We visited the remarkable Church of Notre-Dame-de-la-Mer in Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer, a small town about an hour by bus from Arles station. My first impression of this town was truly special—it felt almost dreamlike. I felt as if I were stepping into the legend of the Three Marys, who, according to tradition, landed here 2,000 years ago. Before my visit, I researched the church’s history and learned about the local Provençal poet and Nobel Prize winner, Frédéric Mistral, whose famous poem Mireio is deeply connected to this region. One of the most remarkable artists associated with this town is Vincent van Gogh. While living in Arles, he visited Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer and painted several masterpieces inspired by its unique scenery. The church holds all these incredible stories within its walls. I climbed to the rooftop, where I was rewarded with a breathtaking view of the town and the ocean in the background. If you’re a Christian or a Van Gogh enthusiast, this town is a must-visit. Even for travel bloggers, the experience is truly unforgettable, offering a journey through history, art, and faith.

This beautiful church, built in the 9th and 11th centuries on an old Gallo-Roman sanctuary, replaced an oratory that, according to legend, was erected by the Saints. This site was fortified in order to withstand attacks by the Saracens. Human figures can be seem emerging from the capitals decorated with plant motifs. The crypt (1448) houses Sarah, patron saint of Gypsies, covered with robes and coats. The boat of the Saints Marys is in the left alley of the church. The 4th BC century pagan altar in the crypt is also remarkable. Church of Our Lady of the Sea is the soul of the village. Legend has it that Sara was a young black slave with mysterious origins. She is said to have accompanied Marie Jacobé and Marie Salomé on their arrival in the Camargue. The latter would have been the first to welcome Jesus on European soil, during his journey to Egypt. Saint Sara is thus considered the patron saint of all travelers and itinerants. Today, the festival of Sainte Sara is one of Camargue’s must-see events. Every year, it attracts large numbers of visitors for the procession, mass and festivities. The chapel of Sainte Sara is located in the church of Les Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer. It is an important place of worship and meditation for gypsies and pilgrims. Sainte Sara, also known as Kali sara la noire, has thus become a symbol of Camargue identity. It bears witness to the richness and cultural diversity of this region of southern France. . The town of Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer, is a Mecca for gypsy culture and the festival of Saint Sara each year in May ...

Incredible historic church with inspiring shrines and unique history. The people of the Camargue and the Romani people cherish this place, famous for its statues related to the lore of the Trois Maries and Sainte Sara. Annual festival from May 24-26 honors the statues and saints with Mass, music, and processions to the sea. An amazing place to visit with so much history and heart.

It's definitely recommended to visit the church and go up to the roof. It's really fascinating that you can climb up on the steep roof. Also you have a nice view over the city and if you are really lucky you might also see a few Flamingos.

A really neat seaside village with tremendous atmosphere. Many restaurants and cafes. Quite a lot of Spanish food options which we unfortunately did not get a chance to try.

Beautiful little church that honors the memory of Saints Marie and also Sara, allows you to go up and see all of Saintes Marie de la mer, a really nice place. Inside then there are all the ex votos of past centuries that are remembered in the showcases. The story that encloses the well of baptism inside the church is interesting, which was the only source of fresh water for the whole city in the past.

Climb the bell tower to sit on the roof and admire the surroundings - must do! As well as go down to the crypt to look at St. Sarah

Highly recommend visiting to see the wonder of the flamingos! We saw hundreds of them - an awe-inspiring experience. There are a couple of circular walks recommended along well-maintained paths. Parking is just off the road and entrance was very good value. Use some bug spray and seeing some flamingos!

We came here on a trip and we did the smaller walk from 1 to 10 and back out the exit. We saw loads of wildlife, even a beaver! But the highlight of the show was these beautiful and colourful flamingos. I could have spent days at the park just watching and walking and taking my time but we had just short of 2 hours and we did the short walk comfortably enough. Would recommend to go and see the beautiful wildlife.

Definitely recommend this place, amazing views on beautiful birds, very informative and nice walk. Parking was a bit of a hassle, but there is space for everyone, just may need to walk a little. There is a shorter and a longer way, the short one took about 1,5h, longer one was said to be additional 2h. There were very nice tables and benches to rest, huts and observatories, a lunch area and a gift shop. You should definitely come and visit if you are in the area.

Aside from the car parking issue, which has been mentioned by several reviewers, the park was what you'd imagine it to be: a wildlife sanctuary for birds seeking refuge from harsh winters. Watching the flamingoes take flight was mesmerizing - so much so that we spent a good part of our time there watching the birds in the water. Be prepared to allocate time to wander about at a recreational pace. We had allocated one hour, and barely made it through half of the smaller route. That said, we utterly loved the short time spent and wished we had more time to see the park.

As a birder, it is a bit of a weird experience when you first get there (I visited twice in July). You pay a small entrance fee and the park only opens at 09:00. There a basically two sides to the park. One side that feels a bit like a zoo, with as many tourists as flamingo's, herons and egrets (some at less than a meter), and one side that actually are wetlands with bird hides. Despite the weird first impression, I would definitely recommend a visit if you are a birder. I would go back if I ever visit the area again. When I visited (late July) a lot of migratory waders like (spotted) redshanks, godwits, (marsh) sandpipers and a lot of terns (common, little, whiskered, gull billed) were present. Ebird checklists for the area give a good impression of the birds present in the park.

Amazing place to see birds and especially flamingos from a very short distance, accessible to strollers. Very unpleasant chemical toilets. Kiosk and souvenir shop at exorbitant prices

I have long wished to visit the Camargue to see the Flamingos and other wildlife and the Parc Orthinologie was a fantastic place to experience this. It is handily placed to Arles and well set up for visitors of all ages and abilities. Well worth a visit even when you have to travel half way around the world to get there.

Impressive Roman Amphitheater built around 90 CE when the Flavian dynasty ruled in Rome and Domitian was emperor. Not surprisingly the arena was modelled after the Flavian Amphitheater aka Colloseum in Rome. It could hold 20.000 spectators who would watch brutal gladiator games and fights with wild animals. When the western Roman empire had collapsed in the 5th century CE it became a fortess with four towers of which two survived. In medieval times there were even 200 houses, squares and chapels built inside making it a town within a town Like with other arenas large steel structures are built inside with seating for spectators taking away most of the original atmosphere.

Beautiful, beautiful history. The architectural details are absolutely stunning—I can’t believe this has stood for so many years! It truly takes your breath away. It looks just like the Colosseum in Rome. Timeless, majestic, and unforgettable.

I was fortunate to attend Arles Rice Festival in mid- September and celebrated the Camargue rice harvest. I saw the traditional Provençal bullfight, course camarguaise in the Arles Amphitheatre. It's not Spanish Bullfight so no bulls were killed. The Arles Amphitheatre was fascinating and there are many events in the summer time so you can experience the Arles Amphitheatre.

We were in Arles for a photography festival. The festival was pretty diverse in themes, thus might interest a large number of people. The added bonus is that we were able to see spots as festival locations we would miss if we were to stick to main tourist attractions. Arles is a very old Roman city worth visiting.

Stayed at the local campsite. Very cheap to get into the city. The day we went all the museums were free. The amphitheatre and collusseum were worth the price alone. Beautiful and so easy to access.

Incredible to think this structure has stood for over 2,000 years definitely worth seeing from the outside. Going inside, however, is a bit underwhelming. There isn’t much to look at, and the lack of information or context means your visit will likely be very quick!

Spectacularly intact Roman arena. Well worth visiting and the combination ticket to visit some of the other historical sites was a good value option. Not much in the way of interpretation panels, just a few on the way in, then enjoy the arena

(Translated by Google) During my visit to your store I was the victim of fatphobia (being large) by one of your employees. Having rainy weather I put my umbrella on the side to avoid getting water into your store. When going to the checkout I decide to go and collect it by passing through the small space between the checkout and the queue post which obviously does not have any more to the gentleman in front of the entrance to your North African type store, an elderly man who I think was doing security in front of the entrance. This one asks me why I didn't go all the way around the store to collect my umbrella, I tell him that it wasn't that serious and make him understand that the object was recovered anyway so that he replies with a mocking tone "you had to go around, you have to exercise" It is unacceptable to be welcomed like this, especially in a store of a major brand. I hope this gentleman will get back to you with this message! Unacceptable! (Original) Lors de mon passage dans votre magasin j’ai été victime de grossophobie ( étant forte de corpulence ) par un de vos employés. Ayant un temps pluvieux je dépose mon parapluie sur le côté pour éviter de faire rentré de l’eau dans votre magasin. Lors du passage en caisse je décide d’aller récupérer celui ci en passant dans le petit espace entre la caisse et le poteau de file d’attente qui visiblement n’a pas plus au monsieur devant l’entrée de votre magasin de type maghrébin, âgé qui je pense faisais la sécurité devant l’entrée. Celui ci me demande pourquoi je n’ai pas fait tout le tour du magasin pour aller récupérer mon parapluie, je lui dis que ce n’était pas si grave que ça et lui fais comprendre que l’objet a été récupérer de toute façon pour qu’il me réponde avec un ton moqueur « il fallait faire le tour, faut faire du sport » C’est inadmissible d’être accueillie de la sorte surtout dans un magasin d’une grande marque. J’espère que ce monsieur aura un retour avec ce message ! Inadmissible !

