: Nimes

Nîmes has one of the finest collections of Roman monuments in France, earning it the nickname "the French Rome". The Maison Carrée, the Arena, and the Temple of Diana are exceptionally well-preserved. Nîmes is also known as the origin of denim (de Nîmes) and has a strong bullfighting tradition.

Nîmes has a TGV station on the Mediterranean high-speed line, with direct services from Paris (less than 3 hours). By car, the A9 motorway passes the city.

The historic core between the Arena and the Maison Carrée is pedestrianised. A tram-like bus (Tango) serves the city.

The Roman Arena (Arènes) — still used for bullfights and concerts. The Maison Carrée — a perfectly preserved Roman temple. The Carré d'Art for contemporary art. The Tour Magne. The Jardin de la Fontaine. The Musée de la Romanité.

Attend a concert at the Arena. The Feria de Nîmes (spring and autumn). Explore the Écusson boutiques. The market in front of the Maison Carrée.

Gard cuisine: gardiane de taureau, brandade de Nîmes, picholine olives. Les Halles for oysters and seafood.

Costières de Nîmes AOC. Tavel rosé. Pastis. Wine bars in the old town.

Full range from luxury boutique hotels near the Arena to budget near the station.

Denim products. Les Halles: Crocodile biscuits, local cheeses, olive oils. Gardiane, brandade, fougasse.

Pont du Gard (20 km). Arles (30 min). The Camargue. The Cévennes. Montpellier, Avignon.