on April 22, 2024 by Leslie Livingston

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The Delights of Uzès in the South of France

Jennifer Ladonne shines a light on this historic town, where a charming, quieter side of southern France is to be found.

Tucked away in the Gard département is a gem of a town and the perfect base for discovering a region full of splendours. “But have you been to Uzès?” is a refrain I’d heard many times, but besotted with Provence, Marseille , the Drôme and pretty much all of the region east of the Rhône and south of Valence, I didn’t give it much thought. Until, on a quick trip from Avignon to the Pont du Gard, I noticed Uzès, a dot on the map just a few kilometres from the majestic Roman bridge. Why not stop by?

Late one October afternoon, circling Uzès on a ring road strongly reminiscent of ever-so-chic Saint-Rémy-de-Provence, an apparition appeared that I could swear was the tower of Pisa in miniature. I veered off the road into a parking lot that abutted what turned out to be the Cathedral of Uzès. A fortunate landing: besides finding a parking spot just steps from the medieval town, the view of the cathedral’s 12th-century Fenestrelle Tower, Uzès’s charming tiled roofs and the splendid Eure Valley stretching before me was magical.

Barely a soul and not a single car in sight, I wound my way up cobbled streets that opened onto charming squares where, but for some elegant boutiques and art galleries, it felt as though time had stopped. Closed to traffic, the medieval centre is a joy to explore on foot (which you can easily do in an afternoon). And everything, from the elegant façades to the paving stones, is hewn from creamy white limestone, a congruity that gives Uzès its remarkable harmony and grace. Coming upon the wide Place aux Herbes, the town’s main market square, I couldn’t resist settling down at a café terrace tucked into a corner under lofty plane trees on that warm October day to savour my good fortune – and plan my return.

View over historic Uzès. © Destination Pays d’Uzès- Pont du Gard/Aurélio Rodriguez 

AN AUTHENTIC GEM

Eighteen months and a pandemic later, I was back in Uzès on a sunny morning in early November. This time, armed with maps, reservations, and a list of things to do, I parked my rental car at the cathedral, knowing that, with days ahead of me, I could enjoy all that Uzès and its surroundings had to offer. And that’s a lot.

Uzès is in the Gard département , just across the Rhône River from the heart of Provence, about 20 miles from Avignon and 16 miles from Nîmes , home of France’s best-preserved Roman amphitheatre. Though very much the south of France – and every bit as comely – Uzès has somehow evaded the bling that’s overtaken so many of its Provençal counterparts. Just an hour from Arles and the Camargue’s sandy beaches to the south, and an hour from the beautiful, wild Cévennes to the north, Uzès is both the perfect destination and an excellent base for discovery.

Though a first-time visit may feel revelatory, Uzès is hardly a secret: well-to-do Parisians, artists and aesthetes discovered the town in the 1970s, less than a decade after the Duchess of Uzès persuaded her friend André Malraux (the novelist and Minister of Culture who first codified the French laws for historic preservation) that the medieval town – then in ruins – was a great investment. Reimagined as a ville d’art et d’histoire, today Uzès’s greatest appeal is its authenticity. Compared with so many Provençal towns, its almost total lack of tourist traps and commercialism is a rarity.

“We’re on the unfashionable side of the Rhône, so life just carries on here all year round. It’s not a tourist town, it’s a living town,” said Gwilym Cox, one of my charming hosts at L’Albiousse, a five-room boutique hotel in a gorgeously restored 16th-century town house, which Cox and his partner, Alexis van Deinse, opened 10 years ago. “You’ve heard of slow food – here it’s slow life, but a real life. And the social life here is better than in Paris… It’s not somewhere you go to see things, we just want you to come to make an experience of it,” emphasised Cox. And it’s true that if lounging around on a sunny terrace or under a graceful colonnade, seeking out local delicacies at the farmers’ market, sipping an apéro under towering plane trees, sleeping in a ravishing hotel or tucking into a gourmet meal is your thing, Uzès more than fits the bill. But there’s also plenty to do and see in and around this historic town.

St Quentin la Poterie is home to the Museum of Mediterranean Pottery. © Destination Pays d’Uzès Pont du Gard – Office de la Culture/ Matthieu SANDJIVY

A NOBLE PAST

In Uzès’s 16th-century heyday, the Duke of Uzès was one of the most influential men in the entire kingdom. Now his imposing castle – occasionally inhabited by the 17th Duke of Uzès – is open to visitors. Besides a glimpse into a nearly 1,000-year history, visitors can enjoy a disarming peek into the private lives of French nobility through centuries of portraits and charming anecdotes about the characters who have lived here.

