Nimes is a city that packs a punch for walking tours. With its well-preserved Roman monuments, charming streets, and lively squares, it’s a place where exploring on foot feels natural and rewarding. What makes Nimes especially appealing for walking tours is its compact size combined with a treasure trove of ancient sites. Whether you’re interested in Roman architecture, local culture, or hidden stories, there’s a tour for you. We particularly like the Private Walking Tour of the Historical Center for its in-depth look at Nimes’ Roman legacy—an ideal choice if you want a personalized experience. This tour brings you face-to-face with the Maison Carrée and the Amphitheatre, both brilliantly preserved and steeped in history.
Beyond that, Nimes offers a range of options suited to different interests and schedules. From quick insider walks to full private explorations, this list captures the best ways to walk through Nimes’ past and present. Whether you’re here for a brief visit or a deeper dive into its Roman roots, these tours help you see Nimes in ways that are both convenient and memorable.
Here’s a quick overview of the types of tours that made our list: private guided walks that dive into Roman history and local secrets, express tours perfect for tight schedules and those wanting a quick taste, and customizable experiences that let you focus on what interests you most. Each offers unique insights and different levels of depth. Now, let’s explore each one in detail.
1. Nimes: Private Walking Tour of the Historical Center
This private 2-hour walking tour offers an intimate exploration of Nimes’s most iconic sites. If you want a tailored experience with an expert guide, this is the top pick. The tour allows you to discover Roman buildings and bridges, including the famous Amphitheatre of Nimes—one of the best-preserved Roman amphitheaters in the world—and the Temple of Diane. You’ll also see the Maison Carrée, an extraordinarily intact Roman temple that looks like it could still be in use today.
What makes this tour stand out is the personalized attention. Your guide can tailor the route to your interests and answer detailed questions about Nimes’ Roman past. The reviews, with a solid 4.5/5 from 20 travelers, praise the knowledgeable guides and the quality of the experience. At $210 per person, it’s a fair investment for a deep dive into Roman architecture with an expert.
This tour is best suited for history lovers or travelers who want a flexible, private experience. The downside? It’s a bit more expensive, but for those wanting detailed insights and a private guide, it delivers excellent value.
Bottom Line: If you’re after a personalized, comprehensive look at Nimes’ Roman highlights, this private tour offers the depth and attention you’ll appreciate.
2. Nîmes: Express Walk with a Local in 60 minutes
For travelers short on time but eager to get a local’s perspective, the Nîmes: Express Walk with a Local is a winning choice. This 1-hour tour is designed to maximize your time by showing you the most essential sights and giving you a quick taste of Nimes’ vibrant culture. Led by a local guide, you’ll visit key landmarks such as the Roman amphitheater and the lively squares around town, enjoying insights you wouldn’t get from a guidebook.
What makes this walk special is the focus on local tips—perfect for finding great cafes, bars, and restaurants afterward. The small group size, with a maximum of 8 travelers, ensures an intimate experience, and the high 5/5 rating from 3 reviews reflects its popularity. At just $81, it’s affordable and perfect for those who want to squeeze in a cultural fix during a short stay.
The itinerary includes stops at the Porte de France, Nimes Cathedral, and Tour Magne, covering the city’s main attractions. Reviewers note guides are very knowledgeable and helpful, making this a great value for a quick yet rundown.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers on a tight schedule who want an authentic, insider’s glimpse of Nimes’ highlights and local scene.
3. Nîmes: Private Guided Walking Tour
This private 1.5-hour walking tour offers a semi-custom experience with a focus on Roman history and architecture. For around $366 per group (up to 15 people), it’s a solid option for families or small groups wanting a guided overview. The tour covers major sights like the Nimes Arena, Maison Carrée, and the Jardins de la Fontaine, but also includes lesser-known stories that bring the city’s Roman past alive.
What sets this tour apart is the opportunity for a private guide to tailor the experience. You can ask questions about the film location for “Gladiator”, learn about Nimes’ connection to the French monarchy, and explore the city’s links to bullfighting and water heritage. Reviewers praise the guides’ knowledge and ability to bring history to life, with a perfect 5/5 rating from one traveler.
While it’s slightly shorter at 1.5 hours, the private nature and focused content make it a good value for those who want an engaging, exclusive experience. It’s especially suited for visitors who prefer a flexible itinerary and a more personal touch.
Bottom Line: A solid pick for small groups or families seeking a personalized, interactive Roman-focused tour that covers the city’s key sites and stories.
4. Nîmes Private Walking Tour With A Professional Guide
At number 4, this private 1 hour 30-minute tour is designed for travelers who want to learn about Nimes with minimal fuss. It’s ideal if you’re looking to maximize your time and get fun facts about locations like the Maison Carrée, Jardins de la Fontaine, and the Temple of Diana. The tour’s flexible route includes popular sights and offers the opportunity to ask questions that might not be covered in larger group tours.
Priced at $362.40 for groups up to 15, the value here lies in the personalized attention and customizable itinerary. Several reviews note how guides like Claude make the city’s story engaging and accessible, with one describing the guide as “delightful” and insightful. The tour also reveals interesting tidbits, such as where the movie “Gladiator” was filmed and the origins of denim, which began in Nimes.
This tour is perfect if you’re after a private experience with a knowledgeable guide, especially if you have specific sights or stories you want to explore more deeply. It’s a good choice for travelers who want a relaxed, interactive walk without rushing through.
Bottom Line: For those seeking a personalized, flexible intro to Nimes’ Roman and cultural highlights, this private tour offers an engaging and informative experience.
How to Choose the Right Walking Tour in Nimes
Selecting the best walking tour depends on your interests, schedule, and budget. For an in-depth, personalized experience focused on Roman architecture, the Nimes: Private Walking Tour of the Historical Center is unbeatable. If you’re pressed for time but want a quick local flavor, the Express Walk provides a lively, insider’s overview. For groups or families wanting a flexible, private guide, the Private Guided Walking Tour is ideal, while those who prefer a shorter, more casual private experience may opt for the Private Walking Tour with a Professional Guide.
Consider your fitness level, interest in Roman history, and how much time you want to spend exploring. Booking early is advisable, especially in peak season, to secure your preferred tour and guide.
Final Thoughts
Nimes offers a variety of engaging walking tours suited to different tastes and schedules. If you want an in-depth, private experience, the Private Walking Tour of the Historical Center provides a comprehensive look at Roman gems. For a quick, local flavor, the Express Walk with a Local is hard to beat. Families and groups will appreciate the flexible and private options, such as the Private Guided Walking Tour, which combines history with storytelling.
No matter which you choose, Nimes is best enjoyed on foot, where every corner reveals a piece of its ancient past or lively present. To make sure you don’t miss out, book your tour early and prepare to walk through one of Europe’s most captivating Roman cities.
