Driving from Lyon south on the Autoroute A7 towards Provence, you may notice the signs for Orange, the first major town in the region.
Orange
Home to some of the world's best Roman ruins
What attracts the thousands of visitors to Orange are the two monumental Roman structures, the Arc de Triomphe and the Théatre Antique, both of such stature that a turn off the Autoroute will not disappoint. And if you're a Dutch national and a fan of the Royal Family (the House of Orange), a trip here will certainly be on your list.
Events in Orange
There are plenty of events going on in Orange throughout the year. One of the oldest and most well known has to be the Choregies d'Orange, an annual International classic music festival set in the Roman theatre.
Events in Orange
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Beaujolais Nouveau
The new Beaujolais has arrived!
The third Thursday in November is when this year's Beaujolais hits the shelves and is cause for celebration across France.
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Fête de la Musique
Music festival celebrated across France on the summer solstice
The Fête de la Musique is a celebration that takes place every summer solstice on 21 June in cities, towns and villages across France.
History & Culture in Orange
A prosperous town under the Roman emperor Augustus, in the 5th century it was pillaged by the Visigoths, becoming an independent county in the 11th century, later passing to the house of Nassau.
In 1660 it was captured by the French King Louis XIV, who had its fortifications pulled down, and it was eventually ceded to France in 1713.
Famous for its Roman architecture, the theatre was built around 27BC - 14AD and is the best preserved of its kind. Originally seating around 1,100 people, an imposing statue of Augustus stands about 3.7m tall in the wall's central niche.
There is also a famous arch, one of the largest built by the Romans at about 19m high, it has fine sculptures of victories of Roman general and statesman Julius Caesar. The theatre, the arch and its surroundings were designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1981.
Modern day Orange is an agricultural processing centre, tourism and glass manufacturing are also important.
Sights & Attractions in Orange
The most impressive approach to Orange from the north is by way of the N7, which leads directly to the Triumphal Arch on the north side of town (parking nearby). Most historians think that this ornate Roman arch, one of largest and best preserved, was dedicated to Tiberius or is it Julius Caesar, commemorating the military exploits of his legions, some 20 years BC. A few others doubt the attribute. But what is clear is that this arch tells a story. On the facades you can see the chiselled decorations that tell of Gallic slaves captured, with hands tied behind their backs, of military attributes - helmets, flags, javelins - of naval elements - anchors, ropes, tridents - of battles between the Romans and the Gauls. The arch tells you that the legions of Tiberius, or another emperor, were here and don't you forget it. The crowning glory on top, a chariot drawn by four horses, is now sadly missing.
Just south of the old town and close to the tourist office you'll find the Roman theatre, the best preserved theatre of the Roman Empire. Built during the reign of Augustus, it still serves today as a place to enjoy concerts, opera or ballet. Although it has suffered through the ages from natural decay, fires and looters keen on finding building materials for their own architectural designs, the theatre gives a sense of how the productions in Roman times might have been. It seems, however, that the earlier audiences enjoyed better acoustics (with clever awnings stretched over the seating area) and a more ornate backdrop with statues of Roman dignitaries.
Now we are only treated to a statue of Augustus in a niche, assembled from the rubble 1,500 years after a fire destroyed the backdrop in the 4th century. It's not even certain whether the head is that of Augustus, but he looks impressive enough with his Roman salute. Whether the earlier audiences enjoyed more comfortable seating is entirely doubtful.
A private cushion is the first requirement for an enjoyable evening in the theatre. And when the Mistral strikes, you may well want to bring a sweater, blanket, parka, gloves and other warming devices. A hilarious account of an Aida performance during a Mistral can be read in Yvone Lenard's The Magic of Provence. The chapter is appropriately called "A Song in the Wind." During the performance the strong wind picks up and the Spanish diva Victoria de Los Angeles "holds onto her wig with one hand and attempts to control the ballooning skirt with the other while keeping a precarious balance, in great danger of being toppled by the merciless gusts".
For the Dutch, a walk up to the Eutrope hill, which overlooks the village is a must. There they find the dismal remains of a castle that Prince Maurits built in 1622, using the remains of Roman structures as his building blocks. Fortunately he left the theatre, to a degree, in tact. In the 16th century the principality of Orange was passed on to William the Silent, Stadtholder of the Dutch Provinces. For the next hundred years or so the ownership of the territory was much in dispute, torn this way and that by the religious wars between Catholics and Protestants, with the French King being more than annoyed about this Dutch enclave in his territory. Finally, in 1713, the decree of Utrecht decided that Orange was to be part of France, but that the descendants of William the Silent could still call themselves prince or princess of Orange, without land. To this day the primary title of the Queen is Princess of Orange. And when you see a soccer match of the Dutch national team and wonder about all those orange colours, now you know why.
