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    Saint-Gilles

    Saint-Gilles

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    9. Saint-Gilles
    Discover Saint-Gilles, a charming town in the heart of the Petite Camargue, where history meets Southern French lifestyle. You stand before the impressive UNESCO World Heritage Abbey Church, its detailed Romanesque facade transporting you to a bygone era. Be enchanted by the authentic ambiance of this place, welcoming you amidst historic streets and the flavors of local cuisine.
    • Neighborhoods & highlights
    • Walking tours
    • Eat & drink
    • Culture
    • Getting around
    • Accommodation
    • Plan trip
    • Nearby
    • Neighborhoods & highlights
    • Walking tours
    • Eat & drink
    • Culture
    • Getting around
    • Accommodation
    • Plan trip
    • Nearby

    Overview

    Saint-Gilles, in the heart of the Petite Camargue, unites rich history with a southern French lifestyle. The Abbey Church of Saint-Gilles, a UNESCO World Heritage site, impresses with its detailed Romanesque facade, a masterpiece of 12th-century sculpture. As a former important stop on the Way of St. James, it testifies to great historical significance; the crypt is also worth seeing. Explore the charming alleys and the port on the Canal du Rhône à Sète for authentic insights into local life. The cuisine is heavily influenced by the Camargue; try dishes with bull meat or regional rice. A visit in spring or autumn offers a relaxed travel experience away from peak season.

    Places in Saint-Gilles

    Discover the most important sights and attractions

    Sights in Saint-Gilles

    Abbaye de Saint-Gilles

    Die Abteikirche von Saint-Gilles ist das unbestreitbare Herzstück und ein wahres Meisterwerk der Romanik. Ihre prächtige Westfassade, reich verziert mit Skulpturen und Reliefs, erzählt biblische Geschichten und wird dich mit ihrer Detailtreue und künstlerischen Qualität begeistern. Nimm dir Zeit, die Krypta und den Chor zu erkunden, die von der einstigen Bedeutung dieses Pilgerortes zeugen.
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    Maison Romane (Hôtel de Ville)

    Direkt neben der Abtei findest du die Maison Romane, ein weiteres beeindruckendes Zeugnis der mittelalterlichen Architektur. Heute als Rathaus genutzt, kannst du die romanische Fassade und die alten Gewölbe bewundern. Es ist ein schönes Beispiel für die weltliche Architektur dieser Epoche und bietet einen Einblick in das historische Stadtbild.
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    Le Vieux Saint-Gilles (Altstadt)

    Schlendere durch die engen, verwinkelten Gassen der Altstadt von Saint-Gilles, wo du das authentische Flair Südfrankreichs spürst. Entdecke charmante Plätze, kleine Geschäfte und genieße die Ruhe abseits der Hauptwege. Es ist der perfekte Ort, um das lokale Leben aufzusaugen und die historische Atmosphäre auf dich wirken zu lassen.
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    Port de Plaisance (Yachthafen)

    Entspanne dich am Yachthafen von Saint-Gilles, wo der Canal du Rhône à Sète in die Petite Camargue mündet. Beobachte die Boote, spaziere am Wasser entlang oder genieße einen Drink in einem der Cafés mit Blick auf den Hafen. Es ist ein belebter Ort, der die Verbindung der Stadt zum Wasser und zur Schifffahrt widerspiegelt.
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    City walks in Saint-Gilles

    Curated walking tours through the city's highlights — handpicked by experienced travel journalists.

    Historisches Juwel am Kanal: Ein Spaziergang durch Saint-Gilles

    Entdecken Sie bei diesem 2-stündigen Rundgang die reiche Geschichte und den provenzalischen Charme von Saint-Gilles. Vom UNESCO-Weltkulturerbe der Abteikirche bis zu den idyllischen Gassen und dem lebhaften Kanalufer – tauchen Sie ein in die einzigartige Atmosphäre dieser Stadt.

