Things To Do
in Saint-Gilles
Saint-Gilles is a small historic town in the Gard department of southern France, perched along scenic riverbanks. Its medieval streets, ancient abbey, and warm Provençal atmosphere give visitors a sense of timeless charm. The town serves as a gateway to the Camargue wetlands and the Cevennes foothills, inviting easy day trips.
Wanderers will enjoy relaxed cafés, markets, and atmospheric stone architecture that tells stories of centuries past.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day at the vibrant Saint-Gilles market, where local vendors offer fresh produce, artisan cheeses, and handmade crafts. Take your time to roam the stalls, savoring samples and chatting with friendly locals about their goods. This colorful marketplace is a perfect place to experience the heart of the community.
After enjoying the market, make your way to the historic Church of Saint-Gilles, renowned for its stunning architecture and calming ambiance. Spend some time exploring its rich history and admiring the beautiful stained glass windows. Relax in the nearby park with a picnic featuring your market finds.
As the sun sets, head to a local bistro for dinner, where you can indulge in regional delicacies such as ratatouille or a fresh seafood dish. Enjoy the lively atmosphere as you sip on a glass of local wine, soaking in the charm of the town. Post-dinner, take a leisurely stroll along the streets, enjoying the evening lights and charming ambience.
Begin your day with a visit to the Museum of the Romanesque Art which showcases the rich history of the region. Immerse yourself in ancient artifacts that tell stories of Saint-Gilles’ past, and appreciate the stunning architectural designs. This cultural gem will deepen your understanding of the region's heritage.
After a morning of exploration, grab lunch at a nearby café before heading to the nearby Camargue Regional Nature Park, where you can admire the unique landscapes and wildlife. Rent a bike and cycle the scenic trails, taking in the breathtaking views and perhaps spotting some wild horses or flamingos. The serene environment is a perfect escape from the bustling town.
Return to Saint-Gilles and unwind at a local wine bar, where you can sample a variety of French wines in a cozy atmosphere. Engage in conversation with locals and fellow travelers about their experiences in the area. Enjoy a light dinner of tapas-style dishes to complement your wine tasting.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍽️Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🍷Glass of wine at a restaurant | $6-9 |
| 🥐Bakery item | $1-3 |
| 🚌Local transit fare (one-way) | $2-4 |
| 🛏️Mid-range hotel per night | $90-150 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Charming medieval town atmosphere
- Gateway to Camargue and Cevennes
- Relaxed pace and walkable center
- Rich culinary traditions
- Limited nightlife compared to bigger cities
- Smaller selection of international cuisines
- Limited direct flight connections
- "Bonjour" - Hello/Good day
- "Où est la gare?" - Where is the train station?
- "Combien ça coûte?" - How much does it cost?
- "S'il vous plaît" - Please
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "Parlez-vous anglais?" - Do you speak English?
Places to Visit in Saint-Gilles
Visit one of these nice places.
Medieval abbey grounds with stone arches and quiet cloisters, ideal for dramatic architectural shots.
Narrow lanes, old stone houses, and shuttered courtyards offer textured street photography opportunities.
Scenic viewpoints along the Vidourle river and local waterways, especially at golden hour.
Food in Saint-Gilles
Saint-Gilles Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A creamy salt cod purée blended with olive oil and potatoes, a staple of the region.
Must-Try!
Slow-cooked Camargue bull meat stew with tomatoes, olives, and herbs.
Garlic mayonnaise served with boiled potatoes and seafood or vegetables.
A robust vegetable medley featuring zucchini, eggplant, peppers, and tomatoes.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly markets offering olives, cheeses, honey, fresh produce, and regional specialties; great for tasting and picking up picnic supplies.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with 'Bonjour' during the day and 'Bonsoir' in the evening; a polite 's'il vous plaît' and 'merci' go a long way.
Maintain courteous conversation in shops and restaurants; avoid loud behavior in public spaces.
Smart-casual attire is typical when dining out; modest dress is expected at religious sites.
Safety
Tipping in Saint-Gilles
Ensure a smooth experience
Tips are appreciated but not mandatory; rounding up or leaving 5-10% in restaurants is common when service is good.
Credit/debit cards are widely accepted; cash is useful for small shops and markets; contactless payments are common.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild days, blooming countryside, and lively markets; great for outdoor photography and long walks.
Hot, dry conditions with strong sun; stay hydrated, seek shade, and shoot during early mornings or late evenings.
Pleasant temperatures and harvest events; wine regions nearby come alive with color and activity.
Cool and wetter weather with fewer crowds; ideal for indoor cultural sites and moody exterior shots.
Saint-Gilles at Night
Hiking in Saint-Gilles
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Craggy scrubland trails with scenic views on the outskirts of Saint-Gilles.
Short drives to the Cevennes offer longer hikes with lush landscapes.
Accessible day hikes with panoramic panoramas.
Airports
How to reach Saint-Gilles by plane.
Regional airport about 30-60 minutes by road from Saint-Gilles; frequent low-cost and domestic flights.
Nîmes airport serving the region; convenient for domestic flights; car rental available.
Airport near Avignon; connects to several European destinations; drive or train to Saint-Gilles.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many families live in Saint-Gilles; family-friendly activities abound.
Quiet streets and a relaxed pace attract retirees.
Commuters to Nîmes/Montpellier for work; visitors looking for culture and nature.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A classic Provençal lawn game widely played in towns and parks.
Flat to rolling terrain ideal for road biking and gravel routes.
Local and regional matches; community clubs.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Saint-Gilles.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are commonly available at most bistros; opt for ratatouille, salads, grilled vegetables, or vegetable quiches. If a dish uses meat stock, request vegetable stock or a separate preparation.