Are you looking for adventure? Then add Côtes du Rhône to your list of must-visit destinations.
With its rolling hills, picturesque landscapes, and ancient monuments, Côtes du Rhône is a region of France that’s teeming with culture and history. But as with most regions in France, this area has plenty of towns and cities to explore – which can make it hard to decide where to go first. If you’re looking for the best cities in Côtes du Rhône, then look no further! In this article, we’ll take a look at 10 must-visit cities in Côtes du Rhône that are sure to give you an amazing and unique experience.
10 Must Visit Cities in Côtes du Rhône
There are many must-visit cities in Côtes du Rhône. The region is home to some of the most beautiful and historic cities in France. Here are just a few of the must-visit cities in Côtes du Rhône:
1. Avignon: Avignon is a beautiful city located in the Provence region of France. The city is home to many historical landmarks, including the Palais des Papes, which was once the residence of the Pope.
2. Orange: Orange is a historic city located in the south of France. The city is home to a number of well-preserved Roman ruins, including the Triumphal Arch of Orange.
3. Arles: Arles is a picturesque city located in the Provence region of France. The city is home to numerous historical landmarks, including the Arena of Arles, one of the best-preserved Roman arenas in existence.
4. Viviers: Viviers is a charming medieval town located in the Ardèche department of France. The town is home to a number of well-preserved medieval buildings, including the Cathedral of Saint Peter .
5. Valence: Valence is a beautiful riverside city located in the south of France. The city is home to a number of historical attractions, including the former Palace of the Counts of Valentinois.
6. Châteauneuf-du-Pape: Châteauneuf-du-Pape is a small village located in the heart of the Côtes du Rhône wine region. The village is home to numerous vineyards producing some of France’s finest wines.
7. Vaison-la-Romaine: Vaison-la-Romaine is an ancient Roman city located in the south of France. The city is home to a number of impressive Roman ruins, including the remains of an amphitheater and an aqueduct.
8. Grignan: Grignan is a charming village located in the Drôme department of France. The village is home to a stunning chateau as well as some excellent wineries producing some of the best wines from the area .
9. Aigues Mortes: Aigues Mortes is a fortified town located on the Mediterranean coast near Montpellier. The town is known for its stunning architecture and well preserved medieval walls.
10. Uzes: Uzes is a beautiful town located in the Gard department of France. The town has a wealth of historical sites, including spectacular Romanesque architecture, Roman monuments and a stunning cathedral.
Avignon, Côtes du Rhône
Rich in culture and blessed with beautiful weather, Avignon is a must-visit city in Côtes du Rhône. This historic city is home to the world-famous Palace of the Popes, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Visitors can also explore the many museums and art galleries, or simply enjoy a leisurely stroll through the picturesque streets. With its stunning setting on the banks of the River Rhône, Avignon is well worth a visit.
Orange, Côtes du Rhône
Côtes du Rhône is a region in southern France that produces some of the country’s most beloved wines. The region is home to many different types of wines, but the most famous is probably the orange wine made from the region’s namesake fruit.
Orange wines are made using white grapes that have been left on the skins for a longer period of time than normal, which gives the wine its distinct orange color. These wines are often aged in oak barrels, which adds to their unique flavor profile.
If you’re looking for a truly unique wine-tasting experience, then a visit to Côtes du Rhône is a must. The region’s orange wines are unlike anything else you’ll find on the market, and they’re sure to please even the most discerning palate.
Arles, Côtes du Rhône
Arles is a must-visit city in the Côtes du Rhône region of France. This charming city is located on the banks of the Rhône River and is known for its captivating Roman ruins, its well-preserved medieval architecture, and its vibrant Provençal culture. Visitors to Arles can explore the city’s many historical landmarks, such as the UNESCO-listed Arles Amphitheatre and the ancient Roman baths, or enjoy a leisurely stroll through the picturesque old town. With its rich history and beautiful setting, Arles is an ideal destination for travelers seeking a taste of authentic French culture.
Viviers, Côtes du Rhône
Viviers is a commune in the Côtes du Rhône department in southern France. The town is located on the left bank of the Rhône River, about 20 kilometres (12 mi) southeast of Montélimar. Viviers has a medieval center that is a declared historical monument. It is the capital of the canton of Viviers and has a population of 2,145 (2014).
The town was founded in the 3rd century BC by the Roman general Lucius Fabius Maximus as a military post. It was originally called maxima clervana, meaning ‘greatest clover field’. In the 4th century, it became an important city in the province of Novempopulania and was renamed Noviomagus Clervensis (‘new market of the clovers’). In 584, it was sacked by Guntram, King of Burgundy.
