Visit the Nîmes Arena in the Gard department
An emblematic monument of French heritage, the Nîmes Arena is the best-preserved Roman amphitheatre in the world. Built at the end of the 1st century AD, this impressive ancient vestige bears witness to the grandeur of the Roman Empire and the architectural expertise of the time. At 133 metres long, 101 metres wide and with a capacity of 24,000 spectators, the Nîmes amphitheatre continues to impress visitors with its colossal dimensions and remarkable state of preservation. Even today, the Arènes live to the rhythm of major cultural and sporting events, perpetuating their vocation as a popular meeting place. Whether you’re a Roman history buff, a lover of ancient architecture or simply curious to discover one of France’s most beautiful monuments, visiting Nîmes and its Arenas is an unforgettable experience that will plunge you into the heart of Roman civilisation.
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History of the Nîmes Arena
The history of the Nîmes Arena dates back to the end of the first century AD, probably around 90 AD, when the city of Nemausus was at its height under Roman rule. Built just twenty years after the famous Colosseum in Rome, the Nîmes Arena was directly inspired by the architecture of the Flavian amphitheatre. The construction work, which was on an enormous scale for its time, took around twenty-five years and involved hundreds of Roman workers, craftsmen and architects. The building was constructed from local cut stone, extracted from the surrounding quarries, and assembled using remarkably precise Roman architectural techniques. Originally, the amphitheatre hosted the famous gladiator fights, venationes (wild animal hunts) and other popular shows that delighted the Roman crowds. These bloody events were an integral part of Roman culture, serving as both popular entertainment and an instrument of social control. For an in-depth visit to Nîmes, take the Navaway audio tour to discover all the secrets of this exceptional monument.
After the fall of the Roman Empire in the 5th century, the Arenas underwent a radical transformation, demonstrating their exceptional solidity. During the Middle Ages, the amphitheatre became a veritable fortress and a residential area. The Visigoths, who occupied the region at the time, made it a strategic defensive bastion. Gradually, more than 200 houses and two churches were built within its walls, creating a veritable fortified village in the heart of Nîmes. Paradoxically, this transformation enabled the ancient structure to be preserved, with the medieval dwellings protecting the Roman stones from the elements and destruction. For almost a thousand years, the Arena was home to a lively and active population, losing its original function but retaining its architectural majesty. It wasn’t until the early 19th century that the authorities decided to rid the monument of its parasitic buildings. Between 1809 and 1813, major excavation work was undertaken to restore the amphitheatre to its former glory. Restoration work continued throughout the 19th century, gradually restoring the Arena to its former splendour and role as a performance venue.
The exceptional architecture of the amphitheatre
The architecture of the Nîmes Arena is a masterpiece of Roman engineering, a testament to the architectural genius of Antiquity. The amphitheatre has a perfect elliptical shape, 133 metres long and 101 metres wide, surrounded by a monumental façade 21 metres high. This impressive exterior façade is made up of two levels of superimposed arcades, totalling 60 finely sculpted arches that punctuate the entire building. Each arcade is decorated with Doric pilasters on the first level and Corinthian pilasters on the second, reflecting the hierarchy of Greek architectural orders adapted by the Romans. The precision of the construction is remarkable: the ashlars, perfectly fitted without mortar in some parts, bear witness to the exceptional skills of the ancient builders. The whole structure rests on a complex system of arches and vaults that harmoniously distribute the loads, enabling the building to survive the centuries without collapsing. This hollow structure, characteristic of Roman amphitheatres, incorporates a network of galleries, staircases and corridors that enabled the 24,000 spectators to move around smoothly and evacuate the building quickly if necessary, a system called a “vomitory” by the Romans.
The interior of the amphitheatre reveals an equally sophisticated layout, designed to optimise spectator comfort and visibility. The bleachers, arranged in 34 rows of cavea, were carefully arranged according to the social class of the spectators: notables and magistrates occupied the front rows near the arena, while ordinary citizens sat higher up, and slaves or people of low status were seated at the top of the building. The central arena, elliptical in shape and measuring 68 by 38 metres, was the heart of the show, where the fights took place. Beneath this arena was the backstage area, an underground space that is now partially visible, where gladiators and animals awaited their turn to take to the stage. The amphitheatre’s acoustic system, the result of a perfect mastery of proportions and materials, allowed sound to propagate harmoniously throughout the building, ensuring excellent audibility for every spectator. This technical feat is still admired by contemporary architects today, and means that the Arena can host concerts and shows with exceptional natural acoustic quality. The Navaway tour will help you to understand all these architectural details thanks to detailed audio explanations.