(Translated by Google) When I came to this store I was the victim of fatphobia by the Asian saleswoman who was in the changing room. I kindly asked her to remove the lock so I could try on the shorts that went with the dress. She didn't want to come inside the changing room so I moved. She held up the dress in front of practically the entire store. She then made a hole in the dress. She told me that the shorts wouldn't fit and that I would make a hole in them and that if I make a hole in them I would have to pay for it. I plan to buy this dress and other items. She asked me to take this dress off immediately. I am very unhappy with the reception. Instead of selling items, she denigrates us. Review your employees. (Original) Lors de ma venue dans ce magasin j’ai était victime de grossophobie part la vendeuse de type asiatique qui ce trouvée en cabine je lui est demandée gentiment de m’enlever l’antivol pour essayer le short qui aller avec la robe elle n’a pas voulu venir à l’intérieur de la cabine je me suis donc déplacé elle m’a levée la robe devant pratiquement tout le magasin elle a donc fait un troue dans la robe elle m’a dit que le short mirais pas et que je vais le trouer et que si je le troue je vais le payer je compte acheter cette robe et d’autre article elle ma demander d’enlever dessuite cette robe je suis très mécontente de l’accueil au lieu de vendre des article elle nous dénigre revoyez vos employée

(Translated by Google) The price displayed on the shelf was different from the one at the checkout. After more than 20 minutes of waiting and much insistence, a manager finally intervened to apply the correct price, but with great difficulty, apparently due to a labeling error. The store is not commercial at all: the employees should rethink their salesmanship... or consider another career. A very frustrating experience for a brand like Lacoste. I will not return to this store. The star is only for the items found!! (Original) Prix affiché en rayon différent de celui passé en caisse. Après plus de 20 minutes d’attente et beaucoup d’insistance, un responsable est enfin intervenu pour appliquer le bon tarif mais avec beaucoup de mal apparemment erreur d'étiquetage. Le magasin n’est pas commercial du tout : les employés devraient revoir leur fibre commerciale… ou envisager un autre métier. Une expérience très frustrante pour une enseigne comme Lacoste. Je ne retournerai pas dans ce magasin. L'étoile est juste pour les articles trouvés !!

(Translated by Google) Suggested rating: 0 stars Very negative experience — haughty and disrespectful salesperson I am extremely disappointed with my visit to the Lacoste Outlet in Miramas. I was treated in an unacceptable manner by a salesperson named Kevin. He was: Haughty and contemptuous toward me, Verbally aggressive, without any apology, Arrogant, believing that without a manager, he could get away with speaking ill of me without consequence. His behavior completely ruined my shopping experience, which was not insignificant (over €1,000 in purchases). Atmosphere, professionalism, and respect for the customer are supposed to be paramount in this type of store, and there is nothing like that here. I will not return, even though I am a regular customer, too bad, and I am extremely shocked by the attitude of this salesperson, who has not suffered any consequences. (Original) Note suggérée : 0 étoile Expérience très négative — vendeur hautain et irrespectueu Je suis extrêmement déçue de ma visite au Lacoste Outlet de Miramas. J’y ai été reçue de manière inacceptable par un vendeur nommé Kevin. Il s’est montré : Hautain et méprisant envers moi, Très agressif verbalement, sans aucune excuse, Arrogant, estimant que sans responsable, il pouvait se permettre de mal me parler sans conséquence. Son comportement a totalement gâché mon expérience d’achat qui d ailleurs n était pas négligeable(plus de 1000 euros d achats). L’ambiance, le professionnalisme et le respect du client sont censés primer dans ce type de boutique, et là, il n’y a rien de tel. Je ne reviendrai pas malgré que je suis cliente régulière tampis et je suis extrêmement choquée de l attitude de se vendeur qui reste sans conséquence.

(Translated by Google) We came yesterday to buy several items. My daughter then accompanied my father to the fitting rooms to give him her opinion. As she passed, she bumped into a woman who got angry. My daughter immediately apologized. The woman continued to complain. So I told the woman that my daughter had apologized, what else did she want? And then, the woman in charge of the fitting rooms grabbed me by the shoulders and asked me to leave. I asked her to stop touching me several times. So I went to see the security guard and the store manager, telling them that it was unacceptable for her to engage in this kind of behavior. Fortunately, and a huge thank you to them, I was listened to, and the security guard was extremely kind and considerate... Otherwise, the products and prices are really very attractive. (Original) Nous sommes venus hier acheter plusieurs articles Ma fille a alors accompagné mon père au niveau des cabines d essayage pour lui donner son avis En passant elle a bousculé une dame qui s'est enervee Ma fille s'est immédiatement excusée La dame a continué de raler J'ai donc dit à la dame que ma fille s'était excusé qu'est ce qu'elle voulait d'autre Et la, la dame responsable des cabines d essayage, m a pris par les épaules et m a demandé de sortir Je lui ai demandé d'arrêter de me toucher plusieurs fois Je suis donc allée voir l'agent de sécurité et le responsable du magasin en leur disant qu'il était inadmissible qu elle se permette ce genre de comportement Heureusement et Un immense merci à eux, j ai été écoutée et l agent de sécurité à été extrêmement bienveillant et gentil... Sinon les produits et les prix sont vraiment très intéressants

(Translated by Google) I bought a cardigan and a shirt. The guy didn't fold them, he threw them haphazardly into the bag, and he didn't remove the sensors from the two pairs of socks I bought. Incompetence. I come home and discover this... (Original) J’ai pris un gilet et une chemise. Le mec ne les a pas pliés, il les a balancé en vrac dans le sac, et il n’a pas enlevé les capteurs aux deux paires de chaussettes que j’ai acheté. Incompétence. Je rentre chez moi et je découvre ça…

(Translated by Google) I wanted to thank the two saleswomen who were great with me on Friday July 25th for the purchase of Polo, the same for the cashier 🤝 (Original) Je tenais à remercier les 2 vendeuses qui ont été au top avec moi en ce vendredi 25 juillet pour l'achat de Polo, pareil pour le caissier 🤝

Incredibly well preserved Roman amphitheatre in Nîmes, France. It is just like visiting the Colosseum in Rome but it is far less busy and in considerably better condition-- they even still hold events here! My only regret is not being able to see an event in the arena, as I can only imagine this would be spectacular. In any case it is a very worthwhile sight to see in Nîmes

We ticked off a bucket list item today by visiting the Arena in Nimes and it didn’t disappoint. The history of this incredible structure makes you want to go back in time and just see what life was like. It is bigger and more impressive than we expected. As we left we walked through the gift shop and the lovely Agnes (I so hope I have the name correct) chatted with us and told us some other places to go, she was so lovely and proud of this beautiful area! It isn’t just the Arena, it is the entire area, stunning, surprising and full of history, I am so glad I have experienced it.

Beautiful amphitheatre. Make sure you check that there are no ongoing shows at night because you won't be able to enter unless you buy a ticket! I believe until the 18th of August (2025) there are shows every night, Dream of a Gladiator. It was quite nice, for a not too bad a of a price. The theater has now seating on top of the stone seating so definitely takes a way from the actual look of the amphitheatre. Quite impressive and unexpected!

We were there early November and practically had the place to ourselves. What a treat! The free audio guide is an absolute must. Lots of good info in succinct pieces (not overwhelming). So many extra side exhibits to entertain all ages. Dog friendly, too!

We spent about 3 hours exploring this site. It was the reason we came to Nîmes, and we were not disappointed. The view of the city from the topmost row of seats is beautiful, even if climbing up there was a bit vertigo-inducing! The two small enclosed exhibits on the ground floor were interesting, too.

The interior and exterior are beautiful and crowded with tourists. It is recommended to buy tickets online beforehand so that you do not have to queue for the audio guide. We can download the audio guide by QR code and then listen to it by number.

