Jardins de la Fontaine in Nîmes

Jardins de la Fontaine, France’s first public promenade

Avenue Jean-Jaurès, 30000 Nîmes. Created in the 18th century around the sacred spring of Nemausus, the Jardins de la Fontaine were the first public gardens established in France. Listed as a historic monument, they extend across several hectares at the foot of Mont Cavalier, in the historic centre of Nîmes.

Pools, canals, stone balustrades, statues and formal French terraces form an exceptional architectural and landscaped setting, only a ten-minute walk from Nîmes Arena and the Maison Carrée.

What to see at Jardins de la Fontaine

Jardins de la Fontaine are home to several ancient and historic monuments. The Temple of Diana, a group of 2nd-century Roman ruins incorporated into the heart of the gardens, is one of the best-preserved remains of ancient Nîmes.

At the top of Mont Cavalier, Tour Magne offers outstanding panoramic views over Nîmes, the Gard department and the Cévennes. Built in the 1st century BC, this 36-metre-high octagonal tower is the oldest Roman monument in Nîmes. With their symmetrical pools, shaded paths and statues, the gardens provide a peaceful place to walk and relax away from the busy city centre.

Stay near Jardins de la Fontaine

Appart’City Collection Nîmes Arènes, a four-star aparthotel in Nîmes

Appart’City Collection Nîmes Arènes is a four-star aparthotel in the heart of Nîmes, located two minutes on foot from Nîmes Arena and ten minutes from Jardins de la Fontaine. The property offers premium, fully equipped studios and apartments featuring high-quality bedding, a kitchen with a coffee machine, a 4K television with Chromecast, very high-speed Wi-Fi, reversible air conditioning and an individual safe. The aparthotel provides convenient access to Nîmes railway station, Nîmes Airport, the Pont du Gard, the Camargue, Avignon and Montpellier.

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What to see around Jardins de la Fontaine in Nîmes

Tour Magne : Tour Magne stands at the top of Mont Cavalier and can be reached from Jardins de la Fontaine along a wooded path in approximately 15 minutes. From the top of the tower, visitors can enjoy panoramic views over Nîmes, the Gard department and the Cévennes.

Nîmes Arena: Nîmes Arena is approximately a ten-minute walk from the gardens. This exceptionally well-preserved Roman amphitheatre hosts bullfights, concerts and events during the famous Nîmes Férias throughout the year.

La Maison Carrée : The Maison Carrée is approximately ten minutes away on foot. This remarkably well-preserved Roman temple was added to the UNESCO World Heritage List in 2023. Directly opposite stands Carré d’Art, the contemporary art museum designed by Norman Foster.

Musée de la Romanité : Located on Boulevard Amiral Courbet, the Musée de la Romanité is an archaeological museum dedicated to the Roman history of Nîmes. its panoramic terrace provides a direct view of Nîmes Arena.

Esplanade Charles-de-Gaulle : Esplanade Charles-de-Gaulle is a large and lively square in central Nîmes, surrounded by restaurants, shops and outdoor terraces.

Frequently asked questions about Jardins de la Fontaine

Are Jardins de la Fontaine free to visit?

Yes. Admission to Jardins de la Fontaine is completely free. Only the visit to Tour Magne, at the top of Mont Cavalier, requires a paid ticket. The standard admission price is €4. A reduced-price combined pass covering Tour Magne, Nîmes Arena and the Maison Carrée is also available.

What is the history of Jardins de la Fontaine?

Jardins de la Fontaine were created in the 18th century around the sacred spring of Nemausus, the protective deity of ancient Nîmes. Designed by engineer Jacques-Philippe Mareschal between 1738 and 1755, they were the first public gardens established in France.

What is the Temple of Diana in Nîmes?

The Temple of Diana is a 2nd-century Roman building whose ruins stand in the heart of Jardins de la Fontaine. Its original purpose remains the subject of debate among historians. It may have been a temple, a library or a nymphaeum. The ruins can be visited free of charge from the gardens.

How do you reach Tour Magne from Jardins de la Fontaine?

From the entrance to Jardins de la Fontaine, a wooded and flower-lined path leads to the top of Mont Cavalier in approximately 15 minutes on foot. Tour Magne stands at the summit and offers panoramic views over Nîmes, the Gard department and the Cévennes in clear weather.

Which aparthotel should you choose when visiting Jardins de la Fontaine in Nîmes?

Appart’City Collection Nîmes Arènes is located two minutes on foot from Nîmes Arena and approximately ten minutes from Jardins de la Fontaine. Its central location makes it an excellent aparthotel for exploring the Roman heritage and historic centre of Nîmes. The property offers fully equipped four-star studios and apartments and a reception desk open 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Is there parking near Jardins de la Fontaine?

Several car parks are available nearby, including the Gambetta car park on Boulevard Gambetta and the Jardins de la Fontaine car park on Avenue Jean-Jaurès. From Appart’City Collection Nîmes Arènes, the gardens can be reached in approximately ten minutes on foot without using a car.

Can you have a picnic in Jardins de la Fontaine?

Yes. Jardins de la Fontaine are popular with local residents for walks and picnics. The shaded paths, pools and lawns provide several pleasant places to stop, relax and enjoy the exceptional surroundings of the park.