Things To Do
in Nîmes
Nîmes is a historic city in southern France known for its well-preserved Roman monuments, including the iconic Arena of Nîmes, a Roman amphitheatre still used for events today. The city also boasts other impressive Roman remains such as the Maison Carrée, a beautifully preserved ancient temple dedicated to Emperor Augustus. Nîmes is famous for its fountains, including the stunning Fontaine Pradier located in the heart of the city.
The charming streets of Nîmes are lined with elegant Haussmannian buildings, inviting cafes, and bustling markets, making it a delightful destination for visitors.
- "Bonjour" - Hello
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "S'il vous plaît" - Please
- "Comment ça va?" - How are you?
- "Au revoir" - Goodbye
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $50 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $40
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $2
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $70
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $80
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your morning with a visit to the Roman Arena, a stunning amphitheater built in AD 70. Take a moment to soak in the history and marvel at its impressive architecture.
Enjoy lunch at a local bistro before exploring the Jardins de la Fontaine, a beautiful public park with fountains and lush greenery. Don't forget to check out the nearby Temple of Diana.
Dine at a restaurant in the old town, savoring traditional Provençal cuisine. After dinner, stroll through the charming streets as they come alive with evening lights.
Visit the Musée de la Romanité to discover the rich history and culture of Nîmes. The museum's modern architecture itself is a sight to behold.
Have lunch in a cozy café, then explore the vibrant local art scene by checking out nearby galleries and art shops. Stop by the Place du Marché to find unique souvenirs.
Enjoy a meal at a local brasserie, where you can taste the delightful wines of the region. End the evening with a performance at the local theatre if available.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich historical heritage with Roman ruins like the Arena of Nîmes and Maison Carrée
- Charming Mediterranean climate with warm summers and mild winters
- Beautiful surrounding landscapes, including the nearby Cévennes National Park
- Vibrant local culture with festivals, markets, and a strong sense of community
- Good transportation links to other cities in the south of France
- Can become quite hot in the summer months, leading to discomfort for some
- Tourist crowds during peak season can lead to a more commercial experience
- Limited job opportunities in some sectors compared to larger cities
- High cost of living relative to some other smaller French towns
- Traffic and parking can be challenging in the city center
Best Activities in Nîmes
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the well-preserved Roman amphitheatre that dates back to 70 AD and hosts events and shows throughout the year.
Enjoy a tranquil walk in the beautiful gardens featuring Roman ruins, water features, and stunning vistas.
Discover the picturesque natural landscapes and diverse flora and fauna of the Garrigue region just outside Nîmes.
Tours
Uncover the best of Nîmes with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Nîmes
Visit one of these nice places.
This park offers beautiful views of the city and a Roman temple, making it a great spot for photography.
Climb to the top of this ancient Roman tower for stunning panoramic views of Nîmes and the surrounding countryside.
The amphitheater provides a unique backdrop for photos and offers a glimpse into the city's history.
Food in Nîmes
Nîmes Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A creamy puree of salt cod, olive oil, garlic, and potatoes, often served with toasted bread. Sample this iconic dish at La Pergola, a renowned local bistro.
Must-Try!
These small, flavorful olives are a specialty of the region. Visit the Nîmes market to purchase them from reputed vendors.
A traditional bull meat stew simmered with red wine and local herbs. Enjoy an authentic version at La Table des Agassins, a charming restaurant in the heart of Nîmes.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Nîmes better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling covered market where you can find fresh produce, cheese, charcuterie, and other local delights. Try the socca, a savory chickpea pancake, from one of the street vendors nearby.
A vibrant outdoor market with an array of food stalls and vendors offering regional specialties such as tapenade, artisanal cheeses, and freshly baked breads.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Nîmes, it is customary to greet people with a handshake and a kiss on the cheek, especially among acquaintances and friends. It is important to make eye contact and address people with their titles and last names if appropriate.
When dining in Nîmes, it's important to wait for the host to initiate the meal and to keep your hands on the table, not in your lap. It is also polite to say 'bon appétit' before starting your meal.