What to see and do in the Nîmes Arena
1. Explore the central arena
The pulsating heart of the amphitheatre, the central arena, is the focal point of your visit. This vast elliptical surface measuring 68 by 38 metres, now covered in ochre sand, was once the setting for the most spectacular gladiatorial battles and hunts of wild animals imported from Africa. Standing in the centre of the arena, you can feel the emotion and power of this place steeped in history, imagining the clamour of the Roman crowd and the courage of the fighters. From this unique vantage point, visitors can tread this mythical ground and take in the immensity of the building. Explanatory panels and the audio guide included in the entrance ticket help you to understand how the ancient shows were staged, the different types of gladiators and the rituals that accompanied these events. It is also from the arena that you can admire the perfect symmetry of the tiers of seats that rise around it, offering an impressive view of the overall architecture of the amphitheatre.
2. Walk around the terraces and enjoy the panoramic view
Climbing up the terraces of the Arena is an unmissable experience that rewards you with exceptional views. As you climb the 34 rows of stone seats, you’ll be following in the footsteps of the 24,000 Roman spectators who thronged here almost 2,000 years ago. The first rows, close to the arena, plunge you into the atmosphere of the fights and allow you to imagine the intensity of the confrontations. The higher you go, the more you understand the ingenuity of the Roman traffic system and the perfect visibility offered from every level. As you reach the upper tiers, you’ll discover a spectacular panoramic view of the whole city of Nîmes. On a clear day, you’ll see the Roman tiled roofs of the historic centre, the Tour Magne towering over the Jardins de la Fontaine, and even the outlines of the Cévennes on the horizon. This unobstructed view provides excellent photographic opportunities and helps to situate the Arenas in their urban environment. Don’t hesitate to take your time exploring the different levels and enjoying the variations in perspective they offer.
3. Discover the interior galleries and corridors
The network of galleries and corridors that runs through the amphitheatre forms a fascinating labyrinth revealing the backstage areas of the ancient edifice. These vaulted passages, built of massive stone and perfectly preserved, were originally used to move gladiators, animals and the staff responsible for organising the shows. As you wander through these cool, dark galleries, you’ll get a behind-the-scenes look at the Arena and understand the complex logistics involved in staging the games. The barrel vaults bear witness to the technical mastery of the Roman architects, while the wear and tear on the stonework tells the story of the thousands of visitors who have passed through here over the centuries. Some of the galleries house temporary or permanent exhibitions featuring models of the amphitheatre, archaeological objects found on site, and explanatory panels detailing the history of the monument. These areas also provide access to the different levels of seating thanks to the period staircases, preserved in their original state. A visit to these corridors is a welcome break from the Mediterranean sun on a hot summer’s day, and adds considerably to your understanding of Roman architecture.
4. Attend the Grandes Romaines and cultural events
Even today, the Nîmes Arena continues its role as a venue for live entertainment, hosting numerous cultural events throughout the year. Among the most emblematic events are the Grandes Romaines, which take place every spring and feature spectacular historical re-enactments of gladiatorial combat. Extremely popular with the public, these performances bring to life the atmosphere of the ancient games with remarkable attention to detail and authenticity. Actors in period costumes portray the different types of gladiators (retiars, mirmilions, secutors), using replicas of weapons and armour that conform to historical sources. The demonstrations also include parades of Roman legionaries, displays of ancient crafts and educational activities to captivate young and old alike. In addition to the Great Romans, the amphitheatre regularly hosts classical, pop, rock and electronic music concerts, attracting internationally renowned artists. The monument’s exceptional natural acoustics and unique historic setting create a magical atmosphere for these contemporary performances. The Navaway audio tour of Nîmes is an invaluable companion to help you discover the city and make sure you don’t miss a single event.
Download the audio-guided tour to discover Nîmes on foot and on your own
For the best possible experience of visiting the city of Nîmes and its emblematic monuments, Navaway offers a complete audioguided tour that takes you step by step through Nîmes’ heritage. This intelligent 5.4km route, designed to take around 2 hours 10 minutes to complete, takes you through the 26 main places of interest in the Roman city, from the Arena to the Maison Carrée, via the Jardins de la Fontaine and the Tour Magne. Each point of interest is accompanied by a captivating audio guide that recounts the history, anecdotes and secrets of the monuments you discover, making your visit as instructive as it is entertaining. The app allows you to go at your own pace, pausing whenever you like and revisiting the places you particularly enjoyed. Thanks to the built-in geolocation system, you’ll never risk getting lost, so you can make the most of your exploration of Nîmes on your own.
