Nîmes: A 2-Day Adventure on a Budget

Explore Roman history on a shoestring budget in Nîmes.

21 June 2023

Exploring Nîmes on a limited budget can still be an enriching and exciting experience. Tourists can visit Arena of Nîmes, Maison Carrée, and the Jardins de la Fontaine to soak up the atmosphere and appreciate the city's history. With affordable accommodations and a range of local restaurants, Nîmes is a great destination for travelers who want to explore southern France without breaking the bank.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Exploring the Heart of Nîmes

  • Hotel suggestion: Hôtel Concorde
  • Start the day with a café au lait and a croissant at Café le Grillon, a charming local spot.
  • Experience the grandeur of Nîmes at the iconic arena, Les Arènes, where gladiators once fought.
  • Take a stroll to the serene Jardins de la Fontaine, a peaceful oasis where ancient ruins meet lush greenery.
  • Explore the quirky and charming narrow streets of the city center, lined with picturesque cafes, shops, and boutiques.
  • Indulge in some fresh seafood at Le Petit Jardin, where the speckled ambience pairs well with perfectly cooked dishes.
Day 2

Discovering the Best of Nîmes

  • Hotel suggestion: Hôtel Majestic
  • Begin the day at the stunning Maison Carrée, one of the best-preserved ancient Roman temples in the world.
  • Take a short drive to the incredible Pont du Gard, a stunning aqueduct and UNESCO World Heritage Site.
  • Visit the Musée d'art contemporain de Nîmes, a museum showcasing contemporary art with a focus on local and emerging artists.
  • Enjoy a relaxing afternoon at the Piscine du Nemausa, an outdoor pool complex nestled in the heart of the city.
  • End the day with a glass of local wine and some tapas at Les Cocottes, a cozy wine bar with a laid-back bohemian vibe.

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.

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