2-Day Solo Local Experience: Nimes Sightseeing and Culinary Journey
Nimes, France
2 days
About Nimes, France
Nestled in Southern France, Nîmes is a city rich in Roman history and vibrant Provençal culture. As a travel destination, it offers a blend of ancient architecture and modern attractions. The city's crown jewel, the Arena of Nîmes, is a well-preserved Roman amphitheater that still hosts events today. The Maison Carrée, a Roman temple, and the Tour Magne, a Roman tower, offer stunning views of the city. Nîmes is also home to the Jardins de la Fontaine, a beautiful 18th-century garden. The city's narrow streets are lined with boutiques, cafes, and restaurants serving local cuisine. Just outside the city, the Pont du Gard, a Roman aqueduct, is a must-see. Nîmes is a captivating blend of history, culture, and natural beauty.
2-Day Itinerary
Day 2
Art, Parks, and Wine Tasting
Morning
Start your second day with a visit to the Tour Magne, a Roman tower offering panoramic views of the city. Then, explore the Musée de la Romanité, a modern museum showcasing the city's Roman history.
Lunch
Have lunch at a local café, enjoying a 'Salade Niçoise' or a 'Croque Monsieur', two classic French dishes.
Afternoon
Spend the afternoon exploring the Carré d'Art, a contemporary art museum housed in a striking modern building. Then, take a stroll around the Esplanade Charles-de-Gaulle, a large public park.
Dinner
For dinner, try 'Cassoulet', a hearty bean and meat stew, at a local restaurant. Pair it with a glass of local wine.
Evening
End your trip with a visit to a local wine bar, tasting different regional wines and enjoying the relaxed atmosphere.
Attractions in Itinerary (7)
1Arena of Nimes
A Roman amphitheatre situated in the heart of the city, it is one of the best-preserved Roman amphitheatres in the world.
2Maison Carrée
One of the best preserved Roman temple façades to be found in the territory of the former Roman Empire.
3Jardins de la Fontaine
One of the first public gardens in Europe, built around the Roman thermae ruins.
4Tour Magne
The tallest Roman tower in France offering panoramic views of Nimes.
5Musée de la Romanité
A modern museum dedicated to the Roman history of the city and region, it features a green wall and a rooftop terrace that offers panoramic views of Nimes.
6Carré d'Art
A contemporary art museum and a municipal library, housed in a modern building designed by British architect Norman Foster.
7Esplanade Charles-de-Gaulle
A large public park and square, named after the former French president Charles de Gaulle, featuring beautiful fountains and statues.
Local Food and Drinks (12)
Brandade de Morue
A popular dish in Nimes made from salt cod and olive oil. It's a creamy, rich dish that is often served with bread or potatoes.
Petit Pâté de Nîmes
A small, round pastry filled with minced pork and veal. It's a local specialty of Nimes and is often enjoyed as a snack or appetizer.
Ratatouille
A traditional French dish made from stewed vegetables like eggplant, zucchini, bell peppers, and tomatoes. It's a common dish in Nimes due to the abundance of fresh vegetables in the region.
Tapenade
A savory spread made from olives, capers, and anchovies. It's a staple in Nimes and is often served with bread as an appetizer.
Pissaladière
A pizza-like dish topped with onions, olives, and anchovies. It's a popular dish in Nimes and is often enjoyed for lunch or dinner.
Soupe au Pistou
A vegetable soup made with a sauce of garlic, basil, and olive oil (pistou). It's a common dish in Nimes, especially during the colder months.
Daube Provençale
A hearty beef stew made with red wine, vegetables, and herbs. It's a traditional dish in Nimes and is often enjoyed during the winter.
Salade Niçoise
A salad made with tomatoes, hard-boiled eggs, olives, and anchovies. It's a popular dish in Nimes, especially during the summer.
Pastis
An anise-flavored spirit that is often enjoyed as an aperitif in Nimes. It's typically diluted with water before drinking.
Rosé de Provence
A light, dry rosé wine from the Provence region. It's a popular choice in Nimes, especially during the summer months.
Châteauneuf-du-Pape
A robust red wine from the Rhône wine region. It's a popular choice in Nimes for pairing with hearty meals.
Absinthe
A strong, anise-flavored spirit that was once banned in France. It's now legal and enjoyed in Nimes, often served with water and sugar.
Best time to visit
The best time to visit Nimes, France, is from late April to October. During these months, the weather is warm and pleasant, perfect for sightseeing and exploring the city's rich history and culture. The city is less crowded in the shoulder seasons (April-June and September-October), making it an ideal time for tourists who prefer a quieter vacation. However, if you want to experience the city's vibrant festivals, plan your visit in May or September when the Great Roman Games and the Feria de Nimes take place.
