Jardins de la Fontaine
A historic 17th-century park in Nimes, blending Roman ruins with serene gardens, ponds, and sculptures.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Blooming flowers, pleasant weather
Jardins de la Fontaine
Best Time
Blooming flowers, pleasant weather
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic 17th-century park in Nimes, blending Roman ruins with serene gardens, ponds, and sculptures.
"An absolute must in Nimes, offering a superb blend of history, nature, and relaxation."
Wear comfortable shoes
Lots of walking and stairs to climb for great views! :athletic_shoe:
Pack a picnic basket
Enjoy a meal amidst the beautiful gardens. Many visitors love this idea! :food:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Temple of Diana
Within the gardens
An enigmatic Roman ruin, once part of a sanctuary dedicated to a sacred spring. A must-see for history buffs.
Roman Baths
Within the gardens
Explore the vestiges of ancient Roman baths, offering a glimpse into imperial life and ancient worship.
Tour Magne
Upper section of the gardens
Climb this ancient Roman tower for breathtaking panoramic views of Nimes and its surroundings.
The Sacred Spring
Central to the gardens
The natural spring that venerated for millennia, forming the heart of this historic and sacred site.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Roman Past
Picnic & Relax
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Wear comfortable shoes
Lots of walking and stairs to climb for great views! :athletic_shoe:
Pack a picnic basket
Enjoy a meal amidst the beautiful gardens. Many visitors love this idea! :food:
Beware of swans!
They can be aggressive, so admire them from a distance. :bird:
Visit Tour Magne early
It closes at 5 PM, so plan accordingly for those views! :clock1:
Tips
from all over the internet
Wear comfortable shoes
Lots of walking and stairs to climb for great views! :athletic_shoe:
Pack a picnic basket
Enjoy a meal amidst the beautiful gardens. Many visitors love this idea! :food:
Beware of swans!
They can be aggressive, so admire them from a distance. :bird:
Visit Tour Magne early
It closes at 5 PM, so plan accordingly for those views! :clock1:
Explore the Roman ruins
Don't miss the Temple of Diana and ancient baths for a history lesson. :roman_statue: +1
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the Jardins de la Fontaine, praising its unique blend of ancient Roman ruins and beautiful 17th-century gardens. It's considered a must-visit in Nimes for its historical significance, natural beauty, and peaceful atmosphere. Some minor concerns include aggressive swans and the Tour Magne's early closing time.
"Commissioned by King Louis XV in 1745, this is one of the oldest public gardens in Europe. It was built around La Fontaine, a natural spring venerated by the people of Nîmes for millennia, and once the heart of a sacred Gallo-Roman sanctuary. Designed by Jacques-Philippe Mareschal and Pierre Dardailhon, the garden harmoniously blends Roman ruins with the aesthetics of a formal French garden. It features a lower section in the classical French formal style and an upper section landscaped in a more natural, Mediterranean style."
Seokjin Ham
"An absolute must in Nimes. The oldest public gardens in Europe. Beautifully laid out historic gardens with lots of classical architecture, statues, and Roman ruins. A superb restaurant in the centre, nice inside, but lots of alfresco dining, which is absolutely lovely."
GRAHAM B.
"This park has so much to offer; from ancient Roman ruins, botanical gardens, 16th century pondages and sculpture features.
All to make the visit memorable."
Adie Klein
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Jardins de la Fontaine is easily accessible in the heart of Nimes. You can reach it by public transport or a pleasant walk from the city center. Many visitors arrive by train to Nimes station and then take a short bus ride or enjoy a stroll.
While direct parking within the gardens is limited, several public parking lots are available in the vicinity of Nimes city center, a short walk away from the gardens. Consider parking at the Arena parking or other central lots.
Yes, Nimes has a good public transport system. Several bus lines stop near the Jardins de la Fontaine, making it convenient to reach without a car.
Absolutely! The gardens are centrally located and a pleasant walk from many key attractions in Nimes, including the Arena and Maison Carrée.