5. Take part in themed guided tours
If you want to find out more about the Arena and discover aspects that are usually inaccessible to the public, the themed guided tours are an enriching experience. These special tours, organised regularly by the monument’s managers, give you access to areas that are normally closed to the public, such as certain parts of the underground passages, the VIP boxes and the upper passageways. An enthusiastic guide will reveal the secrets of the amphitheatre’s construction, explain Roman architectural techniques and tell you all about the great moments in the history of the Arena, from Antiquity to the present day. These themed tours cover a range of topics: Roman architecture and engineering, the daily lives of gladiators, the evolution of the building in the Middle Ages, and the major restorations carried out in the 19th century. Some night-time tours, offered during the summer months, offer a particularly moving atmosphere and allow visitors to appreciate the monument in a spectacular light. For school groups and families, specially adapted educational tours are also organised, making Roman history accessible and fun for the youngest visitors.
6. Visiting the museum and exhibitions
The Arena is home to a number of museographic areas that provide detailed information and authentic objects to complement the visit to the monument. These permanent exhibition rooms feature models reconstructing the amphitheatre at different periods in its history, showing the architectural evolution of the building from its construction to the present day. You’ll also find original archaeological objects recovered during excavations, including fragments of sculpted decoration, ceramic shards, Roman coins and gladiatorial weapons. Bilingual (French-English) explanatory panels detail the organisation of Roman shows, the social hierarchy reflected in the seating arrangements, and the different functions of the amphitheatre over its thousand-year history. Interactive touch screens allow visitors of all ages to learn more about specific topics such as construction techniques, the types of gladiators and the organisation of the games. The museum area regularly hosts temporary exhibitions in partnership with the Musée de la Romanité (16 Boulevard des Arènes, 30000 Nîmes, rated 4.5/5 on Google out of 8,546 reviews), located just opposite the amphitheatre, enriching the cultural experience for visitors.
Practical information for visiting the Nîmes Arena
Opening hours
The Nîmes Arena is open to the public all year round, with opening times that vary according to the season and the light and weather conditions. From January to February, the monument welcomes visitors from 9.30am to 5pm, with the last admission at 4.30pm. In March, opening times are from 9am to 6pm, with the last admission at 5.30pm. From April to May, the amphitheatre opens its doors from 9am to 6.30pm, allowing visitors to visit until 6pm. In June, during the high tourist season, you can visit from 9am to 7pm, with access possible until 6.30pm. These times may change slightly during the school holidays, particularly in February, when the closing time is pushed back to 6.00 pm to accommodate more visitors. It is important to note that the Arena closes during certain scheduled events, notably during the famous Nîmes Féria (5 days at Pentecost and 3 days in September), as well as on 25 December and 1 January for the end-of-year festivities. Before planning your visit, it is advisable to consult the official website or check the updated opening times, as exceptional closures may occur for special events or maintenance work.
Admission prices
Admission to the Nîmes Arena is structured to suit all audiences and budgets. A full-price adult ticket costs €11, including free access to the entire monument, a free audioguide available in several languages, and a visit to the themed rooms. Students and jobseekers benefit from a reduced rate of €9 on presentation of valid proof (student card or Pôle Emploi certificate). Children aged between 7 and 17 can visit the monument for €5.50, with a junior audioguide adapted to their understanding. Families can take advantage of a special Family Pass for €23, valid for 2 adults and 2 children (aged 7 to 17), offering substantial savings on family group visits. Adult groups of between 20 and 50 people also benefit from a reduced rate of €9 per person, subject to prior booking. For school groups, the rate is €5 per pupil, with an educational audio guide adapted to the school level. Combined tickets are also available, allowing visitors to visit several of Nîmes’ Roman monuments at a preferential rate. Children under 7 are free. The audioguide, included in all prices, is available in 10 different languages.
