Things To Do
in Nîmes
Nîmes is a compact city in southern France famed for its remarkably preserved Roman monuments. It blends ancient architecture with a lively café culture and vibrant markets in a sun-soaked setting. Highlights include the Arena of Nîmes, the Maison Carrée, and the Jardins de la Fontaine, all within walkable quarters of the city.
The surrounding Gard region adds Provençal charm with olive groves and bold regional flavors that welcome explorers and foodies alike.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the stunning Maison Carrée, an ancient Roman temple that boasts impressive architectural details. Stroll through the picturesque streets of Nîmes, taking in the quaint shops and cafes that line the way. Don’t miss the chance to admire the nearby Carré d'Art, a contemporary art museum that stands in contrast to the city’s ancient structures.
After a leisurely lunch at a local bistro, head over to the Nîmes Amphitheatre, one of the best-preserved Roman arenas in the world. Explore the surrounding area, where you can find the stunning Jardins de la Fontaine, a beautiful park that is perfect for a relaxing walk. Spend some time enjoying the fountains and gardens while soaking in the history of this ancient city.
As the sun sets, find a cozy restaurant in the heart of the city to enjoy a traditional Provençal dinner. Savor local specialties such as brandade de morue or a delicious ratatouille paired with a glass of local wine. After dinner, take a leisurely stroll through the illuminated streets, allowing the charm of Nîmes to captivate you.
Begin your exploration by visiting the iconic Pont du Gard, an ancient Roman aqueduct located just a short drive from Nîmes. Marvel at the engineering prowess of the Romans as you walk across the bridge and take in the stunning views of the surrounding countryside. Enjoy a picnic breakfast by the river, surrounded by the lush greenery and historic ambiance.
Return to Nîmes and visit the Museum of Roman History, which offers fascinating insights into the city’s past. Explore various artifacts and exhibitions that showcase the life and culture of ancient Romans. Afterward, take a leisurely walk through the historic streets, making your way to the Temple of Diana, another gem of Roman architecture.
For dinner, head to a charming restaurant nearby that specializes in local cuisine, perhaps trying some roasted lamb or seasonal vegetables. As you enjoy your meal, soak in the atmosphere filled with laughter and chatter from fellow diners. Cap off your evening with a glass of pastis at a local bar, mingling with locals and soaking in the vibrant nightlife.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-20 |
| 🥖Groceries for a few days | $20-40 |
| 🚇Public transit day pass | $4-7 |
| 🏨1 night in a mid-range hotel | $100-180 |
| 🍷Bottle of local wine | $8-20 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich Roman heritage and impressive monuments
- Compact, walkable city with good food scene
- Limited big-city nightlife compared to larger cities
- Can be hot in summer and crowded around major sights
- "Bonjour" - Hello / Good morning
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "S'il vous plaît" - Please
- "Parlez-vous anglais?" - Do you speak English?
- "Où est... ?" - Where is... ?
- "Combien ça coûte?" - How much does this cost?
- "L'addition, s'il vous plaît." - The bill, please.
- "Je suis végétarien(ne)" - I am vegetarian.
Places to Visit in Nîmes
Visit one of these nice places.
A perfectly preserved Roman temple; capture the iconic façade from the square, especially during golden hour.
Impressive Roman amphitheatre with dramatic arches; photograph from the surrounding streets and vantage points around the arena.
Lush formal gardens along the water with fountains, statues, and shaded paths—great for wide-angle and portrait shots.
Hilltop fortifications offering expansive city views and rugged stone textures ideal for skyline photography.
Contemporary architecture and reflective surfaces provide modern contrasts against ancient stones.
Food in Nîmes
Nîmes Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Creamy salt cod and potato purée; often served with crusty bread or peppers, a staple in brasseries around Nîmes.
Must-Try!
Bull meat stew braised with onions, olives, herbs, and red wine; a hearty classic of the Gard region.
Traditional garlic mayonnaise served with boiled vegetables, seafood or cod; a Provençal favorite, especially in markets and seaside eateries.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Covered central market offering fresh produce, cheeses, seafood, olives, and prepared foods.
Seasonal stalls and small bites around the garden area, ideal for sampling regional snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with 'Bonjour' or 'Bonsoir' before speaking; a handshake is common; among friends, a light kiss on each cheek may occur.
Keep hands on the table during meals; avoid loud conversations in quiet spaces; tipping is modest when service is included.
Safety
Tipping in Nîmes
Ensure a smooth experience
Service is typically included in France; if you’re pleased, rounding up or leaving 5–10% is appreciated but not mandatory.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; cash is common in markets and smaller shops; contactless payments are standard.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures and blooming gardens make it ideal for outdoor exploration and photography, with fewer crowds than summer.
Hot and sunny with high temperatures; bring water, sun protection, and plan visits for early mornings or late afternoons; terrace dining is popular.
Pleasant weather and harvest markets; great for food-focused strolls and longer museum visits without peak crowds.
Mild but cooler days; some outdoor sites may have reduced hours, but indoor museums provide rich cultural insight.
Nîmes at Night
Hiking in Nîmes
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Scenic canyon with hiking trails and viewpoints near Collias and La Roque-sur-Cissenat; great for half-day hikes.
Rolling hills and scrubland with scenic trails and panoramic viewpoints within a short drive from Nîmes.
Airports
How to reach Nîmes by plane.
Small regional airport near Garons, about 25-30 minutes from central Nîmes; serves domestic and seasonal international flights.
Major international and domestic airport about 45-60 minutes from Nîmes; connects to many European cities.
Larger international hub about 2 hours from Nîmes; frequent domestic and international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A sizable student presence thanks to nearby universities and colleges.
Many families live in or near the historic center and newer neighborhoods.
Tourists explore the sights while retirees enjoy the relaxed pace and markets.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Local club with a dedicated stadium and loyal fans; matches are a staple weekend activity.
A cherished pastime played in town squares and parks across the region.
Flat and gentle-to-challenging routes around the city attract cyclists of all levels.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Nîmes.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many dishes can be adapted—look for ratatouille, aioli-based plates without meat, and vegetable-forward tarts; ask for goat cheese or olive oil enhancements.