4-Day Couples Retreat: Nimes, France - Food, Wine & Hidden Gems

Nimes, France

4 days

Food and wine

Nightlife

Sightseeing

Couples

Off the beaten path

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.

4-Day Itinerary

Day 1

Exploring Roman History and Local Cuisine

Morning

Start your day with a visit to the Maison Carrée, one of the best-preserved Roman temples in the world. Enjoy the stunning architecture and the rich history of the place.

Lunch

Enjoy a traditional French lunch at a local bistro. Try the local specialty, 'Brandade de Morue', a creamy mix of salt cod and olive oil.

Afternoon

Visit the Jardins de la Fontaine, a beautiful park with Roman ruins. Take a leisurely stroll and enjoy the serene atmosphere.

Dinner

Have dinner at a local restaurant serving traditional French cuisine. Try the 'Ratatouille', a classic Provençal vegetable stew.

Evening

Enjoy a romantic walk through the city's charming streets and squares, soaking in the nightlife.

Day 2

Immersing in Ancient Architecture and Cultural Experiences

Morning

Visit the Nimes Arena, a Roman amphitheater that is still in use today. Explore the ancient structure and learn about its history.

Lunch

Have lunch at a local café, enjoying a 'Croque Monsieur', a classic French sandwich, and a glass of local wine.

Afternoon

Explore the Musée de la Romanité, a modern museum showcasing the city's Roman history. The building itself is a stunning piece of architecture.

Dinner

Dine at a local restaurant, trying out 'Bouillabaisse', a traditional Provençal fish stew.

Evening

Enjoy a live performance at a local theater or music venue, immersing yourself in the local culture.

Day 3

Panoramic Views and Charming Neighborhoods

Morning

Visit the Tour Magne, a Roman tower offering panoramic views of the city. Climb to the top for the best view.

Lunch

Enjoy a picnic lunch in the Jardins de la Fontaine, sampling local cheeses, breads, and wines.

Afternoon

Explore the 'Quartier des Espagnols', a charming neighborhood known for its narrow streets and old houses.

Dinner

Have dinner at a local restaurant, trying out 'Daube Provençale', a traditional beef stew.

Evening

Enjoy a nightcap at a local wine bar, sampling the region's best wines.

Day 4

Marvels of Engineering and Natural Beauty

Morning

Visit the Pont du Gard, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This ancient Roman aqueduct is a marvel of engineering.

Lunch

Have lunch at a local restaurant near the Pont du Gard, enjoying the stunning views while you eat.

Afternoon

Take a leisurely stroll along the 'Gardon River', enjoying the natural beauty of the area.

Dinner

Enjoy your last dinner in Nimes at a local restaurant, trying out 'Pissaladière', a pizza-like dish from the region.

Evening

Spend your last evening in Nimes enjoying the city's vibrant nightlife, perhaps catching a live music performance.

Attractions in Itinerary (6)

1
Maison Carrée

One of the best preserved Roman temple façades to be found in the territory of the former Roman Empire.

Monuments

Landmarks

Museums

2
Jardins de la Fontaine

One of the first public gardens in Europe, built around the Roman thermae ruins.

Parks

Gardens

3
Nimes Arena

A Roman amphitheatre situated in the heart of the city. It's one of the best preserved amphitheatres in the world.

Attractions

Monuments

Landmarks

4
Musée 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.

Museums

Cultural Experiences

5
Tour Magne

The tallest Roman tower in France offering panoramic views of Nimes.

Monuments

Landmarks

6
Pont du Gard

A UNESCO World Heritage site, this ancient Roman aqueduct bridge is one of the most visited tourist sites in France.

Attractions

Monuments

Landmarks

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.

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.

While we strive for accuracy in our "How to get around" section, the information may not always be up-to-date or 100% accurate; we highly recommend cross-checking with local resources before your travel.

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 (4 pairs)
Socks (4 pairs)
T-shirts (4)
Long-sleeve shirts (2)
Jeans or trousers (2 pairs)
Shorts or skirts (2)
Sweater or jacket (1)
Pajamas (1 set)
Swimwear (if planning to swim)
Comfortable walking shoes
Sandals or flip-flops
Hat or cap
Sunglasses
Scarf or shawl (for visiting religious sites)

Toiletries
Toothbrush and toothpaste
Deodorant
Shampoo and conditioner
Body wash or soap
Razor and shaving cream
Feminine hygiene products
Makeup and makeup remover
Sunscreen
Insect repellent
Prescription medications
First-aid kit (band-aids, antiseptic wipes, tweezers)

Travel documents and essentials
Passport
Driver's license or ID card
Credit and debit cards
Cash and coins
Travel insurance documents
Hotel and transportation reservation confirmations
Guidebook or map
Phrasebook or language app

Electronics and gadgets
Smartphone and charger
Headphones or earbuds
Camera and charger
Memory cards or film for camera
Portable power bank
Travel adapter for French outlets
Laptop and charger (if necessary)

Miscellaneous items
Snacks for the journey
Reusable water bottle
Travel pillow and blanket
Books or e-reader for entertainment
Travel-sized laundry detergent
Plastic bags for dirty clothes
Umbrella or raincoat
Notebook and pen

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.