How to get to the Arena
The Arènes de Nîmes is ideally located in the heart of the historic city centre, making it easily accessible by all means of transport. If you’re arriving by train, the Arènes is just a 10-minute walk from Nîmes SNCF station. Just follow the Avenue Feuchères towards the city centre, a pleasant route through lively neighbourhoods. For those who prefer public transport, several Tango bus lines serve the “Arènes” stop, located just a few steps from the main entrance to the monument: lines T1, T2 and T3 are the most convenient options. By car, parking can be tricky in the historic centre, but there are several public car parks in the immediate vicinity. The Parking Indigo Arènes, located right next to the monument, offers the most convenient solution with its 400 spaces. Other car parks such as Coupole and Esplanade are also close by and offer reasonable hourly rates. For cyclists, Nîmes has a network of cycle paths and numerous secure parking bays near the Arènes. Self-service bike hire (VéloToulouse) and electric scooter services are also available throughout the city centre, offering an environmentally-friendly and practical alternative for getting to the monument from your accommodation. If you are coming from Nîmes-Alès-Camargue-Cévennes Airport, a shuttle bus will take you to the city centre, from where you can easily reach the Arena on foot or by public transport.
Accessibility and services
The Nîmes Arena strives to provide comfortable access for all visitors, including those with reduced mobility. Specially adapted access allows wheelchair users to visit a significant part of the monument, although the historic nature of the building limits access to certain areas such as the upper tiers. It is advisable to inform the reception desk of your presence as soon as you arrive so that you can benefit from personalised assistance and information on accessible routes. Adapted toilets are available on site. The monument has a souvenir shop offering a selection of books on Roman history, reproductions of ancient artefacts, postcards and local produce. There is a free left-luggage office where you can leave your bulky belongings during your visit, allowing you to wander freely and comfortably around the amphitheatre. In case of very hot weather, typical of the Mediterranean climate in Nîmes, we strongly advise you to bring water (fountains are available on site), a hat and sun cream, as a large part of the tour takes place outdoors without shade. Photos and videos are permitted for personal use, but the use of professional tripods requires prior authorisation. The average visit lasts around 45 minutes to 1 hour, but history buffs can easily spend more time, especially if they combine the discovery with a guided tour or cultural event.
Tips for making the most of your visit
To get the most out of your visit to the Nîmes Arena, there are a few strategic recommendations. First of all, it’s best to visit in the morning, ideally as soon as the arena opens, to avoid the afternoon tourist groups and benefit from the softer photographic light. Book your tickets online via the official Arènes website or partner platforms: you’ll save precious time by avoiding the queues at the ticket office, and you may even benefit from preferential rates. If you’re visiting Nîmes during the high tourist season (May to September), booking in advance is almost essential. Allow plenty of time for your visit: although 45 minutes to 1 hour is enough for a quick tour, allowing 1? to 2 hours will allow you to explore all the nooks and crannies of the monument at your leisure, listen carefully to the commentary on the audio guide and enjoy the panoramic views from the upper tiers. For an even richer experience, consult the calendar of events at the Arena before you come: attending the Great Romans, a concert or a historical re-enactment will transform your simple visit into a memorable experience. Don’t hesitate to combine your visit to the Arena with one to Nîmes’ other Roman monuments, notably the Maison Carrée (Place de la Maison Carrée, 30000 Nîmes, rated 4.5/5 on Google for 9,234 reviews) just 5 minutes’ walk away, or the Musée de la Romanité just opposite the amphitheatre, for a complete immersion in Nîmes’ ancient heritage.
The audioguide included with your ticket is a great way to enhance your understanding of the monument. Available in French, English, Spanish, Italian, German, Dutch, Japanese, Chinese, Russian and Portuguese, it offers detailed commentaries adapted to the pace of your visit. Don’t forget your own headphones for added comfort, although disposable ones are provided. If you’re travelling with children, ask specifically for the junior audioguide, designed with an adapted narrative tone and playful anecdotes that will captivate young visitors. The time of year you visit has a big influence on your experience: the low season (November to March) offers a more intimate atmosphere with fewer visitors, but the days are short and sometimes cool. Summer guarantees sunny weather that’s ideal for photos, but means you have to deal with the sometimes intense Mediterranean heat. Spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) often represent the best compromise, with a pleasant climate and moderate visitor numbers. Finally, to discover Nîmes in a complete and structured way, let yourself be guided by the Navaway audio-guided itinerary, which offers an optimised tour linking all the major sites in the city, including of course the unmissable Arènes.
