13 must-see places to visit in Uzès
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It is a true little gem. A jewel of 8,500 inhabitants nestled between the sea and the Cévennes. As the first duchy in French history in 1632, Uzès (Gard) stands out for its unique and prestigious heritage.
Holder of the "Ville d'Art et d'Histoire" (City of Art and History) label since November 2008, the town is an open-air museum. Preserved and renovated under the Malraux Act since the 1960s, Uzès is a city steeped in history with no shortage of appeal for visitors.
Looking for must-see places to visit in Uzès? Castles, churches, towers, cathedrals, gardens: hold on tight, there is something for everyone.
Where to start? Where to wander in this captivating town, often compared to a Tuscan city? Browse our hand-picked list of places to make sure you don't miss a single must-see sight.
Embark on a guided tour of Uzès, ranked 7th among the most welcoming cities in the world by Booking.com.
1/ Park in Uzès
The town of Uzès, in the Gard department, offers several green spaces well known to locals. Among them is the Parc du Duché, which is very popular with children. Numerous facilities dedicated to the little ones are scattered throughout this green space. The park will also appeal to parents looking for a little rest in the shade, as well as sports enthusiasts, thanks to its street workout area. As a side note, the park got its name because it was the property of the Dukes of Uzès until 1966, when it was acquired by the city hall.
2/ Green Route
Calling all cycling enthusiasts. How about setting off from the ducal city for a bike ride among vineyards and scrubland? That is the concept of the Green Way (Voie Verte), which connects Uzès to Beaucaire over 31 km, passing through the majestic site of the Pont du Gard. Traveling along a converted former railway line, you will pass through charming atypical villages and even ride right through an illuminated tunnel!
3/ Château d’Uzès
The Duchy, or Château des Ducs d’Uzès, is a historic monument built starting from the 11th century. A tip: do not miss this little gem. Originally of a military nature, as evidenced by the presence of a keep (Tour Bermonde), ramparts, and corner towers, this monument features unique architecture. Enjoy its superb Renaissance facade, the view from the top of the keep, and the nearly millennium-old cellars. Stepping inside is stepping into a piece of the city's history.
4/ Place aux Herbes
This is THE must-visit square in the city. Located in the heart of the historic center of the Gard region, the Place aux Herbes is an open-air museum. Why stop at the Place aux Herbes in Uzès? First, to feast your eyes. Open them wide and admire the arcades, small cobbled passageways, and other private mansions. Afterward, stop at a terrace in the shade of the plane trees for a refreshing drink. And before leaving, don't forget to stock up on appetizing local products (olives, wines, asparagus, pélardons, strawberries, etc.). Every Wednesday and Saturday morning, the square hosts a superb market that will delight your senses and your taste buds.
5/ Medieval garden
It is a small green, bucolic, and peaceful haven right in the city center. The medieval garden of Uzès, labeled a “Remarkable Garden”, is home to 450 plant varieties as well as the King and Bishop Towers. Climb the hundred steps of the King Tower and admire the panorama of the city and the Uzège valley. On your way back down, take the time to stroll. Smell and observe the different botanical species. At the end of the trail, you will enjoy a refreshing herbal tea.
7/ Saint-Théodorit Cathedral and the Fenestrelle Tower
Built starting in 1090 in a Romanesque style, Saint-Théodorit Cathedral was destroyed during the Wars of Religion and subsequently rebuilt in the 17th century. Inside, you will admire its ribbed vaulting, stained-glass windows, and organ—one of the finest in the region. Outside, marvel at its famous bell tower.
If you've ever been to Pisa, the Fenestrelle Tower will look rather familiar. Serving as the bell tower for Saint-Théodorit Cathedral, this famous Romanesque structure captivates and enchants visitors with its double-arched windows and distinct lean. Erected in the 11th century, it stands proudly at a height of 42 meters. Some sources suggest it may have even lost two of its upper levels during the 17th century. While it is strictly for viewing from the outside (interior visits are not permitted), this little marvel has been classified as a Historic Monument since 1862.
The extra touch? Contemplate it from the panoramic terrace of the Boutique Hôtel Entraigues, located just a few steps away.
8/ Saint-Etienne Church
With its curvilinear facade, it stands out in the landscape and immediately catches the eye. Erected starting in 1767 based on plans by the architect Boudon, Saint-Etienne Church was built on the ruins of an older church destroyed by the Protestants. Constructed in the shape of a cross in the Jesuit style, the church features a charming rectangular bell tower. The interior is distinguished by the presence of cupolas, vaults, and other hand-carved stone cornices.
9/ Capuchins Chapel
Located on Place Albert 1er, once dedicated to the wheat market, the Capuchin Chapel was built in the 17th century. Its builders erected it on the presumed site of a Roman temple dedicated to Augustus. Until 1789, this former chapel hosted the tombs of the Dukes of Uzès. Today, it serves as the headquarters for the Uzès tourist office.
10/ Rue Jacques d’Uzès
Because tourism doesn't preclude shopping, wander down Rue Jacques d’Uzès to pick up a few items. This lively shopping street is home to several ready-to-wear, home decor, and jewelry boutiques. Along the way, take the opportunity to stop at Place Dampmartin, home to other shops with elegant and refined storefronts.
11/ Eure Valley at the foot of Uzès
A relaxing green spot located at the foot of Uzès, the Eure Valley is the starting point for several hiking trails. You can rest there by the water, sheltered from the heat in the shade of the trees. It is also a place steeped in history. The green lung of Uzès houses the Eure spring, which supplied water to the city of Nîmes via the Pont du Gard during Roman times. You will also find the vestiges of a Roman aqueduct that led to Nîmes.
