Nîmes: The French Rome
Discover Nîmes, the 'French Rome': Explore ancient Roman monuments, stroll through charming gardens, and immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of this captivating southern French city.
Nîmes, often called the "French Rome," is a captivating city in the Occitanie region of southern France, boasting an exceptionally well-preserved collection of Roman monuments. From the magnificent Arena, a remarkably intact Roman amphitheater still hosting events today, to the elegant Maison Carrée, an ancient Roman temple and UNESCO World Heritage site, Nîmes offers a journey through 2,000 years of history. Beyond its Roman heritage, Nîmes features a charming old town with vibrant squares, the beautiful Jardins de la Fontaine, and a rich cultural scene, making it a must-see destination for history buffs and culture enthusiasts alike. The city's unique blend of ancient grandeur and southern French charm creates an unforgettable experience.
A brief summary to Nîmes
- Nîmes, FR
Local tips
- Visit the Arena early in the morning to avoid crowds and experience the amphitheater in a more peaceful setting.
- Purchase a Nîmes City Pass for access to multiple attractions, including the Arena, Maison Carrée, and Musée de la Romanité, at a discounted price.
- Explore the Jardins de la Fontaine in the late afternoon for stunning sunset views over the city.
- Attend a performance or event at the Arena to experience the amphitheater in a truly unique way.
- Sample local specialties like brandade de morue and Costières de Nîmes wine at Les Halles market.
Getting There
-
Walking
Nîmes city center, where most attractions are located, is easily walkable. From the Nîmes train station (Gare de Nîmes), the Arena is approximately a 7-minute walk. Exit the station and walk straight along Boulevard Sergent Triaire, then turn left onto Boulevard des Arènes. The Arena will be directly in front of you. This route is well-signposted. Note that the area around the Arena and Maison Carrée is primarily pedestrianized, making walking the most convenient option.
-
Public Transport
The TanGO bus network serves Nîmes. Several bus lines stop near the Arena and other central attractions. From the train station, you can take the T1 trambus line towards Caissargues and get off at the Arènes stop, which is right next to the Arena. A single ticket costs approximately €1.30 and can be purchased at vending machines or directly on the bus. Consider purchasing a day pass if you plan to use public transport extensively. Contactless payment is available directly on the bus validators.
-
Taxi/Ride-Share
Taxis are readily available in Nîmes, particularly at the train station and near major tourist attractions. Ride-sharing services like Uber also operate in the city. A short taxi ride from the train station to the Arena would typically cost between €8 and €12, depending on traffic. Be aware that during peak tourist season or events, availability may be limited, and surge pricing may apply.
-
Driving
Driving directly to the city center can be challenging due to pedestrian zones and limited parking. If driving, it's best to park in one of the designated parking lots on the outskirts of the center and walk or take public transport the rest of the way. Parking Nemausus Gare de Nîmes, near the train station, and Parking Halles, near the Arena, are two options. Hourly parking rates typically range from €2.20 for 1 hour to €4.50 for 2 hours. Daily rates can be around €17.60. Be aware of restricted traffic zones (ZCR) and parking regulations to avoid fines.
Discover more about Nîmes
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Pl. des Arènes
0.1 km
Explore Nîmes at Pl. des Arènes, where ancient Roman history meets vibrant local culture in a picturesque square brimming with life.
Nîmes Tourist Office
0.2 km
Explore the rich Roman heritage and vibrant culture of Nîmes at the Nîmes Tourist Office, your essential guide to this enchanting southern French city.
La porte de France
0.2 km
Experience the grandeur of La porte de France, a historical landmark that embodies the rich heritage and vibrant culture of Nîmes, France.
Écusson
0.3 km
Discover Écusson, an iconic castle in Nîmes that offers a captivating glimpse into the city's rich history and architectural beauty.
Hôtel de l'Académie
0.4 km
Discover the rich cultural tapestry of Nîmes at Hôtel de l'Académie, a stunning heritage building that captures the essence of Southern France.