One of its more colourful inhabitants was beautiful Anne de Mortemart, the dashing wife of the 12th Duke of Uzès. An avid equestrienne and hunter, she was also the first woman in France to possess a driver’s licence.

Interestingly, Uzès holds a lot of firsts for women. It was here in the ninth century that Dhuoda, Duchess of Septimania, became the first woman in France to write a book, while exiled from her husband in the castle keep. Uzès also lays claim to France’s first female mayor, Jeanne Palanque, who was elected in 1945, just one year after French women won the right to vote.

The fountain in the Place aux Herbes. © Destination Pays d’Uzès-Pont du Gard/ Aurélio_Rodriguez

LIVING THE GOOD LIFE

Uzès’s laid-back, live-and-let-live lifestyle may be a vestige of its Protestant roots, but it’s more likely a sign of the people who have gravitated here from around the world for its beauty, serenity, gentle climate, natural bounty and, perhaps most of all, its light.

“If I chose Uzès, it was mainly for the light… even in winter when it can be cold, the light is beautiful,” said jeweller Bénédikt Aïchelé, and it’s something he knows all about. His jewellery boutique-atelier, tucked in an elegant corner just steps from L’Albiousse, features brilliant gemstones set in gold, platinum or tantalum, an inky black metal Aïchelé sets with black or white diamonds. His chic Bague d’Union ring is sought after across the whole of France after being featured in a French documentary.

Ceramicist Anna Karin Andersson, a native of Gothenburg, Sweden, moved to Paris in the 1990s for a career in fashion. But once she laid eyes on Uzès there was no turning back. “It was my paradise to move here. It’s the light that brings you to the south,” she said. Both the light and the nature surrounding the city inspire the winsome, whisper-thin porcelains she makes by hand in her chic boutique workshop at 9 Rue Port Royal.

Part of Uzès’s singularity lies in the tastefulness of its many art and ceramics galleries and high-end interiors and clothing boutiques. Though you will find some touristy shops on the outskirts, the quality here is unusually high – a rule that also applies to its restaurants.

Pretty old street in Uzès. © Destination Pays d’Uzès- Pont du Gard/ Aurélio RODRIGUEZ

At the town’s only Michelin-star restaurant, La Table d’Uzès at the exquisite nine-room hotel Maison d’Uzès, chef Christophe Ducros serves an elegant five-course menu which highlights local produce in deeply French dishes such as succulent wild pigeon or a superb Saint-Jacques with a tartare of girolle mushrooms, all expertly paired with wines from every region of France. For a more casual, bistronomic experience, Racines, a five-minute walk from the city centre, has my vote. Here, happy diners of every age feast on chef Axel Grousset’s masterful dishes: langoustine rolls with tangy sauce gribiche or divinely garlicky avocado mousse served over a buttery sablé and topped with a cascade of velvety crabmeat.

Gourmands will also want to taste – and stock up on – the wonderful local olive oil, nut oils, tapenades and all manner of delights at Le Moulin d’Uzès, a few minutes by car from the city centre. Foodies may also want to time their visit to Uzès carefully: aim for the third week of January, when the ‘blessing of the truffles’ kicks off the annual truffle auction (also held in church).

In terms of climate, the best time to visit Uzès is in late spring or early autumn, when temperatures are pleasant without being stifling. July and August can be uncomfortably hot, as well as being crowded with tourists, and nearby points of interest, such as the Pont du Gard, the ceramics town of Saint-Quentin-la-Poterie and Plus Beau Village Lussens, can be crowded too.

From France Today magazine

Lead photo credit : Aerial view of Uzès. Shutterstock

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An Insider’s Guide to the Best Things to do in Uzès

By: Author Sophie Nadeau

Posted on Last updated: 6th March 2024

Categories France

Last Updated on 6th March 2024 by Sophie Nadeau

Medieval, delightful, and boasting countless cobbled lanes: the city of Uzès is a must-see on any trip to Southern France. Famed for its Middle Ages Bell Tower and picture perfect market square, visitors can’t go wrong by dedicating at least a few hours to exploring the local area. Here’s your guide to the best things to do in Uzès , as well as what to know before you go.

A history of Uzès

Where is uzès, how long do you need in uzès, place aux herbes, wander around the town, medieval gardens, duke’s castle, uzès cathedral, pont du gard, practical information, where to stay in uzès.

