Nimes is a fantastic city for walking tours, thanks to its remarkably well-preserved Roman monuments and charming streets. Unlike other cities where you need a car or bus to see the main sights, Nimes invites you to explore on foot — and each tour listed here offers a different way to do just that. Our favorite is the Private Walking Tour of the Historical Center, which provides a deep dive into Roman architecture with a personal guide, perfect for history lovers or those who want a tailored experience.
For travelers short on time but eager to get a quick snapshot of Nimes, the Express Walk with a Local in 60 minutes is a fantastic choice. It captures the essence of Nimes’ Roman ruins and lively squares, with insider tips that help you make the most of a brief visit. If your schedule allows for a slightly longer, more comprehensive exploration, the Private Guided Walking Tour combines fascinating sights with flexibility, ideal for small groups. And for those who want a personalized touch with an expert, the Nîmes Private Walking Tour With A Professional Guide offers tailored insights and unique stories behind Nimes’ most iconic landmarks.
1. Nimes: Private Walking Tour of the Historical Center

At number 1, this private 2-hour tour offers an intimate look at Nimes’ Roman past. Led by a knowledgeable guide, you’ll stroll through the historic streets, stopping at major sites like the amphitheatre, which is still in use today for events, and the Temple of Diane. The highlight is the Maison Carrée, one of the best-preserved Roman temples in the world, which looks almost untouched after nearly two millennia.
What makes this tour stand out is its private format, allowing for personalized questions and a relaxed pace. You’ll gain insights into Nimes’ significance as a Roman cultural hub, making it ideal for history buffs who want a detailed, focused experience. The guide’s passion and expertise help bring the ancient stones to life, turning a simple walk into a storytelling session. The tour is priced at $210 per person, which is reasonable considering the depth of knowledge and exclusive access.
Bottom Line: If you prefer a comprehensive, private experience that emphasizes Roman architecture and history, this tour is worth the splurge. Perfect for travelers who want to immerse themselves without rushing.
2. Nîmes: Express Walk with a Local in 60 minutes

At number 2, the Express Walk with a Local in 60 minutes is tailored for travelers looking to maximize their time. For around $81, you’ll explore the essentials of Nimes with a local guide, seeing key sights like the Roman amphitheater, the bustling squares, and the Nîmes Cathedral. The tour’s small group size (up to 8 travelers) and quick pace make it a personal and engaging experience.
This tour is especially good if you’re short on time but want authentic local insights. The guide shares tips on the best cafes, bars, and places to eat, making it practical for your stay. The itinerary includes highlights like the Porte de France and Tour Magne, giving a well-rounded taste of the city. Reviews praise the tour for its lively storytelling and efficient coverage, with one saying, “Maximized my visit in just an hour.”
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers with limited time who want a lively, insider-friendly overview, and a chance to ask questions about local life.
3. Nîmes: Private Guided Walking Tour

Number 3 on our list is the Private Guided Walking Tour, which offers a 1.5-hour customized exploration of Nimes’ Roman highlights. This tour is ideal if you appreciate flexibility; you can tailor the route to focus on your interests, whether it’s ancient ruins, city stories, or local culture. It’s suitable for groups up to 15 and costs $366, making it a more private, yet budget-friendly, option for groups or families.
The guide takes you to Nimes’ Roman Arena, the Maison Carrée, and the Jardins de la Fontaine. Along the way, you’ll learn about the city’s role in filming the movie “Gladiator,” which adds a fun pop culture twist to the Roman sights. The guide’s storytelling ability and knowledge of French monarchy connections and bullfighting traditions enrich the experience. Reviews mention the guide’s enthusiasm and the thoroughness of the visit.
Bottom Line: If you want a flexible, personal experience with a knowledgeable guide, this tour offers a well-rounded overview of Nimes’ Roman and cultural highlights.
4. Nîmes Private Walking Tour With A Professional Guide

Rounding out the list at number 4, this private tour focuses on a relaxed, interactive walk through Nimes’ most famous sights. Lasting about 1 hour 30 minutes, it covers major spots like the Arena, Maison Carrée, and the Jardins de la Fontaine. The tour’s charm is its personal approach—your guide shares fun facts about the filming of “Gladiator” and stories of Levis Strauss and denim’s origins in Nimes.
This tour is perfect if you prefer a shorter, yet highly informative experience. The guide’s ability to answer questions and customize the route makes it suitable for travelers who want a more tailored visit. Pricing is $362.40 per group, making it a good choice for small groups or couples. Past reviews praise the guide’s insights, with one mentioning, “Claude was delightful and offered insights I wouldn’t have learned alone.”
Bottom Line: A solid, personalized choice for those who want a quick, narrative-driven tour with the flexibility to ask questions and explore at their own pace.
How to Choose the Right Walking Tour in Nimes
When deciding which tour fits your needs, consider your budget, time constraints, and interests. If you’re passionate about Roman architecture and want an in-depth experience, the Private Walking Tour of the Historical Center offers expert storytelling and exclusive access. For a quick introduction, the Express Walk with a Local delivers a lively overview in just an hour.
Budget travelers or those short on time might prefer the Private Guided Walking Tour for its flexibility or the Private Tour with a Professional Guide for a shorter, customized experience. Think about what you want to see most—Roman ruins, local hangouts, or cultural stories—and pick the tour that best matches your style.
Booking early is smart, especially in summer when Nimes draws a lot of visitors. Each tour offers a different window into the city, so choose what suits your schedule and interests best.
Exploring Nimes on foot is a fantastic way to absorb its history and charm. Whether you opt for a private deep dive into Roman architecture or a quick local orientation, you’ll leave with a richer understanding of this captivating city. Remember, booking ahead ensures you secure your spot — so pick your preferred tour and get ready for a memorable walk through history.