• Countries
• France
• Nîmes

Nîmes in 4 Days: A Roman Adventure

Discover the charm of historic Nîmes without breaking the bank.

21 June 2023

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.

Travel plan

• Start the day by marveling at the iconic Roman architecture of the Arena of Nîmes, a 1st-century amphitheater
• Wander through the ancient Jardins de la Fontaine, a peaceful garden that is home to some of the region's biggest landmarks
• Uncover the secrets of the Maison Carrée, the best-preserved Roman temple in the world, and learn about its history in the museum
• Have lunch at the lively Place aux Herbes, a bustling square filled with outdoor cafes and food shops
• Visit the Museum of Romanity for a deeper understanding of life in ancient Nîmes, showcasing fascinating artifacts and interactive exhibits
• End the day with a romantic stroll along the Pont du Gard, a 2000-year-old aqueduct that's now a UNESCO World Heritage Site
• Hotel recommendation: Hotel de l'Amphitheatre a cozy hotel located in the heart of the city, just a few steps from the Arena.

• Take a morning visit to the stunning and ornate Saint Baudile Basilica, a gorgeous example of pure Nîmes style
• Explore the Musée d'Art Contemporain for a taste of modern & contemporary art
• Visit the colorful and vibrant Les Halles de Nîmes, a lively market selling locally sourced meats, fruits and vegetables
• Sample the delightful local hors d'oeuvres and meats at one of the city's best charcuteries, like L'Artisan des Cévennes
• Stroll through the historic streets of the Old Nîmes district, admiring the charming architecture, lively squares and artists at work.
• Enjoy the sunset at the top of the Tour Magne, a 2,000-year-old tower that offers stunning views of the city.

• Take a trip outside the city to the Château de Calvières, a 14th-century castle surrounded by grapevines and olive groves.
• Experience the flavors of the Languedoc cuisine at La Canaille, a cozy restaurant located in the Castle's grounds.
• Visit the picturesque town of Uzès, famous for its stunning medieval center and its lively market days.
• Take a self-guided walking tour of the town, visiting impressive landmarks such as Place aux Herbes, Uzès Cathedral or the Duche Palace.
• Savor the local cuisine at Cafe Jardin des Oules, an original restaurant set in an ancient olive grove
• Finish the day with a visit to the Pont du Gard, a stunning Roman aqueduct surrounded by natural beauty.

• Explore the Cévennes National Park for an unforgettable day of nature and wildlife
• Start hiking on one of the many trails through the park, such as the Mont Aigoual or the Corniche de Cévennes
• Discover the cascading waterfalls and natural pools nestled in the rugged forests and picturesque villages of the region.
• Stop by a farmers' market and marvel at the locally-produced cheeses, honey and other incredible delicacies.
• End your day with a relaxing visit at Les Thermes de Nîmes, a 2000-year-old thermal spa that's still in use today.
• Hotel recommendation: Citotel Cesar a modern hotel located on the border of town, a short walk from the train station. With clean, comfortable rooms and great amenities, it's perfect for budget travelers looking for a good value.