Nimes

Located in the south of France, the city of Nimes offers visitors hot summers and pleasantly warm winters as well as attractions such as ancient Roman structures and beautiful countryside.

The ancient town centre is top of the list of Nimes' most notable historical attractions. The magnificent temple, Maison Carré, which dates back to 5 AD, is particularly interesting and is the best preserved Roman edifice in the city. Nearby is a well preserved Roman amphitheatre dating back to the 1^st century AD.

Other notable Roman constructions around the city include the Temple of Diana, the gates of Porte d’Arles and Porte de France and the Castellum reservoir, plus various old squares. The cathedral (Saint Castor), which is built in part Romanesque part Gothic style, is believed to have been built on the site of the temple of Augustus.

Around the town centre, visitors can experience typical traditional French life. It is possible to spend hours perusing the traditional French shops and cafés tucked away in the network of narrow winding streets. Local cuisine at the many restaurants on offer has a reputation for excellence, while bars allow visitors a chance to sample some of the region's best vintages.

A short drive away from Nimes brings you to the town of St Louis, where some wonderful views of the Mediterranean are available. Scattered around the area you will find a variety of vineyards, many of which welcome visitors wanting to sample a little wine. If you drive a little further, you will find charming rural areas such as the Camargue and Cevennes; the latter is famous for its hills, valleys and hamlets.

Getting to Nimes from abroad is easy via Nice International Airport, which offers connections with many international cities. Alternatively, trains are a solid option, while the road network makes for stress-free driving into the area.