The Arena in context: other Roman monuments in Nîmes
A visit to the Arènes takes on its full meaning when it forms part of a wider discovery of Nîmes’ exceptional Roman heritage, a veritable open-air museum of Antiquity. The Maison Carrée, just a few hundred metres from the Arena, is the best-preserved Roman temple in the ancient world. Built at the beginning of the 1st century BC, this sanctuary dedicated to the grandsons of Augustus is impressive for the harmony of its proportions and the finesse of its Corinthian columns. The interior of the temple now houses an immersive projection retracing the history of Nîmes since Antiquity, a perfect complement to the visit to the Arènes. The Jardins de la Fontaine, laid out in the 18th century around the sacred ancient spring, offer a romantic haven of greenery where important Roman remains remain, notably the Temple of Diana, a mysterious edifice whose exact function is still a matter of debate among archaeologists. The Tour Magne, which crowns Mont Cavalier at the highest point of the Gardens, is the only remaining vestige of the 7-kilometre Roman wall that protected Nemausus. From the top of this 32-metre-high octagonal tower, you can take in the whole city and understand the urban organisation of the ancient city. The Porte Auguste, the monumental entrance to the Via Domitiana that linked Italy to Spain, and the Castellum, the rare water distribution reservoir for the aqueduct that is still visible today, complete this remarkable ancient heritage, which the Navaway app helps you to discover in the best possible way.
The new Musée de la Romanité, which opened in 2018 just opposite the Arènes, is an essential addition to any visit to the amphitheatre. This spectacular contemporary building, designed by the architect Elizabeth de Portzamparc, features a pleated glass facade reminiscent of a Roman toga, in harmonious dialogue with the thousand-year-old stones of the amphitheatre. The museum houses an exceptional archaeological collection of 5,000 items, spanning 25 centuries of history, from Gaul to the Middle Ages, with a particular focus on the Roman period. Digital technologies and interactive displays make the visit particularly dynamic and educational. From the museum’s green roof terrace, which is open to the public, you can enjoy a breathtaking view of the Arena and its terraces, a unique perspective that allows you to appreciate the architecture of the amphitheatre from an unprecedented angle. The museum’s cultural programme, with its regularly changing temporary exhibitions, constantly enriches Nîmes’ cultural offering. For a complete and coherent discovery of this exceptional heritage, a combined ticket for the Arenas + Maison Carrée + Tour Magne is available at a special price, allowing you to optimise your budget while learning more about ancient Nîmes. The Navaway tour of Nîmes naturally integrates all these monuments into a logical and exciting itinerary.
Where to eat near the Nîmes Arena
After your cultural visit, the area around the Arènes offers plenty of opportunities to discover the gastronomy of Nîmes and the Mediterranean. The Écusson district, the pedestrianised historic centre that surrounds the Arènes, is packed with restaurants, brasseries and cafés to suit all budgets and tastes. For an authentic experience of regional cuisine, look out for establishments serving local specialities such as brandade de morue nîmoise, petit pâté de Nîmes, or gardiane de taureau, a typical Camargue stew. The shady terraces of Place du Marché and Place aux Herbes, just a few minutes’ walk from the Arènes, are great places to take a lunch break, especially on hot summer days. You’ll find traditional restaurants as well as modern bistros, pizzerias and gourmet establishments. For a quick meal, there are plenty of bakeries and patisseries offering sandwiches, salads and pastries to take away, perfect for an impromptu picnic in the Jardins de la Fontaine. The Halles de Nîmes, a covered market around 10 minutes’ walk away, offers the chance to buy quality local produce: cheeses, charcuterie, fresh fruit and vegetables, olives and tapenades, and Costières de Nîmes wines. Don’t forget to sample Nîmes’ culinary specialities, which are the pride of the local gastronomy and a great way to extend your immersion in the culture of this southern town.
Where to stay to visit the Nîmes Arena
To make the most of your stay in Nîmes and visit the Arènes in the best possible conditions, the choice of accommodation is crucial. The historic centre of Nîmes, particularly the Écusson district around the Arènes, is home to the most attractive hotels for visitors. Staying in this area means you can reach the main monuments on foot in just a few minutes, avoiding the constraints of transport and parking. You’ll find establishments to suit all budgets, from charming bed and breakfasts set in 18th-century town houses to chain hotels offering excellent value for money. The 3 or 4 star hotels in the city centre generally offer comfortable rooms with air conditioning (essential in summer), breakfast and sometimes even a swimming pool to cool off in after a day’s sightseeing. For travellers on a budget, a number of youth hostels and budget hotels are located close to the station, a 10-15 minute walk from the Arena. Families will appreciate furnished rental flats, which offer more space and the possibility of cooking, while remaining centrally located. For a more authentic experience, guest houses run by locals who are passionate about their city often offer a warm welcome and sound advice to help you make the most of your discovery of the city. Whichever option you choose, book well in advance, especially if you plan to visit Nîmes during the Féria, the Grandes Romaines or the high summer season, when accommodation quickly sells out.
