15 Best Things to Do in Nîmes, France

Today I’m sharing three lovely places to take a rest in between all the Roman ruin sightseeing you can do in Nîmes! These plazas were so charming I couldn’t help but take a ton of pictures of the Frenchness of it all. Here are my favorite places to relax or start your day off right in Nîmes, France.

Top Activities in Nîmes, France

Nîmes, often called the “French Rome,” is a charming city in southern France’s Occitanie region, packed with incredibly well-preserved Roman monuments, beautiful gardens, and vibrant modern culture. Here’s a curated list of 15 must-do experiences:

1. Explore the Arènes de Nîmes
   This 1st-century Roman amphitheater is one of the best-preserved in the world and still hosts events like concerts and bullfights. Take an audio-guided tour to imagine gladiator battles.
2. Visit the Maison Carrée
   The world’s most intact ancient Roman temple, a UNESCO site dedicated to Augustus’s heirs. Inside, enjoy a multimedia show on Nîmes’ history.
3. Stroll through Jardins de la Fontaine
   France’s first public gardens (18th century), built around Roman ruins with fountains, statues, and serene paths—perfect for a relaxing picnic.
4. Climb the Tour Magne
   The only surviving tower from the ancient Roman walls, offering panoramic views over Nîmes after a short hike through the gardens.
5. Day trip to Pont du Gard
   Just 30 minutes away, this stunning three-tiered Roman aqueduct bridge (UNESCO site) is an engineering marvel—hike, kayak, or visit the museum.
6. Discover Musée de la Romanité
   A modern museum opposite the arena, showcasing 5,000+ Roman artifacts with interactive exhibits and a rooftop view.
7. Admire contemporary art at Carré d’Art
   Norman Foster-designed museum facing the Maison Carrée, featuring post-1960s art with a library and rooftop terrace.
8. Wander the Old Town streets
   Get lost in narrow medieval lanes with shops, cafés, and hidden courtyards—great for people-watching and photos.
9. See the Temple de Diane
   Romantic ruins of a Roman temple in the Jardins de la Fontaine, surrounded by greenery.
10. Shop and eat at Les Halles de Nîmes
    Vibrant indoor market with fresh produce, oysters, tapas, and local specialties like brandade de morue.
11. Visit Musée des Beaux-Arts
    Fine arts museum with paintings, sculptures, and a large Roman mosaic.
12. Explore Porte d’Auguste
    Ancient Roman gate on the Via Domitia, with remnants of the old city walls.
13. Relax at Esplanade Charles-de-Gaulle
    Tree-lined promenade with fountains, ideal for a leisurely walk.
14. Check out Cathédrale Notre-Dame-et-Saint-Castor
    Historic cathedral with a mix of Romanesque and Gothic elements.
15. Catch a show or feria
    Experience the arena during the Festival de Nîmes (summer concerts) or the lively Feria de Nîmes (bullfights and street parties).

Nîmes is compact and walkable—grab a combined ticket for the main Roman sites to save money. It’s a perfect blend of ancient history and laid-back southern French vibe!

Place aux Herbes

I loved spending my morning at the Place aux Herbes (not even sure if it’s officially called that), and sipping coffee on an old French bistro table at Bar des Beaux Arts. This lovely cafe sits across from the stunning 17th century cathedral Notre-Dame-et-Saint-Castor.

Place de l’Horloge

You can’t visit Nîmes and not stop in this bright and open plaza! Be sure to sit in one of the many terrace tables of Bistrot de l’Horloge and have a relaxing coffee as I did.

Arènes de Nîmes

After touring the Nîmes amphitheater, have a drink at the nearby café, Grand Café de la Bourse, where you get a fantastic view of this ancient Roman structure.