Built around AD 90–100, about two decades after the Colosseum in Rome, the arena is one of the best-preserved Roman amphitheaters in the world. Constructed as a grand entertainment venue for the citizens of the Roman colony of Nemausus, the structure stands approximately 21 meters tall with a two-tiered facade composed of 60 arches per level, totaling 120 arches in a highly refined architectural design. From the 13th to the 18th century, the arena was transformed into a fortress-like residential quarter, housing over 700 inhabitants. In 1786, the internal dwellings were gradually dismantled to restore the monument’s original form. Originally capable of accommodating around 24,000 spectators, the venue now holds approximately 16,000 people for safety and conservation purposes. Today, the amphitheater serves as a dynamic cultural and entertainment space, hosting traditional bullfights, Camargue-style bull games, the annual Festival de Nîmes, concerts, and historical reenactments. ※ Included in the Pass Romanité.

Commissioned by King Louis XV in 1745, this is one of the oldest public gardens in Europe. It was built around La Fontaine, a natural spring venerated by the people of Nîmes for millennia, and once the heart of a sacred Gallo-Roman sanctuary. Designed by Jacques-Philippe Mareschal and Pierre Dardailhon, the garden harmoniously blends Roman ruins with the aesthetics of a formal French garden. It features a lower section in the classical French formal style and an upper section landscaped in a more natural, Mediterranean style.

A beautiful garden with many walkways, plazas and viewpoints. The stairs and fountains are truly beautiful and there are some amazing panorama views of the city. It is quite a climb to the top though, with many staircases and ramps, so be make sure you bring your walking shoes!

Fabulous park with fountains, gardens, canal with big carp, lots of stairs to climb if you wish for the view. Great way to spend a relaxing hour or two.

This park has so much to offer; from ancient Roman ruins, botanical gardens, 16th century pondages and sculpture features. All to make the visit memorable.

Lovely park for a stroll or a good hike with lots of stairs. Free toilets and a nice café in a stunning setting. Highly recommend 🇨🇦

What a gorgeous garden! We went to Nîmes to visit the amphitheater and we hadn’t planned to visit this garden, what a surprise! If you plan on visiting this city make sure this garden is near the top of your list!

Nice park, take the stairs ti be in shade. Lots of path to explore!

We loved our visit! Such a charming and beautiful village. The soap shop is a must, as well as the church. Would definitely recommend a few hours for a visit. We did it as an excursion on a cruise and had a great time.

We visited around the middle of June and it wasn't overly busy just very active so that was good because there are a lot of tight little walkways which may get cramped in the Summer. There are many quaint little shops that you can visit and purchase stuff from, I purchased some fridge magnets and cicada merchandise which was very popular in this area. We loved our visit here and it has such a beautiful charm and the soap shop where I got my magnet from, in the middle is a must see! So interesting as well as the sardine shop at the top, we spent around 2 hours here and managed to fit everything in.

Great visit! Well worth the discounted 9€ per person tickets for visitors over 60. Amazing views over the local area and a really interesting site history. It’ll take about 1-2 hours to walk around the site (although some high bits are a bit scary and not for those scared of heights!)

This is an old medieval castle with a small town around it (like a smaller version of Carcassonne). There are tourist shops selling the typical wares and some restaurants (which we did not eat at). Parking around there in a Sunday was very difficult and it was not possible to find a handicapped space. The whole area is cobblestone, so terrible for anyone using a walker or wheelchair. There's a nice view at the top.

Quite the stunning location! Worth the detour to see the village and the castle. However be warned parking during the summer is very hard and get ready for a steep walk and many steps! During the summer can get very hot so bring water

A bit touristy, but worth the visit for sure. Great hilltop medieval village and fortress with a remarkable history. Simple but lovely church to visit. The castle and fortress ruins at the top are a great place to survey the whole countryside. There is a video presentation within the castle that gives a comprehensive and interesting history of town — worth the admission price. Advise early arrival to ensure parking if it is the high season.

Fantastic!! Could be "dangerous" for some that want to venture to the top of the castle/fortress. WEAR GOOD SHOES (i.e tennis shoes/trainers or hiking boots! Extremely steep.and uneven surfaces. Absolutely worth the vist!!!! The views are STUNNING!!!!! Also, GO EARLY! to avoid the crowds!!

A magical immersive art experience inside a former quarry! The projections are stunning, the music perfectly matches the visuals, and the atmosphere is breathtaking. Easy parking, smooth organization, and enjoyable for all ages. Absolutely a must-visit in Provence!

We've seen the Van Gogh exhibition in St Petersburg and Klimpt in Phoenix. This exhibit outdors Klimpt by light years and is better than Van Gogh. Seating is limited but the space is gigantic in comparison. totally amazing!

One of the most unique experiences we had! Combination of space, art and technology is sublime, you can't help it but stand in awe for stories unfolded all around you. We visited Monet / Rousseau show and it was amazing 😁 Parking is a bit tricky, there are many places to park but there are also many visitors so you might lose some time finding parking spot. Also, explore area, there are amazing spots!

Amazing experience with the light display and the music. Why not 5 stars? Two reason traffic and finding a place to park is very hard. Recommend coming early or late evening. 2nd, I feel the show could have done with a bit of commentary to set the scene to help engagement for the children.

A must go to if you’re around this way, inside this quarry such an amazing feat, we had a couple of art displays from Monet and Rousseau in about an hour show, nearly as interesting as the lumieres show in Bordeaux at the submarine bunker I love the way they do this here in France the locations are fantastic

It is not as nice as people can think. But it is well executed, unique and absolutely worth a visit. Plus you are next to the "baux de Provence" so you can combine the visit. It is nice with children even of young age as they are free to move.

Absolutely amazing. The wall were alive with famous paintings that were constantly changing. With the use of visual effects and backed up by sound throughout, I was totally submerged into the whole experience.

Very nice and calm place. Highly maintained. Great for both adults and children. Took us around two hours of walking. The pigs and the dragon parts are the best. A very nice place for those who seek calmness and a great sort-of-nature unique experience. Fair prices (especially for families).

Educational and interesting. Never knew there were so many variables of bamboo. We enjoyed a picnic in one of the beautiful garden.

Lovely gardens to walk around. Beautiful and the zen garden is so relaxing. Lovely ponds, well looked after. The sun shining helped.

What a surprise to see a bamboo forest in France! It’s a great park where you can both have fun and relax within the tropical plants and bamboos. You can know more about these plants, enjoy the Japanese garden, and even buy different trees and flowers as well as things made of bamboo. Definitely it’s a good spot both for adults and kids. There are also some animals to observe. So, I would recommend for sure.

The gardens are beautiful, spent just over an hour walking around but it was enough to see everything. We were in Japan earlier in the year and saw the Bamboo Forest there but this was just as good and far less crowded! Definitely worth doing if in the area.

Simply beautiful and very interesting! Dogs are allowed and a there are a few playgrounds for kids.

An excellent place to visit. Very relaxing, beautiful and like you have travelled to Asian counties like Laos and Japan. However, it is better to buy online the tickets as there's a long queue at the counter just to buy entrance tickets. It's difficult to park though when it's peak season.

Roman aqueduct, crossing the Gard river. Spectacular and within a beautiful natural setting. Possibility to cross the bridge and enjoy beaches and several points of view. Plenty of easy trecks around the monument.

Our visit to the Pont du Gard on October 8 was absolutely unforgettable. I went there with my friends and together we walked the peaceful paths leading down to the river, surrounded by the golden warmth of the southern French autumn. Before we even reached the bridge, we stumbled upon several strawberry trees— not real strawberries, but Arbutus unedo, also called the strawberry tree. Their fruit looked almost too bright to be real — tiny red, textured berries with a surprisingly sweet and tangy flavor. They turned out to be a wonderful surprise ,something unique and truly delicious. Then, turning a corner, the magnificent Roman aqueduct unfolded before us. The Pont du Gard rises from the landscape like a vision — three tiers of stone arches reflecting perfectly in the clear waters of the Gardon River.Nearly 2,000 years old, it served as part of an aqueduct that once carried water to ancient Nîmes. Even today, it feels alive with history — a triumph of precision and beauty. We spent the afternoon walking along the riverbank, taking in the symmetry, the soft rustle of leaves, and the warmth of the sun against the limestone. It’s the kind of place that makes you pause and breathe, reminding you how enduring human creation can be when shaped with purpose. In short:A day filled with history, nature, and quiet wonder — shared with good company and bright red strawberry tree fruit as an unexpected delight. Must-see rating:🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 Visited:October 8 Highlights:Ancient Roman engineering, peaceful riverside walks, and the discovery of the strawberry tree fruit — sweet, wild, and unforgettable.