Hôtel de Bernis, Nîmes
0.4 km
Experience the historical elegance of Hôtel de Bernis in Nîmes, a stunning landmark that embodies the rich cultural heritage of southern France.
Nîmes Cathedral
0.5 km
Explore the architectural beauty and spiritual serenity of Nîmes Cathedral, a historical gem in the heart of southern France.
Rue de l'Horloge & Place de l'Horloge
0.5 km
Explore the vibrant Rue de l'Horloge & Place de l'Horloge in Nîmes, where history, shopping, and local culture come together for an unforgettable experience.
Bains Romains du Jardin de la Fontaine
1.0 km
Discover the ancient Roman baths at Jardin de la Fontaine, a historical landmark that beautifully showcases Nîmes' rich heritage and architectural marvels.
400 Rte du Pont du Gard
19.2 km
Visit the iconic Pont du Gard, an architectural marvel of ancient Rome, and immerse yourself in history amidst stunning natural beauty.
Visit The French Riviera
20.6 km
Explore the stunning French Riviera, a blend of breathtaking beaches, vibrant culture, and luxurious experiences that promise unforgettable adventures.
Visite Manade Camargue Camargu'oustau - ARLES
23.8 km
Experience Camargue's soul: Discover ranch life, iconic horses & bulls, and the traditions of the gardians at Visite Manade Camargu'Oustau in Arles.
Musée de la Camargue
27.0 km
Explore the rich history of the Camargue at the Musée de la Camargue, where captivating exhibits meet stunning natural landscapes.
Pont de Trinquetaille
27.3 km
Discover the stunning Pont de Trinquetaille in Arles, France – a bridge that elegantly connects history and breathtaking views along the Rhône River.
Patio de Camargue
27.4 km
Experience the heart of Gypsy culture in Arles at Patio de Camargue, an event venue with music, dance, and Camargue spirit.
Unmissable attractions to see
Museum Romanité
0.0 km
Explore the rich history of Roman civilization at the Museum de la Romanité in Nîmes, a captivating destination for culture and history enthusiasts.
Musée des Cultures Taurines
0.1 km
Explore the vibrant heritage of bullfighting at Musée des Cultures Taurines in Nîmes, where history and culture intersect in a unique museum experience.
Petit Train Touristique
0.1 km
Explore the historic city of Nîmes on the Petit Train Touristique, a fun and informative way to see its iconic landmarks and hidden gems.
Amphitheatre of Nîmes
0.1 km
Discover the Amphitheatre of Nîmes, a spectacular Roman monument where history and culture come to life in the heart of Southern France.
Jardins du Mvsée de la Romanité
0.1 km
Explore the serene Jardins du Musée de la Romanité in Nîmes, where nature meets history in a stunning garden setting.
Culturespaces
0.1 km
Explore the rich heritage of Nîmes at Culturespaces, a captivating cultural attraction that blends art, history, and immersive experiences.
Musée des Beaux-Arts de Nîmes
0.2 km
Explore the Musée des Beaux-Arts de Nîmes, a stunning art museum showcasing a rich collection from the Renaissance to contemporary masterpieces.
Fontaine Pradier
0.2 km
Discover the beauty of Fontaine Pradier, a historic fountain and monument, in the heart of Nîmes, where art and culture come alive.
Invader NIM_01
0.2 km
Explore Invader NIM_01, a vibrant street art mosaic in Nîmes that captures the city's creative spirit and showcases its artistic heritage.
La Dolcezza
0.3 km
Discover La Dolcezza in Nîmes for artisanal gelato and exquisite teas, a perfect treat amidst the city's charming atmosphere.
Place Montcalm
0.3 km
Discover the enchanting Place Montcalm in Nîmes, where history meets vibrant local culture in a picturesque square.
Pl. du Marché
0.3 km
Explore the vibrant Place du Marché in Nîmes, where local culture, fresh produce, and delightful cuisine come together in a charming and historic setting.
Fontaine du Crocodile
0.3 km
Discover the enchanting Fontaine du Crocodile in Nîmes, a stunning historical fountain blending art, culture, and the charm of French heritage.