Uzès began life as a fortified Roman oppidum, i.e. town, and was founded as early as the 2nd Century BCE. Directly to the North of the town, there was another settlement by the name of Ucetia, which was all but lost and forgotten to the annals of time and was only rediscovered recently.

From the day 8th-century, town was a bishopric under the Archbishop of Narbonne . During the Middle Ages, the town’s strategic position meant that it was important in the trades of silk, liquorice, and linen. It was at this time that the town’s wealth grew and many medieval buildings can still be spied around Uzès to this day.

One particular curiosity of the town is that there has been a Duke since 1088, when there was the first attestation of f seigneur d’Uzès. There’s still a Duke of the town to this day and, when he is home, a flag is raised to full mast outside of his residence.

The little town of Uzès, population 8500, is located in the department of Gard in Occitania. Located just West to the region of Provence , nearby towns of note include Nîmes (famed for its well-preserved Roman monuments) and Avignon (famed for its crumbling bridge).

The settlement is also situated close to the Pont du Gard, a 1st-Century CE Roman aqueduct that is still almost perfectly preserved to this day. And while Uzès may not technically be in Provence, it retains the ambiance, shuttered houses, and buttery stone architecture that is all too common in the region.

Since the historic centre of Uzès is pretty small and all of the attractions are grouped fairly close to one another, meaning that you can walk between each of them, you only really need an afternoon to discover everything around town.

We personally went for lunch and then spent a couple of others meandering the streets and admiring the historical attractions. I loved all of the little galleries scattered across town and even bought a small oil pastel of the lavender fields to bring home with me as a souvenir!

Best things to do in Uzès

Truth be told, one of the simplest charms of Uzès is to sit in one of the many (albeit it a little touristic) cafés on the central square of Place aux Herbes and watch the world go by. We personally enjoyed a lunch at Les Terroirs – Restaurant Uzès and found that they had several vegetarian and vegan options on the menu.

As well as a historic central fountain, several sides of the square are lined with covered arcades that provide a welcome respite from the hot summer sun. A market is held in the square every Wednesday morning and all day on Saturday.

There are several unique shops on the fringes of the central square, including a rather delightful bookshop by the name of Librairie de la place aux herbes.

Like many towns in rural France, much of the city centre is pedestrianised and you can’t drive a car through the little cobbled lanes. Be sure to wear comfortable footwear and avoid high heels as they don’t mix well with cobblestones.

You can pick up a free map in the tourist office (16 Pl. Albert 1er, 30700 Uzès) which will give you a suggested walking route of the town. Otherwise, simply stroll around and soak up the architectural marvels that the town can reveal to you.

You won’t easily lose track of where you are as there is a large boulevard which loops its way around the historic city centre, making it impossible to easily get lost. Highlights you should be sure to watch out for when wandering around the town include the 18th-century town hall and the old mint (Ancien Hôtel des Monnaies).

Hands down, the best thing to do in Uzès is to head to the medieval gardens, which are accessed via rue Port Royal. The medieval garden is located just below a Benedictine Abbey which dates back to the 10th-century and the garden was actually only created in 2015.

As well as a beautiful garden which is laid out in a medieval style and is best-viewed in the early summer, the grounds are flanked by the 12th century Tour de l’Evèque and the 13th century Tour du Roi.

Tour de l’Evèque was actually used as a prison during the Middle Ages and visitors can still see centuries old grafitti from those who were once incarcerated within its walls. Visitors who climb to the very top of the Tour de Roi will be rewarded with breathtaking views of the town and beyond.

Standing tall and proud over the rest of the city, the Duke’s Castle dates back to early medieval times and has been the seat of the Duke of Uzès since the 11th-century. Comprising of three towers and a Donjon, the interior has been decorated with period furniture. Today, the Duke’s castle can still be visited, though the entrance price is quite hefty.

Uzès principal place of worship can be found in the form of a Cathedral dedicated to Saint Théodorit. For many centuries, Uzès functioned as a Bishopric, under the care of another city. There has been a cathedral on site since 1090, though that which can be seen today was constructed during the 17th-century.

Though not actually located within the confines of Uzès itself, one particular nearby attraction of note mentions a merit in of itself. The Pont du Gard is located around a twenty minute drive from the city and is the top visited Roman monument in France.

The tourist office is housed against the backdrop of the chapel of Capucin Friars, which was built in 1635 on the former site of a Roman place of worship dedicated to Augustus. The best time to visit Uzès is from May until late September, when the weather is at its best and everything is actually open.