Personal space is valued in Nîmes, so it's important to respect others' physical boundaries and avoid standing too close when engaging in conversation. Additionally, it's customary to wait for an invitation before entering someone's home.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Nîmes with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Nîmes
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping in Nîmes, France, is not obligatory as a service charge is often included in the bill. However, it is customary to round up the bill or leave a small amount of change as a token of appreciation for good service.
In Nîmes, France, cash is widely accepted, especially for smaller purchases and in local markets. However, credit and debit cards are also commonly used for payment in restaurants, hotels, and larger establishments. Contactless payment methods are increasingly popular in the region.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Nîmes.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Nîmes with mild temperatures, blooming flowers, and fewer crowds. Great for exploring the city's historical attractions.
Expect hot and dry weather, with many outdoor events and festivals. The city comes alive with lively atmosphere and vibrant street life.
Mild and pleasant weather, perfect for exploring Nîmes' outdoor sites and enjoying cultural events. Crowds start to thin out, making it a good time to visit.
Cool and quiet, with the possibility of occasional rain. Ideal for exploring indoor attractions and enjoying the city's festive atmosphere during the holiday season.
Nîmes at Night
Hiking in Nîmes
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Located about 50 km from Nîmes, Mont Aigoual offers stunning views and a variety of hiking trails that cater to different skill levels, surrounded by diverse flora and fauna.
Just over an hour's drive from Nîmes, this national park features a network of trails through rugged mountains, valleys, and rivers, ideal for enthusiastic hikers looking for adventure.
Approximately 75 km from Nîmes, the Gorges du Tarn offers breathtaking views and trails alongside the river and through dramatic cliffs, perfect for both hiking and kayaking.
Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site's cultural landscape, this area is close to Nîmes and has numerous trails that showcase the unique geology and history of the region.
About 20 km from Nîmes, this ancient Roman aqueduct provides a scenic setting for short hikes along the river and exploring the beautiful surrounding nature.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Nîmes through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Nîmes by plane.
Located about 50 km from Nîmes, Montpellier–Méditerranée Airport serves domestic and international flights.
Approximately 120 km from Nîmes, Marseille Provence Airport is a major international airport serving a wide range of destinations.
This is a regional airport located about 10 km from Nîmes, offering a limited number of domestic and international flights.
Roughly 250 km from Nîmes, Toulouse-Blagnac Airport is a significant international gateway in the region.
Around 280 km from Nîmes, Nice Côte d'Azur Airport is one of the busiest international airports in France.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority of the population in Nîmes are French nationals, primarily of native and diverse ethnic backgrounds.
A significant demographic group in Nîmes includes individuals of North African descent, particularly from Algeria, Morocco, and Tunisia.
There is a growing community of residents with Sub-Saharan African backgrounds, contributing to the cultural diversity of the city.
Nîmes is home to various European nationals, including Italian, Spanish, and Portuguese communities.
The city has a small but notable Asian community, including Vietnamese, Chinese, and Indian residents.
There is a presence of the Romani community in Nîmes, which adds to the cultural mosaic of the city.
The Soul of Nîmes
Discover the essence of Nîmes through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Rugby is a highly popular sport in Nîmes, with a strong local team and a passionate fan base.
Football is widely played and followed in Nîmes, with Nîmes Olympique being the city's professional team.
Basketball has a significant following in Nîmes, with local clubs and youth programs contributing to its popularity.
Handball is another sport enjoyed in Nîmes, with various clubs and leagues for different age groups.
Athletics is popular in Nîmes, with various events and competitions held throughout the year.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Nîmes.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Provençal cuisine features meat and fish prominently, many restaurants in Nîmes offer creative vegetarian and vegan dishes. Le Passage, a popular eatery, is known for its diverse vegetarian menu.
Visitors with gluten sensitivities can find accommodating options at Le Vintage, a restaurant with a menu featuring gluten-free pasta and other alternatives.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Nîmes with these cultural adventures.
