Car Hire Orange

Orange Mini Guide

What is special about Orange?
Orange is a small town in the South of France which would probably be forgotten were it not for its Roman remains. It has the best preserved Roman theatre and triumphal arches in Europe. First founded in 35BC, the town’s original name was Arausio but over the centuries became corrupted to Orange. It grew in prosperity despite the end of the Roman Empire and over the centuries became part of the Dutch controlled parts of France. It is probably most famous for the prince, William of Orange who went on to become King William II of Britain after the ‘Glorious Revolution’ of 1688.



How can I get to Orange?
The closest airport to Orange is Avignon Airport some 16 miles away. All flights to the airport come from regional UK airports using budget carriers. Transport to Orange from the airport isn’t the easiest and car hire would be recommended, not just to facilitate transfers, but also to allow you to explore the area around the town.



What is there to see and do in and around Orange?
You should definitely see the Roman theatre and the Triumphal Arch as well as visiting the town’s museum which has a large display on the influence of the Romans in and around the town. Of particular note in the museum is a map carved in marble of part of the town, thought to be the biggest map of its type from the period. If you’re in Orange in July, look out for the opera festival that takes place in the theatre. Within easy drive of the town is the former papal seat of Avignon which has a huge amount of architectural and historic things to see including the Papal Palace and the famous Pont d’Avignon.