Nîmes, France Travel Guide

Discover Nîmes, a city where Roman history comes alive, with its ancient monuments, beautiful gardens, vibrant markets, and lively annual events.

Nîmes, located in the southern part of France, is often referred to as the 'Rome of France' due to its impressive collection of Roman monuments. The city boasts one of the best-preserved Roman amphitheaters in the world, the Arena of Nîmes, which still hosts events and concerts today. Visitors can also explore the Maison Carrée, a beautifully preserved Roman temple that provides a glimpse into the city's ancient past. Aside from its rich history, Nîmes offers a charming blend of narrow streets, beautiful gardens, and vibrant markets. The Jardins de la Fontaine, one of the oldest public gardens in Europe, is an ideal spot for a leisurely stroll or a relaxing picnic. The city's bustling market, Les Halles de Nîmes, is a food lover's paradise, offering a wide range of local produce, cheeses, and wines. Nîmes is also known for its annual events, including the Feria de Nîmes, which celebrates the city's bullfighting heritage, and the Roman Games, a historical reenactment that transports visitors back to the days of gladiators and chariot races. With its unique blend of history, culture, and modern charm, Nîmes is a must-visit destination for any traveler exploring the south of France.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Nîmes.

Visit the Arena of Nîmes early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the best light for photos.
Explore the Jardins de la Fontaine in the late afternoon when the light is soft and the gardens are less crowded.
Try the local specialty, brandade de morue, a delicious dish made from salted cod.
Check the event schedule at the Arena of Nîmes; attending a concert or event there is a unique experience.
Wear comfortable shoes as the best way to explore Nîmes is on foot.

Explore Nîmes: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Best attractions in Nîmes

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Best Attractions

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Palais des Papes

Explore the grandeur of Palais des Papes, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Avignon, showcasing stunning Gothic architecture and rich papal history.

4.5

Pont du Gard

Discover the breathtaking Pont du Gard, an ancient Roman aqueduct and a UNESCO World Heritage site, nestled in the scenic Vers-Pont-du-Gard.

4.6

Carrières des Lumières

Experience the breathtaking fusion of art and nature at Carrières des Lumières, an immersive cultural center in the heart of Les Baux-de-Provence.

4.7

Jardin de La Fontaine

Explore the enchanting Jardin de La Fontaine, a historic park in Nîmes, where nature meets history amid stunning landscapes and ancient ruins.

4.7

Best landmarks in Nîmes

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Amphitheatre of Nîmes

Discover the Amphitheatre of Nîmes, a UNESCO World Heritage site, where ancient Roman history comes alive amid breathtaking architecture and vibrant cultural events.

4.6

Jardin de La Fontaine

Experience the tranquility and historical charm of Jardin de La Fontaine, a beautiful park in the heart of Nîmes, France.

4.7

Maison Carrée

Explore the majestic Maison Carrée, an iconic Roman temple in Nîmes, France, showcasing the brilliance of ancient architecture and culture.

4.4

Arc de Triomphe

Discover the stunning Arc de Triomphe in Montpellier, a historic landmark that captures the essence of French architectural grandeur and cultural heritage.

4.5

Best restaurants in Nîmes

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IL RISTORANTE - le restaurant italien de Nîmes

Experience authentic Italian cuisine at IL RISTORANTE in Nîmes - where every dish tells a story.

4.1

La Piazzetta

Experience authentic Italian cuisine at La Piazzetta in Nîmes - home to delicious pizzas and warm hospitality.

4.4

Bistr'AU de Jérôme Nutile

Experience exquisite haute French cuisine at Bistr'AU de Jérôme Nutile in Nîmes - where tradition meets Mediterranean flair.

4.5

Le Dé-K-Lé Bistrot Gourmand

Experience authentic French cuisine at Le Dé-K-Lé Bistrot Gourmand in Nîmes – where every dish tells a story.

4.5

Best bars in Nîmes

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O’Flaherty’s

Discover O’Flaherty’s Pub in Nîmes - a vibrant spot for traditional drinks, live music, and unforgettable local experiences.

4.4

Bar Le Victor Hugo

Discover the lively Bar Le Victor Hugo in Nîmes, a charming spot for cocktails, tapas, and an inviting atmosphere that enchants every visitor.

4.1

L'Instant T

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.

4.5

Carré Jazz

Experience the culinary charm of Carré Jazz in Nîmes, where French cuisine meets a vibrant atmosphere with tapas and cocktails.

3.9

Best nightclubs in Nîmes

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Jive Club

Unleash your inner dancer at Jive Club, Nîmes' top nightlife destination with electrifying beats and an unforgettable atmosphere.

4.1

La Comédie Club

Discover the vibrant nightlife of Nîmes at La Comédie Club, where music, dancing, and fun come together in a stylish setting.