After the visit to the Roman theatre, the Arch and the remains of the considerably smaller Dutch empire, you may wander about the old town. There are agreeable squares with restaurants that offer decently priced and good meals. Orange is worth a half or full-day stay. But be sure to bring your winter clothes when you attend a performance at the theatre.
Sights in Orange
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Musee du Vin Brotte, Chateauneuf du Pape
Free museum & wine tasting
Created in 1972 by Jeanne Brotte, this wine museum is unique in Châteauneuf-du-Pape. First a modest museum displaying an impressing collection of old tools it has been renovated in 2002 and 2014 now presenting you with a museography called “In the footstep of the winegrower”.
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Triumphal Arch, Orange
One of the largest & oldest Triumphal arches of Roman Gaul
The "Arc de Triomphe" or Triumphal arch is an impressive Roman structure on the old city limits of Orange.
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Theatre Antique, Orange
One of the best examples in Provence of a Roman amphitheatre
Orange boasts the best preserved Roman Amphitheatre in the western world.
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Ile de la Barthelasse
One of the largest river islands in Europe, in the heart of Avignon
The perfect setting for a Sunday walk or a family bike ride is just a short ferry trip away from the city centre of Avignon on the Ile de la Barthelasse.
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Fort St Andre & Abbaye St Andre, Villeneuve les Avignon
Ancient castle overlooking the city of Avignon
The 14th century Fort St Andre was built by order of the King of France, Philippe le Bel as a mean to keep an eye on the papal city of Avignon. Perched on a hill, this impressive structure contains the ruins of the Abbaye St Andre.
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Tour Philippe le Bel, Villeneuve les Avignon
The only remaining part of the fortifications built to protect this part of the Rhone
This impressive tower was built in the early 13th century and served to defend the bridges over the Rhone in Villeneuve les Avignon.
Dining in Orange
You'll find a great selection of restaurants, cafés and delis in Orange. Some feature in the Michelin guide, but if you're not looking for fine dining you'll find plenty of choice to suits your tastes and budget.
Restaurants in Orange
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Cote Sud Restaurant, Uchaux
Delicious food and wine at reasonable prices in a charming setting
The Cote Sud has a charming sophisticated interior and includes a lovely terrace where you can enjoy your food when the weather is warm enough.
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Le Temp de Vivre Restaurant, Uchaux
Good value small restaurant with great food for non fussy eaters
Le Temps de Vivre is situated in the little hamlet of Les Farjons just down the road from Uchaux.
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Le Relais Restaurant, Sainte-Cecile-les-Vignes
Traditional French cuisine in a beautiful setting
This restaurant serves classic French dishes with a creative twist by chef Christophe Bonet. All made with the freshest ingredients.
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Au Petit Patio Restaurant, Orange
On the edge of the old town
Located 5 mins walk from the Theatre Antique this colourful restaurant serves a menu of Provençal-style fish and seasonal dishes, including anchovy pissaladière and pannacotta.
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Entre Vigne & Garrigue Restaurant, Pujaut
Michelin starred restaurant close to Chateauneuf du Pape & Avignon
Wonderful Provencal cuisine is produced at Entre Vigne & Garrigue by Serge Chenet who has been awarded a Michelin star for his efforts.
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L'Intemporel Restaurant, Bollene
Creative cuisine in Bollène
Using Provençal produce and international ingredients, this restaurant serves world cuisine and local specialities in interesting and creative combinations.
Nightlife in Orange
You can take in a show at the Roman theatre as well as the Theatre du Sablier in the centre of Orange. If you're just looking for a place to drink, there are plenty of bars and cafés to choose from.
Bars & Clubs in Orange
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Bokao's Nighclub
For dance, electro and retro sounds and a non-stop party atmosphere
With a varied musical line-up, Bokao's combines good fun and great music.
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Ajmi Jazz Club
One of France's top Jazz venues playing live music in the heart if the city
The Ajmi has played host to numerous talented international Jazz artists, and the Ajmi is classed as one of the top 3 jazz venues in France and is located in the heart of Avignon next to the beautiful Palais des Papes.
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La Cave des Pas Sages
Popular wine bar with live music, 15 mins form the Palais des Papes
Small wine bar situated in one of the cobbled streets of Avignon that hosts regular market stalls.
