Roman Ruins and Local Cuisine: Nîmes Day Trip

Discover the Roman legacy in Nîmes, France.

22 April 2023

As a tourist in Nîmes, France, one can explore the rich Roman history of the city, from the famous Arena of Nîmes to the Maison Carrée temple. The city is also home to the beautiful gardens of Jardins de la Fontaine and the stunning La Tour Magne, a medieval tower that offers a spectacular view of the city. Visitors can indulge in delicious local cuisine and wine while enjoying the charming atmosphere of the old town.

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Day trip plan

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Day

Exploring the Ancient City of Nîmes

  • Start your day with a croissant and coffee at Café de la Gare, a charming spot with a vintage vibe.
  • Stroll down Avenue Feuchères to the Jardins de la Fontaine, a beautiful park with Roman ruins and a tranquil pond.
  • Visit the famous Arena of Nîmes, a massive 2,000-year-old amphitheater that once hosted gladiator battles and bullfights.
  • Check out the Maison Carrée, a stunning temple that is one of the best-preserved Roman structures in the world.
  • Grab lunch at L'apARTé, a cozy bistro known for their fresh and flavorful Mediterranean cuisine.
  • End your day at the Musée de la Romanité, a modern museum that showcases the rich history and culture of Nîmes and the surrounding region.
  • Nîmes is a city that's steeped in history and culture. Whether you're interested in ancient architecture or delicious food, this itinerary will help you make the most of your visit to this charming town in Southern France.

Length of stay

1 day 2 days 3 days 4 days 5 days

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Nîmes by plane is to fly to Nîmes-Alès-Camargue-Cévennes Airport (FNI), which is located about 10km outside of the city. Flights to FNI are available from various cities across France, as well as from international destinations, including London and Brussels.

Car

Driving to Nîmes is a good option if you are traveling from other parts of France or Europe. The city is easily accessible via the A9 motorway, which runs from Orange to Perpignan. There are several car rental companies located at Nîmes airport if you need to rent a car during your stay.

Train

If you are coming from within France, taking the train to Nîmes is a convenient option. The city is served by the TGV high-speed train and the Intercités express train. Nîmes train station is located near the city center and provides easy access to local transportation.

Boat

While there are no direct boat services to Nîmes, you can take a river cruise to the nearby city of Avignon and then travel to Nîmes by train or bus. Several river cruise companies operate in the region and offer cruises along the Rhône River.

Bus

Nîmes can also be reached by bus, with several companies offering services from other cities in France as well as from international destinations such as Barcelona and Geneva. The main bus station in Nîmes is located near the train station.

Destination

Nîmes

Welcome to a city where denim gets its name from, but you'll find more Roman ruins than trendy jeans. Put on your gladiator sandals and let's explore Nîmes!

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Number of days

1 2 3 4 5

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

More travel plans

Nîmes Unleashed: A Family-Friendly Adventure on a Budget!

Nîmes, located in southern France, offers a perfect destination for a family-friendly trip. Known for its rich history and Roman architecture, the city has various sites that will captivate both children and adults alike, such as the famous Roman amphitheater, Maison Carrée, and the enchanting Jardins de la Fontaine. With its Mediterranean climate, Nîmes also provides ample opportunities for outdoor activities, including exploring the nearby countryside or enjoying a family picnic in one of the parks.

5 Days of Budget-Friendly Fun in Nîmes

Experience the charm of Nîmes, France on a budget-friendly trip to this picturesque city. Discover ancient Roman ruins, including the iconic Arena of Nîmes and the Maison Carrée, both for less than 10 euros. Enjoy the local cuisine in the quaint cafes and street markets, without breaking the bank.

Nîmes in 4 Days: A Roman Adventure

Explore the ancient ruins of the city such as, the Arena of Nîmes and the Maison Carrée for free. Hop on the local bus to visit the charming nearby villages, such as Uzes and La Roque-sur-Cèze, for some delightful local cuisine and scenic views. Stay in hostels or camping sites for budget accommodation and meet other travelers.

3 Days of French Fun: Budget Nîmes Getaway

A trip to Nîmes, France on a limited budget can be a delightful experience, as there are plenty of affordable accommodations and activities to choose from. The city is known for its stunning Roman architecture, such as the Arena of Nîmes and the Maison Carrée, both of which are free to visit. There are also many charming cafés and local markets to explore, offering a taste of French culture and cuisine.