So much grander than I expected! An incredible feat of engineering from a time before electricity, gas, or diesel power! Thisbis monument to time, craftsmanship and ingenuity. Leave it to the Roman's to leave me impressed. A MUST SEE destination in France.

The Pont du Gard is a towering three-tiered aqueduct bridge built by the Romans in the 1st century AD. Interesting facts we found out about the bridge: • It was built without mortar: the roughly 50,400 tonnes of limestone were cut and fitted so precisely that the blocks hold by gravity and friction alone. • The aqueduct channel that the bridge is part of drops only about 12.6 m over 50 km (~1 in 4,000 gradient) — extremely slight for such a long distance. • Many stonemasons left their marks on the stones: more than 320 “compagnon” marks have been found on the monument, some from as early as 1611. • Over its history the bridge served various roles: after its time as a water aqueduct it became a toll bridge, and later, in the 18th century, a road bridge was built alongside it. • It survived major floods in modern times (1958, 1998 and 2002) which tested its structure — impressive given its age. Getting there & timing: • Located near Vers-Pont-du-Gard in Occitanie, about 20 km from Nîmes. • The site opens around 09:00. Hours vary by season; check official site for current times. • Allow 1.5 to 3 hours, or a full day if you include walks, river time and the museum. What to do & best spots: • Walk across the lower level to appreciate the arches up close and the river beneath. • Visit the on-site museum: interactive exhibits, scale models, virtual reconstructions — good for history context. • Swim or relax by the river banks — the scenery and setting are excellent for a rest, especially in warmer months. • For photography: early morning or late afternoon gives good light through the arches and fewer crowds. Tips & practical advice: • Parking is paid and you should check whether parking closes at a certain time (especially after dark). • During high season it may be busier; consider visiting in shoulder season for a calmer experience. • Wear sturdy walking shoes if you plan any of the walking trails around the site. • If you want to access the third (top) level of the aqueduct bridge, this requires a guided tour — check availability in advance. • Bring swimwear/towel if you plan to enjoy the river; also sun protection.

It’s hard to imagine something so magnificent and strong is two thousand years old and still standing. The bridge and the surrounding parks and land provided a wonderful place to spend a lovely afternoon enjoying the sun, the outdoors, and understand more about the long history of la République.

Le Pont du Gard is an icon from days gone by from the Roman era. It’s been on my bucket list for years to see. I like it because it represents the great engineering skills that people with little technology could use to build something that will stand through the ages. The site is well setup to handle tourists coming to look at the aquaduct, and the, later built, viaduct. Tourist offices are situated on each side of the river, and one of them has a museum/exposition/cinema/gift shop/ complex. And, walking tours are conducted to the bridge. A good visit. I arrived here on a bus shuttle from Avignon. I hear there is also a shuttle from Nimes, France. Recommended for those interested in area history, architecture, and Roman life.

Such a cute lake—perfect for family fun! The atmosphere is peaceful and great for a day out with the kids. It could definitely use more shade and seating, though. A little more comfort would make this spot absolutely perfect!

An interesting, if slightly disappointing, point of interest. The structure is amazing. A palace and fortress, it commands your attention. However, the interior is sterile. No furniture, tapestries, or frescoes. Only a couple chambers with faded wall coloration. Without the current art exhibition it would be largely colorless. The tour is also relatively short. There must be large sections not accessible to the public. The garden is neat and well cared for, but small. With all this in mind, it is still worth visiting for its historical significance and the architecture. Note: the iPad guidance is quite good. Take time to read the information boards placed throughout the tour. Get tickets in advance online for a timed entry.

Everything is massive in this fortress and palace at the same time that was built in two stages. The Old Palace (1335–1342) built by Pope Benedict XII and the New Palace (1342–1352) Pope Clement VI, the Magnificent. It's one of the largest medieval gothic buildings in Europe. Seven successive French popes resided here between 1309 and 1377, fleeing the political turmoil and insecurity in Rome, When you enter you get a Histopad which is a handy tablet which you can use to navigate through the building. A nice feature is the historic overlay that you activate by scanning a logos in the different rooms. The overlay then shows the situation as it would be in 1352, the year of completion of the palace and the Papal Conclave and Election of Innocent VI after Pope Clement VI died. The rather dull interiors are brightend a bit by modern art. The garden is small and really not worth the extra money you hsve to pay to visit it. It took me two hours to see all the rooms and climb up to the ramparts to get a view of the surrounding area. Oh, and the taste in the 14th century is different from today. Roasted peacock anyone? And a glass of Chateau-Neuf-du-Pape ?

A disrespectful use of this unique historic monument, reduced to a playground for some contemporary artist. The two stars go for the historic significance of this monument and the indeed impressive structure. Unfortunately, it seemed to us that the team assigned with managing this monument was decided to cut any ties to what they must have considered to be embarrassing art from the era when the Palais was at its finest: they basically degraded the Palais des Papes to an exhibition center of contemporary artist Jean-Michel Othoniel. Fact is that none of the visitors went to “Palace of the Popes” to see some modern art exhibition. Instead of investing the money to maintain the rooms and gardens, they managed to destroy the experience. You can’t possibly feel the vibe of the place while constantly being distracted, intruded and violated by some pieces of art, which are basically in the wrong place. The tour is a bit chaotic but we got it sorted out by asking the helpful personnel. The tablets - initially I thought a good idea - turned out to be a semi-functioning annoyance (have to carry it around, too heavy to sit on the neck). I would rather enjoy the monument by “breathing it in”, look at it in awe, not keep scrolling on a tablet. Most signs with explanations were in French. If someone does not appreciate the Christian history, the religious art of that time or might even be embarrassed by all of those uncool people of that period, they probably shouldn’t be involved with managing this site. Let them run a modern art gallery: I would gladly visit it. But just as when I go to the MOMA I don’t expect it to be full of medieval religious art, when I go to the Palace of the Popes I probably don’t expect it to be full of modern art. This here is unworthy: Show some respect to the history and significance of this place and the people who created it. This is not just another playground. Please!

Fascinating collection of buildings in Avignon detailing the time of the 'Avignon Popes' in France. I found the Histopad guide wasn't particularly helpful, but the rest of the displays were great. Interesting artwork integrated throughout. The gardens were especially nice.

Very interesting. So much better than the crazy tourist traffic and the hundreds of tour groups you have to wade through to see the Sistine Chapel. Low fees, no lines, very little crowding, and amazing history. Definitely a not to miss site. We visited the palace, gardens and bridge.

Particularly impressive. The exhibition was interesting alongside the impressive building. You get a tablet with explanations in adapted language and there are explanations. The signage inside the buildings was a bit problematic and sometimes the tablet got stuck and didn't work well, but overall it was lovely.

Magnificent structure. Steeped in history. There is information in every room. You also get a tablet to read about whatever room your in. Would recommend everyone to visit. The garden are quite small but interesting.

To be honest I cannot say I liked it! Lots of people, they check your bags. The same way to go to the gardens but when we bought tickets no one told us the gardens are closed for 2 years already. They have toilet in the corner. Views much better from the castle. Maybe 🤔 from another side of the river view much better.

You're telling me I have to pay to walk on a bridge that doesn't even go the full way across the river it is built on? Do you know how many bridges I have crossed--for free--that DO fully cross their respective river? EVERY OTHER BRIDGE I HAVE EVER CROSSED. It does offer a nice view of the city, at least.

Lovely remains of a bridge on which you can walk and learn about it, the Rhone, and the Avignon Popes -- proceed included in your ticket for the Palais des Papes.

Definitely worth a visit! The entrance is only €5, and although the audio guide can be a bit confusing at times, the visit is still very worthwhile. The video about the reconstruction is especially interesting and clearly explained. In short: a small price for a rich and unique experience!

Currently have a cool art installation in addition to the ancient partial bridge. Watch your steps! Coming down some stairs , I landed wrong and pulled something in my hip/glute; still uncomfortable after almost a week.