Thanks to its laidback nature and beautiful ambiance, Uzès makes for a great place to stay for a couple of nights for those looking to soak up the good life in France. Here are some of the top places to stay in Uzès based on location and web-reviews:

Budget- Hôtel la Taverne: This no-frills hotel with a restaurant and annex offers low-cost accommodation right in the heart of the city. This establishment is also pet friendly. Check prices and availability here.

Mid-range- La Maison Rouge: Boasting a pool and breakfast included, this B&B is located on the fringes of town and is set against the backdrop of a building from the 19th-century. Check prices and availability here.

Luxury- La Maison D’Uzès: For the crème de la crème of a stat in Uzès, you need to look no further than this five-star accommodation. Highlights include a restaurant and bar onsite, as well as rooms and suites feature free WiFi, flat-screen TVs, iPads and minibars. Check prices and availability here.

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Sophie Nadeau loves dogs, books, travel, pizza, and history. A Francophile at heart, she runs solosophie.com when she’s not chasing after the next sunset shot or consuming something sweet. She splits her time between Paris and London and travels as much as she can! Subscribe to Sophie’s YouTube Channel.

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Things to Do in Uzes, France - Uzes Attractions

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• Roman heritages and Chateauneuf du Pape Wine Tour from Avignon

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Top Attractions in Uzes

Other Top Attractions around Uzes

Historical Tours

Cultural Tours

Private sightseeing tours.

Tours & Sightseeing

What travellers are saying.

• Place aux herbes
• La Vallée de l'Eure
• Jardin Médiéval
• Haribo Museum
• Cathédrale Saint-Théodorit
• Le Jardin Des Oules
• Nimes, Uzes & Pont du Gard Small Group Half-Day Tour from Avignon
• Full-Day Private Trip of Saint Tropez from Nice
• Half Day Pont-du-Gard, Uzès, Nîmes Tour from Avignon
• Un Siècle de Roulottes

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Top 11 things to do in and around Uzès

Uzès is a wonderful little town, tucked away in the hills in the south of France, and surrounded by vineyards and nature. Even though it is a small town, it makes the perfect destination since there are so many things to do nearby! Here are the top 11 things to do in and around Uzès:

1. Visit the Pont du Gard:

The Pont du Gard is a 2000-year-old aqueduct that used to carry water from the Pays d’Uzès and Pays de Pont du Gard to the city of Nîmes, which was an important Roman foothold in France hence its earned nickname of the “ Rome française ” (the Rome of France). The Pont du Gard is a UNESCO world heritage site and has been preserved in pristine condition. It hosts many events throughout the year. Get to know more about the Pont du Gard here . Be sure to check their calendar for events!

2. Canoeing under the Pont du Gard:

If you want a new perspective of the Pont du Gard, while lazily paddling along the river Gardon, then this is the perfect activity for you. Drive a few minutes past the Pont du Gard and you will see a few canoe rental companies. The trip along the river is about 8 kilometres and will take you around 90 minutes to do at a lazy pace. But we recommend you pack yourself a picnic and stop somewhere along the river bank to enjoy the food and the scenery. The end point is clearly marked and the rental companies have buses to ferry you back to their parking. Learn more about it here .

3. Visiting Nîmes:

Nîmes – Rome française is just half an hour drive away from Uzès. Nîmes is home to several well preserved architectural marvels from the Roman empire, the most important one being the Arène de Nîmes (the Roman Arena). The arena hosts many concerts and events in Nîmes including a gladiator show! Nîmes is also home to many museums including the newly opened, Musée de la Romanité . Learn more about Nîmes from their official site here .

4. The salt fields of Aigues Mortes:

Aigues Mortes is a commune a fortified Camarguaise city whose impressive medieval walls can be admired from afar. One of the major industries of Aigues Mortes is sel de Camargue ( sea salt of Camargue). Aigues Mortes is home to wonderful salt fields and graceful pink flamingos. You will see piles and piles of salt and the varying colours of the waters (due to its inhabitants the pink shrimp) which all come together to make for a magical place to visit. Find out more about Aigues Mortes here .

5. Guided tour in the legendary 2CV:

Guided Tours in Uzès with Ailleurs et Uzès. Join Florian Stoll, a local guide and Uzès native in exploring the region around Uzès in his Citroën 2CV. Florian speaks German and French and although he claims his English is rusty, he gets on just fine. Learn more about Florian and the tour here .

