What to do in Nîmes?

1. The Arena of Nîmes

Category: €€/Cultural/Unique

Description: But what is an arena? For those who studied Latin and therefore ancient history at school, this should be easy to know. An arena is actually THE theater place where gladiator fights, chariot races pulled by horses or bulls, circus and sports performances took place... In short, everything that entertained the people as well as royalty at the time. Thus, it is in the city of Nîmes that we find (still today) the best preserved amphitheater of the entire Roman Empire. And don't worry, for those who would be afraid to enter for fear that it would collapse, the building shows solid architecture ready for any test. It is proof that the Roman engineers and builders of the time were already doing remarkable work. Moreover, if there are architects among our readers, you will be amazed to see such perfect symmetry! Every year, it is possible to attend concerts and other shows within the stands. But not only that... You can also walk in the interior galleries, and walk through the track. An interesting activity!

2. The Fountain Gardens

Category: €/Cultural

Description: If you walk in the heart of the city, it's impossible to miss the Fountain Gardens, covering more than 15 hectares. A true green lung of the city, the place actually consists of two distinct parts: a classic 18th century garden, and a rather Mediterranean style garden. It is possible to walk in both places, and each has particularities, and different visuals: so much so that you will have the vague impression of entering foreign places, but similar at the same time. The creation of the historic site dates back to 1745, under the order of the king of France, who was none other than Louis XV. Labeled by the Ministry of Culture, the place is described as "a haven of peace". Visiting it will allow you to learn more about the history of gardens, but also to explore some of the most beautiful landscaped places in the region: such as the splendid rock garden where rocks and Mediterranean plants intertwine; or also, come admire the aquatic plants that populate the "montgolfier" basin.

3. The Maison Carrée

Category: €€/Cultural

Description: The visit to the Maison Carrée in Nîmes is part of the must-sees dedicated to imperial worship, it is the best preserved Roman temple in the world. Built during the 1st century, it was constructed for Augustus in honor of his two grandsons: Lucius Caesar, as well as Caius Julius Caesar. Time has passed since then, the place now serves as a consular house, even a church, and a museum of ancient arts. Measuring nearly 26 meters long, 15 meters wide, as well as 17 meters high, although it was restored between 2006 and 2010, the monument has managed to preserve its impressive decor and architecture. What is most captivating to admire? The frieze that can be seen in the temple is described by experts as "one of the most accomplished examples of symbolic decoration linked to imperial worship dating from the first years of our era". Nothing less! The Maison Carrée is well worth the detour. You will find all the history of the city there, as well as some juicy anecdotes about Antiquity...

4. Strolling through the city and visiting the Clock Tower

Category: €/Gastronomic/Cultural

Description: Visiting Nîmes also means strolling through the pedestrian streets and having a good time. Right? After all, you're on vacation, of course, but that doesn't necessarily mean you have the duty to visit and enrich your general culture. Sometimes, it's also good to explore the city, make beautiful encounters, eat a local specialty... A moment of sharing with family, it always feels good. On your way, you will very certainly cross the famous clock tower that turns many heads. Watch out for stiff necks! Placed in the center of the city and from the height of its 31 meters, it has been "keeping time" for 500 years. It was in 1410 that the inhabitants of the city received authorization from the king to have this immense bell tower installed. Its main use, besides indicating the time, was to warn the population in times of war. Today, residents like to linger there, take beautiful photos, sip a drink on a terrace right next to it.

5. The Feria of Nîmes

Category: €€/Cultural

Description: The Feria of Nîmes is a popular festival, nearly 70 years old. It actually celebrates "bullfighting". What is this term? Ryo to the rescue! Bullfighting is actually directly related to the corrida, the way of confronting the bull during impressive performances. The Feria of Nîmes therefore offers fanfare parades, shows, float passages, good things to eat, encerrios (release of bulls in the city)... For several days, the entire city comes alive and residents come out of their homes to enjoy a festive, convivial moment. The event usually takes place twice a year: for example in 2024, it will take place from May 16 to 20, then from May 13 to 15. During this carnival parade, as well as the corridas organized in the arena, discover another aspect of Nîmes.

6. The Museum of Romanity

Category: €/Cultural

Description: To finish, what better than to tell you about the Museum of Romanity? Open every day from 10am to 6pm, except Tuesday, it is part of the largest architectural projects in France. Decidedly, many monuments that are among the most emblematic of the country are located in Nîmes! It is the mayor of the city himself, Jean-Paul Fournier who is behind this initiative. Why? The museum actually contains very rare mosaics found during excavations on Allées Jaurès. We also find other discoveries of inestimable value. In total, you will explore corridors and rooms filled with more than 5000 works, all as unique as each other. Considered as an archaeological museum of nearly 9,200m², it takes you on a journey through time, through the centuries and different eras. Ready to go on an adventure?