The Bridge in the Nowhere — because, well, it’s not exactly taking you anywhere anymore! But that’s part of the charm of the Pont Saint-Bénézet, a historic bridge in Avignon that stands proudly as a symbol of the city, even though it no longer spans the Rhône River entirely. Fun Facts: • The bridge originally had 22 arches, but now only four remain. The missing arches were destroyed over time due to floods and natural wear. • Saint Bénézet, after whom the bridge is named, was a shepherd who, according to legend, was told by God to build the bridge. He supposedly carried a large stone across the river by himself to prove his divine mission. • The bridge is also famously featured in the popular French song “Sur le Pont d’Avignon,” which has made it internationally recognizable. This beautiful structure is a marvelous sight, offering a peaceful stroll across the remaining arches. The view of the Rhône River and the surrounding city is stunning, and the serene walk gives you a sense of stepping back in time. You can almost imagine how it must have felt centuries ago when the bridge was a vital crossing point connecting the north and south of the river. As for the history, the Pont Saint-Bénézet dates back to the 12th century and was a critical part of medieval trade routes. Over time, however, it fell victim to both natural disasters and warfare, leaving only a few of its arches still standing. Despite the passage of time, the bridge remains a powerful reminder of the city’s medieval significance and the ingenuity of its builders. Admission is €5 for adults, and it’s free for those under 18. For visitors over 64, there is a discounted rate — €4.

Good day outing activity. One bridge and chapel in the middle with historic importance to avignion. You need to buy the ticket the price doesn't justify it . However beautiful on a sunny day out . If you have a plan to go to palace de Pope which you should do ....they will seel combo tickets where you will find tickets couple of euros cheaper . Give yourself 3 hours for descent exploration for both attractions. Do not each musesls and french fries from any of the shops nearby . It's all pre cooked and served cold . We wasted money in 2 different occasions. Do good research and enjoy lunch . Book in advance as place is very popular.

The market is extremely large. I’d say it’s too large. Super crowded. Very hard to find parking if you don’t get there early enough. Many multiples of stalls and lots of Knick knacks. Other markets in the area are more manageable and have the same stuff. Visiting the town on a non market day lets you see the real beauty of the town. Show up early or late (after 1pm) and parking and visiting becomes more manageable.

Such a lovely town. Stayed Sept 25, picturesque with a fabulous Sunday market which is heaving! Great choice of restaurants, bars & shops to mooch about in.

Larger market winding through town and along canals. Lovely. Lots of food, cheese, bread, clothing, antiques. Town itself is very nice.

A very charming place. To find parking, it's best to arrive by 9:30.

Very busy lunch time during summer time ..lots of cafes don't take card so make sure you have cash in hand. There are cafes around fountain in the middle . Waiting time is Long ,but the problem is pegion and water in the fountain stinks .Lots of shops and cafes nearby .... beautiful town with lots of tourist . Shops are way too expensive ,you go to small towns like caroentras you get the same items for the half of price . Good for a half day out .

Awesome!!! We went to the market in October and it rained the whole time but it was so worth it to still be out and about! Great market with lots of amazing things to buy- very friendly people

Huge market! After scrambling to find parking (hint: get there early), didn’t know where to start. So many options and side streets. This market spreads all over the town. Have never seen anything like it.

A monastery turned theme park 🧘‍♂️📱🚍 I love monasteries — wandering through their cool stone chambers, admiring the architecture, and imagining the rhythm of monastic life. Sadly, Abbaye Notre-Dame offers none of that peaceful reflection. Yes, the building is beautiful, no question. But any sense of tranquility is completely ruined by the wave of tourist buses (I counted five in the short time I was there). It’s loud, it’s crowded, and it feels more like a cruise ship excursion stop than a sacred site. And the parking lot is a mess with the busses trying to squeeze through this one-car-wide lane. And then there’s the AR tablet they hand you. Sure, it’s technically impressive, but do I really want to fumble with a glowing screen in a centuries-old monastery? Absolutely not. Everyone is walking through this beautiful building while their eyes are glued to the tablet. A small booklet would be way nicer and you can take it with you at the end. If you’re looking for serenity, history, and a true monastic experience — this isn’t it. Skip the hype and find a quieter gem instead.

Nestled in the heart of the South of France, a truly enchanting experience awaits at this picturesque lavender farm, crowned by a charming European church. It's a scene straight out of a postcard, promising unforgettable memories. Reaching this idyllic spot requires a bit of an adventure; the roads leading here can be quite narrow, making a skillful driver or an organized tour highly recommended for a smooth journey. The closest and equally stunning town to this gem is Gordes. If you're planning a visit in June, be prepared for the warmth, as temperatures can soar above 35 c. Dressing lightly and staying hydrated will ensure your comfort. Upon arrival, please note that parking is located a short distance from the church, requiring a pleasant 10-minute stroll through the beautiful surroundings to reach the main attraction.

Category: Attraction. If you are a monk looking for a new home in a beautiful valley that smells good, or a monk wannabe, or if you are a minimalist, or an ascetic, I highly recommend you check out this active monastery. You will find that it offers everything you want, which is, of course, nothing. Although this incredible Romanesque structure seems huge, it has housed — on average — only about 30 monks at any one time over the past 900 years (take the tour to learn how they figured this out). When we visited, the TMP (Total Monk Population) was five. Yes, five, which is why I started this review with a shout out to anyone who may be craving the monastic lifestyle. But confirmed lovers of materialism — like us — are welcome as well (for a visit), will surely learn something during the tour, and will appreciate how lucky they are to have all of their things, especially heat and air conditioning. You will learn about the monks’ daily routine, the primacy of prayer and work, their ascetic lifestyle, the monastery’s spartan architecture and ornamentation, and the things monks make and sell to keep gruel on the table, including lavender products, which is why the valley smells so good. YouTube’s Chef’s Apprentice

Gorgeous abbey set against hills in the back. Definitely much more striking when the lavendars are blooming which is sometime in July. They have fields all around it so it's really beautiful. Be careful to check hours, it's closed for mass during the day at certain hours. Nice shop also with lots of nice books on the second floor and locally produced products on the first level. Very pricy thou...!!

I was there without the added emotion of the lavander fields. However the abbey is beautiful and the virtual guide is well designed and does a good job in taking you around. The shop is a little bit pricey, but offers a mix of interesting products.

An 12th century mediaeval monastery which produces many items,including lavender products. The ministry sits in a lavender field, unfortunately we were there to early, but still nice to see.

What a great cultured experience. The best thing about the visit was the HistoPad! Making it easy to imagine the monastery back in its day. Never done a tour this way, so interesting, you really are immersed.

Genial. Must see and swim in this natural bathtub!

What a beautiful little place in the middle of the nature?m! Loved it!

Nice little waterfalls… you can cool down in the rivier a little but the rocks are slippery. There is a parking spot, payment method is confusing as it says no cash only CB but it accepts only visa or master card (no maestro debit).. we ended up paying with coins (?!) which seemed to be still accepted

We've passed yesterday through La Roque sur Ceze and the landscape is beautiful: waterfalls, vineyards.... We didn't have enough time to visit the city, but we'll be coming back soon. Just didn't find a lot of options to eat on the way. And be careful with the narrow bridge to cross when entering the town.

Stunning place. Great for swimming and walking. Perfect day out

Most beautiful! Path uneven,consider drinking beer to be careful and pay many attention to the edge, to not fall over and wear plenty of shoes.

Amazing place, but too far with children, its better to go with out a buggy.

Absolutely amazing that this theatre is still standing and so well preserved through history. We loved the audio guide that we could listen to in English and learn more about the history. A must to visit if you are in the area.

Historical & Epic Roman Theater This is one of the best preserved Roman Theaters in Europe. It is 2000 years old, incredible when you see it. They actually still use it for plays, which I find amazing that this theater still serves its original purpose. Highly recommended visit.

Absolutely beautiful! Staff are fantastic and offer audio, visual and virtual reality tour! We bought our own picnic with us as it's allowed! With the tickets you can visit the history museum accross the road for free!

The Théâtre antique d’Orange is one of the best-preserved Roman theatres in the world, built during the reign of Emperor Augustus in the 1st century AD. Located in the town of Orange, Provence, it once seated around 9,000 spectators and served as a center of Roman cultural life. Open year-round with a museum and panoramic views from the upper terraces. Best visited in the morning light for photography or during an evening performance for an unforgettable acoustic experience. *Hidden Details* The Emperor’s Presence: The central niche behind the stage once held a 12-meter statue of Emperor Augustus — not a replica, but a visual reminder that Roman theatre was as much about imperial propaganda as art. A smaller original head fragment is displayed in the site museum. “Echo Wall” Engineering: The stage wall’s limestone blocks were fitted without mortar, creating a natural resonance chamber. Actors didn’t need to shout — the curved design amplified voices perfectly, even to the top seats. Secret Backstage World: Beneath and behind the stage lay corridors, pulley shafts, and trapdoors for stage effects — early Roman “stage machinery.” You can still trace parts of these backstage systems during guided tours. Medieval Reuse: After Rome’s fall, the theatre became a fortress, then a refuge for townspeople during wars. Some homes were literally built into the stands until Napoleon ordered restoration in the 1800s. Ancient Graffiti: On the upper tiers, faint Latin inscriptions and marks made by stonecutters are still visible — craftsmen signed their work or marked seating areas for different social ranks. Acoustic Sweet Spot: Guides often demonstrate that a whisper from the center of the orchestra floor carries clearly to the highest rows — a perfect spot to test Roman sound mastery. Modern Revival: The Chorégies d’Orange festival, revived in 1869, continues the Roman tradition of open-air performances. Modern productions still use the original wall as a natural stage backdrop, with no need for amplification.

