Location: Nimes
Top Things to do in Nimes
Top 10 Things to do in Nimes, France
Nimes in France, from Europe region, is best know for Gardens. Discover best things to do in Nimes with beautiful photos and great reviews from traveller around the world here!
Restaurants in Nimes
1. Jardins de la Fontaine
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 2 reviews
Reviewed By breandanoscanaill - clifden county Galway
I was blown away by the beauty and interesting history of these special Gardens. Very formal in the French style, but with the added bonus of lots of water. The hill side Gardens are well worth a visit, and I spent many hours climbing to the top and working my way back and over to see all the marvelous plants and trees. I was there late in the evening and it was lovely to see the lighting effects on the water features and the hill behind. The Tour Magne was spectacular although it was closed by the time I reached it. I was upset at the antics of two children here, they were with an older lady possibly their grand mother, she was allowing them climb on the ruins, and throw stones down from the wall. This was no way to show respect to history and patrimony. The Temple of Diana was also interesting and the small garden around it still contained some very colourful plants. I am looking forward to a return trip.
2. Les Halles
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 193 reviews
Reviewed By levelgreenithaca
Wish we could include photos! This indoor market is huge, and open every day between 7 am and 2 pm. You can find fresh vegetables, fruits, fish (kinds I've never heard of shrimp from Madagascar at least 3 inches long), breads, cheeses (!), Prepared foods (shrimp/smoked salmon salad, veal stew with mushrooms, cassoulet, paella, potatoes au gratin with mushrooms and Roquefort....), Flowers, wine, olives and garlics, 10 kinds of herring, 20 sauces and dips etc. We're actually preferring to eat at the VRBO apartment than in restaurants, not just because it's cheaper but because it's so delicious! Very nice wine is inexpensive, and with food from Les Halle's the meal can be exquisite!
3. Arenes de Nimes
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 4 reviews
Contemporary of the Colosseum in Rome, the Amphitheater of Nîmes is the best preserved Amphitheater in the Roman world. The audio-guided tour, available in 10 languages, lets visitors experience the gladiator shows and life in Roman times. The "gladiator's quarter" presents the weapons and techniques of gladiatorial fights.
Reviewed By nsander219 - Chelmsford, United Kingdom
We had a different reason for visiting this structure which was to attend a concert and the setting was spectacular. Having driven around the outside on a previous visit we took the time to walk around the outside before gaining entry. Smaller (much) than the Colloseum but well preserved. It is set up internally for various types of concert so you have all the associated paraphernalia. To see it lit internally after dark was amazing. Concert was superb too so they can get a good sound as well.
4. Pont du Gard
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 154 reviews
Reviewed By VWriter - Los Gatos, California
It is a good idea to stop at the museum before taking the trail leading to the Gardon River and the Pont du Gard aqueduct. In the museum you will see models and multi media presentations explaining the ancient Roman engineering project to bring water from miles away to this area. An understanding of what it took to create the aqueduct gives you an immense appreciation of what lies before you when you walk the mile or so to visit the aqueduct. Excellent museum.
5. Esplanade Charles-de-Gaulle
Overall Ratings
4 based on 195 reviews
6. La Maison Carree
Overall Ratings
4 based on 1 reviews
The Maison Carree in Nimes is the only Roman ancient temple completely preserved. The inspiration for the design of the Maison Carree came from the temples of Apollo and Mars Ultor in Rome. Inside, you will discover a 23 minutes film "Nemausus, the birth of Nimes" which explains how Nimes became a roman city and shows the construction of the main roman sights of the city (Arena, Maison Carree, Tour Magne).
Reviewed By RoadtripCowboy - Burlington, CT
Somewhat hidden among the buildings in central Nimes in southern France is the wonderfully preserved Maison Carree. In a small courtyard near a café, there is usually a crowd gathered for photos or tours of the interior. Tours are 6 euro and last about an hour. Maison Carree is Roman for square building. Though it is rectangular, Romans considered a four sided building to be square. The steps leading up to the tall columns are classical Roman architecture. It’s fascinating having been constructed in the year 4. We took many photos and video from a variety of angles and viewpoints. Through our brief visit, we enjoyed a memorable trip to the ancient past.
7. Tour Magne
Overall Ratings
4 based on 1 reviews
The Tour Magne, i.e. the Great Tower, is the only tower left standing from the Roman city walls. The top of the tower of 140 steps provides a striking panoramic view of Nimes.
Reviewed By Lady Sarah P
This is right at the top of the Gardens and takes about 30/40mins with no breaks to walk upto.
But it is a must do... The Romans had the highest point here over Nìmes, staircase within obviously has been replaced, but if you can manage to go up (scared of heights it's a no no).
The view over the city is spectacular.
Take a picnic from the indoor market and keep walking. You will find a perfect spot, we did and so peaceful.
8. Temple of Diana
Overall Ratings
4 based on 564 reviews
Reviewed By Skeney57 - Sydney, Australia
The actual history of these ruins have been lost in antiquity but whether it's a Temple to Diana or an ancient Roman speakeasy , the ruins speak for themselves and you should or can appreciate the artistry & labour that went into it's creation ! Also marvel it is still around to admire today and free to visit as well !
9. Place de l'Horloge
Overall Ratings
4 based on 140 reviews
Reviewed By TanitNimes_France - Nimes, France
Yes, it is the center. Around, old Streets with select shops. That's were the locals like to have a walk in the evening. Nearby, in the morning "the halles" the coverd market with all sorts of good local food products.
10. Castellum Aquae
Overall Ratings
4 based on 108 reviews
Reviewed By Anthony S - Brisbane, Australia
What a fabulous piece of engineering that I am sure is overlooked by most tourists and locals. It is well worth a visit. It is the place where the 50 kilometre aqueduct from the Mountains arrived in Roman Nimes and was then distributed throughout the city through lead pipes.
One of the highlights for my visit to Niems and what's more it is free.