6. Night markets:

If you do visit Uzès during the summer, as most people do, you’ll be treated to the sights, smells, and sounds of the local night markets. The night markets are usually a feast for all five senses: there’s food, drinks, lights, spices, perfumes, music, and dance! Learn more about the local night markets here and here .

7. Palais des Papes (Popes’ Palace):

The Palais des Papes is one of the marvels of Avignon and acts as a centre for many exhibitions, including an amazing light and sound show. Experience the paintings and the stained glass windows inside the palace and be in awe of the craftsmanship that it took to build such a massive monument. Learn more about the Palais des Papes here .

8. The Duchy of Uzès:

Visit the palace of the Duke of Uzès (in the 1st Duchy of France) and take in the amazing panoramic views. Explore the narrow medieval side streets and fall in love with the many small shops and cafes in town. Take in the medieval architecture while sipping on some wine or some coffee. Or visit the local markets on Wednesdays and Saturdays and be treated to the freshest local produce. Learn more here .

9. Carrières des Lumières:

Carrières de Lumières (Lights Quarries) offers each year, new sounds & lights show to the delight of the general public – not to mention that they are a great place to cool down during the Summer heat. Come and explore the carrières with us here .

10. Grotte de la Salamandre:

Welcome to the land of Crystal Giants, that is how the website for the amazing Grotte de la Salamandre greets you. On your path to  discover Uzès and the surrounding region, la Grotte de la Salamandre is a great addition to your to-do list. See what’s in store for you and prepare your visit with 8 reasons to le Pays d’Uzès .

11. Steam Train of the Cevennes:

Enjoy a fabulous ride in the steam train of Cevennes and let yourself be taken back in time while you enjoy the fabulous views of the Cevennes mountain range! The train takes you through 18 different stations (but don’t worry it does not stop at them all). There are 3 stops at which you can disembark, one of them being the Bambouseraie with its amazing botanical garden and its greenhouse boutique. You can find more information on the train here .

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Storybook-pretty Uzès is renowned for its Renaissance architecture, a reminder of the days when it was an important trading centre – especially for silk, linen and liquorice. But it also has strong Roman links: water was delivered here via the Pont du Gard aqueduct en route to Nîmes, 25km to the southwest.

Leave the planning to a local expert

Experience the real Uzès. Let a local expert handle the planning for you.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

This fortified château belonged to the House of Crussol, who were the dukes of Uzès for over 1000 years until the French Revolution. The building is a…

Cathédrale St-Théodont

Built in 1090 on the site of a Roman temple, Uzès' cathedral was partially destroyed in both the 13th and 16th centuries and stripped during the French…

Musée du Bonbon Haribo

Uzès’ history as a confectionery centre lives on at this Wonka-esque museum, which explores the sweets-making process from the early 20th century through…

Jardin Médiéval

This delightful garden contains a wealth of plants and flowers that served a variety of purposes for their medieval planters: medicinal, nutritional and…

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Get to the heart of Uzès with one of our in-depth, award-winning guidebooks, covering maps, itineraries, and expert guidance.

Shutters & Sunflowers

Travel tips from an english girl in california, in love with provence., uzès, languedoc roussillon, france, travel guide.

WHY GO TO UZES

Its cobbled streets spill out onto elegant squares, shaded by gently worn, shuttered buildings. There are many grand renaissance mansions and other interesting landmarks including its château, cathedral, and its iconic Fenestrelle tower.

One could sit here for hours listening to the soft splutters of the fountain, enjoying a refreshment from one of the many enticing restaurants, becoming immersed in the local bustle. Place-aux-Herbes plays host to carnivals, an annual truffle fare, art & antique fares & exhibitions, and well renowned twice-weekly marchés, the most vibrant in Provence. Smiling locals selling linens, ribbons, baskets, and flowers, cheese makers, olive growers, and an abundance of fresh produce.  

Uzès , has a unique, beguiling atmosphere one which having visited will leave you feeling as if you’ve spent a moment, back in time.

HOW TO GET TO UZES

The nearest international airport is Marseilles (MRS), 120km south with numerous international connections from Paris, London Frankfurt Munich and many other European cities. Several regional European airlines fly into Nîmes (40km south) and Montpellier (80km south).

If driving, Uzès is about 20km west of the A9 autoroute, just 25km south of the major A7/A9 autoroute interchange near Orange.

WHAT TO IN UZÈS

There is much to explore to within the town itself and should you wish to venture further the surrounding area beckons!

