Family-Friendly Adventures in , Occitania!

Nimes

Why Visit?

Welcome to Nîmes, a vibrant city in the South of France, steeped in rich Roman history and picturesque French culture. Here"s a family-friendly itinerary that will ensure you capture the best of Nîmes in a fun and educational way.

Morning: Explore Les Arènes de Nîmes

Start your day at the stunning Roman amphitheater, Les Arènes de Nîmes. This ancient arena, dating back to 70 AD, is one of the best-preserved Roman amphitheaters in the world. Take a guided tour available in multiple languages, which is particularly engaging for kids, as they can learn about the gladiators and animals that once entertained crowds of up to 24,000 spectators. The arena is just a 10-minute walk from the Nîmes train station, making it easily accessible.

Lunch: Quick Bite at Place aux Herbes

After exploring the arena, head to Place aux Herbes, a charming square filled with quaint cafes and bistros, perfect for a family lunch. Try some local delicacies like the brandade (a puree of salted cod and olive oil), which is kid-friendly and delicious.

Afternoon: Jardins de la Fontaine and Tour Magne

Post lunch, make your way to the Jardins de la Fontaine, one of the earliest public parks in Europe, just a 15-minute walk from Place aux Herbes. Kids can run around and explore the beautiful statues and fountains. Don"t miss the Tour Magne, situated within the gardens, an ancient Roman tower that offers panoramic views of Nîmes. The climb might be a bit challenging for younger kids, but the view from the top is rewarding.

Evening: Maison Carrée and Nearby Ice Cream

Conclude your day at Maison Carrée, one of the best-preserved Roman temples in existence. It"s about a 10-minute walk from Jardins de la Fontaine. After soaking in the history, treat the family to some artisanal ice cream at a nearby shop, a perfect sweet end to your day in Nîmes.

Each attraction offers a vivid peek into the Roman era intertwined with the charm of modern French life, making Nîmes a memorable stop for families.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Maison Carrée

Why Visit?

Family-Friendly Itinerary to Maison Carrée, Nîmes

Morning: Start your adventure at the iconic Maison Carrée, one of the best-preserved Roman temples in the world, located in the heart of Nîmes. This ancient marvel, built around 4-7 AD, originally dedicated to the grandsons of Augustus, provides a captivating glimpse into Roman architecture and history. Its striking façade and Corinthian columns are a must-see. Engage the kids with a fun quiz on Roman gods or a sketching session of the temple!

Getting There: Maison Carrée is easily accessible by foot from the city center. If you’re staying outside Nîmes, the Nîmes train station is well-connected, and from there it’s a comfortable 10-minute walk.

Lunch: Enjoy a family lunch at one of the nearby cafes. Opt for a local dish like brandade de morue, a creamy mix of salt cod and olive oil, sure to be a hit with the family!

Afternoon: After lunch, take a leisurely 5-minute walk to the Carré d’Art. Positioned directly opposite Maison Carrée, this modern art museum showcases contemporary works and contrasts strikingly with the Roman temple. Its library and interactive exhibits will entertain visitors of all ages.

Engage More: Just a 15-minute walk from Maison Carrée lies the Jardins de la Fontaine. Built around a Roman thermal spring, these gardens offer beautiful landscapes, a playground, and Roman ruins including the Temple of Diana. It’s a great spot for kids to run around and explore.

Interesting Fact: Did you know the Maison Carrée inspired the design of the Virginia State Capitol in the USA? Share this with the kids to connect historical influences across continents!

Evening: Wrap up your day with a stroll back to the city center and treat yourselves to some gelato or crêpes from a local vendor, reflecting on a day steeped in history and culture.

This itinerary ensures a day filled with cultural enrichment, leisure, and fun, perfect for a memorable family outing in Nîmes!

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Arena of Nimes (Arenes de Nimes)

Why Visit?

Morning: Visit to Arena of Nimes (Arènes de Nîmes)

Start your family adventure at the Arena of Nimes, an ancient Roman amphitheater that is one of the best-preserved of its kind in the world. Arrive early to beat the crowds and the heat. The arena is easily accessible in the heart of Nimes, just a short walk from the Nîmes train station.

Once inside, embark on a guided tour available in multiple languages, which will transport you back to Roman times. The tour often includes a visit to the gladiator chambers and a detailed history of the amphitheater’s architectural design. Children will enjoy the interactive family booklet, turning the visit into a thrilling treasure hunt.

Lunch Break

Enjoy a relaxed lunch at one of the family-friendly cafes or restaurants surrounding the amphitheater. Opt for a local dish like "Brandade de Morue," a creamy cod dish that kids and adults alike will enjoy.

Afternoon: Explore Jardins de la Fontaine

Post-lunch, take a leisurely 15-minute walk to the Jardins de la Fontaine, one of Europe’s oldest public parks. Here, children can explore vast gardens, watch ducks in the ponds, and you can all marvel at the Roman ruins including the Temple of Diana and the Tour Magne. The gardens offer a perfect spot for a family picnic if you prefer an outdoor snack.

Evening: Explore Nimes" Old Town

Wrap up your day by wandering through the charming streets of Nimes" Old Town. Discover quaint shops, enjoy an ice cream, and soak in the vibrant local atmosphere. The area is pedestrian-friendly, making it safe for kids to roam around.

This well-rounded itinerary offers a blend of historical education, fun, and relaxation, ensuring a memorable day for the whole family in Nimes!

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Magne Tower (Tour Magne)

Why Visit?

Welcome to a fun-filled family day in Nîmes, with the majestic Magne Tower (Tour Magne) as the highlight of your visit!

Morning

Start your day early by heading to the heart of Nîmes. The best way to get to Magne Tower is by car or local bus. If you"re driving, parking is available at the Jardins de la Fontaine, which is just a short walk from the tower. Make sure to pack comfortable walking shoes, as there"s a bit of a climb up the hill to the tower itself!

Once you arrive, get ready to be wowed by the Magne Tower, the tallest and most impressive remnant of ancient Roman walls that once encircled Nîmes. Built around 15 BC, it served as both a military watchtower and a symbol of Roman power and prestige. The climb to the top might be a challenge for little legs, but the panoramic views of Nîmes and the surrounding countryside are well worth it. Don’t forget your camera!

Lunch

After your morning adventure, head back down to the Jardins de la Fontaine for a relaxing picnic lunch by the beautifully designed 18th-century gardens. There’s plenty of space for the kids to run around, and several quaint spots to enjoy a peaceful meal.

Afternoon

Post lunch, explore the Jardins de la Fontaine further. Visit the Temple of Diana and the other Roman ruins within the garden. It’s a great place for children to learn about history in an open, accessible environment.

Evening

Conclude your day with a leisurely walk back to the city center. Treat the family to some local ice cream and enjoy the relaxed pace of Nîmes in the evening.

With history, nature, and plenty of walking, visiting Magne Tower and its surroundings offers a perfect blend of education and fun for a family outing. Enjoy your trip!

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.