🇫🇷 Discovering the “Rome of France”: A Walking Tour of Ancient Nîmes 🇫🇷

Step back in time to Nîmes, a city in the South of France so rich in heritage it’s known as the “Rome of France”! 🏛️☀️ In this travel vlog, we take you on a complete walking tour through the sun-drenched streets of the Occitanie region.
From the towering spire of Église Sainte-Perpétue to the world-famous Arènes de Nîmes, we explore the perfect blend of ancient Roman engineering and modern French charm. You’ll see the city’s grandest monuments, learn about its bullfighting traditions, and discover the best spots for a coffee with a 2,000-year-old view.
Whether you’re planning a trip to the South of France or just love history and architecture, this video is your ultimate guide to the gems of Nîmes.
What’s inside this tour:
✅ The iconic Roman Arena (one of the world’s best-preserved!)
✅ Neoclassical palaces and historic high schools
✅ The symbolic Bronze Bull of Nîmes
✅ Local gourmet spots and vibrant city squares
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Walking Route & Historical Highlights
1. Esplanade Charles-de-Gaulle & Église Sainte-Perpétue Our journey starts at the city’s main promenade. Dominating the skyline is the 19th-century Église Sainte-Perpétue et Sainte-Félicité, a stunning Gothic Revival church with a 71-meter spire.
2. Le Taureau (The Bronze Bull) A few steps away stands this powerful sculpture by Kern. It’s a vital symbol of Nîmes, representing the city’s ancient connection to bullfighting and the culture of the Camargue.
3. Palais de Justice (Court of Appeal) This majestic neoclassical building, completed in 1846, features grand Corinthian columns and reflects the architectural elegance that Nîmes is famous for.
4. Monument aux Morts Located in the Square des Arènes, this WWI memorial arch is a moving tribute to the fallen. It features intricate sculptures by Landowski and Max Crozet.
5. Place des Arènes & The Gourmet Quarter We enter the vibrant square where you’ll find the Bazaar bistro by Michelin-starred chef Jean-Luc Rabanel and the flags of the Hôtel de Ville (City Hall). It’s the perfect place to feel the local rhythm.
6. Arènes de Nîmes (The Arena) The crown jewel of our tour. Built around 70 AD, this Roman amphitheater is an engineering marvel that once held 24,000 spectators and still hosts major events today.
7. Statue of Nimeño II Standing guard at the Arena entrance is the tribute to Christian Montcouquiol (Nimeño II), France’s most legendary matador and a true local hero.
8. Lycée Alphonse Daudet An imposing 18th-century building that served as a hospital before becoming a prestigious school named after the famous writer Alphonse Daudet, who was born here.
9. Café La Grande Bourse We end our walk at this iconic brasserie. There’s no better way to finish the day than with a coffee on the terrace, soaking in the view of the ancient Roman walls.