National holidays
Here you can find the national calendar of all public holidays for the year. These dates are subject to change as official changes are announced, so check back regularly for updates.
| Date | Day | Holiday Name |
|---|---|---|
January 1 | Mon | New Year's Day |
April 1 | Mon | Easter Monday |
May 1 | Wed | Labor Day / May Day |
May 8 | Wed | WWII Victory Day |
May 9 | Thu | Ascension Day |
May 20 | Mon | Whit Monday |
July 14 | Sun | Bastille Day |
August 15 | Thu | Assumption of Mary |
November 1 | Fri | All Saints' Day |
November 11 | Mon | Armistice Day |
December 25 | Wed | Christmas Day |
How to get around
Walk
Nimes is a compact city, so it's easy to explore on foot. Many of the main attractions, such as the Arena of Nimes and the Maison Carrée, are within walking distance of each other.
Bicycle
Nimes has a public bike-sharing system, Vélo Tango, which is a great way to get around the city. There are numerous bike stations around the city where you can pick up and drop off your bike.
Public Bus
Nimes has an extensive public bus system, Tango, that covers the city and its surrounding areas. It's a convenient and efficient way to travel around the city.
Tram
Nimes has a tram system, Tram-bus, which is a hybrid between a bus and a tram. It runs on a dedicated track and offers a comfortable and efficient way to get around the city.
Taxi
Taxis are readily available in Nimes and can be hailed on the street, booked by phone, or picked up from a taxi rank. They offer a convenient way to get around, especially if you're traveling with luggage or in a group.
Ridesharing
Ridesharing services, such as Uber, are available in Nimes. This can be a convenient and cost-effective way to get around, especially if you're traveling with a group or have a lot of luggage.
Car Rental
If you want the freedom to explore Nimes and the surrounding region at your own pace, you might consider renting a car. There are several car rental companies located in the city.
Train
Nimes has a central train station, Gare de Nimes, which offers regional and national services. This can be a convenient way to travel to and from the city, as well as to nearby towns and cities.
Important information
Currency€ EUR
Time zoneUTC+1
Driving sideRight
Emergency phoneAmbulance: 112, 15; Fire: 112, 18; Police: 112, 17
Drinking waterYes
Power sockets
Voltage230 V
Things to know about Nimes, France as a first time visitor
1
Nimes is located in the Occitanie region of southern France.
2
The city is known for its rich history dating back to the Roman Empire.
3
The local language is French, but English is also widely spoken.
4
The currency used in Nimes is the Euro (€).
5
Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's always a good idea to carry some cash for smaller establishments or street vendors.
6
Nimes has a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters.
7
In summer (June-August), temperatures can reach up to 86°F (30°C) and in winter (December-February), they can drop to around 41°F (5°C).
8
It's recommended to pack lightweight clothing for the summer and warmer, layered clothing for the winter.
9
Nimes is well connected by train and bus services to other major cities in France.
10
The city is also served by the Nimes-Ales-Camargue-Cevennes Airport.
11
Public transportation within the city includes buses and trams, but the city center is compact and walkable.
12
Tipping is not mandatory in France, but it's customary to leave small change for good service.
13
Nimes is known for its vibrant food scene, with many restaurants offering traditional French and Mediterranean cuisine.
14
Try the local specialty, brandade de morue, a dish made with salt cod and olive oil.
15
The city is also famous for its local wines, so be sure to visit a wine bar or vineyard.
16
Nimes has a range of accommodation options, from luxury hotels to budget hostels and vacation rentals.
17
The city is generally safe, but like any tourist destination, it's advisable to be aware of your surroundings and keep your belongings secure.
18
Most shops in Nimes close on Sundays, and many also close for a few hours in the afternoon.
19
Pharmacies in France are identified by a green cross, and they are the only places where you can buy over-the-counter medication.
20
Remember to carry a power adapter for your devices, as France uses Type E power sockets.
Basic French to know as a first time visitor
English phrase | Native phrase | Pronunciation | When to use it |
|---|---|---|---|
Hello | Bonjour | bon-zhoor | Greeting someone |
Goodbye | Au revoir | oh reh-vwar | Saying goodbye |
Please | S'il vous plaît | see voo play | Making a request |
Thank you | Merci | mehr-see | Expressing gratitude |
Yes | Oui | wee | Agreeing or confirming |
No | Non | non | Disagreeing or denying |
Excuse me | Excusez-moi | ex-koo-zay mwah | Getting attention or apologizing |
I don't understand | Je ne comprends pas | zhuh nuh kom-prahn pah | When you don't understand something |
Do you speak English? | Parlez-vous anglais? | par-lay voo ahn-glay? | Asking if someone speaks English |
Where is the bathroom? | Où sont les toilettes? | oo son lay twa-let? | Finding a restroom |
I need help | J'ai besoin d'aide | zhay buh-swahn dade | When you need assistance |
Call the police | Appelez la police | a-peh-lay la po-lease | In case of emergency |
I'm lost | Je suis perdu | zhuh swee pehr-doo | When you're lost |
How much does it cost? | Combien ça coûte? | komb-yen sah koot? | Asking for the price |
Can I have the menu, please? | Puis-je avoir le menu, s'il vous plaît? | pwee-zhuh ah-vwar leh meh-noo, see voo play? | At a restaurant |