In conclusion, a visit to the Nîmes Arena is much more than a simple discovery of an ancient monument: it’s a real plunge into the thousand-year-old history of Roman civilisation and an encounter with a living heritage that continues to fascinate and amaze visitors from all over the world. This exceptional amphitheatre, remarkably well-preserved despite its twenty centuries of existence, bears witness to the architectural grandeur of Rome and the ingenuity of its builders. Even today, the Arènes continue to fulfil their original vocation as a place for people to gather and enjoy entertainment, hosting cultural events and festive occasions that keep them at the heart of Nîmes life. Whether you’re a history buff, an architecture enthusiast, simply curious or a family member, the Nîmes Arenas will captivate you with their majesty and rich history. For a complete and rewarding discovery of this jewel of French heritage and of all the treasures that the city of Nîmes has to offer, let yourself be accompanied by theNavaway audioguide itinerary, your ideal companion for exploring French Rome at your own pace and not missing a thing of its ancient wonders.
Frequently asked questions
What is the recommended length of visit for the Nîmes Arena?
The average visit to the Nîmes Arena lasts between 45 minutes and 1 hour for a standard tour. However, if you want to explore every nook and cranny of the monument in detail, listen to all the commentary on the audio guide, enjoy panoramic views from the upper tiers and visit the museum areas, you should allow 1? to 2 hours. History and architecture buffs can easily devote more time, especially if they take part in a themed guided tour or attend a cultural event.
Can I visit the Arena for free?
Admission to the Nîmes Arena is charged, except for children under 7, who are admitted free of charge. The adult price is €11, including the audioguide and access to the themed rooms. Reduced rates are available for students, jobseekers and children aged 7 to 17, and family passes are also available to save money. Combined tickets with other Roman monuments in Nîmes (Maison Carrée, Tour Magne) are also available at preferential rates. Some special events, such as the Journées du Patrimoine (Heritage Days), may offer exceptional free access.
Are the Nîmes Arena accessible to people with reduced mobility?
The Arena has special access for wheelchair users, allowing them to visit a significant part of the monument, although the historic nature of the building limits access to certain areas such as the upper tiers. It is advisable to inform the reception desk of your presence as soon as you arrive so that you can benefit from personalised assistance and information on accessible routes. Adapted toilets are available on site. Staff are trained to help visitors with reduced mobility.
When is the best time to visit the Nîmes Arena?
The best time to visit the Arena depends on your priorities. To avoid the crowds, opt for the mornings as soon as the arena opens or during the low tourist season (November to March). Spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) offer the best compromise, with pleasant weather and moderate crowds. Summer guarantees sunny weather ideal for photos, but the heat can be intense. If you want to attend a cultural event such as the Grandes Romaines or a concert, plan your visit according to the calendar of events, booking your ticket and accommodation well in advance.
Can I take photos in the Nîmes Arena?
Yes, photos and videos are permitted in the Arena for personal, non-commercial use. You are free to immortalise your visit and the different perspectives offered by the monument. However, the use of professional tripods, drones or bulky equipment requires prior authorisation from the monument’s management. For professional photography (film shoots, commercial photo shoots), an official request must be made and a specific fee paid. Selfie sticks are generally tolerated as long as they do not impede the movement of other visitors.
Are there any changing rooms or lockers at the Nîmes Arena?
Yes, the Arena has a free left-luggage facility where you can leave your bulky personal belongings (large bags, suitcases, bulky rucksacks) during your visit. This service allows you to wander freely and comfortably around the amphitheatre without being hindered by your luggage. However, we recommend that you keep your valuables, cameras and important documents with you. In high season, the left-luggage office may be fully booked at peak times, so it’s best to arrive early or travel light.
What other Roman monuments can you visit in Nîmes?
Nîmes has an exceptional Roman heritage, which you can discover in addition to the Arena. The Maison Carrée, the best-preserved Roman temple in the world, is a 5-minute walk away. The Tour Magne, a vestige of the Roman walls, dominates the Jardins de la Fontaine, where the Temple of Diana still stands. The Musée de la Romanité, just opposite the Arènes, boasts a remarkable archaeological collection. The Pont du Gard, a spectacular Roman aqueduct listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is 25km from Nîmes and well worth a visit. Combined tickets allow you to visit several monuments at preferential rates. The Navaway application offers a complete itinerary to discover all these treasures in the best possible way.
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