Nîmes on a Budget: Roman Ruins & Cuisine

Discover the wonders of Nîmes without breaking the bank.

21 June 2023

Explore the enchanting city of Nîmes, France on a limited budget. Wander through the historic streets and marvel at the ancient Roman attractions. Indulge in regional cuisine at local markets, and relax in budget-friendly accommodations.

Day trip plan

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Day

Discovering Nîmes on a Budget

  • Start your day with a croissant and coffee at Café du Midi, a local favorite.
  • Head to the ancient Roman amphitheater, Les Arenes, and take a self-guided tour. Entrance is only €8 and the views are breathtaking.
  • Walk through the Jardin de la Fontaine, a beautiful park complete with Roman ruins, ponds, and a temple. Perfect for a picnic lunch.
  • Visit the Maison Carrée, a well-preserved Roman temple and watch the 3D movie about the history of Nîmes. Admission is only €6.
  • Pick up some souvenirs at the Marché des Halles, an indoor market filled with local produce, cheese, and crafts.
  • End your day with dinner at L'Atelier Gourmand, a cozy bistro serving regional dishes starting at €14.
  • Nîmes may be a small city, but there is no shortage of history, culture, and delicious food to discover. With this itinerary, you can make the most out of your 24 hours in Nîmes without breaking the bank. Bon voyage!

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

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.

Nîmes on a Budget: 4 Days of Family Fun!

Nîmes, France is a perfect destination for a family-friendly trip with plenty of attractions to entertain everyone. Explore the magnificent Roman amphitheater, known as the Arena of Nîmes, where children can learn about ancient history while enjoying live events and shows. The Jardins de la Fontaine, a beautiful park featuring Roman ruins and a serene water garden, offers a peaceful retreat for the whole family to enjoy.

Escape for a Weekend: Nîmes' Romance & Culture

A romantic trip to Nîmes, France, would be a perfect getaway for couples who love exploring ancient history and architecture. The city boasts of incredibly preserved Roman monuments such as the Maison Carrée and the Arena of Nîmes. You can also wander around the charming medieval streets, indulge in delectable Provencal dishes or simply soak in the relaxed ambiance of this picturesque town.

5-Day Nîmes Adventure: Culture, Wine, & Relaxation

As a tourist, a trip to Nîmes in France offers the perfect blend of culture, history and amazement. Visit the grand Roman amphitheater Arena of Nîmes, the well-preserved Maison Carrée temple, and the impressive La Tour Magne tower for an insightful glimpse into Roman heritage. Take a leisurely stroll around the Gardens of the Fountain or grab a bite at one of the charming restaurants in the city's old town.