Place de la fontaine
0.3 km
Explore the enchanting Place de la Fontaine in Nîmes, a historical square adorned with stunning fountains and vibrant local culture.
musée du vieux Nimes Garden
0.4 km
Discover the enchanting Musée du Vieux Nîmes Garden, a peaceful retreat filled with history and stunning Mediterranean flora in the heart of Nîmes.
Essential places to dine
La Table Du 2
0.1 km
Experience authentic French cuisine at La Table Du 2 in Nîmes – where every dish is a celebration of local flavors and culinary artistry.
Wine Bar
0.1 km
Experience exquisite French cuisine and fine wines at Le Cheval Blanc Wine Bar in Nîmes - a gastronomic delight awaits you.
Restaurant Skab
0.1 km
Experience exquisite French-Mediterranean cuisine at Restaurant Skab in Nîmes - where every meal is a celebration of flavor.
Le caboulot de la sérendipité
0.2 km
Discover delicious vegetarian cuisine at Le Caboulot de la Sérendipité in Nîmes, where fresh ingredients meet innovative flavors.
Brasserie des Arènes Nîmes
0.2 km
Experience exquisite French dining at Brasserie des Arènes in Nîmes, where history meets culinary excellence amidst stunning surroundings.
Théo Café
0.2 km
Discover the essence of French gastronomy at Théo Café in Nîmes, where every dish tells a story of tradition and flavor.
LE RESTO
0.2 km
Experience the best of traditional French cuisine at Le Resto in Nîmes – where every meal tells a story.
i Fratelli
0.2 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at i Fratelli in Nîmes, where delicious pizzas and rich espresso await every visitor.
Gard O Wine
0.2 km
Discover Gard O Wine: A Perfect Blend of Italian Cuisine and Exquisite Wines in Nîmes.
Le Palmier
0.3 km
Discover Le Palmier in Nîmes: Where authentic French flavors meet vibrant bar culture for an unforgettable dining experience.
Au Bon Endroit
0.3 km
Experience authentic Mediterranean cuisine at Au Bon Endroit in Nîmes - where family-friendly dining meets vibrant French flair.
Entre 2 Tapas - Bar à Tapas
0.3 km
Experience authentic Spanish cuisine at Entre 2 Tapas in Nîmes—where every dish tells a story.
Restaurant Le menestrel
0.3 km
Experience exquisite French and Mediterranean cuisine at Restaurant Le Menestrel in the heart of Nîmes.
Le Chabanais
0.3 km
Discover exquisite French cuisine at Le Chabanais in Nîmes - where every meal is an unforgettable culinary journey.
A la Belle Saison
0.4 km
Experience exquisite haute French cuisine at A la Belle Saison in Nîmes - where every meal is a celebration of flavor and artistry.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
LA BOUTIQUE NIMOISE
0.1 km
Experience the best of Nîmes at La Boutique Nimoise, where local delicacies meet gourmet gifts in a charming setting.
Impératrice
0.2 km
Explore the chic and stylish collections at Impératrice, a premier clothing store in the heart of Nîmes, perfect for fashion-savvy tourists.
Artisans du Monde
0.2 km
Discover unique handcrafted treasures at Artisans du Monde in Nîmes, where every purchase supports global artisans and fair trade practices.
Les Indiennes de Nîmes - Mistral - Boutique de Nîmes
0.2 km
Explore unique French fashion at Les Indiennes de Nîmes, where local craftsmanship meets stylish elegance in the heart of Nîmes.
Nîmes Souvenirs
0.2 km
Discover the heart of Nîmes through unique souvenirs and artisanal gift baskets at Nîmes Souvenirs, your perfect shopping destination.
Longchamp
0.2 km
Discover the luxury and craftsmanship of Longchamp in Nîmes, where exquisite leather goods and stylish fashion await every discerning shopper.
Madamsuzy Nîmes
0.2 km
Explore Madamsuzy Nîmes for unique home goods and fashion accessories that embody the charm and culture of this historic French city.