In 735, it was assaulted by Charles Martel. In 845, it was partially destroyed by Saracens. In 1054, it revolted against Count Raymond IV of Toulouse but was reconquered by Turpin de Crescens. In 1095, Urban II preached the First Crusade at Viviers. It was conquered again by Raymond IV in 1108 and passed to his son Bertrand TG 1111-1117 from whom it went to Alphonse Jourdain 1117-1129 , then back to Bertrand 1125
Valence, Côtes du Rhône
Valence is the capital of the Côtes du Rhône wine region and is located in southeastern France. The city is home to many historical landmarks, as well as a number of wineries.
Wine has been produced in the Côtes du Rhône region for over 2,000 years, and the city of Valence is home to some of the oldest vineyards in the world. The climate in Valence is ideal for growing grapes, and the city’s proximity to the Rhône River makes it an ideal location for winemaking.
There are a number of ways to explore Valence’s wine scene, from visiting one of the city’s many wineries, to taking a wine-themed tour, or even just enjoying a glass or two at one of the many bars and restaurants that serve local wines.
Châteauneuf-du-Pape, Côtes du Rhône
Châteauneuf-du-Pape, Côtes du Rhône is one of the most popular and well-known wine regions in France. The region is located in the southern part of the country and is known for its warm climate and beautiful scenery. The city of Châteauneuf-du-Pape is the capital of the region and is home to many of the region’s best wineries.
The Côtes du Rhône region is home to some of France’s most popular wines, including Châteauneuf-du-Pape, which is a red wine made from a blend of Grenache, Syrah, and Mourvèdre grapes. The wine has a rich, full body and a long finish. It is often described as being ‘intensely fruity’ and ‘spicy.’
Other popular wines from the Côtes du Rhône region include Gigondas, Vacqueyras, and Rasteau. These are all red wines made from Grenache grapes. Gigondas is known for its powerful flavor, while Vacqueyras is more elegant and approachable. Rasteau is a full-bodied wine with intense fruit flavors.
The Côtes du Rhône region is also home to some excellent white wines. The most famous of these is Viognier, which is a white wine made from the Viognier grape.
Vaison-la-Romaine, Côtes du Rhône
The first city on our list is Vaison-la-Romaine, situated in the heart of the Côtes du Rhône wine region. This picturesque town is home to a number of historical landmarks, including the Roman ruins of Vaison-les-Bains and the medieval castle of Montfrin. The town’s lively marketplace is the perfect place to sample some local produce, whilst the many restaurants and cafes offer a taste of the region’s gastronomic delights. With its beautiful setting and wealth of things to see and do, Vaison-la-Romaine is the perfect base for exploring the Côtes du Rhône.
Grignan, Côtes du Rhône
Located in Southeastern France, Grignan is a charming medieval town that sits atop a hill in the midst of lavender fields. The town is home to a beautiful castle which dates back to the 11th century, and there are many other historic buildings and sites to explore. The surrounding countryside is renowned for its vineyards, and visitors can enjoy wine tastings and tours at many of the local wineries. There are also several excellent restaurants in Grignan, making it the perfect place to enjoy a leisurely meal.
Aigues Mortes, Côtes du Rhône
Aigues-Mortes is a medieval city in the Côtes du Rhône region of France. It is known for its walls, which were built in the 13th century to protect the city from invaders. The walls are well preserved and are a popular tourist attraction. Aigues-Mortes is also home to a number of historical monuments, including the Church of Saint-Louis, which was built in the 14th century.
If you’re looking for a taste of medieval France, then Aigues-Mortes is the perfect place to visit. Stroll along the ramparts of the old city walls, explore the Church of Saint-Louis, and soak up the atmosphere of this charming historic town.
Uzes, Côtes du Rhône
Uzes is the first stop on our list of must-visit cities in Côtes du Rhône. This charming city is located in the heart of the Provence region and is known for its beautiful architecture and picturesque setting. The historical center of Uzes is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and features a number of well-preserved Roman buildings, including the Pont du Gard aqueduct.
In addition to its Roman ruins, Uzes is also home to a number of other noteworthy attractions, such as the Cathedral of St. Stephen, the Museum of Popular Arts and Traditions, and the Château de l’Uzès. With so much to see and do, Uzes makes for an ideal base for exploring the Côtes du Rhône wine region.
I hope this article has been enlightening and inspiring for you in your journey to explore the beautiful Côtes du Rhône region of France. From its centuries-old history to its world renowned vineyards, there is something special for every traveler in each one of these ten cities. Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway or just an escape from everyday life, the Côtes du Rhône will make sure that your journey is an unforgettable experience. So make sure to add these destinations on your list!