Nimes is well-connected by train, making it an excellent option for reaching the city and then accessing the gardens.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The Jardins de la Fontaine are generally free to enter and explore, making it an accessible attraction for all visitors.
The gardens are typically open daily from morning until early evening. However, specific closing times can vary, and the Tour Magne has a strict 5 PM closing.
Entry to the gardens and most of the Roman ruins, like the Temple of Diana, is usually free. Access to climb the Tour Magne might have a separate fee or specific hours.
Generally, the gardens are not open at night, though there might be special events. One visitor humorously wished for night access for their dog!
While not always advertised, local tourist offices or private guides may offer tours that include the gardens and their Roman heritage. Check with Nimes Tourisme for options.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Key attractions include the Temple of Diana, Roman baths, the Tour Magne for views, the sacred spring, and beautifully landscaped gardens with ponds and sculptures.
Absolutely! It's a popular spot for picnics, with plenty of green space to relax and enjoy your meal.
Yes, there is a restaurant located in the center of the gardens, offering both indoor and lovely alfresco dining options.
You can often spot swans gracefully swimming in the ponds, and sometimes large carp in the canals.
To fully appreciate the gardens, Roman ruins, and potentially climb the Tour Magne, plan for at least 2-3 hours.
📸 📸 Photography
The Temple of Diana, the Roman baths, the Tour Magne, and the serene ponds with swans offer fantastic photographic opportunities. The gardens themselves provide beautiful backdrops.
Drone usage might be restricted in public parks. One user tagged a drone video of the gardens, so it's worth checking local regulations with the Ville de Nimes.
Early morning or late afternoon offers softer light, ideal for capturing the beauty of the gardens and ruins. The golden hour can be particularly magical.
The arches and weathered stone of the Temple of Diana, the grand staircases, and the classical statues are all highly photogenic.
Yes, events like equestrian shows or festivals are often photographed, but always be mindful of performers' privacy and event rules.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the climb to the Tour Magne might be challenging for very young children, the lower parts of the garden offer plenty to see and do. The blend of nature, history, and open space makes it a memorable outing for all ages.
🚶♀️ History Buffs & Culture Seekers
This site is a prime example of how historical layers can be preserved and appreciated. The integration of these ancient structures into a later formal garden design provides a unique cultural experience. Don't miss the opportunity to learn about the sacred spring that was central to the site's veneration for centuries.
🌿 Nature Lovers & Garden Enthusiasts
The contrast between the formal French garden style and the more natural Mediterranean landscaping provides a rich botanical experience. +1Enjoy a leisurely stroll, admire the mature trees, and find a peaceful spot to relax by the ponds. The presence of swans adds a touch of natural charm.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Blend of History and Nature
This sacred site became the foundation for a Gallo-Roman sanctuary, and its remnants are still visible today. The gardens themselves are divided into two distinct styles: a formal French garden in the lower section and a more natural, Mediterranean-inspired landscape in the upper section, creating a diverse and engaging environment for visitors. +1Within this verdant expanse, you'll encounter significant Roman ruins that have stood the test of time. The Temple of Diana, a mysterious structure dating back to the 1st century AD, is a highlight, believed to be part of a larger sanctuary dedicated to imperial worship.
Beyond the historical elements, the gardens are a vibrant natural space. You'll find serene ponds, sculptural features, and lush botanical collections.
Exploring the Roman Heritage
+1 Its imposing architecture and the sense of mystery surrounding it make it a focal point for visitors. The Roman baths, though in ruins, provide a fascinating insight into the sophisticated infrastructure and social life of the Roman city of Nemausus. The Tour Magne is another significant Roman structure within the gardens. Originally a watchtower, it offers a commanding position overlooking the city. Climbing to the top is a rewarding experience, providing a unique perspective on Nimes and its historical layout.
+1Visitors often express awe at the sheer age and preservation of these Roman remnants. The ability to walk among structures that have stood for nearly two millennia is a powerful experience.
The gardens serve as a beautiful canvas upon which these historical masterpieces are displayed, inviting exploration and contemplation of Roman ingenuity and the passage of time. 
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit