Roman Ruins, Espresso, and Family Fun in Nîmes!

Discover ancient wonders and create cherished memories in family-friendly Nîmes, France!

19 July 2023

Nîmes is a charming city in the south of France that offers a great destination for a family-friendly trip. With its well-preserved Roman ruins, the city provides a unique opportunity for kids to learn about history while enjoying themselves. From exploring the impressive amphitheater to strolling through the beautiful Jardins de la Fontaine, Nîmes promises a delightful and educational experience for the whole family.

Travel plan

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Day 1

Exploring Roman Ruins and Sipping Espresso

  • Start your day by diving into history at the impressive Roman Amphitheatre, where gladiators once fought (without foam swords!)
  • Stroll through the enchanting Jardins de la Fontaine, an oasis of tranquility with beautiful fountains and shady paths.
  • Visit the striking Maison Carrée, a well-preserved Roman temple that's older than the internet, and definitely more photogenic.
  • Refuel at Café de la Place, a charming local spot offering mouthwatering croissants and perfectly brewed espresso.
  • Indulge in retail therapy on Rue de la République, where trendy boutiques and quirky souvenir shops await. Don't miss the opportunity to buy a beret (and embrace your inner Frenchness).
Day 2

Roaming the Streets of Nîmes

  • Embark on a self-guided walking tour to discover the city's hidden gems, including the narrow but oh-so-charming streets of the historic Old Town.
  • Marvel at the majestic Nîmes Cathedral, a towering beauty boasting stunning stained glass windows (and a secret passage for adventurous travelers).
  • Quench your thirst at Les Halles de Nîmes, a lively indoor market brimming with local produce, aromatic cheeses, and an atmosphere that'll make you want to dance with a baguette.
  • Enjoy a traditional Provençal lunch at La Table du 2, where the chef's creative touch transforms regional ingredients into edible masterpieces.
  • Spend the afternoon browsing the fascinating exhibits at the Carré d'Art, a contemporary art museum that will make you question the meaning of life (and modern art).
Day 3

A Splash of Summer Fun

  • Beat the heat with a visit to Parc aquatique Nîmes Métropole, a water park with thrilling slides, lazy rivers, and enough splashes to soak every inch of your adorable sun hat.
  • Relish a picnic lunch at the tranquil Parc Georges Besse, where lush green lawns invite you to unwind and possibly indulge in a quick "siesta à la française."
  • Satisfy your sweet tooth with a visit to Maison Villaret, a legendary pastry shop overflowing with divine éclairs, macarons, and all things sugary and delicious.
  • Take a leisurely stroll along the Quays of the Canal du Rhône à Sète, enjoying the picturesque views of boats bobbing on the water and maybe spotting a charming French poodle or two.
  • End the day with a dinner at Le Lisita, a family-friendly restaurant serving up mouthwatering Mediterranean cuisine in a cozy and welcoming atmosphere.
Day 4

Unleashing Your Inner Explorer

  • Take a day trip to the captivating Pont du Gard, a stunning Roman aqueduct soaring above the Gardon River and inspiring awe while making you question ancient engineering skills.
  • Picnic under the shade of centuries-old trees and let the kids run wild in the verdant landscape surrounding the Pont du Gard.
  • Channel your inner Tarzan (or Jane) at the nearby Accroche Aventure, an exciting treetop adventure course that will have you swinging, climbing, and ziplining like a true adventurer.
  • Stop for a late lunch at Le Grillon, a delightful restaurant perched on the banks of the river, serving delectable regional dishes with a dash of Mediterranean flair.
  • Return to Nîmes in time for a relaxing evening stroll along the Quai de la Fontaine, watching the sun dip below the horizon while enjoying the gentle breezes of the canal.
Day 5

Wine Tasting and Farewell Fondue

  • Embark on a vineyard adventure at Château de Nages, where you'll sample award-winning wines that will make your taste buds dance the can-can.
  • Treat yourself to a leisurely lunch at Le Lisita Terroir, a haven for foodies featuring local specialties and hearty dishes that will leave you hugging your stomach and thanking your taste buds.
  • Stroll through the charming streets of the Courtyard of the Museum of Fine Arts, enjoying the vibrant atmosphere and maybe stumbling upon a hidden art gallery or a street performer.
  • Bid adieu to Nîmes with a fondue feast at Le Bouchon à la Mer, a cozy restaurant with a unique twist on the traditional cheese fondue and a delightful ambiance that will make you feel like you're dining in a seashell.
  • Swap stories of your Nîmes adventures over a glass of local wine or a refreshing Pastis, promising to return to this enchanting city for new adventures in the future.

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.

More travel plans

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.

An Enchanting Day in Nîmes: A Romantic Getaway

Nîmes is the perfect location for a romantic getaway, with its picturesque streets and ancient Roman architecture. Couples can wander through the famous Arena and admire the intricate designs of the Maison Carrée. A visit to the Jardins de la Fontaine, with its stunning fountains and lush greenery, is the ultimate romantic experience.

Nîmes: A 2-Day Adventure on a Budget

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.

The Ultimate 3-Day Itinerary to Nîmes

Nîmes is a charming city located in the south of France. It is famous for its ancient Roman monuments, such as the stunning Arena, Maison Carrée and the Temple of Diana. Apart from these, visitors can enjoy the beautiful neighborhoods, local markets, delicious food, and world-renowned wine.