2.8

Club Kafé Fashion

Discover the pulsating heart of Nîmes’ nightlife at Club Kafé Fashion, where music, style, and energy blend seamlessly.

3.3

Lulu Club

Experience the exhilarating nightlife at Lulu Club in Nîmes, where vibrant music and an energetic atmosphere create unforgettable nights.

3.3

Best shops in Nîmes

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La Galerie

Discover Nîmes' vibrant shopping scene at La Galerie, featuring boutiques, fast food, and a variety of stores for every taste.

4.1

La Coupole

Explore La Coupole, Nîmes' vibrant shopping mall offering a unique blend of retail, dining, and cultural experiences in the heart of the city.

3.8

Nature and Discoveries

Explore Nature and Discoveries in Nîmes – your gateway to unique gifts and eco-friendly treasures inspired by the beauty of nature.

4.3

Flying Tiger Copenhagen Nîmes

Explore the playful and unique offerings at Flying Tiger Copenhagen Nîmes, the ultimate gift shop for quirky souvenirs and fun finds.

4.3

Explore Nîmes on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Nîmes, mapped for you.

Nîmes Essentials

Nîmes is well-connected and accessible by various means of transportation. The nearest international airport is Nîmes-Alès-Camargue-Cévennes Airport, located about 12 kilometers from the city center. Alternatively, you can fly into Montpellier-Méditerranée Airport or Marseille-Provence Airport, which are approximately 50 and 100 kilometers away, respectively. From these airports, you can take a shuttle bus, train, or rent a car to reach Nîmes. The city is also easily accessible by train, with direct TGV (high-speed train) services from Paris, Lyon, and other major cities. If you prefer driving, Nîmes is well-connected by highways A9 and A54.
Nîmes has an efficient public transportation system that includes buses and trams operated by Tango. Tickets can be purchased at kiosks, on buses, or via the Tango app. A single ticket is valid for an hour of travel across all modes of transport. Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber are also available. For those who prefer cycling, Nîmes offers bike rentals through the VéloTango service. The city center is quite walkable, making it easy to explore the historical sites on foot.
The official currency in France is the Euro (EUR). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and shops in Nîmes. However, it is advisable to carry some cash, especially when visiting local markets, smaller shops, or rural areas. ATMs are readily available throughout the city, and many offer instructions in multiple languages.
Nîmes is generally a safe city, but it is wise to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit areas and be cautious in crowded places where pickpocketing can occur. The neighborhoods around the train station can be a bit sketchy, so it is best to stay vigilant. Always keep an eye on your belongings and use hotel safes for valuables.
In case of an emergency, dial 112, the European emergency number. For medical emergencies, Nîmes University Hospital (CHU de Nîmes) offers comprehensive medical services. Pharmacies are easily found throughout the city and often have extended hours. For police assistance, head to the nearest police station, or dial 17 for immediate help. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies and other unexpected situations.
Fashion: Do dress stylishly but comfortably. Avoid overly casual attire like flip-flops and shorts when dining out. Religion: Do respect religious sites such as Nîmes Cathedral by dressing modestly and keeping noise levels down. Public Transport: Do validate your ticket upon boarding buses and trams. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet with a polite 'Bonjour' and a handshake or a light kiss on the cheek (bises) for closer acquaintances. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes like brandade de morue and Costières de Nîmes wine. Don't rush your meals; dining is a leisurely affair in France.
To experience Nîmes like a local, visit the Les Halles market to buy fresh produce and local delicacies. Take a leisurely stroll through the Jardins de la Fontaine, and don't miss the Roman monuments like the Arena of Nîmes and the Maison Carrée. For a less touristy experience, explore the Écusson district with its narrow streets and hidden courtyards. Engage with locals at cafes and bistros; they are often willing to share insights about the city's history and culture.

When is the best time to visit Nîmes?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Nîmes

