Planning a visit to France and love Roman ruins? Nîmes and Arles, located in the south of France, are each well-known for their Roman history and structures.
If you only have time to visit one of these cities, you have a tough choice! I’m here to help you answer the question, “Nîmes or Arles: Which is the best Roman City in France to visit?”
Unlike larger cities in the south of France, such as Nice or Marseille (which offer a range of attractions), Arles and Nimes are best known for their Roman ruins. I visited both Nimes and Arles and spent several days exploring all their attractions.
Ready to learn about the amazing Roman artifacts and structures you can see in each of these cities? Lace up your shoes and let’s go!
Nimes vs Arles: Which Is the Best Roman City in France to Visit?
Nimes or Arles: The Roman Arena
The most eye-catching Roman structure in both Arles and Nimes is the arena or Roman amphitheater. These are smaller versions of the majestic Colosseum in Rome but follow that blueprint.
One of the top attractions in Arles (and the heart of the historic city) is its arena. The Arènes d’Arles is a two-tiered amphitheater and could hold 20,000 spectators for ancient gladiatorial competitions. Today, it is still used for bullfighting and community events.
The Arènes de Nîmes is also a two-tiered arena. With a capacity of 24,000 spectators, it is a bit larger and more impressive than the arena in Arles. In modern times, it is still used for festivals such as the popular Feria de Nîmes. Be sure to download the audioguide to learn more about the arena during your visit.
It’s easy to get carried away taking photos of the Arènes de Nîmes from all sides. Be sure to walk around the southern side to see the bullfighter statue.
Winner: Nimes.
Arles or Nimes: Other Roman Ruins
Planning to visit several Roman structures? Each city offers a multi-attraction pass that will grant you access to many of the Roman sites. This will save you a few dollars compared to purchasing tickets at each attraction.
Noteworthy Roman structures in Arles:
– Théâtre Antique d’Arles: This Roman theater was used for performing arts and could seat 8,000 spectators.
– Thermes de Constantin: These Roman baths have fallen into disrepair, but it is still interesting to tour the site. The baths were such an important aspect of Roman life.
-Alyscamps: This is a Roman necropolis. This Roman cemetery is outside the original city walls but is a rare find and worth the walk.
Noteworthy Roman structures in Nimes:
-Maison Carrée: This picture-perfect classical Roman temple looks like it was dropped straight out of a history book!
-Temple of Diana: Located in Les Jardins de la Fontaine, the original purpose of this site remains unknown. Its layout is inconsistent with being called a ‘temple’, but it is still interesting to wander through the ruins.
-Tour Magne: This stone tower, once part of the city walls, sits at the northern end of Les Jardins de la Fontaine. Climb to the top of the tower, and you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of Nimes!
Winner: Nimes, for the high quality of the Roman ruins, notably the Maison Carrée.
Nimes vs Arles: Museum of Roman Antiquities
Both Nîmes and Arles are home to a museum focusing on Roman history and antiquities.
In Arles, it’s the Museum of Ancient Arles and Provence. This museum is located on the banks of the Rhône River, about a 20-minute walk from the Arena. Here you’ll find local Roman artifacts ranging from sarcophagi to large-scale mosaics.
My favorite exhibit showcased a Roman barge excavated from the river, with a documentary video of the excavation.
In Nîmes, the Museum Romanité has an enviable location just across the street from the Arena. It’s filled with Roman artifacts, including grave markers, mosaics, and statues.
My favorite exhibit at this museum was their collection of miniature replicas of Roman monuments in Nimes and their more famous counterparts in Rome, such as the Pantheon and the Colosseum.
Winner: Arles, for the unique Roman barge exhibit and documentary.
Final Thoughts:
Both Nimes and Arles are well known for their Roman history and the ancient structures which remain today. Arles does have an additional appeal for those interested in the work of artist Vincent van Gogh, so that may weigh in favor of Arles for art lovers.
However, if you are choosing which city in France to visit solely on the merits of its Roman ruins, I think I’d have to choose Nimes. It has a more impressive arena than that in Arles, and the Maison Carrée is breathtaking.
Whichever city you choose, you are sure to have a memorable experience. Or plan an extra day into your vacation and visit both! Arles and Nimes are only about a 30-minute drive apart.
Happy travels!
Author Bio: Lisa Garrett
Although she works full-time in the semiconductor industry, Lisa fits in as much travel as possible throughout the year. Her travel blog, Waves and Cobblestones, is chock-full of city guides and destination tips to help you make the most of your vacation time. Lace up your shoes and let’s go!
Although she works full-time in the semiconductor industry, Lisa fits in as much travel as possible throughout the year. Her travel blog, Waves and Cobblestones, is chock-full of city guides and destination tips to help you make the most of your vacation time. Lace up your shoes and let’s go!