When you think of France, iconic destinations like Paris or Bordeaux often come to mind. However, overlooking lesser-known gems means missing out on extraordinary experiences. One such hidden treasure is Uzès, a tiny town in the Occitanie region of Southern France, on the less fashionable side of the Rhône. Recently hailed as 'the French Tuscany' in online reviews, Uzès boasts a remarkable transformation from a dilapidated, deserted center 50 years ago to a chic and beautiful holiday destination today.
The Town's Restoration
In the 1960s, the French government designated Uzès a Ville d'art et d'histoire (City of Art and History), granting it protected status. This sparked a comprehensive restoration that breathed new life into the town while preserving its rich history. Original building facades were uncovered, revealing stunning classical and Renaissance architecture. Streets were paved, and unsightly electrical wires were hidden underground. The efforts paid off, transforming Uzès into a sought-after destination celebrated for its elegance and charm.
What Visitors Say About Uzès
Travelers have praised Uzès for its unique blend of tranquility and sophistication. On Reddit, u/Immodingo noted: 'Uzès is crazy, you feel like it’s out of the way, but actually it’s super chic, full of money hidden between two stone alleyways. People come for peace and quiet, but with good wine and markets that smell of truffles.' Another user, u/Guilty-Remove6537, added: 'I cannot recommend Uzès (and a night or two in Saint-Quentin-la-Poterie) enough. I’m so in love with the pottery town.' On TikTok, @nimesgirl described Uzès as 'a charming medieval town with lively markets and a beautiful historic center,' calling it a must-visit. Meanwhile, @talemesomething_travel shared they 'got lost in the charm of Uzès, where every corner feels like a love story written in stone.' Others have described it as character-filled, picturesque, and pretty, with many dubbing it 'the French Tuscany.'
What to Do in Uzès
For those who love wandering through narrow streets, Uzès is a paradise. The town is small but packed with wonderful places to explore, including shops, restaurants, galleries, and history around every corner. Top attractions include the Place aux Herbes, a medieval square in the heart of Uzès featuring a fountain, shops, bistros, and regular markets, including a popular farmers market on Wednesdays and Saturdays. The Jardin Medieval, classified as a 'remarkable garden,' boasts 450 plant species, most used in the Middle Ages, along with graffiti dating back to the 14th century. Climbing the steps of the King's Tower rewards visitors with panoramic views over the town. Other highlights include the Cathédrale Saint-Théodorit and the Duché, a castle known as 'the first duchy of France,' which served as the residence of the Duke of Uzès. The castle showcases a mix of medieval, Renaissance, and 17th-century architecture, including the 12th-century Bermonde Tower and a Gothic chapel.
Dining in Uzès
Food enthusiasts will appreciate La Table d’Uzès, a Michelin-starred restaurant where chef Christophe Ducros serves balanced, unequivocal dishes of purebred southern inspiration and heritage. Highlights include the Costières squab, and dining on the rooftop terrace overlooking the cathedral is highly recommended. On Tripadvisor, diners also recommend Le Café Ernest, Ten, and Le Pt’it Mercier.
How to Get to Uzès
Traveling from London, head to Nîmes, France. Options include taking the Eurostar to Paris, then a train to Nîmes, followed by a car or taxi ride (just over 30 minutes) to Uzès. Alternatively, fly to Nîmes with Ryanair, with flights from as low as £17, then make your way to Uzès.