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Nîmes. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloBonjour
  [bohn-zhoor]
- GoodbyeAu revoir
  [oh reh-vwahr]
- YesOui
  [wee]
- NoNon
  [nohn]
- Please/You're welcomeS'il vous plaît / De rien
  [seel voo pleh / duh ryehn]
- Thank youMerci
  [mehr-see]
- Excuse me/SorryExcusez-moi / Désolé
  [ex-kew-zay mwa / day-zoh-lay]
- How are you?Comment ça va?
  [koh-mohn sah vah]
- Fine. And you?Bien. Et vous?
  [byehn. ay voo]
- Do you speak English?Parlez-vous anglais?
  [par-lay voo ahn-glay]
- I don't understandJe ne comprends pas
  [zhuh nuh kohm-prahnd pah]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseJe voudrais voir le menu, s'il vous plaît
  [zhuh voo-dray vwar luh muh-nyoo, seel voo pleh]
- I don't eat meatJe ne mange pas de viande
  [zhuh nuh mahnzh pah duh vyand]
- Cheers!Santé!
  [sahn-tay]
- I would like to pay, pleaseJe voudrais payer, s'il vous plaît
  [zhuh voo-dray pay-yay, seel voo pleh]
- Help!Au secours!
  [oh sey-coor]
- Go away!Allez-vous en!
  [ah-lay vooz ahn]
- Call the Police!Appelez la police!
  [ah-peh-lay lah poh-leece]
- Call a doctor!Appelez un médecin!
  [ah-peh-lay uh may-deh-sahn]
- I'm lostJe suis perdu
  [zhuh swee pair-doo]
- I'm illJe suis malade
  [zhuh swee mah-lahd]
- I'd like to buy...Je voudrais acheter...
  [zhuh voo-dray zahsh-tay...]
- I'm just lookingJe regarde juste
  [zhuh ruh-gard zhust]
- How much is it?Combien ça coûte?
  [kohm-byen sah koot]
- That's too expensiveC'est trop cher
  [say troh shair]
- Can you lower the price?Pouvez-vous baisser le prix?
  [poo-vez voo bay-say luh pree]
- What time is it?Quelle heure est-il?
  [kell ur eh-teel]
- It's one o'clockIl est une heure
  [eel eh tun ur]
- Half past (10)Dix heures et demie
  [dee-z ur ay duh-mee]
- MorningMatin
  [mah-tahn]
- AfternoonAprès-midi
  [ah-pray mee-dee]
- EveningSoir
  [swahr]
- YesterdayHier
  [ee-ay]
- TodayAujourd'hui
  [oh-zhoor-dwee]
- TomorrowDemain
  [duh-mahn]
- 1Un
  [uhn]
- 2Deux
  [duh]
- 3Trois
  [twah]
- 4Quatre
  [kah-truh]
- 5Cinq
  [sank]
- 6Six
  [sees]
- 7Sept
  [sept]
- 8Huit
  [wheat]
- 9Neuf
  [nuff]
- 10Dix
  [dee]
- Where's a/the...?Où est...?
  [oo eh...]
- What's the address?Quelle est l'adresse?
  [kell eh la-dress]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Pouvez-vous me montrer (sur la carte)?
  [poo-vez voo muh mohn-tray (soor lah kart)]
- When's the next (bus)?Quand est le prochain (bus)?
  [kahn eh luh proh-shahn (boos)]
- A ticket (to ....)Un billet (pour ....)
  [uhn bee-yay (poor)]

History of Nîmes

Nîmes, originally known as Nemausus, was founded by the Romans in the 1st century BC. The city's strategic location along the Via Domitia, a Roman road linking Italy and Spain, contributed to its growth and prosperity. Many of Nîmes' most famous landmarks, such as the Arena of Nîmes, the Maison Carrée, and the Pont du Gard, were constructed during this period, reflecting the city's importance in the Roman Empire.
Built around 70 AD, the Arena of Nîmes is one of the best-preserved Roman amphitheaters in the world. Originally designed to host gladiatorial games and public spectacles, the arena could seat up to 24,000 spectators. Today, it remains a central cultural venue, hosting concerts, bullfights, and historical reenactments.
The Maison Carrée is a remarkably well-preserved Roman temple constructed during the late 1st century BC. Dedicated to Gaius and Lucius Caesar, the grandsons of Emperor Augustus, the temple's architecture is a prime example of classical Roman design. Its enduring beauty and historical significance make it a must-visit landmark in Nîmes.
Following the fall of the Roman Empire, Nîmes experienced a period of decline and was frequently attacked by various invaders. However, during the Middle Ages, the city began to recover and was fortified with walls and towers. The Cathédrale Notre-Dame-et-Saint-Castor, built in the 11th century, stands as a testament to the city's medieval history and its enduring faith.
Nîmes played a significant role in the French Wars of Religion during the 16th century. The city, which had a substantial Huguenot population, saw intense conflict between Catholics and Protestants. The Massacre of St. Bartholomew's Day in 1572 led to widespread violence, deeply affecting the city and its people. Despite the turmoil, Nîmes eventually became known for its spirit of religious tolerance.
In the 17th and 18th centuries, Nîmes became a major center for the textile industry. The city is particularly famous for its production of a sturdy cotton fabric known as 'serge de Nîmes,' which is the origin of the word 'denim.' This durable fabric became immensely popular and is now synonymous with jeans worldwide.
In the 19th and 20th centuries, Nîmes underwent significant modernization and urban development. The city embraced its rich heritage while fostering a cultural renaissance. Today, Nîmes boasts a vibrant arts scene, numerous festivals, and a commitment to preserving its historical landmarks. The renovation of ancient structures and the construction of contemporary buildings, such as the Carré d'Art, highlight the city's blend of history and modernity.