Wonderfully preserved and refreshingly untouristy, Nîmes packs serious Roman punch with excellent guided experiences. The most rewarding tours here focus on three key areas: Roman architecture, food, and local traditions.
The historical walking tours through the city center are top-notch, featuring the magnificent Arena (one of France’s best-preserved Roman amphitheaters) and the stunning Maison Carrée temple. For food lovers, the guided market tours at Les Halles are especially memorable – you’ll sample local specialties while learning about Provençal cuisine.
My favorite excursion combines city history with a visit to nearby lavender farms, where you’ll see traditional distillation methods and learn about this iconic French crop. The private walking tours are particularly good, offering flexibility and local insights about both ancient Roman sites and the city’s fascinating denim history.
Let’s look at our recommended tours that make the most of your time in Nîmes.
Key Points
- The Lavender Distillery Tour in Nîmes offers a 4.9-star rated experience with insights into aromatic plantations and the steam distillation process.
- The Nîmes Guided Food Tour provides a 3.5-hour culinary exploration of the Les Halles market, including local food tastings.
- The Nîmes Private Walking Tour offers a flexible itinerary covering the city’s Roman history, the birthplace of denim, and Levi Strauss’s story.
- The Nîmes Historical Center Private Tour highlights the city’s significant Roman architecture, including the Amphithèatre, Maison Carrée, and Tour Magne.
- The Dijon Private Guided Tour explores the Dijon Cathedral and Palais des Ducs de Bourgogne, providing a personalized 2.5-hour walking experience.
Guided Tour of Lavender Distillery Between Provence & Camargue
Though nestled between the picturesque regions of Provence and Camargue, the Lavender Distillery in Nîmes offers a captivating guided tour that delves into the aromatic world of essential oils.
With a stellar 4.9-star rating from 50 reviews and a 100% recommendation rate, this experience promises an olfactory discovery like no other.
Visitors will explore the distillery’s aromatic plantations, learn about the steam distillation process, and discover the properties of various essential oils at the interactive Scent Bar.
The tour also includes a production video, showcasing the seasonal insights into the extraction techniques. Guests can further indulge in testing oils and perfumes at the on-site shop.
Accessibility is a priority, with the distillery being wheelchair and stroller-friendly, and even welcoming service animals.
Complimentary parking and refreshments ensure a comfortable visit. Knowledgeable and friendly guides, like Sylvain and Betty, elevate the educational value, making this tour a delight for both adults and children.
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Nîmes: Guided Food Tour
Nîmes is a charming city in southern France, and the Nîmes: Guided Food Tour offers visitors a delectable way to explore its culinary delights. Priced at $71 per person, this 3.5-hour tour takes a maximum of 10 participants on a journey through the local food scene, led by an English-speaking guide.
Highlights include visiting the lively Les Halles market, where participants can mingle with locals and discover regional traditions. The tour also includes food tastings and a glass of wine, providing an immersive experience.
While not suitable for vegans or the gluten-intolerant, the tour can be adapted for other dietary needs. With a 5-star rating based on 8 reviews, the tour is praised for its blend of food and historical insights. Comfortable shoes and advance notice of dietary restrictions are recommended.
After the tour, participants won’t need lunch due to the generous tastings included.
Read our full review: Nîmes: Guided Food Tour Review
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Nîmes Private Walking Tour With A Professional Guide
For those seeking a comprehensive and personalized exploration of Nîmes, the Nîmes Private Walking Tour with a Professional Guide offers an enriching experience.
This flexible tour allows visitors to tailor the itinerary based on their group’s preferences, ensuring a tailored experience. Guests will discover the city’s key sights, including the iconic Nîmes Arena, while learning about the area’s Roman history and its connection to the film “Gladiator.”
Plus, the tour delves into Nîmes’ role as the birthplace of denim and the story of Levi Strauss. Led by a knowledgeable local guide, the tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, with service animals welcome.
Priced at $304.56 for groups of up to 15 people, the tour provides excellent value, with the option to cancel up to 24 hours in advance. Previous guests have praised the guide’s insights and assistance, making this a must-do activity for those seeking an immersive and memorable exploration of Nîmes.
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Nimes Historical Center 2-Hour Private Walking Tour
Exploring the rich Roman heritage of Nîmes, the Nîmes Historical Center 2-Hour Private Walking Tour offers visitors an immersive journey through the city’s captivating past.
Priced at $193.79 per person, this flexible, private tour allows for a customizable experience led by a knowledgeable guide. Visitors will discover significant Roman architecture, including the impressive Amphithèatre, the well-preserved Maison Carrée temple, and the ruins of the Tour Magne.
The tour also showcases the Jardin de La Fontaine, a 17th-century park, and the exterior of the Musée des Beaux-Arts de Nîmes. The highlight is the Arena of Nîmes, remodeled in the 19th century for bullfighting and concerts.
With a duration of 2 hours, the tour accommodates wheelchair users and has received an overall rating of 4.6/5 from 16 reviews, praising the guide’s competence and the tour’s value for money.
Read our full review: Nimes Historical Center 2-Hour Private Walking Tour Review
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Guided Tour of Dijon With Your Private Professional Guide!
Enjoy the captivating history and architectural wonders of Dijon with a private guided tour led by a professional. This 2.5-hour walking tour allows you to explore the city’s highlights, including the iconic Dijon Cathedral and the historic Palais des Ducs de Bourgogne.
Priced at $415.31 per person, the tour offers excellent value with a lowest price guarantee and free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience.
The tour begins at the Tourist Information Center, where your knowledgeable guide can also meet you at any location in Dijon upon request. The tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, and service animals are welcome.
With a total of 2 reviews and a 5.0-star rating, this private tour promises an engaging and educational experience. Confirmation is received at the time of booking, and you’ll be the only group participating, ensuring a personalized and tailored experience.
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Nîmes: Private Guided Walking Tour
The Nîmes: Private Guided Walking Tour offers visitors a captivating exploration of the city’s Roman heritage and architectural wonders. Priced at Kč7,218 per group (up to 15 participants), this 1.5-hour tour is available in both English and French.
Guests will meet their local guide in front of the iconic Nîmes Amphitheatre, a 4th-century BC Roman landmark.
The tour highlights Nîmes’ rich Roman history, including the discovery of filming locations used in the movie Gladiator. Participants will also learn about the city’s connections to the French monarchy and its longstanding bullfighting traditions.
Plus, the guide will explain the significance of water and crocodiles in Nîmes’ cultural heritage.
With the option to reserve now and pay later, and a flexible cancellation policy, this private guided tour provides an excellent opportunity to take in the city’s captivating past.
Traversing the car-free zone and charming city center, travelers will be left with a deeper appreciation for Nîmes’ status as the birthplace of denim.
Read our full review: Nîmes: Private Guided Walking Tour Review
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Sum Up
Nimes offers a variety of guided tours that allow visitors to explore the city’s rich history and culture. From food tours to lavender distillery visits, there’s something for all. These tours provide an immersive experience, led by knowledgeable guides, and are a great way to make the most of a trip to Nimes. With so many options, travelers can easily find a tour that suits their interests and preferences.