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Le Longchamp Bar & Brasserie, Isle sur la Sorgue
Popular riverside spot for a drink and a bite to eat
This place is a bar, restaurant and tabac all rolled into one, on the side of the river in the centre of Isle de la Sorgue.
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21 Chai d'Oeuvre Bar, Saint Remy de Provence
Wine and champagne bar with a terrace
This bar is located in the centre of Saint Remy de Provence. It has a good selection of wines by the glass, as well as bottles and champagne. They even serve charcuterie and cheese plates.
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Le Cardeur Bacchus Bar
A bar & restaurant in the centre of Aix
This small bar has a nice seating area outside next to one of Aix's many fountains and it catches the sun late into the evening.
Things to do in Orange
Things To Do in Orange
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Wave Island Waterpark, Monteux
The largest waterpark in France not far from Avignon
This huge waterpark covers an area of 4.7 hectares and includes a surf simulator, waterslides and a river feature called river land.
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Orange Golf Course, Orange
9-hole golf course in the heart of Cote du Rhone vineyards
Very close to the wonderful Roman town of Orange, Golf Orange offers a 9-hole golf course that everyone can enjoy. Lessons are also available.
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Outdoor Swimming Pool, Jonquieres
Summer outdoor swimming pools
There are three pools in the outdoor area at Jonquieres, a baby & toddler wading pool, a 25m pool, and a diving pool with boards at one metre and three metres.
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Exo 84 Watersports, Lamotte-du-Rhône
A centre dedicated to wake-boarding and waterskiing
This watersports centre is based on a 10 hectare lake with boxes and features in the water that you can practise your wakeboarding moves on.
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Centre Equestre d'Avignon Horse riding
Top quality staff, horses, and equipment for horse riding
Le Centre Equestre d'Avignon offers a wide range of activities for riders of all ages and abilities
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Skydive Pujaut Activity Company, Pujaut
Tandem parachute jumps & skydiving school
This company offers several forms of discovery and progress to practise free fall. Whether you want to make your first parachute jump or move up the discipline, you will find all the necessary information and guidance.
Watersports in Orange
Watersports in Orange
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Exo 84 Watersports, Lamotte-du-Rhône
A centre dedicated to wake-boarding and waterskiing
This watersports centre is based on a 10 hectare lake with boxes and features in the water that you can practise your wakeboarding moves on.
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Le lac de Monteux, Monteux
Leisure centre with plenty of water based fun & activities
Located in the heart of the EcoQuartier Beaulieu, Lake Monteux is an open every day of the year. Ideal for the whole family, this area offers a multitude of activities.
Holiday Rentals in Orange
Holiday Rentals in Orange
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La Colline Villa
4 bedroom villa in Suzette. Sleeps 8
Welcome to La Colline, a stunning villa built from honey-colored local stone, nestled among Provençal vineyards with breathtaking views of Mont Ventoux and the distant hilltop villages. The villa offers a peaceful setting, perfect for spending a summer day by the swimming pool, accompanied only by the gentle song of the cicadas.
La Colline Villa
31 Oct 2026, 7 Nights, 1-9 people, Self-cateredFrom€3,351€2,616 -
Devino Villa, Oppede
3 bedroom Villa in Oppede. Sleeps 5
Discover this lovely family holiday house with swimming pool located in the heart of Luberon
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Mas De La Cigale Apartment, Saint-Rémy-de-Provence
7 bedroom Apartment in Saint-Rémy-de-Provence. Sleeps 10
In the heart of the Alpilles Regional Natural Park in the south of France, the Mas de la Cigale in Saint-Rémy-de-Provence is an exceptional place for a dream holiday in Provence.
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Provence Country Club Studio Apartment
Studio apartment in Provence sleeps 2
Located in the Residence Provence Country Club in the heart of the Luberon mountain, this studio enjoys a serene and tranquil atmosphere with close proximity to all the sites and attractions of this area of the South of France. An ideal location for nature and golf lovers.
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Le Mas De La Roche Villa, Saignon
5 bedroom Villa in Saignon. Sleeps 10
Stone house with swimming pool for rent for holidays in the Luberon.
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Bastide De Lumière Villa
4 bedroom Villa in Goult. Sleeps 8
Magnificent Provençal stone farmhouse for rent in Goult, in the heart of the vineyards in the Luberon, with heated swimming pool, for an ideal holiday.
Hotels in Orange
There are a good selection of hotels in and around Orange, as well as a lot of charming B&B's and apartments for rent.
