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.
Places to visit
Key Phrases
Speak like a local
- "Bonjour (Hello)" - Hello
- "S'il vous plaît (Please)" - Please
- "Merci (Thank you)" - Thank you
- "Excusez-moi (Excuse me)" - Excuse me
- "Oui (Yes)" - Yes
- "Non (No)" - No
Day plans
Spend a day exploring around
Exploring Ancient Sites and Culinary Delights
morning:Start your day with a visit to the breathtaking Nîmes Arena, a Roman amphitheater. Afterward, head to Les Halles de Nîmes, a vibrant indoor market, for an authentic culinary experience. Try some freshly baked pastries at Maison Villaret to kickstart your morning.
afternoon:Spend your afternoon at the Jardins de la Fontaine, a serene park with Roman ruins and a stunning water feature. For lunch, savor traditional Provençal dishes at La Bodeguita, a charming restaurant located nearby.
evening:In the evening, head to Place aux Herbes to sample local wines at Le Barathym. Enjoy the lively atmosphere and mingle with locals before dinner.
Art and History Exploration
morning:Begin your day with a visit to the Musée de la Romanité, showcasing fascinating Roman artifacts and interactive exhibits. For a delightful brunch, head to Le Cheval Blanc and try their exquisite quiches and pastries.
afternoon:Explore the charming streets of Old Nîmes and visit the Carré d'Art, a striking contemporary art museum. For a light lunch, pop into Le Vintage Brasserie for a refreshing salad or croque monsieur.
evening:For a cultural evening, catch a performance at the Théâtre de Nîmes, a historic theater offering diverse shows and concerts.
Relaxation and Indulgence
morning:Indulge in a tranquil morning at the Fontaine d'Eau Chaude, a soothing thermal spring. Afterwards, head to Boulangerie Pâtisserie Manon for a delightful pastry and coffee to kick off your day.
afternoon:Enjoy a relaxing afternoon at the refreshing Parc des Expositions, where you can stroll among lush greenery and relax by the fountains. For a leisurely lunch, visit La Feria, a cozy bistro serving delectable Mediterranean cuisine.
evening:Unwind in the evening at Les Grands Jeux Romains, an immersive historical reenactment at the Nîmes Arena, offering a fascinating glimpse into the city's ancient past.
Exploring Local Gems and Nightlife
morning:Discover the local charm at the Marché des Halles, an atmospheric market offering a variety of fresh produce and regional specialties. For a delightful brunch, visit Les 3 Cocottes for mouthwatering pastries and artisanal coffee.
afternoon:Stroll through the vibrant Jardins de la Fontaine, soaking in the scenic beauty and historical landmarks. Enjoy a relaxed lunch at Le Lisita, an inviting bistro known for its delectable salads and sandwiches.
evening:Experience Nîmes' vibrant nightlife by heading to the lively Les Jeudis de Nîmes, a popular event featuring live music, entertainment, and local delicacies.
Nîmes Famous Food
Must-Try local dishes
Brandade de Nîmes
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!
Picholine Olives
These small, flavorful olives are a specialty of the region. Visit the Nîmes market to purchase them from reputed vendors.
Gardianne de Taureau
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.
Food Markets & Street Food
A food market and street food guide
Les Halles de Nîmes
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.
Marché des Halles
A vibrant outdoor market with an array of food stalls and vendors offering regional specialties such as tapenade, artisanal cheeses, and freshly baked breads.
Pet sitters in Nîmes
Relax and unwind while your furry friend enjoys making a new companion!