Things To Do
in Orange
Orange, France sits on the southern edge of the Rhône Valley, where ancient monuments meet sunlit streets. The town is famed for its Roman Théâtre Antique and the grand Arc de Triomphe, relics that set the rhythm of day and night. Vineyards spill into the surrounding hills, inviting tastings and scenic drives.
With a quiet Provençal charm, Orange makes a perfect base for exploring the wider Vaucluse and the Comtat.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day by wandering through the charming streets of Orange. Visit the impressive Roman Theatre, a UNESCO World Heritage site, where you can marvel at its magnificent architecture. Don’t forget to stop by a local café for a delightful breakfast of croissants and coffee.
After lunch, delve into the history at the Museum of Art and History, which showcases artifacts from the region's rich past. Stroll through the Place de la République, lined with shops and quaint boutiques—perfect for picking up unique souvenirs. Consider visiting the nearby Triumphal Arch, a monument that has stood since ancient Roman times.
As the sun sets, enjoy dinner at a local bistro, sampling regional specialties like truffles or ratatouille. The ambiance is lively in the evening as locals gather for wine tasting in the square. End the night with a leisurely walk, taking in the twinkling lights and the vibrant atmosphere.
Embark on a scenic tour of the local vineyards that surround Orange, where you can witness the beautiful landscapes filled with rows of grapevines. Participate in a guided wine-tasting session and learn about the winemaking process from experienced vignerons. Enjoy a light breakfast at the vineyard’s café, featuring fresh, local produce.
After your vineyard tour, savor a hearty lunch at a traditional restaurant, complemented by a local wine selection. Spend the afternoon exploring the countryside on a bike ride, surrounded by lavender fields and olive groves. If time permits, visit a nearby village like Châteauneuf-du-Pape to explore its quaint charm.
As the evening approaches, return to Orange and indulge in a leisurely dinner at a rooftop terrace overlooking the stunning landscape. Enjoy local dishes paired with exquisite wines while taking in the panoramic views. Conclude the night with a live music performance at a cozy venue in town.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee | $3-5 |
| 🧃Bottle of water (1.5L) | $1-2 |
| 🚌Public transit fare (one-way) | $2-3 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $90-150 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich Roman and medieval heritage
- Pleasant Provencal cuisine and wines
- Compact town center easy to explore on foot
- Proximity to vineyards and Mont Ventoux for day trips
- Limited nightlife compared to bigger cities
- Seasonal crowds in markets and festivals
- Limited direct flights; often requires connections from Paris or Marseille
- "Bonjour" - Hello / Good day
- "S’il vous plaît" - Please
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "Parlez-vous anglais?" - Do you speak English?
- "Où est la gare?" - Where is the train station?
Places to Visit in Orange
Visit one of these nice places.
Roman theater with massive stone seating; dramatic lighting at golden hour.
Ancient triumphal arch at the entrance to the old town; great for architectural photography.
Narrow lanes with historic façades and colorful shutters; morning light is ideal.
Food in Orange
Orange Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Slow-braised beef in red wine with garlic and herbs; best enjoyed with crusty bread or potatoes.
Must-Try!
Creamy cod and olive oil purée, a staple coastal-inspired dish often served with potatoes.
A vibrant stewed medley of tomatoes, zucchini, peppers, eggplant, and herbs.
Garlic mayonnaise served with boiled vegetables and sometimes fish; a Provençal classic.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Vibrant markets offering fresh produce, olives, cheeses, pastries, and regional specialties on market days.
Seasonal stalls around the town center offering socca, crêpes, and other Provencal snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Say bonjour and au revoir when entering or leaving shops; use vous with strangers. A little politeness goes a long way.
La bise is common among friends and locals; handshakes or a kiss on the cheek may be used in some situations.
Safety
Tipping in Orange
Ensure a smooth experience
Service charge is often included; it's common to round up or leave 5-10% if not included.
Cards widely accepted; cash is useful in marchés and small eateries; contactless payments are common.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures, blooming orchards, and longer days—perfect for walking and photo walks.
Hot days and lively plazas; outdoor performances and markets thrive; stay hydrated and seek shade during peak heat.
Wine harvest season in nearby vineyards; comfortable weather for day trips and sightseeing.
Milder winters with occasional rain; cozy cafes and indoor attractions are appealing.
Orange at Night
Hiking in Orange
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Iconic peak with challenging ascents and sweeping alpine views.
Dramatic limestone gorge with shaded trails and interesting rock formations.
Rugged limestone hills offering scenic hikes and vineyard panoramas.
Airports
How to reach Orange by plane.
Small regional airport with seasonal and domestic flights; about 30-40 minutes by road from Orange.
Regional airport serving some European destinations; roughly 1-1.5 hours by car.
Major international hub with broad connections; about 1.5-2 hours by car or train.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Families, retirees, and long-standing community members with strong local ties.
Seasonal visitors drawn to Roman heritage, vineyards, and Provencal culture.
Nearby institutions and exchange programs bring a youthful element to the town.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular regional sport with active clubs and weekend matches.
Road cycling through vineyards and hillside routes; Mont Ventoux nearby is a magnet for cyclists.
Local leagues and friendly matches typical on weekends.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Orange.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Look for ratatouille, grilled vegetables, olive-oil–based dishes; ask for no meat broth; many places can adapt.
Prioritize salads, vegetables, beans, and olive oil; request dairy-free preparations when possible.