THE CHÂTEAU   The château in Uzès, Le Duché d’Uzès, is known by the locals as ‘Le Duchy’ and is where the original ducal family still reside. Tours are available, check for times

THE CATHEDRAL ~ Cathédrale Saint-Théodorit d’Uzès dates from the Middle Ages, it was the former seat of the Bishops of Uzès’

THE FENESTRELLE TOWER  ~Uzès’ most famous landmark, an incredible Rapunzel tower of windows!

THE MEDIEVAL GARDEN   ~ originally part of the castle, it was restored to a medieval garden in 1995, utterly captivating!

PONT DU GARD

A visit to this incredible World UNESCO heritage site  should not be missed. Just 13km east of Uzès on the road towards Avignon, for over 2000 years it has spanned the River Gardon. Built in 50AD as part of the Roman aquaduct of Nimes it was used up until the 6th century. A breathtaking marvel. Watch the video here

OLIVE OIL MILLS As in much of southern Europe, where there are grapes growing often there are olives too! Our favorite is  Le Moulin d’Uzès , normally also available in the Uzès’ market.

WHAT TO DO NEAR UZES

There is a rich Roman heritage in this area of France which is reflected in the many ruins which include amphitheatres and arenas in the local towns especially in:

NIMES   lies 25km south of Uzès and was once the most important city of Roman Gaul, much of which remains in evidence, in particular its arena, one of the best preserved in Europe and still in use today.

ORANGE Founded in 35BC and also abounding in Roman splendor is 50km north east of Uzès. Its stunning stone theatre is still the magical, atmospheric setting for productions today.

AVIGNON  The stunning, medieval, walled city is 40 km away. Most famous for Les Palais des Papes which was the home of the Popes for 100 years and the Pont D’Avignon. A tour of both should not be missed.

CHATEAUNEUF-DU-PAPE    47km north east of Uzès, Chateauneuf-du-Pape is France’s first wine appellation, where the wine for the Popes were cultivated and produced.

MONTPELLIER 80km south west of Uzès, Montpellier is the capital of Languedoc Roussillon, a grand medieval city well worth spending a day exploring.

ST RÉMY DE PROVENCE   55km south east of Uzès, St Rémy-de-Provence is a charming, very Provencal town packed with shops and restaurants, with a fantastic Wednesday Market. Whilst there combine a visit to the perched village of Les Baux de Provence.

LES BAUX DE PROVENCE

60km south east of Uzès and just a fifteen minute drive from St-Rémy-de-Provence is the stunning perched medieval village of Les Baux-de-Provence.

The self-guided audio tour around the château ruins is fascinating and do NOT miss the spectacular video art extravaganza  Carrières de Lumières . Set to music and projected onto the walls of one hundred foot high bauxite caves the art of the Masters is profiled; Van Gough, Michelangelo, Gaugin, each year someone different, it is utterly breathtaking!

THE LUBERON VALLEY

75km south east of Uzès is The Luberon Valley.  A beautiful region resplendent with vineyards, olive groves, abundant fruit trees, and from about mid June, endless fields of fragrant lavender. Watch the video of the Luberon Valley here and then explore it’s timeless perched villages yourself, Lacoste & Menerbes , Gordes, Roussillon & Bonnieux and my favorite,  Lourmarin  not actually perched but quite magical!

Download The Travel Guide for Lourmarin & the Luberon here.

WHERE TO STAY IN UZES

Renting a property  There are many properties available, renting somewhere to stay can provide a tiny snapshot of what it is like to actually live here; having more space to relax and shopping in the local stores and markets to cook at home. Typically it is more expensive to rent in the town center and parking can be problematic but being able to walk to restaurants and the market in my opinion makes it worth it.

If you rent out in the villages you will probably get more space with a garden and a pool. Check out Homeaway and airbnb

LA MAISON DE LA BOURGADE    31 Rue de la Petite Bourgade, 30700 Uzès   Tel: +33 4 66 22 71 10

Location : ~Uzès center, seldom closed, parking available for €7 a night. Price: €100 -€130 per night, breakfast included. Comments: Exquisite but simple rooms, you will be charmed by Elizabeth who opens up her home & her heart to her guests. Stylish and charming a delightful place to stay,

Location: 6 km east of Uzès on D981 leading to Uzès, 2 minutes from the Pont du Gard.  Price: €65 -€260 per night breakfast €15, parking free on site, gourmet restaurant.  Comments: One of our favorites’s. La Begude St Pierre  renovated a few years ago this former 17th century coaching inn offers 4 star luxury in one of its 23 rooms and suites. All rooms are air-conditioned with flat screen TV’s, mini bars and safes. It is worth paying extra for one of the rooms with its own oversized private terrace. The spa services available in your room are highly recommended!