What a beautiful place to have a live concert. Also great history. Lots of children on day camp trips, but still not too long of lines. It is very hot in June, but if you tick to the caves where there are many educational exhibits, then it is bearable. I went over a decade ago, and today experience was much nicer. The VR concert experience was a hit with the family.

An excellent example of Roman Ampitheatre architecture still standing today in such excellent condition. The shear size of it is amazing.

Well worth a visit. Astonishingly well kept and still being used today for events, 2,050 years after being built. The tour is excellent.

Beautiful place to drive by car, motorcycle and cycle. Very hilly - and worth it. Many stops with beautiful views to sit and enjoy.

Aug 23 What's this, I don't do five stars... This place of outstanding natural beauty has to be an exception. Extraordinary landscape seen largely from a (challenging) road. Don't miss it! The only minus is the hard sell everywhere on lavender. An unexpected plus the local liqueur made from chestnuts and served with white wine. Don't try this at home, but definitely worth a try on a hot summer day at a cafe overlooking the Ardeche.

Beautiful place. It was hard to find parking space but it was worth the struggle. We hiked the "Boucle de Gorges de l'Ardèche" and i really recommend the hike. It took us about 3 hours and the hike goes in a circle passing both parkings. I don't recommend it if you have any troubles walking but otherwise it should be fine.

A stunningly beautiful area of France to visit. Amazing views along the road above and equally great views canoeing down below on the river. The road also is an excellent place for a bike ride if you like hills. (Though probably best to avoid in summer and start your ride early, it gets hot!)

Lovely area. Some of the walking trials have fallen down trees over the path. In one particular area it appears to have significant storm damage and the path has been washed away and a bit of due diligence is needed at this point of the walk. Came across and hand full of walkers but generally a very quiet pleasant walk. Can be difficult is some areas, ensure you have plenty of fluids for this walk and substantial snacks to see you through. Moderate to difficult in ability

Amazing scenery Certainly one of the best sightseeing attractions in southern France. A river meandering through huge rock formations, partly exposed, partly covered in lush green vegetation. Rent a kayak and explore the canyon, hike through the canyon or just drive around and enjoy the scenery. Definitely worth a visit.

The south of France is one of the most beautiful natural regions in France i have had to pleasure to visit. Spectacular views and culture. Excellent food & wines from Rhone river valley.

Amazing place! Friendly and attentive personnel. Well structured and of a good quality audio guide. The drawings on the walls are very well done and storytelling. With a good weather we could also enjoy the open air animation with the Indian houses and their life attributes. And the panoramic video about the history of life attributes the Earth was breathtaking! I really recommend this place for visiting!

Amazing reconstruction of an amazing discovery. Mind blowing story and fantastic representation with an Underground accessible experience. A true wonder of the world. The cafe was delicious and gourmet and the food was so beautiful and made with pride. Delicious!

Really interesting and magnificently presented facsimile of some of the earliest human art - that is to say, cave paintings from more than 20,000 years ago (you can’t visit the original for obvious reasons). The headsets for the main cave are available in several languages, then the additional areas provide interesting background information.

Absolutely worth a visit!!! Great museum, displays & animation. Detailed replica of the oldest known to man unique caves discovered in 1994.

Very interesting and impressive. Also mz kids liked it. I can recommend the place.

A fantastic and interactive experience, great for kids and adults to experience life 38,000 years ago and a great explanation of the fascinating science they used to date & discover the original site. The reconstruction of the cave is truly impressive. Everything is accessible for wheelchair user. The displays are all in French and English and the food in restaurant is excellent and good value for money.

Just perfect! Absolutely peerless copy of Chauvet - you feel you are there. The tour is great - thought provoking and wild! It is SO worth the entrance fee - we were blown away!!

Stunning place to cycle to and be apart of history. Of course you can enjoy the views from the top not only bike bike but be respectful for the riders to your journey to the top

Spectacular Provence 🇨🇵 giant. Respect for all the bicycle 🚲 heroes ( not the electric 💡 ones) 🫶🏼🙏🏼😎🙂😁

One of the visual landmarks that watch over Provence. For cycling enthusiasts, climbing to the top is a once-in-a-lifetime goal. For those with sporty inclinations, the ascent can be approached both on foot (there are marked routes) and by bicycle. This time, we went up by car starting from Malaucenne. Numerous cyclists on the road, of all ages, to whom drivers must be cautious and offer them the necessary courtesy in traffic. I was impressed by several mountain running enthusiasts I met along the way. The scenery is superb, especially in the alpine hollow area, where the view is absolutely gorgeous at 360 degrees. Pay attention to the weather because, at the top, weather conditions can change radically in a few minutes. Even though it was hot down in the valley (34-36 C), up on the peak, it was only 20-21, and the cold wind was blowing hard. Have a jacket ready, too. Don't forget your supplies as upstairs there is only a souvenir shop and a small bar with a relatively limited offer. Even if you only have one day to visit Provence, if the weather is excellent and the sky is clear, I recommend starting the day with the ascent of Mont Ventoux and then checking off a few other unmissable places: Gordes, Roussilo on, Abbaye de Sennanque, Chateaxuneuf du Pape , Avignon.

You can’t help but feel it’s a cyclists mountain and large amounts of guilt plus ‘hats off’ to all cyclists who make it to the top. Don’t forget a nod to Tom Simpson’s monument near the top. Do read ‘Put me back on my bike’ by William Fotheringhay about his life.

Epic!!! Great climb. The best. Did all three sides. Bedoin Sault Malauscene. Awesome downhills too.

Wow! Busier than expected as there in Mid September, but the weather was good, so maybe not surprising.

Beautiful drive up and great views. We walked along the sheep paths at the top for a km and got great pictures.

Nice flow through the park. Super clean. Mostly indoors and a lovely children's outdoor play area towards the end. Gift store is also lovely but very very expensive.

Perfect day out! We went with no expectations, even in our 20s we had such a blast. So many animals to see, it was a beautiful, well designed layout that kept us entertained for almost two hours. The animals look well taken care of, we had a lot of fun in particular trying to spot/count as many pythons as we could. We loved it so much we told our parents to reroute so they could come see it too (and they also loved it!). We’d honestly go again if we’re ever back in the area.

Great activity with the kids This is a great place to come too with the family. We always stop in the Ferme des Crocodiles. They have many animals and they really seem to take good care of them. It is a great day out. The animals are in a nice habitats. The people who work here know a lot about them and seem quite eager to help & answer the kids questions which is really nice. The price seemed pretty fair to us. No issue there we stayed quite a few hours. Highly recommended!

Very interesting for children. There are multiple playgrounds inside, too. It is a great visit. The only thing I would take care of is the vending machine that took our money twice without giving is the water we needed in the very hot weather.

A really cool and fun day out. There are A LOT of animals in nice habitats. The staff is open to question and seem to know a fair bit. The entrance price is a bit high but the care for these animals is expensive and in total we stayed 3,5 hours so it was totally worth it.

It’s a wow place for sure. It starts with a small room with a few of animals. I thought that it would be the same but when you open the second door you are in a tropical forest! It’s so impressive. There are more than 350 crocodiles, many birds, snakes, turtles. The staff conduct small performances feeding animals and explaining interesting moments about reptiles and birds. There are a lot of exotic species and plants including coffee and cocoa! It’s pretty expensive- 19 euros per person - but it’s worth it for sure.

Awesome and thorough park for crocodiles , turtles and other animals! It’s tricky in hot weather though - the frost third of the park is pretty stuffy and humid (naturally for the animals) but could use better ventilation or some fans for the humans. I had to leave my family early because it made me nauseous :( The main attractions really only start about 1/3-1/2 way through the visit so you kind of need to push through the beginning quickly. The playground area by the restaurant was cool and there were a few decent options for food. A lot of junk though (cookies, donuts, candy, etc) so it’s better to pack a picnic for smaller kids. Otherwise it was a great outing for our mixed group with kids ranging from 2-16.

