The Pont du Gard is one of the iconic masterpieces of Roman architecture and engineering, and one of France’s most famous and recognizable landmarks. It is the highest of all Roman aqueducts and one of the best preserved (similar to its equally famous counterpart in Segovia). Apparently, it took just 5 years to build and was in use for a good five centuries to provide Nimes (Nemausus) with fresh mountain water. The bridge next to the arches was only built in the 18th century. There are 3 tiers of arches, and in summer, there are guided tours (for a supplement) on the top tier (labelled “canalisation”), which was really quite interesting. It can be easily reached by bus from Nimes and Avignon (the stop is on the roundabout on the main road, from there it’s just a 5-minute walk to the ticket counter). On a hot summer day, however, most visitors seem to come less for the monument itself than for the leisure opportunities (swimming, canoeing, sunbathing, hiking). Even if your visit is for historical reasons, you can always dip your toes in the cool river water. One of the best ancient sites anywhere.