Nimes Tours and Activities

With a history dating back to the Bronze Age, Nimes is one of France’s oldest cities. Its Roman ruins—which include the UNESCO-listed Pont du Gard aqueduct and Colosseum-inspired Arènes de Nîmes—still take centerstage in the modern city.

The Basics
Nimes makes a popular day trip destination from Avignon, Arles, and Marseille. Typically, day trips combine exploration of Nimes with the Roman town of Uzes, a visit to the Pont du Gard aqueduct, and wine tasting in the Languedoc wine region.

Nimes itself is best explored on a walking tour, which typically cover the city’s Roman ruins and landmarks such as Nîmes Cathedral and Jardins de la Fontaine.

Things to Know Before You Go

• Nimes is a must for history buffs and travelers interested in Roman history.
• Save time and money by pre-purchasing a Roman Nîmes Pass, which includes admission to the Arènes de Nîmes, Maison Carrée, and Tour Magne.
• Most of Nimes’ attractions are wheelchair accessible.

How to Get There
Nimes is located in the Occitanie region—formerly the Languedoc-Roussillon—of southern France, around 28 miles (45 kilometers) west of Avignon. From Avigon, it’s approximately a 45-minute drive.

When to Get There
The most popular time to visit Nimes is during the summer months of July and August, when it’s recommended to book accommodation and tours well in advance. Other atmospheric times to visit are during the summer Festival of Nimes, when you can enjoy evening concerts in the Arènes de Nîmes, and over the festive season, when Christmas parades and markets are held in the city center. If visiting on a day trip, avoid Sundays and Mondays when many shops and restaurants are closed.

Roman Ruins in Nimes
Once an important Roman city, traces of Nimes’ Roman legacy are still dotted around the city. Must-see archaeological sites include the well-preserved Arènes de Nîmes, which dates back to before AD 200 and holds up to 24,000 spectators. There’s also the Maison Carrée temple, which was the inspiration for Thomas Jefferson’s Virginia State Capitol building; the Tour Magne tower, which was part of the original Roman fortifications; and the Temple of Diana. Just outside the city, the Pont du Gard is one of the best-preserved Roman aqueducts in the world.