Hotels in Orange
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Le Clos des Lavandes B&B
Charming B&B in the Luberon region
In the heart of the Luberon National Park, a beautiful and charming B&B welcomes you for a relaxing stay.
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L'Horloge Hotel
Charming central hotel with easy access to all that Avignon has to offer
This lovely hotel is full of character and is ideally situated in historic 19th century building in the heart of Avignon's historic centre, just a short walk from all local attractions.
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L'Oustau de Baumaniere Hotel, Les Baux
A luxurious boutique hotel with a 2 Michelin Starred Restaurant
This unique hotel has a two Michelin-starred restaurant and is located within the Les Baux region of Provence, famed for its vineyards and incredible hilltop castle.
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Chateau de Varenne Hotel, Sauveterre
4* boutique hotel near to Avignon and the wine region of Châteauneuf-du-Pape
This charming hotel is housed in a former XVIIIth century residence, on a beautiful green three-hectare estate above the small village of Sauveterre in the heart of Provence.
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L'Hotel Particulier
Stylish boutique hotel that famously evicted Vincent Van Gogh
Gorgeous hotel in the centre of the Roman town of Arles. Designed to within an inch of it's life, this 18th century country house has 13 rooms decked out in white billowing fabrics and French country furniture. Think Ibiza-esque.
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Les Bories Spa Hotel, Gordes
Indulge in this hotel's lavish spa & Michelin-starred restaurant
A five star hotel with 33 bedrooms and seven suites in the heart of beautiful Luberon. Les Bories sits in eight hectares of gardens and grounds and is close to the famous village of Gordes.
How to get to Orange
Transfers for Provence
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Helicopter Transfers & Scenic Flights
Helicopter charter company based in Monaco with over 25 years experience
With a long history and experience in the VIP transport industry this company is proud of its personal and high-quality services.
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Private Airport Transfers
Reliable private airport transfer & taxi service
Chabe Transfers are a well known luxury transfer and taxi service operating in the South of France.
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Avignon Taxis
Taxis in Avignon and the entire region
Avignon City Taxis at your disposal 24/7 for taxi services and transfers airports and railway stations in Avignon and in the entire region.
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Marseille Taxis
Taxis in Marseille
300 vehicles at your disposal. All taxi services and transfers airports and Railway stations.
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Helicopter Airport Transfers & Scenic Flights
Monaco - Nice Helicopter Shuttles, plus French Riviera Scenic Flights
Created in 1976 this company has grown and has now transported well over 100,000 passengers. They have a fleet of 12 craft to meet client demands.
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Helicopter Transfers & Scenic Flights
Passenger transport, aerial photography, freight , etc...
Helitec caters for all your helicopter needs from passenger transport to aerial photography, filming, transport of heavy goods, leisure flights over Provence and the South of France. A great way to see the most beautiful spots from the air.
Property For Sale in Orange
Property for Sale in Orange
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Villa for Sale | VAL240008
4 bedroom, 4 bathroom, 240m² Villa in Var
Set in the prestigious Domaine de Terre Blanche, Villa Augusta is the epitome of contemporary luxury.
Villa for Sale | VAL240008
€3,200,000 -
Villa for Sale | VAL240033
4 bedroom, 5 bathroom, 330m² Villa in Var
Elegant villa in the sought-after Terre Blanche estate
Villa for Sale | VAL240033
€3,750,000 -
Villa for Sale | VAL250082
6 bedroom, 428m² villa in Var
Nestled in the heart of the prestigious Terre Blanche estate, this superb property of approximately 428 m² of living space is set on one hectare of landscaped grounds, one of the largest on the estate, offering spectacular views of the surrounding hilltop villages and a rare living environment that is both luxurious and peaceful.
Villa for Sale | VAL250082
€9,800,000 -
Villa for Sale | val260153
4 bedroom, 320.95m² Villa in Tourrettes
This contemporary property, inspired by neo-Provençal architecture, offers approximately 300 sqm of living space and is set within a beautifully landscaped 3,300 sqm garden, providing a private living environment.
Villa for Sale | val260153
€4,500,000 -
Land (Plot) for Sale | VAL250058
10 bedroom, 9 bathroom, 1350m² plot in Var
An exceptional estate in landscaped grounds
Land (Plot) for Sale | VAL250058
€39,850,000 -
Villa for Sale | STZ250285
7 bedroom, 4 bathroom, 233.84m² Villa in Var
A Provencal villa at the foot of the village of Grimaud.
Villa for Sale | STZ250285
€2,690,000