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    Restaurants & Cafés

    Saint-Gilles: History, Art, and Traditions

    Saint-Gilles, nestled in the heart of the Camargue, boasts a deeply rooted history closely linked to its famous abbey and the Way of St. James. The town developed from the 7th century onwards around the tomb of Saint Giles (Saint Gilles), becoming one of the most important pilgrimage centers of Western Christianity in the Middle Ages.The Abbey Church of Saint-Gilles, an outstanding example of Romanesque architecture, has been a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1998. Particularly impressive is its elaborate 12th-century west facade, whose detailed sculptures reflect the golden age of Romanesque sculpture. Equally significant are the monumental crypt and the famous spiral staircase, known as the "Vis de Saint-Gilles," admired for its technical sophistication.Saint-Gilles' cultural identity is also strongly shaped by its location on the edge of the Camargue. This is evident in local traditions such as bull runs and horse festivals, which keep alive the heritage of the Gardians, the local "cowboys." This blend of religious history, architectural mastery, and regional way of life makes Saint-Gilles a unique cultural destination in France.

    Exploring Locally

    The center of Saint-Gilles is best explored on foot to enjoy its historic streets and sights. For longer distances, the local train station offers convenient connections to the regional rail network (TER), while regional bus lines provide access to surrounding towns. The flexibility of a rental car or bicycle is ideal for discovering the beautiful Camargue region on your own.

    Accommodations in Saint-Gilles

    Accommodations in Saint-Gilles

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    Plan your trip to Saint-Gilles

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    Locations nearby

    These places are nearby — perfect for additional days or a day trip.

    Arles

    Arles

    Arles is a city with a deep-rooted history, shaped by its Roman heritage and the artistic presence of Vincent van Gogh. Here, you can explore impressive Roman structures such as the well-preserved amphitheater Arènes d'Arles and the ancient theater, both UNESCO World Heritage sites. The Roman cryptoporticus and the Alyscamps burial ground also bear witness to the city's former importance. The city significantly inspired Vincent van Gogh, whose traces can be found at places like Café la Nuit or in the garden of the Hôtel-Dieu. The Fondation Vincent van Gogh Arles presents his work in the context of contemporary art. For an authentic experience, a visit to the lively Saturday market is worthwhile. The best time to visit is spring or autumn, to enjoy the city with mild temperatures and fewer crowds.
    Pont du Gard

    Pont du Gard

    The Pont du Gard is an outstanding testament to Roman engineering and ranks among the best-preserved ancient aqueducts worldwide. This impressive structure spans the Gardon River and was once part of a 50-kilometer-long aqueduct system that supplied the city of Nîmes with fresh water. You can extensively explore its three superimposed rows of arches, appreciating the impressive scale of this over 2000-year-old construction. The accompanying museum and visitor center offers you deep insights into the aqueduct's construction and history. For an undisturbed experience, a late afternoon visit is recommended to enjoy the golden hour and fewer visitors. In summer, the Gardon below the Pont du Gard invites you to swim and relax. A walk along the riverbank also reveals additional picturesque views of the monument.
    Avignon

    Avignon

    Historical Avignon in Provence is inextricably linked to its time as a papal seat in the 14th century. Its imposing city walls enclose an Old Town that is a UNESCO World Heritage site. You will be particularly impressed by the Palais des Papes, Europe's largest Gothic palace, and the famous Pont Saint-Bénézet bridge, known as the Pont d'Avignon. Stroll through the narrow streets and bustling squares to experience the city's authentic flair. From the Rocher des Doms rock, you can also enjoy a wide view over the city and the Rhône. For a more relaxed experience, a visit in spring or autumn is recommended to avoid the summer heat and peak tourist crowds.
    Provence

    Provence

    The Provence is a region in southeastern France that captivates visitors with its unique blend of Roman history, medieval charm, and breathtaking natural landscapes. From its famous lavender fields to vibrant cities and picturesque coastal towns, Provence offers a wealth of experiences that perfectly combine culture, cuisine, and relaxation.
    Sète

    Sète

    Welcome to Sète, the fascinating "Venice of Languedoc", where canals, the lively fishing port, and Mediterranean flair combine to create an unforgettable experience. This authentic port city on the Mediterranean coast enchants you with its unique light, its rich maritime history, and an unparalleled cuisine that delights fish and seafood lovers.