Uzès is a truly enchanting town located in the sun-drenched Languedoc-Roussillon (now part of the Occitania) region, in the heart of southern France, and is often considered the first duchy of France. Situated just 25 km northeast of the historic city of Nîmes, 30 km from the cultural hub of Avignon, and in proximity to Bagnols-sur-Cèze and Sommières, it serves as a perfect base for exploring the region. Uzès is most famously known as the source of the Roman aqueduct that supplied water to Nîmes, with its most spectacular surviving section being the iconic Pont du Gard. The town itself is a masterpiece of Renaissance architecture, with a beautifully preserved medieval core that invites endless exploration.
We recommend parking our car very close to the heart of the Old Town, in the convenient underground "Q-Park Gide" parking lot (1; GPS: 44.013782, 4.421536). From here we go down the Boulevard Charles Gide street towards the Place Albert 1er square (A; GPS: 44.013640, 4.419431), where we find the Fontaine de La Dame fountain, a tourist information center and a nice restaurant called "La Fille des Vignes" (they serve a really good pizza!).
The underground Q-Park is a particularly good choice as it provides secure parking and keeps your car cool on hot summer days. Its location directly beneath the town's main boulevard means you can immediately begin your exploration of Uzès's historic center without a long walk. The convenience of this spot allows you to seamlessly transition from your arrival to enjoying the town’s attractions and lively atmosphere.
From the Place Albert 1er square we enter the Rue Jacques d'Uzes street, and then immediately turn left to the Rue du Duché street to get to nearby Place du Duché. From here we can admire the beauty of Le Duché medieval castle with four towers. Then we move down the Rue Pelisserie street towards interesting Place aux Herbes (B; GPS: 44.011789, 4.418773). This is a square with a fountain and arcades that is full of small shops, restaurants and cafes.
The Duchy of Uzès is a unique architectural complex, being a mixture of medieval fortress, Renaissance palace, and classical mansion. The four towers, including the medieval Tour Bermonde and the Renaissance Tour du Roi, each represent a different historical period and architectural style. The palace is still inhabited by the same ducal family, making it a living piece of history. The breathtaking views from its towers are a highlight for visitors.
In general, the entire Old Town is worth visiting since it has many narrow streets and interesting buildings. Be sure to visit the Medieval Garden (Jardin Médiéval) located on Rue Port Royal (C; GPS: 44.011973, 4.420501). This amazing garden contains a lot of flowers and plants that were useful for its medieval owners for different purposes. Additionally, you can climb the Tour du Roi tower to get beautiful views of the buildings of the Old Town.
The garden is not merely a collection of plants; it is a meticulously recreated botanical space that showcases a variety of species grown in the Middle Ages, including aromatic herbs, vegetables, and fruit trees. Visitors can learn about their uses in daily life, medicine, and cooking. The peaceful atmosphere and the educational aspect make it a refreshing and insightful break from the bustling streets.
Do not forget to also visit the medieval cathedral (Cathédrale Saint-Théodorit) with its Fenestrelle tower (D; GPS: 44.012059, 4.422146), whose shape is very similar to the famous Leaning Tower of Pisa. This is a unique example of Lombard influence in southern France.
While the cathedral itself has been rebuilt several times, its Fenestrelle tower, meaning "window," remains a remarkable example of Romanesque architecture. It is a stunning piece of design, with its round shape and tiers of arches that create a delicate, lace-like appearance. The interior of the cathedral is also worth visiting, especially to see its impressive pipe organ, one of the most beautiful in France.
Uzès is a culinary haven that perfectly embodies the flavors of southern France and the Occitania region. The town's vibrant markets and excellent restaurants showcase the best of local produce, from sun-ripened vegetables to aromatic herbs. The Mediterranean influence is strong, with an emphasis on fresh, seasonal ingredients.
A visit to the Saturday market in Place aux Herbes is a must for any food lover, where you can find local cheeses, olives, honey, and the famous Uzès truffles. The town is surrounded by vineyards, so be sure to try the local wines from the Duché d'Uzès appellation. As mentioned, restaurants like "La Fille des Vignes" offer delicious meals, and the town is filled with charming eateries serving regional specialties.
Be sure to try dishes that feature local olive oil, fresh herbs from the garrigue, and goat cheese. The local patisseries and ice cream shops are also excellent for a sweet treat. The dining experience in Uzès is not just about the food; it is about enjoying a meal in a picturesque setting, whether on a lively square or in a quiet, hidden courtyard.