Visit Nîmes from our campsite at Vias Plage: Roman monuments and ancient heritage
A unique immersion in the history of ancient Rome
An emblematic Roman city in the south of France, Nîmes offers a fascinating plunge into antiquity. Situated in the heart of the Gard region, Nîmes stands out for the richness and exceptional state of preservation of its Roman monuments. Amphitheater, temples, ramparts and historic gardens make up a remarkable heritage complex, easily accessible on an excursion from our Vias Plage campsite. A visit to Nîmes allows you to alternate cultural discoveries, urban strolls and moments of relaxation, in a city on a human scale where history is fully integrated into everyday life. Nearby, the Pont du Gard is an ideal complement to this escapade dedicated to Roman heritage.
The Nîmes arena, an exceptional amphitheatre
One of the world’s best-preserved Roman monuments
Nîmes’ arena is the city’s most emblematic site, and impresses by its size and state of preservation. Built at the end of the 1st century, this amphitheater could accommodate thousands of spectators who came to watch the fights and shows of the Roman era.
Today, it remains at the heart of Nîmes life and regularly hosts cultural events. A visit to the arena allows you to understand how the ancient games were organized, to explore the stands and interior corridors, and to appreciate the ingenuity of Roman architecture. Located in the heart of the city, the arena is a natural part of a city walk, and an ideal starting point for discovering Nîmes’ other ancient remains.
The Maison Carrée and ancient temples
A Roman heritage in the heart of the city
The Maison Carrée is one of the best-preserved Roman temples in Europe. Situated on a lively central square, it perfectly illustrates the elegance and rigor of ancient architecture. Originally dedicated to the heirs of Emperor Augustus, this monument bears witness to the importance of Nîmes in the Roman Empire. Nearby, other vestiges complete this discovery, such as the Temple of Diana, located in the Jardin de la Fontaine. These buildings offer a clear insight into the religious and civic organization of the ancient city. Their integration into today’s urban space makes it easy to move from a cultural visit to a stroll, in a pleasant and lively setting.
The Fountain Gardens and the Castellum
Nature and Roman engineering combined
The Gardens of the Fountain are an emblematic area of Nîmes, combining ancient heritage and landscaped walks. Built around a natural spring, they are home to several major remains, including the Temple of Diana and the Castellum. The latter marks the arrival of water from the Pont du Gard via a Roman aqueduct, highlighting the ingenuity of ancient hydraulic systems. The gardens offer a pleasant setting for a break between two visits, with shady paths, ponds and views over the town. They also provide an insight into the close relationship between urban planning, water and daily life in Roman Nîmes.
The Pont du Gard, a must-see site nearby
A masterpiece of Roman engineering
Located just a few kilometers from Nîmes, the Pont du Gard is one of the most impressive Roman aqueducts ever built. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site, it bears witness to the exceptional skills of ancient engineers. This majestic monument is set in an unspoilt natural environment, ideal for walking and exploring. A visit to the Pont du Gard is the perfect complement to a tour of Nîmes, offering a comprehensive overview of the Roman hydraulic system that supplied the city. Easily accessible on a day trip, this site combines heritage, nature and history for a rich and balanced vacation experience.
