Famous for its well-preserved Roman remains and its love of festivals, the lively city of Nîmes is a great base for discovering the south of France. With its excellent road connections to the coast and surrounding towns, including Arles and Avignon, you’ll find many attractions within easy reach.
Discover Roman remains
Nîmes’ rich history is evidenced by the Roman remains scattered around the city. Begin tracing its heritage at the ancient temple Maison Carrée, one of the best-preserved structures of its type to be found anywhere in the world. Despite being built in 5CE, the building is well-preserved – the view from outside is best, where you can admire its magnificent columns and steps.
Continue your tour of Nîmes’ Roman attractions at Les Arènes, an amphitheatre thought to have been built around 70CE. Once able to seat tens of thousands of spectators, today it’s still in use as a venue for live music and other cultural events. Drink in the arched façade, inspired by Rome’s Colosseum, before heading into the arena to learn all about the gladiatorial battles that used to take place here.
Nîmes is also home to several other Roman remains, including the Temple of Diana on the outskirts of the city. This building is believed to have been destroyed around 1600 but today you can still see some of its columns, corridors and vaults. Close by is the Tour Magne or Great Tower, once part of the fortifications that protected the city.
Join in the festivities
As well as its historical pedigree, Nîmes also prides itself on its array of cultural events that take place almost all year round.
Get swept up in the electric atmosphere of the annual Festival de Nîmes. During the summer months, contemporary music concerts entertain the crowds in the Roman amphitheater, so make sure you buy tickets in advance to join the fun.
Even in the winter the fiestas don’t stop, with the city hosting its flamenco festival. Watch world-class dancers stamp along to infectious beats or attend a class to try the Spanish art form yourself.
Exploring Avignon
Renting a car for your visit to Nîmes also allows you to visit some amazing destinations in the surrounding area. One of the best is Avignon, a leafy city on the banks of the river Rhône.
Head straight for the walled old town to discover more about Avignon’s history. In its heart is the Palais des Papes, one of the biggest gothic fortresses in Europe and the former home of several popes during the 14th century. Exploring the UNESCO-listed palace is a must, where you can see apartments decorated with colorful frescoes and meander along the tangle of hidden passageways.
If you’re visiting during the summer, bag tickets for the Festival d’Avignon. This lively event takes over the city throughout July and is one of the biggest performing arts festivals in the world, with many of the performances taking place in the main courtyard of Palais des Papes.
With a rental car from Nîmes you’ll find all this and more within easy reach during your stay in France.