Epic & Historical Castle This is a beautiful Medieval Castle like you can only find in France. The city looks tiny but then you realize they have this marvellous, incredible castle. The visit is highly recommended, this is a magical place. You definitely will not regret it.

Lovely and beautiful place to visit and learn about the history and role of such a prominent building!

Beautiful castle with interesting story. If you go on a Tuesday, plan to spend extra time at the market below the castle

Beautiful castle, impressive views. For lunch, it's best to go to one of the restaurants nearby, not the café in the castle garden, unless just for a snack.

A post-revolution rebuild chateau with dito Furniture and art. Nice to visit in the morning and end with a lunch downtown. Although very nice to visit, i think they should be able to expand the number of rooms and exhibition.

Absolutely wonderful worth a visit, rooms well preserved, giving a good peak of life at the chateau. Also Grignan is a beautiful village not to be missed after visiting the chateau.

Very beautiful castle with a rich history in the region. There is not much to see inside it, but the panorama with the view is absolutely magnificent. 8 EUR for an entry for an adult seems a bit pricey though for the content.

Excellent and educational time spent at this Chocolate Museum. We were signed up for a chocolate and wine tasting which took place in a classroom with both a wine and chocolate expert. Learned so much about the different kinds and qualities of the chocolate they produce. Each piece was paired with a complementary wine. A GREAT experience. The museum itself is easy to walk through and understand - highly recommend this experience for chocolate lovers (my bride) and not-so-much chocolate lovers like me.

I had the most wonderful experience at La Cité du Chocolat Valrhona. From the moment you walk in, you can feel the history and craftsmanship that Valrhona is known for worldwide. The exhibits are interactive, educational, and full of surprises — perfect whether you’re a chocolate lover or just curious about the journey from cacao bean to finished creation. The highlight for me was the tasting experience. Pairing Valrhona’s incredible chocolates with wines from Cave de Tain was unforgettable — a perfect balance that truly reflects the richness of the Rhône Valley. This is more than a visit; it’s a celebration of heritage, flavor, and passion. Absolutely worth the stop if you’re in the region.

Visited the shop after reading about the chocolate and seeing some of the reviews. The chocolate is lovely and the chocolate shop is well laid out. Samples are available to help you choose although they are so tasty that they may make your choice even harder. We selected a cross range of the individual chocolates from behind the counter after sampling some on the way in. The young lady who assisted us from behind the counter was so friendly and knowledgeable. She made suggestions and allowed us plenty of time to choose. Fabulous experience. Hubby waited outside with our dog , having noticed this the lady at the shop reception counter (providing some samples) went out to give him a sample. The chocolate is Devine the shop was lovely and the staff are even better.

One of the worst experiences i have ever had, totally not worth it. The entrance fees should be 2 euros maximum not 40 euros for a small family with absolutely no return, and the prices in the boutique is over rated. Other than the long journey, it was a total waste of money and time.

Pretty cool chocolate museum. It's modern and high tech. There's interactive videos and emersive displays. You also get chocolate samples so you can learn what real quality chocolate tastes like. My only complaint is that now other chocolates will always be waxy inferior chocolate compared to Valrhona chocolate.

Tip: Bring a bag! Really fun and educational chocolate ‘factory’ with lots of chocolates as free giveaway. A bit smaller than other chocolate factory. But all of the animations and techs were working well. Can get a bit busy as the screens were interactive whilst sampling chocolates. Kids get a special ‘treasure’ hunt quest and free gift at the end! There’s also a little quiet playroom at the end of the visit just before the cafe - for those who wish to have a little quiet time.

If you enjoy a good piece of chocolate, the museum is definitely worth a visit! The place is rather small, but there is definitely a lot to read and discover, also for children! Make sure to be ready for some tastings and don't miss out on the staff's presentations! It was very enjoyable :)

We really enjoyed the guided tour of the caves, it makes stunning photographs and the informative guide was entertaining as well educational. It's also a good way to keep cool on a hot day.

Very nice and interesting caces! At the entrance there is a cafe where it is possible to stop for eating other drinking something. It is also where you stop for buying the tickets in case you have not done it online. After that, a small path takes you to a waiting area in front of the caves. It is here where you wait for the guide and in the meantime you can read about the caves and some archeological information about the area. Once the tour begins you are given an audioguide. English, German, Russian, Chinese, Arabic, Spanish, Portuguese, Polish, and Italian are available. Inside the cave guide will accompany and turn on the lights inside the caves at the various stations of the tours. We also saw the animals that inhabit the caves on the aquariums. The audioguide I had gave some information but then the tour guide gave a lot of extra information in French which unfortunately I could not understand. Once the tour is completed, you simply give the audioguide back and exit the cave. Overall I recommend this visit a lot as it was very interesting!!

Beautiful visit — the cave is truly impressive, and the guide’s stories were really fun and interesting. We were a bit disappointed by the light show, though. It felt a bit kitschy and random, without much connection to the cave’s history. We would’ve much preferred to learn more about the cave itself and get a better sense of how amazing it must have been to discover it.

Great visit! Audio tour in many languages, and very nice guide. Beautifully made route and views.

This is such a beautiful cave made by Mother Nature. I was so amazed by just looking at all the stalactites, stalagmites, beautiful soda straws, columns, and flowstones. They’ve been there for over 1000 years. There are small and medium underground lakes around the cave with fresh water, and a few lazy moving animals could make your kids interested. This is a cave that both adults and children alike can enjoy visiting.. After walking through a thousand stairs, you will enjoy a show of lights near the end of the tour. It is definitely worth it. Entering with a cardigan or a jacket in summer could help. We did visit with a one hour tour, and our tour guide spoke both French and English. Outside the cave, there is a restaurant with a beautiful view and a gift shop. If you still have time after visiting the cave, you can ask your tour guide the way to walk around, or walk to the waterfall that is not far away from the cave. I highly recommend booking the ticket online before visiting, it could save you a lot of time. The price of a ticket for adults is 12€, children from 0 to 3 years old is 1.50€ , 4 years old to 14 years old is 7.50€, 15 years old to 18 years old is 10.50€.

Incredible experience ! As a traveller I've seen many things but very little like this place. The guides are awesome and so interesting on top of being in a magical place. Definitely a must do if you're around !

Beautiful cave easily accessible. Not a lot to see but the view is to die for! Reserving in advance is advised since it’s always packed. The tour guides are well organized & there is a large option for language translation for the non-French speakers. At the end of the tour, inside the cave, there was a musical lights show that played. It was very different i liked it, it brought the cave to life. I took a lot of pictures and videos. A souvenir shop is located at the exit as for the bar is overpacked which makes the service slow. The staff was friendly and there’s a restroom near the parking. This place is not advised for people who fear heights or people with disabilities. It is child friendly and family oriented. It is definitely a place for photography enthusiasts.

Awesome museum ! I highly recommend doing a guided visit. You will go underground and see how a charcoal mine is. The guide was very nice and very informative.

Well worth a visit, and walkable from city center. The guided tour was superb, so consider booking in advance!

This museum is a former coal mine. Super interesting to visit if you pass by and you are interested in this kind of stuff. If you book in advance a guided tour (organised by the museum), you will also have the opportunity to visit a replica of the mine galleries, which includes a short underground train ride (underground facilities are not open to visitors with a regular entry ticket, guided tour only). Suitable for children. Everything is in French, though.

Very interesting place! Worth visiting for sure. Sadly we couldn’t visit the mine itself which would have been great to see.

Dirty, neglected, the QR codes don't work, you can't go down into the mine...

It is the museum which tells us about the history of Saint Etienne..... Wonderful place, must visit if you are here

Very interesting bit of French/European history. The guided tour we took was in French, didn't ask if they offer in other languages but you can visit everything top side without the guide.

One of those places you come upon and it blows you away. The creation of a magnificent structure over 33years by a postman which leaves its legacy for others to see. His quaint messages for life are significant in today's world

Very interesting surreal place to visit and explore. There are lots of intricate and whimsical details to look at and enjoy. It's really cool to see one person's dedication to building something that he dreamt about and put his life efforts into.

Stunning project of a very dedicated postman. Truly a place to let your imagination take flight.

Le Palais Idéal du Facteur Cheval, or the Ideal palace of postman Cheval. This place is a hidden gem of the art i like. Do you like Escher, Dali, and Gaudi? Then you will enjoy this 'Palace'. Don't be fooled, though. It's not that big or will keep you interested for an entire day, but it is a must-see if you are in the neighborhood.