Art et Signature Écriture et maroquinerie de luxe. Montblanc Le Tanneur
0.3 km
Discover luxury writing instruments and leather goods at Art et Signature in Nîmes – a haven for elegance and craftsmanship.
Baille
0.3 km
Explore Baille Gift Shop in Nîmes for unique local crafts and souvenirs that capture the spirit of Southern France.
LillyDells.com
0.3 km
Explore LillyDells in Nîmes for exquisite fashion accessories that embody style and elegance, reflecting the vibrant culture of this historic city.
Paloma Prêt à Porter Nîmes
0.3 km
Discover the stylish world of Paloma Prêt à Porter, a women's boutique in Nîmes offering a curated selection of fashionable apparel and accessories.
Boutique Le Gardian
0.3 km
Experience the charm of Western fashion at Boutique Le Gardian in Nîmes, where quality leather goods and stylish apparel await.
La boutique du 421
0.3 km
Explore La Boutique du 421 in Nîmes for a unique selection of stylish clothing that reflects the local culture and vibrant fashion trends.
l insolite
0.3 km
Explore L'Insouite, Nîmes' charming gift shop, offering unique souvenirs and local crafts that capture the essence of French artistry.
Topaze - Boutique de prêt-à-porter et accessoires féminins
0.3 km
Explore Topaze in Nîmes for a delightful shopping experience featuring stylish women's clothing and unique accessories.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Les Enfants Denîm
0.3 km
Discover the vibrant culinary scene of Nîmes at Les Enfants Denîm, where modern dining meets local tradition in a cozy bar atmosphere.
Bar Amour
0.3 km
Discover the charm of Bar Amour, a vibrant cocktail bar in the heart of Nîmes, offering expertly crafted drinks and a lively atmosphere.
La Cave à Houblons d'Arthur
0.3 km
Experience the best of local and international craft beers in the cozy ambiance of La Cave à Houblons d'Arthur in Nîmes.
La bonne mousse
0.3 km
Discover La Bonne Mousse, a vibrant pub in Nîmes offering a unique selection of local beverages and an inviting atmosphere for all tourists.
Big Ben Bar
0.4 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Big Ben Bar in Nîmes, where delicious drinks and great company blend for unforgettable evenings.
Between the bar, le bar à vin à la maison
0.4 km
Discover the allure of fine wines at Between the Bar in Nîmes, a cozy wine bar offering an exquisite selection in a charming atmosphere.
Bar Le Victor Hugo
0.4 km
Discover the lively Bar Le Victor Hugo in Nîmes, a charming spot for cocktails, tapas, and an inviting atmosphere that enchants every visitor.
Bar des Beaux Arts
0.5 km
Discover the charm and artistic flair of Nîmes at Bar des Beaux Arts, a perfect spot for tourists to relax and enjoy local flavors.
Nouveau Bar
0.5 km
Discover Nouveau Bar in Nîmes: a cozy bar offering delightful drinks and a vibrant atmosphere perfect for relaxation after exploring the city.
Le rugby bar
0.5 km
Discover the excitement of live rugby at Le Rugby Bar, Nîmes' ultimate sports destination offering a vibrant atmosphere and delightful drinks.
Restaurant La Réserve - Bar Musical
0.5 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and delectable dishes at Restaurant La Réserve in Nîmes, where culinary delights meet live music.
O’Flaherty’s
0.6 km
Discover O’Flaherty’s Pub in Nîmes - a vibrant spot for traditional drinks, live music, and unforgettable local experiences.
L'Instant T
0.6 km
Discover the lively ambiance of L'Instant T in Nîmes, a delightful beer hall offering live music, delicious food, and a vast selection of beers.
London Tavern
0.6 km
Discover the lively London Tavern in Nîmes, a perfect blend of pub, cafe, and live music venue that captures the essence of local culture.
The chill-out
0.7 km
Experience the tranquil charm of The Chill-Out, Nîmes' premier wine bar and tea house, where exceptional beverages and a cozy atmosphere await.
