Nîmes (Nimes), France

A southern French city steeped in Roman history and Provençal flair.

An aerial view of the remarkably well-preserved Roman amphitheater, the Arènes de Nîmes, surrounded by the modern city of Nîmes, France.

Overview

Nîmes (Nimes), France Cruise Port

Nîmes, an emblematic city in the south of France, is a superbly preserved treasure of Roman architecture. Nicknamed "French Rome," it bears witness to a glorious past, with its majestic arenas, elegant temple, and imperial tower proudly dominating the urban landscape. Beyond its ancient heritage, Nîmes is a modern and dynamic city, infused with the Mediterranean lifestyle, lively markets, and lush gardens.

This fascinating destination offers a captivating mix of ancient history and contemporary culture. Strolling through its cobblestone streets is like stepping back in time while enjoying the warm and artistic atmosphere that reigns in the city. Nîmes is a gateway to the splendors of Provence and Languedoc, promising an unforgettable experience for history buffs and cultural explorers.

Top Things to Do in Nîmes (Nimes), France

Visit the Arena of Nîmes

Explore the Arena of Nîmes, a remarkably well-preserved Roman amphitheater built at the end of the 1st century. Immerse yourself in the atmosphere of the gladiatorial games and ancient spectacles, which still take place today. It is a masterpiece of engineering and history.

Tip: Purchase the "Pass Romain" or "Pass Romanité" to include entry to the other Roman monuments and the Museum of Romanity, which can save you time and money.

Admire the Maison Carrée

Discover the Maison Carrée, a magnificent Roman temple of exceptional beauty, dedicated to the heirs of Emperor Augustus. It is one of the best-preserved ancient temples in the world and offers a striking testament to the elegance of Roman architecture.

Tip: Right across from the Maison Carrée is the Carré d'Art, a contrasting modern building designed by Norman Foster, which houses a contemporary art museum and a library. Be sure to check out this architectural juxtaposition.

Stroll through the Gardens of the Fountain

Wander through the peaceful Gardens of the Fountain (Jardins de la Fontaine), one of the first public gardens in Europe, built around a sacred spring that gave birth to the city. The park contains Roman remains, including the Temple of Diana and the Tour Magne.

Tip: This is the ideal place for a relaxing break. Allow some time to stroll and admire the lush greenery and architectural elements.

Climb the Tour Magne

Climb to the top of the Tour Magne, the highest remaining part of Nîmes' Roman walls. This ancient watchtower offers a spectacular panoramic view of the city, its monuments, and the surrounding countryside.

Tip: The climb can be a bit challenging, but the view from the top is well worth it. It is one of the best vantage points to admire the expanse of Nîmes.

Visit the Museum of Romanity

Immerse yourself in the history of Nîmes at the Museum of Romanity, located opposite the Arena. This modern museum, with its bold architecture, displays thousands of Roman artifacts through interactive exhibits and digital reconstructions.

Tip: The museum has a rooftop terrace that offers a unique view of the Arena of Nîmes, perfect for memorable photos.

Excursion to the Pont du Gard

Continue your Roman exploration with an excursion to the Pont du Gard, a colossal Roman aqueduct and a UNESCO World Heritage site. This masterpiece of engineering is located a short drive from Nîmes and is an absolute must-see.

Tip: Bring comfortable shoes to explore the surroundings of the Pont du Gard, as there are hiking trails and swimming spots in the summer.

Overview