Cool castle made of polished stones, worth a detour. A colossal solo work of 33 years by the horse mail man.

sadly no dog allowed (would be enough if they could go to the garden, but not inside the castle). small, today was a bit overcrowded, despite a weekday, but interesting place. the shop is disappointing, I didn't find anything ehat I liked and I buy usually in these shops something. buy your ticket in advance, so you get in quicker. enough free parking slots.

Very beautiful, naive art is awesome. It is a fantasy place, a place which shows, that all the dream can come true.

I have mixed feelings about zoos, I went because my company organized a visit. First time in my life I've been in the presence of a gorilla, no more than a few meters away. First time I've seen a gorilla eating fruits and.... yogurt? This gorilla was being hand fed by the owner of this zoo, Mr. Pierre, he was feeding her inside her room it was fascinating to see. First time I've seen a lion run firsthand, and very upclose. And last but not least, first time I've heard a group of 10+ chimpanzees quarreling, calling out and "screaming". This zoo gave me a sense of humbleness and some sort of primal fear I've never felt before. It made me realize how majestic and imposing these animals can be, yet how beautiful they are too. I liked the back story too. I hope they are truly living up to their mission. I'm still thinking about what I saw.

Amazing place to visit. It’s recommended for all the family. Great views and animals are treated in an excellent way

Very nice zoo! The zoo was larger than I expected and had a nice range of animals. I really enjoyed seeing the Sun Bears and all of the monkeys.

What a great zoo. Never seen so many active animals at a zoo before. The tigers and lions were magnificent and playing with each other rather than just sleeping or pacing. Good close up viewing with all the animals. Also it's obvious that the zoo is expanding their enclosure space so it'll be interesting to see what it looks like the next time we return. Well worth the entrance fee and we will definitely return when we are in this area.

Good zoo close by Lyon. The zoo offers some great species of animals, but I think the price is too high. You can spend a couple of hours here, but the park is small and completed within 2 hours. We missed a bunch of animals, despite taking the time to spend extra time in the park after finishing the route. We missed the coatis, servals, binturongs, dingos and some more. Very poor habitats for some animals and some animals did not seem to have any space, like the ocelots. We did really enjoy seeing the snow leopards and the arctic wolves. The park smells bad in a lot of places and the hygiene in the toilets is just bad. For such a price we expected clean toilets somewhere, but it was very poorly maintained. Parking is free. €18,50 is too much in this case, but it’s not a total waste. Hopefully it is being used for future wellbeing of the animals.

Beautiful clean zoo, animals are well looked after, very reasonably priced... Great day out

Conservation focused zoo with quite a lot of interesting primate exhibits (amongst a lot of other types of animals). Big enough that you can spend a few hours here but also not so big that it has to take up your entire day. The zoo is positioned up a hill so there is some elevation change during your walk through but the park is entirely accessible (wheelchairs of course, but that means also strollers too Mamas… even enough room through entrances and pathways for huge American double strollers). And the layout of the enclosures up the hill allows for really good viewing of the animals in their enclosures.

The Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière is one of Lyon’s most iconic landmarks, visible from almost anywhere in the city. Personally, I usually find the interiors of Orthodox churches more spiritual, but this basilica’s interior really amazed me — it’s beautiful and inspiring. The exterior is just as impressive, and the panoramic view over Lyon from the top is fantastic. You can get there easily by tram, or hike up if you prefer (which I’d also recommend). Nearby, the Roman Theatre and archaeological site are free to visit and very well preserved. Both the basilica and the ruins are definitely worth seeing.

Arriving late evening in Lyon, our Uber driver took us here on a quick detour to our hotel ‘because it is so very beautiful, and you guys can see view of Lyon skyline from there’. Indeed it was a beautiful Basilica, majestic even in the dark of night. Indeed it was an impressive view of Lyon. Very grateful of him, blessed his soul. I got the chance to go back the next morning, and although did not got the chance to go inside, my appreciation grew even more about the opportunity to visit. A must go when you are in Lyon. If your hotel is not nearby, they have tram from the city center that stops directly in front.

Beautifully located on top of a hill, and Best to take an Uber to get there. There is also a vista point on the side of the church with great views of the whole city. If you can walk down the hill, you can visit a nice museum with an outdoor Greek theatre. You can also take a short cut and walk the stairs down the hill

Lovely place to visit in Lyon. Get a day ticket for € 6.90 and couple of trains later you are there. Beautiful views of the city (sunset as well). Basilica is amazing. Don't compare it with Vatican however it is grand in its own way.

It is a marvelous place to visit even when you are not Christian. The interior of the basilica Notre-Dame of Fourvière in Lyon, is tremendously high. The walls are astonishing and it drops your mouth down to the floor. I have not taken many pictures inside because my eyes were focused on all the tiny details in each stunning things my eyes would lay eyes on. If one thing to visit in Lyon, it clearly is there and Paul Bocuse Market^^.

What a beautiful basilica one has the pleasure to see, adore and to participate because during our vist a mass was held. The church has an endless history to show, not only in the holy Christian sense but also in its rich architectural designs. A real treat to be there.

Until you take your breath away, what an impressive basilica it is. A great architectural construction. It is definitely worth a visit. And to pray in peace. May St. Mary be vigilant.

Really enjoyed my visit here - so many interesting exhibits and things to see. I think the best part is the fact that the films referenced and the props from the films are films that are very well-known, not just random French films. Would highly recommend to people as an activity in Lyon, however my one small issue was that we bought tickets in advance but still had to line up in the same queue as everyone else, so buying a ticket in advance was fairly pointless, only decreased the price slightly. But other than that really loved it.

AMAZING! I think should be a must do when you visit Lyon with kids or just if you like movies and a different type of art. They have created incredible mini and real size scenes from movies and normal life things! A different way to know history as well! We went without tickets and ending paying less because they have a family packet. If you are 2 adults and one or more kids, it is definitely cheaper.

Worth visiting. You should go and see everything they placed in the museum. At first we enjoyed the props & artifacts from famous movies. However what we liked most is the miniature room, carefully detailed and amazinggg

Incredible and unique museum. They have some really cool pieces from films, which are still interesting to look at even if you haven’t seen them. The miniature section was a good surprise also—they are so detailed and realistic! While it is a bit on the more expensive side, it’s worth it and it is an independent business.

Walking through this museum felt like stepping straight back into my childhood (I was born in the mid-80s), and it was nothing short of magical. From Star Wars to Batman 1989, from Aliens to Beetlejuice, the collection is packed with iconic treasures that instantly spark memories of the films that defined an era. According to one of the staff, the Darth Vader mask here is the only original one on public display today, that alone is worth the visit! What sets this place apart is how personal it feels. I love the great art museums of France, but this was different, so much more relatable. Every piece triggered a wave of nostalgia, reminding me of movies I adored and had nearly forgotten, and reigniting the sense of wonder that first made me fall in love with cinema. These films came from the golden age of moviemaking, where practical effects and early CGI blended to create timeless magic that today’s movies rarely capture. Seven floors are filled with cinematic history, and while you can see it all in about 1–2 hours, it’s the kind of place where you’ll want to linger at your favorites. For me, highlights included the Darth Vader helmet, the full Batman 1989 suit and vehicles, the wonderfully complete Beetlejuice exhibit, and the jaw-dropping animatronic Alien that makes you feel like you’re right on set. Seeing Thor’s hammer (Mjolnir), Iron Man’s glove, and nods to classics like Indiana Jones, Mrs. Doubtfire, Jumanji, The Mask, and even Fast & Furious only added to the thrill. If you grew up with movies from the late 80s through the early 2000s, this museum is pure nostalgia wrapped in cinema magic. It’s a time machine back to Saturday nights at the theater or trips to Blockbuster, and it will leave you smiling long after you leave. I can’t recommend it highly enough. As a bonus, all the staff that work there are friendly, knowledgeable and passionate! Update: the top floor which houses the miniatures was closed when we arrived for renovations. If this is important to you, come back when they are completed.

At first I thought it was quite expensive, but it was really worth it! They had original sceneries, props costumes, and of course, the miniatures, which were really amazing to see. Everything was really well indicated, it was easy to navigate, even with our bad french. Some of the items haf indications in English, but not all. All props had access for kids to see, too. It wasn't crowded when we went, it was a Tuesday, so we could enjoy ourselves in our own pace and there was no need to book in advance. Don't miss on the patio outside, which is free and really beautiful as well!

fantastic experience! is very interesting and fun, perfect for people who loves cinema! staff is very friendly and they speak english very well so its perfect for tourists. there is a toilette in every floor, and also a dog bowl! i enjoyed it a lot!!