L’ARTEMISE   Chemin de la Lauze, 30700 Uzès Tel: +33 (0)4 66 63 94 14 Location ~ 10 minute walk from center of Uzès Closed: normally closed during winter months Price: from €200 per night  Comments: A 16th century Provencal mas, 8 exquisite suites, decorated with soft Belgian linens & each room with its’ own kitchen facilities. L’Artemise offers a spa and gastronomic restaurant. A luxurious, laid back spot, just a 10 minutes stroll from Uzès, gorgeous!

CLOS DU LETHE   Chemin de la Lauze – 30700 Uzès, Tél : +33 04 66 74 58 3 Location ~ 6km from center of  Uzès  Closed: normally closed during winter months  Price: from €200 – €320 per night check with hotel.  Comments: A sister hotel to L’Atemise, 6km from Uzès. 5 rustic and spacious rooms with sitting areas, IPod docking stations, plasma TVs and espresso machines, most have a terrace or small outdoor area. Like L’Artemise, luxurious & thoughtfully designed within the limestone walls of an ancient building. There is also a gym, a library and a steam room, pretty special!

MAS D’AUGUSTINE   Rue de Ravel, 30580 La Bruguière Tél : +33 (0)4 66 72 71 61 Location ~ 10km from Uzès center. Closed during winter check website Price : from €125 – €160 per night   Comments : Enjoy the fabulous hospitality of this delightful British couple, Jane & Gary in this former silk mill which they lovingly converted. There are five luxurious ensuite rooms, price includes a delicious breakfast. 3 nights a week it is possible to book bistro style suppers from €15 p.p. or great value 3 course  table d’hotes at €45 p.p. inc. wine.

 WHERE TO EAT

RESTAURANT PARENTHESE ~ Uzès center (In L’HOSTELLERIE PROVENCALE ) 1 Rue de la Grande Bourgade, 30700 Uzès   Tel: +33 4 66 22 11 06 Price: €18.00 -€40.00 per person Closed: mid February to early March  Comments: Great restaurant, with delicious, locally sourced ingredients.

LA MAISON D’ UZES ~ Uzès center Contact: 18 Rue du Docteur Blanchard, 30700 Uzès   Tel:+33 4 66 20 07 00 Price: €47.00 -€90.00 set menus. Lunch from noon to 2 pm, Dinner from 7:30 to 9 pm Closed: For Sunday dinner and all day Monday, annual closure – mid February to early March.  Comments : A wonderful Relais Chateaux hotel, with a fabulous restaurant. The lunchtime special menu €25.00, is an incredible bargain but book well in advance as it is hard to secure a reservation in this special spot.

LE ZANELLI  ~ Uzès center Contact: 3 Rue Nicolas Froment, 30700 Uzès   Tel: +33 4 66 03 01 93 Price : Pizzas from €14.00  Comments: Excellent pizza and wide choice of other Italian food. We love sitting on the gorgeous terrace as the sun drops down behind the clay tiled roof tops, reservations are a must!

Comments: Excellent pizzas, ‘feu de bois’ Cosy inside on a winter nights or outside when its warmer where it’s fun to watch the world go by! Also serves excellent steaks and kebabs, reservations essential!

RESTAURANT D’ ENTRAIGUES ~ Uzès, opposite the Fenestrelle Tower Contact: l’Evèché, Place de l’Évêché, 30700 Uzès Tel: +33 4 66 72 05 25 Price: 3 courses about € 38.00 per person.  Comments : A former 15th century mansion, superbly renovated in 2013 into a luxurious but unpretentious hotel & gastro bistro excellent! Closed Weds & Sundays

TEN ~ Uzès center                                                                                                                                                   Contact:   110 place Dampmartin 30700 Uzès  Tel: +33 (0)4 66 22 10 93                                     Price: Mains from about €18.00. Comments: Opened in 2016, by a delightful lady from Devon, England and her charming French husband. An interesting & delicious menu ~ brunch, lunch, tapas & dinner. Dine on the front patio, under the warm curved ceiling inside or in the rear garden patio, lovely!

L’ARTEMISE ~ 10 minute walk from center of Uzès Contact: Chemin de la Lauze, 30700 Uzès    Tel: +33 4 66 63 94 14
 Price : from €55.00 set course menu Closed: during winter months Comments:  A 16th century Provencal Mas with a gastronomic restaurant, wrapped within warm, exposed limestone walls, excellent service

LE TRACTEUR ~10 minute drive from  Uzès Contact :  Boregre neighbourhood, 30700 Arglliers Tel: + 33 04 66 62 17 33 Price: €€€ call  Comments : You need to know how to find this delightful country restaurant, set in old farm buildings but strikingly modern and chic inside. Great food from the local area, menu frequently changing, always getting better and better!

