Historic Hotels in Nîmes Near the Roman Arena

Jardins Secrets occupies an 18th-century coaching inn in Nîmes, and its secret flowered garden with an outdoor pool is what makes it work for families: children can swim while parents read in the shade of the walls. Rooms are air-conditioned, some overlooking the garden or the pool, which I would ask for. The Napoleon III bar and spa facilities are for the grown-ups, and pets are accepted. Guests give this five-star address 9.0 over 157 reviews.

Appart'City Collection Nîmes Arènes puts families a minute's walk from the Arena of Nîmes and 300 metres from the train station, so arriving by train with children is simple. Studios and apartments have a fully equipped kitchenette and a seating area, giving space to spread out and cook simple meals. The varied breakfast includes organic options, and pets are welcome. Public parking is nearby for those arriving by car.

Hôtel l'Amphithéâtre occupies two mansions from the 17th and 18th centuries in the pedestrian centre of Nîmes, a few steps from the Roman Amphitheatre and the Maison Carrée. For families, I like that children can walk to both Roman monuments without crossing busy roads. Rooms are individually decorated, and some look over the Place du Marché, which I would request. Guests rate this three-star hotel 8.6 across 838 reviews.

B&B HOTEL Nîmes Centre Arènes suits families who want to see Roman Nîmes without a car. The Dhuoda tram stop is a two-minute walk away, and the tram reaches the Arena and the historic centre quickly. Rooms are air-conditioned, a real help in a southern summer, and many have city views. Pets are accepted, a vending machine covers small needs, and limited private parking is available, so drivers should plan ahead.

Marquis de la Baume is housed in a 17th-century townhouse in the historic centre of Nîmes, with the Arena and other Roman sites within walking distance. Rooms are air-conditioned, a real comfort in the Gard summer. Breakfast is served on the patio, there is a bar for a quiet drink once children are asleep, and the front desk is open 24 hours. Guests rate this four-star 8.2 out of 10 across more than 1,700 reviews.

I would pick this ibis Styles for a short stay in Nîmes, especially if you arrive by train, since it faces the station. Rooms are air-conditioned with a private bathroom, free Wi-Fi and satellite TV. A buffet breakfast is served daily and the reception is open 24 hours. The historic sites are close, and pets are welcome, which helps families travelling with a dog.

ibis Nîmes Ouest - A9 sits by the A9 motorway exit, 4 km from the centre of Nîmes, which makes it an easy stop for families driving south. The outdoor swimming pool is the main draw for children after a day on the road, and rooms are air-conditioned for hot Gard summers. The buffet breakfast includes fresh pastries and local specialities, WiFi is free and pets are welcome. Guests rate it 8.2 out of 10 across more than 2,100 reviews.

Hôtel Abalone is housed in a historic building near Nîmes station, and some rooms have a fireplace or a view over the city, details children notice. Rooms are air-conditioned and soundproofed, with private bathrooms, which helps in the southern summer heat. The restaurant serves French and Mediterranean dishes as well as pizza, with vegetarian and halal options, so picky eaters have choices, and there is a sun terrace and a bar.