12/ Uzès Station
Opened in 1880, the Uzès station (Gard) welcomed travelers until 1938. Freight service operated into the 1990s. Decommissioned since 2010, the station regained color in 2020 with the launch of a section of the Voie Verte linking Vers-Pont-du-Gard to Uzès. Along their route, cyclists and walkers can also pass near the former Pont-des-Charrettes station along the old railway line.
13/ Parking
While not a tourist attraction in its own right, it's something you'll undoubtedly need during your stay. To explore the many treasures of the town of Uzès, you'll first need to find a place to park if you're driving! In the summer, dealing with the tourist crowds can feel a bit like an obstacle course. Fortunately, several parking options (both free and paid) are available. The Parking du Refuge at the entrance to Uzès, for instance, offers 350 spaces. In the historic center, you'll find that Boutique Hôtel Entraigues is the only establishment with its own private, covered, and enclosed parking garage. It is available for a fee (not video-monitored) just 20 meters from the hotel, exclusively upon request and subject to availability and acceptance by the front desk. If you prefer traveling by bike, we are also certified with the "Accueil Vélo" label to promote eco-friendly mobility.
In the media...
A report by France 2 on the town of Uzès.
Our tips for visiting Uzès
Plan and anticipate your visit to Uzès
With over 110,000 visitors welcomed each year at the Tourist Office, Uzès is a highly popular destination for travelers. If you plan to discover it during the summer season and stay for at least one night, book in advance.
While accommodation options remain substantial for a town of this size, establishments can quickly fill up several months in advance.
You will find a diverse and varied range of options: hotels, guest houses, gîtes, bed and breakfasts, etc.
In the heart of the historic center of Uzès, the Boutique hôtel Entraigues can, for instance, welcome you in an authentic and enchanting setting to discover Uzès.
This former 15th-century private mansion, for example, features a panoramic terrace overlooking the town's rooftops, offering an unobstructed view of the famous Fenestrelle Tower.
Discover Boutique Hôtel Entraigues in Uzès
Book your stay at the best rate at the Boutique Hôtel Entraigues:
Consider the attractions in the surrounding area of Uzès
Want to visit Uzès? Don't forget to save time to visit several must-see places in the surrounding areas (in Provence, the Cévennes, and the Camargue). Here are seven you definitely shouldn't miss:
- The Pont du Gard. This famous 3-tier Roman aqueduct bridge was built across the Gardon river. Perfectly preserved, this masterpiece of ancient architecture is located in the commune of Vers-Pont-du-Gard. An absolute must-see, time and time again;
- The Nîmes Arena. Discover the best-preserved amphitheater of the Roman Empire, built around 100 AD. Along the way, plan a visit to the Museum of Romanity right across from it, as well as the Tour Magne, built by the Romans on the heights of the city;
- The Palais des Papes in Avignon. The largest Gothic construction of the Middle Ages, this palace served as the residence of the Popes during the 14th century. Avignon, in Provence, is also famous for its ramparts and the Avignon Festival;
- The Bambouseraie. This exotic garden is located right in the heart of the Gard Cévennes, in Générargues.
- The Cévennes National Park, spanning 3 departments (Gard, Lozère, Hérault);
- Aigues-Mortes. Located in the Petite Camargue, the town is famous for its medieval ramparts.*
- The wild beaches of the Camargue: L'Espiguette, Salins-de-Giraud, Beauduc, Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer.
Questions about the must-see places around Uzès?
What to visit in Uzès?
The Gard city of Uzès offers numerous tourist sites. Among them, we recommend the following during your visit (non-exhaustive list): the Château d’Uzès, the Place aux Herbes, the medieval garden, Saint Théodorit Cathedral, the Fenestrelle Tower, and the Eure Valley.
What to visit in Uzès in one day?
Uzès is a human-scale city. Its historic center is easily explored on foot. It is possible to visit several places of interest (excluding museums) in a single day. Here is a suggested itinerary. Start your morning visit with the market on Place aux Herbes (Wednesday or Saturday morning), where you can have lunch. Continue by heading to the Capuchin Chapel, then visiting the Château des Ducs d’Uzès. In the afternoon, head to Saint Théodorit Cathedral and its famous Fenestrelle Tower. To close your day, relax in the shade within the Eure Valley park.
What are the villages to visit around Uzès?
Several unique villages are worth visiting around Uzès. Among the most beautiful villages around Uzès, you will find Saint-Quentin-la-Poterie, self-proclaimed capital of ceramics. Don't miss Aiguèze, Blauzac, Montclus, La Roque-sur-Cèze, and Lussan. The latter, a true open-air museum, has even been voted one of the most beautiful villages in France. Also worth visiting is Saint-Bonnet-du-Gard, famous for its Romanesque church and the remains of the Nîmes aqueduct.
Is it possible to visit Uzès on foot?
Yes, it is entirely possible to visit Uzès on foot. Most of the must-see sights are concentrated within a compact area in the historic center. You can also get around by bike with complete ease.
Things to do in Uzès with family?
Several activities are available to you. One of the most popular spots for children of all ages is the Parc du Duché, which features numerous play areas and facilities. Depending on their age and interests, you can also introduce your children to cultural visits such as the Medieval Garden. Venturing a little further out, consider the Pont du Gard, located just 15 kilometers from Uzès, where water activities (canoeing, canyoning, etc.) are offered along the Gardon river.
What is Uzès known for?
Uzès is best known for its architecture, heritage, and history. For instance, the city was the first duchy of France.