HOSTELLERIE LE CASTELLAS ~ 8km south east of Uzès

Contact: 30 Grand rue – 30 210 Collias Tel: +33 (0) 4 66 22 88 88    Price: 2 or 3 course Lunches €25-35 Dinner Thursday to Monday evening, from €45~120 May to September also on Wednesday evenings. Comments:  A Gastronomic restaurant at this lovely boutique hotel.

Do let me know your own recommendations AND please do contact me if you would like additional help!

Download T The PDF Travel Guide for Uzès here

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Le jardin médiéval d’Uzès et ses tours

UZES , Gard – Patrimoine culturel

Au cœur d’Uzès, un jardin botanique d’inspiration médiévale dans un site historique datant du 12ème siècle. Accueil d’expositions et de concerts. Panorama exceptionnel sur la ville, du haut de la tour du Roi.

Jardin botanique d’inspiration médiévale comptant environ 450 plantes médicinales, tinctoriales, de cueillette, magiques ou condimentaires, dûment étiquetées : noms latin et populaire, origine et biotope, vertus et multiples usages au Moyen-Age. Situé au cœur de la cité ducale d’Uzès, cet herbier vivant apprécié des insectes et oiseaux est niché au coeur d’un riche patrimoine historique datant du 12ème siècle La Tour de l’évêque et la chapelle adjacente possèdent d’exceptionnels graffitis de prisonniers, et la Tour du roi, du haut de ses 100 marches, offre un panorama admirable sur la ville et ses alentours. Les différents bâtiments ont servi de maison d’arrêt jusqu’en 1926. Expositions artistiques et didactiques dans les salles adjacentes aux tours et dans les anciennes cellules pendant toute la période d’ouverture au public. Deux ou trois concerts par an au pied de la Tour du roi. Une tisane rafraîchissante est offerte à la fin de la visite.

Refuge LPO et Eco-acteur de la réserve de biosphère des Gorges du Gardon.

Accueil : Visite guidée soit botanique, soit historique uniquement sur réservation. Groupe de 10 à 40 personnes.

Labels : Qualité Tourisme – Qualité Tourisme Occitanie Sud de France

Langues parlées : Anglais – Français

• Du samedi 30 mars 2024 au dimanche 30 juin 2024
• Du lundi 1 juillet 2024 au samedi 31 août 2024
• Du dimanche 1 septembre 2024 au lundi 30 septembre 2024
• Du mardi 1 octobre 2024 au vendredi 1 novembre 2024
• À partir de 4€ / pour les enfants de 12 ans et + pour les étudiants, rsa, demandeurs d’emploi, personnes handicapées.
• À partir de 7€ /

Moyens de paiement

• Carte bancaire/crédit

Prestations

Equipements

• Salle de projection
• Salle d’animation
• Visites pédagogiques
• Accès Internet Wifi
• Visites guidées
• Ateliers manuels
• Expositions temporaires
• Animation enfants

Allez-y en liO Car ou bus urbains

A moins de 10 mn à pieds de l’arrêt UZÈS – Poste ! Environ 5 min (451 m).

Egalement, , Arrët UZÈS – Stade Louis Pautex à moins de 10 mn, Arrët UZÈS – Le Refuge à moins de 10 mn, Arrët UZÈS – Esplanade à moins de 10 mn, Arrët UZÈS – Mairie Lycée Guyneme à moins de 10 mn, Arrët UZÈS – La Croix des Palmi à moins de 10 mn, Arrët UZÈS – Poste à moins de 10 mn, Arrët UZÈS – Musée du Bonbon à moins de 30 mn, Arrët UZÈS – Collège Jean Louis à moins de 30 mn

Calculateur d’itinéraire

• Nombre de personnes min 10
• Nombre de personnes max 30

Localisation

Le jardin médiéval d’Uzès et ses tours Impasse Port Royal 30700 UZES

Calculez votre itinéraire

04 66 22 38 21

06 74 10 97 06

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• Le Pont du Gard, joyau romain
• Destination romaine

Uzès, Ville d’Art et d’Histoire

• Lussan, plus beau village de France
• Villes et villages
• De la terre à l’assiette
• Les producteurs
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