Avignon to Nimes Road Trip: Best Stops, Route Guide & Hidden Gems

The drive from Avignon to Nîmes covers roughly 44 kilometers (27 miles) along the A9 autoroute, typically taking 30–40 minutes. But this short distance packs a dense concentration of Roman aqueducts, medieval fortresses, and Provençal vineyards. The Pont du Gard—the highest Roman aqueduct bridge in the world—lies exactly halfway, a UNESCO site that alone justifies the trip.

Beyond the highway, the D900 and D981 offer scenic alternatives through the Gard department. Local coordinates: Avignon city center (43.9493° N, 4.8055° E) to Nîmes Arena (43.8367° N, 4.3601° E). This route corresponds to the ancient Via Domitia, the first Roman road built in Gaul in 118 BC.

This guide answers: how long to drive Avignon to Nîmes, best stops Avignon to Nîmes, is it worth driving Avignon to Nîmes, and things to do between Avignon and Nîmes. For more, see how to find the best stops and hidden gems between cities.

The route traverses the Garrigue, a Mediterranean scrubland of thyme, rosemary, and low oak. In spring, wild poppies and lavender edges paint the fields. The Gardon River valley, where the Pont du Gard straddles the water, is a designated Natura 2000 site for its biodiversity. Look for Bonelli's eagles and European pond turtles.

• Pont du Gard: Visit the museum (€9.50) and hike the 'Mémoires de Garrigue' trail (1.5 hours).
• Remoulins village: Stop at Marché de Remoulins (Wednesdays and Saturdays) for local olives, goat cheese, and wines.
• Nîmes Arena: Built in 70 AD, it hosts bullfights and concerts. Guided tours available (€10).

Local commerce along the D981 includes wineries offering tastings. Château de Campuget (near Nîmes) produces AOC Costières de Nîmes wines. Expect to pay €8–15 per bottle. The weekly market in Nîmes (Place des Arènes, Saturday mornings) is a must for fresh produce and crafts.

The A9 is well-maintained with emergency phones every 2 km. Speed cameras are frequent; limit is 130 km/h (81 mph) except in rain (110 km/h). The D900 is narrower with blind curves; use caution near Remoulins. Rest areas: Aire de Remoulins (clean toilets, vending machines) and Aire de Nîmes-Caissargues (picnic tables).

• Child-friendly stops: Pont du Gard has a playground and family picnic zone. Nîmes' Jardins de la Fontaine offer a safe open space.
• Pet-friendly: Dogs allowed on leash at Pont du Gard (except in the museum). Nîmes Arena allows small dogs in carriers.
• Fatigue management: Stop at the 20-minute mark at Remoulins. The road is short but monotonous; take a break if tired.

Hidden off-route spots include: the medieval village of Saint-Hilaire-d'Ozilhan (3 km off D981), with a 12th-century church; and the Oppidum des Castels at Nages, an ancient Celtic settlement with panoramic views. The latter is accessible via a 10-minute detour from the D979. These offer solitude away from tourist crowds.

The A9 autoroute is the primary artery, a modern toll road operated by Vinci Autoroutes. The toll cost for a standard car is around €2.50 one-way. Fuel stations are available at Aire de Remoulins (near Pont du Gard) and Aire de Nîmes-Caissargues. Expect diesel at €1.85/liter and SP95 at €1.95/liter (2025 averages).

• Toll: A9 exit 23 (Avignon-Sud) to exit 24 (Nîmes-Ouest) – about €2.50
• Fuel economy: Average car consumes ~5L/100km; total route fuel cost ~€3.50
• Alternative free route: D900 from Avignon to Pont du Gard, then D981 to Nîmes (adds 15 min).
• Best time: Avoid 8–9 AM and 5–6 PM weekdays due to commuter traffic around Avignon and Nîmes.

Parking at Pont du Gard costs €8.50 per car (all day). Avignon has paid parking lots near the Popes' Palace (€12/day). Nîmes offers underground parking at Les Arènes (€15/day). Electric vehicle charging points are available at Remoulins (fast charger) and at Nîmes train station.