Discover the history and secrets of this place with our audio guide.
The gardens are open every day of the year, generally from 7:30 a.m. until dusk (between 6:30 p.m. and 10:00 p.m. depending on the season). The main entrance is on Quai de la Fontaine, just a few minutes’ walk from the center of Nîmes.
Admission to the Jardins de la Fontaine is **completely free** for strolling and enjoying its green spaces and ruins. You only need to pay a small fee (around €3.50) if you decide to climb the Magne Tower, located at the top of the park.
To enjoy a leisurely walk, see the Temple of Diana, and climb up to the Magne Tower, we recommend setting aside between 1.5 and 2 hours. If you have an audio guide, this is the ideal amount of time to listen to the hidden stories of every corner without rushing.
This site is a gem because it is considered one of the first public gardens in Europe, created in the 18th century over an ancient Roman sanctuary dedicated to the sacred spring. Here, classic French design meets authentic ruins such as the mysterious Temple of Diana.
Spring is spectacular because of the blooming flowers, but any early morning is ideal to avoid the heat and the crowds. Visiting at sunset also offers magical golden light that is perfect for photography.
The park has two levels: the lower part (the French garden and canals) is flat and wheelchair accessible. However, the upper part (the wooded area and the tower) has steep slopes and gravel paths that are difficult to navigate without assistance.
You are very close to the famous Maison Carrée, a unique Roman temple just a 10-minute walk away. You can also head to the Nîmes Arena to complete your immersion in the city’s Roman history.
Wear very comfortable shoes, as it is worth climbing the slopes to enjoy the panoramic views, and do not forget water in summer. For a complete experience, we suggest complementing your walk with an audio guide from IAudioguia.com to better understand what you are seeing.
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