Romantic escape: 5-day bliss in Nîmes, France

Experience the timeless romance of Nîmes, a city of ancient history, vibrant culture, and stunning architecture.

22 April 2023

Experience the ultimate romantic getaway in Nîmes, France, a charming city filled with ancient Roman history and stunning French architecture. Enjoy strolling around the picturesque streets and admiring the breathtaking views from the historic monuments such as the Arènes de Nîmes and La Maison Carrée. Indulge in delicious French cuisine and wines while enjoying the romantic ambiance of this beautiful city.

Travel plan

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Day 1

Arrival in Nîmes

  • Check into Hotel Imperator, a grand hotel with a luxurious atmosphere and perfect location in the heart of Nîmes.
  • Visit the iconic Arena of Nîmes, a must-see Roman amphitheater that is still used for concerts and bullfights today.
  • Stroll through the Jardins de la Fontaine, a beautiful park with Roman ruins, waterfalls, and fountains.
  • Enjoy a romantic dinner at La Table du 2, an elegant restaurant offering traditional French cuisine with a contemporary twist.
  • End the night with a cocktail at L'Instant T, a trendy bar with a speakeasy vibe.
Day 2

Culture and Art

  • Start the day with breakfast at Maison Empereur, a charming café with a vintage atmosphere and delicious croissants.
  • Visit the Carré d'Art, a modern art museum designed by British architect Norman Foster and featuring works by renowned artists such as Picasso and Warhol.
  • Discover the Musée de la Romanité, a museum dedicated to the history and legacy of the Roman Empire in Nîmes.
  • Head to the Musée des Beaux-Arts, a fine arts museum housed in a stunning 18th-century mansion.
  • Have a relaxing afternoon at Les Bains de Nîmes, a thermal spa offering a range of treatments and services.
  • Savor dinner at Le Lisita, a cozy restaurant that showcases the flavors of the region.
Day 3

Markets and Gardens

  • Start the day with a visit to the Marché des Halles, a lively indoor market where locals buy fresh produce and gourmet products.
  • Continue to the Place aux Herbes, a picturesque square filled with flower stalls, cafés, and boutiques.
  • Explore the Jardin de la Pérouse, a hidden gem of a garden with exotic plants and breathtaking views of the city.
  • Visit the Jardin des Plantes, a botanical garden that dates back to the 16th century.
  • Try the local specialty of brandade de morue at La Maison de la Brandade.
  • Cap the day with a night tour of the city's illuminated monuments and landmarks.
Day 4

Wine Tasting and Countryside

  • Take a short drive to the nearby Pont du Gard, a UNESCO World Heritage site that showcases the engineering skills of the Romans.
  • Visit the Château de Nages, a family-run winery that produces organic wines with a strong identity.
  • Enjoy a wine tasting and tour of the vineyards and cellars followed by a picnic lunch.
  • Head south to the Camargue, a natural reserve known for its wild horses, flamingos, and rice fields.
  • Go on a horseback riding tour or a boat trip to explore the stunning landscapes of the region.
  • Dine at La Table des Baumelles, a beautiful restaurant that serves fresh seafood and local specialties.
Day 5

Adventures and Leisure

  • Start the day with a hot air balloon ride over the city and the surrounding landscapes.
  • Visit the Maison Carrée, a perfectly preserved Roman temple that inspired Thomas Jefferson in designing the Virginia State Capitol.
  • Take a wine or olive oil workshop at Les Sacres, a unique boutique that specializes in the art of tasting and pairing.
  • Have lunch at L'Atelier de Jean-Luc Rabanel, a Michelin-starred restaurant that features organic and vegetarian cuisine.
  • Spend the afternoon at the Plage des Chalets, a beautiful beach on the Mediterranean coast.
  • Enjoy a farewell dinner at L'Esclafidou, a cozy restaurant that offers creative dishes made with fresh ingredients.

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.

Roman Ruins, Espresso, and Family Fun in Nîmes!

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.

4 Days of Roman Ruins and Relaxation in Nîmes

Nîmes, a small city in southern France, offers visitors a glimpse into the country's rich history and culture. Known for its ancient Roman landmarks such as the Arena of Nîmes and the Maison Carrée, this city also boasts a thriving arts scene and delicious local cuisine. A trip to Nîmes is perfect for history buffs, foodies, and anyone who wants to experience French hospitality.

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.