Créé par Emilie, le 7 mai 2026
Votre guide Ryo
© Shutterstock
When we say the word "orange," what does it evoke in your mind? The fruit? The color? Did you know that there was a city with the same name in France? Well, today, it's about that city we would like to tell you! Located in the Rhône valley, and nicknamed the "City of Princes," Orange is a French commune in the northwest of the Vaucluse department. If you ever plan to visit, know that there are several activities to do there, and for cheap! The city of Orange with its original and warm name has many assets that you will discover gradually throughout your stay. It's nearly 2000 years of history in a single city, barely larger than an orange (yes, we couldn't resist the pun ^^). More seriously, with an area of 74.20 km², discover the six key activities to do in the city.
What to do in Orange?
1. The Triumphal Arch
Category: Free/Cultural
Description: We start with the mythical Triumphal Arch, an emblematic monument of the city of Orange. Impossible to miss, it rises to nearly 35 meters and proudly dominates the large square. Built at the very beginning of the 1st century, it has custom-made sculptured decoration and amazes more than one tourist. When you wander around the city, in the middle of the historic center, you will undoubtedly enjoy taking one or two photos in front of this monument now considered part of the city's identity. Keep your eyes open, as each of its faces is majestically dressed with bas-reliefs: these represent battle scenes as well as Roman gods. An imprint of the power and passage of the Roman Empire. Do you love art and even more ancient history? Then you will be in the right place. No wonder the monument is classified as a UNESCO World Heritage site.
2. The Ancient Theatre
Category: €€/Cultural/Unusual
Description: In the city of Orange, there is ONE experience you must live at all costs: that of the ancient theatre. The Romans left an important mark in Orange, it must be said that they were the very first people to settle here. So naturally, it's without great surprise that the remains of an ancient Roman theatre were discovered and now serve as an attraction. The building was also built in the 1st century just like the Triumphal Arch. But beyond the impressive architecture of the place, we would like you to focus on the tiers that can accommodate up to 9000 people, and which will allow you to rise up to 35 meters to admire the breathtaking view over the city. Once upon a time, the Roman theatre was the place of various entertainments that all aimed to entertain the people and royalty: chariot races; gladiator fights; circus shows...
3. Saint-Florent Church
Image-Creative-Commons
Category: €/Cultural
Description: If during your stay you go down Saint-Florent street, you will surely come across the church of the same name. This gem of Romanesque architecture (as we might expect) came into being during the 12th century, and since then has never ceased to arouse admiration and respect from its visitors. Its facade harmoniously adorned with sculptures is enough to convince us to enter, while a feeling of inner peace settles within us, the moment we sit down. The colorful stained glass windows soothe our souls thanks to the soft light they let in and which gently touches our faces and the decor around us. Moreover, one can notice while admiring the celestial vaults and sculpted capitals that the craftsmen of the time already possessed an established workforce and certain expertise in terms of architecture. Don't forget to admire the few ancient frescoes on the walls, which tell sacred legends and biblical stories.
4. The Town Hall Belfry
Category: €€/Cultural
Description: Head to Georges Clemenceau Square to meet the Town Hall Belfry. Still in the historic center (by the way, don't forget to take a little break in a café to taste a local specialty) the medieval tower of the Belfry is one of the city's flagship monuments. Impossible to turn a deaf ear when the bells several meters high ring throughout the city. Listed as a historical monument, art and architecture lovers will be won over by the carefully crafted sculptures, as well as the different mullioned windows. The Town Hall Belfry is a bit like a painting that one discovers little by little as one looks at it, contemplates it. This is what visitors appreciated most: discovering small details during the visit, which at first glance was invisible, but nevertheless very present. That's art too!
5. The Art and History Museum
Category: €€/Cultural
Description: Every city has at least one museum, which allows you to learn more about its past, its twists and turns, and its highlights. For Orange, this museum would undoubtedly be the art and history museum...A place where, the more you advance, the more you will travel through time, between different eras, civilizations. A return to the past, to better understand the present, isn't that both magnificent and poetic? Nice little anecdote to keep in mind during your visit: the museum is housed in a former private mansion dating from the 18th century. You will find a whole collection of archaeological objects and ancient paintings relating the city's past. A beautiful testimony to the city's historical and cultural richness!
6. Take a tour of the market
Category: €€/Cultural/Gastronomic
Description: We suggest a "soft" activity to end your stay beautifully. Certainly, it's not something fun, but it will allow you to relax...And fill your belly! Actually, to tell you everything, there's no better way to immerse yourself in the city and thus get acquainted with the locals, and the succulent food. The different stalls are full of fresh and local products that are just waiting to be cooked! You can try some tastings and thus make your choice among the multitude of foods offered. Moreover, food is not the only thing to favor in the market, you can explore the depths of local craftsmanship: which could constitute an excellent souvenir to bring back in your suitcase or in your backpack at the end of your stay.