I would like to order | Je voudrais commander | zhuh voo-dray kom-mahn-day | At a restaurant |
Water, please | De l'eau, s'il vous plaît | duh low, see voo play | At a restaurant |
Cheers | Santé | sahn-tay | Making a toast |
Where is...? | Où est...? | oo eh...? | Asking for directions |
Good night | Bonne nuit | bon nwee | Saying goodnight |
Packing List
Clothing
Underwear
Socks
T-shirts
Pants/Jeans
Comfortable walking shoes
Sleepwear
Light jacket or sweater
Swimwear (if planning to swim)
Hat for sun protection
Toiletries
Toothbrush
Toothpaste
Deodorant
Shampoo and conditioner
Body wash or soap
Razor
Shaving cream
Sunscreen
Lip balm
Personal hygiene items
Prescription medications
First aid kit
Travel documents and essentials
Passport/ID
Airline tickets
Hotel reservation confirmation
Travel insurance documents
Credit and debit cards
Cash in local currency
Emergency contact information
Map of Nimes
Electronics and gadgets
Smartphone
Charger for smartphone
Headphones
Camera
Charger for camera
Travel adapter for France
Portable power bank
Miscellaneous items
Travel pillow
Earplugs
Eye mask
Snacks
Water bottle
Books or magazines
Travel guide for Nimes
French phrasebook
Umbrella or raincoat
Weather Conditions
Nimes, France, is known for its Mediterranean climate, which means it experiences hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. If you're planning to visit during the summer months, from June to August, expect temperatures to range from 75°F to 90°F (24°C to 32°C). It's the perfect time to explore the city's outdoor attractions, like the Roman amphitheater or the Jardins de la Fontaine. However, remember to stay hydrated and wear sun protection, as the sun can be quite strong. In contrast, the winter months, from December to February, are relatively mild with temperatures typically between 40°F and 55°F (4°C to 13°C). Rain is more common during this time, so pack a waterproof jacket or umbrella. Despite the chillier weather, it's a great time to visit indoor attractions like the Nimes Museum of Fine Arts or the Maison Carrée. The shoulder seasons of spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) offer moderate temperatures, ranging from 55°F to 75°F (13°C to 24°C). These periods can be ideal for tourists who prefer less extreme temperatures and smaller crowds. Regardless of when you visit, remember that weather can be unpredictable. It's always a good idea to check the forecast before your trip and pack accordingly. Enjoy your visit to Nimes!
| Month | Hi / Lo (°C) | Weather Overview |
|---|---|---|
January | 13° / 3° | January in Nimes is quite cold, with temperatures ranging from 3 to 13 degrees Celsius. It's a quiet time to visit, but pack warm clothes. |
February | 14° / 3° | February is still chilly, with temperatures similar to January. It's not the peak tourist season, so you'll have the city mostly to yourself. |
March | 18° / 6° | March sees a slight increase in temperature, ranging from 6 to 18 degrees Celsius. The weather is getting warmer, but it's still not peak tourist season. |
April | 20° / 8° | April is when the weather starts to get warmer, with temperatures ranging from 8 to 20 degrees Celsius. The city starts to get busier with tourists around this time. |
May | 24° / 12° | May is a great time to visit Nimes, with temperatures ranging from 12 to 24 degrees Celsius. The weather is warm and the city is lively with tourists. |
June | 28° / 16° | June is one of the warmest months, with temperatures ranging from 16 to 28 degrees Celsius. It's a popular time for tourists, so expect the city to be busy. |
July | 30° / 18° | July is the hottest month in Nimes, with temperatures ranging from 18 to 30 degrees Celsius. It's the peak tourist season, so the city will be very busy. |
August | 30° / 18° | August is just as hot as July, with temperatures ranging from 18 to 30 degrees Celsius. The city is still very busy with tourists. |
September | 27° / 15° | September is slightly cooler than the summer months, with temperatures ranging from 15 to 27 degrees Celsius. It's a great time to visit if you prefer less crowded places. |
October | 21° / 11° | October sees a drop in temperature, ranging from 11 to 21 degrees Celsius. The city is less crowded, making it a good time to visit if you prefer a quieter atmosphere. |
November | 17° / 7° | November is quite cold, with temperatures ranging from 7 to 17 degrees Celsius. The city is quiet, making it a good time to visit if you prefer a peaceful atmosphere. |
December | 14° / 4° | December is the coldest month, with temperatures ranging from 4 to 14 degrees Celsius. It's a quiet time to visit, but be sure to pack warm clothes. |
Did you know?
Places near by Nimes, France
Pont du Gard
An ancient Roman aqueduct bridge that crosses the Gardon River.
Arles Amphitheatre
A two-tiered Roman amphitheatre.
Palais des Papes
One of the largest and most important medieval Gothic buildings in Europe.
Camargue
A natural region located south of Arles, famous for its unique flora and fauna.
Montpellier
A vibrant city known for its rich history and diverse cultural scene.
Château des Baux
A fortified castle built during the 10th century.
Aix-en-Provence
A city in southern France, known for its historical and cultural attractions.
Marseille
France's second largest city, known for its diverse culture and vibrant arts scene.
Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer
A coastal town in the Camargue, known for its beautiful beaches.
Cassis
A popular tourist destination, famous for its cliffs and the sheltered inlets called calanques.
