4 Best Hotels in Nimes, Provence

This local grande dame—in a lovely neighborhood near the canal and just across from the Jardins de la Fontaine—has been transformed into a gorgeous contemporary hotel, complete with indoor and outdoor pools, a bistro, and a gastronomic restaurant overseen by superstar chef Pierre Gagnaire. Pablo Picasso, Ava Garder, and Jean Cocteau all stayed here for the famous Féria de Nîmes (bullfights), and the stunning decor features plush furniture in lovely shades of teal, lustrous wood and marble everywhere, and a sparkling spa. The fabulous Hemingway Bar in the downstairs lobby opens onto a huge terrace, and the gourmet Duende restaurant is among the top tables in Nîmes. For a romantic getaway or for families, the hotel has eight beautiful private villas and child-friendly activities.

The welcome is gracious at this hotel in one of the city’s preeminent historic mansions, beautifully restored to its 17th-century grandeur, with parquet floors, period moldings and fireplaces, murals, a magnificent central stone staircase, rooms that capitalize on soaring windows and ceilings. Some accommodations have cozier volumes that benefit from warm colors, plush contemporary furnishings, and soothing lighting. All rooms features giant bathrooms (most with showers, bathtubs, and double sinks), plenty of storage, and the amenities you’d expect from a luxury hotel. There’s also a small spa and outdoor pool in the garden courtyard. A gourmet breakfast is served in the Michelin-starred Rouge restaurant, where the much-lauded chef Georgiana Viou presides at lunch and dinner (she also heads the hotel’s chic but more casual bistro, Gigi). What’s more, the hotel is set in the very heart of old town, an easy walk to all of the city’s sights.

This old private home has, fortunately, fallen into the hands of a loving and very hospitable owner, who has refinished 18th-century double doors and fitted rooms with restored-wood details, white-tiled bathrooms, and antique bedroom sets. Some rooms are more modern than others—ask for one overlooking place du Marché, where you can watch café life from your balcony. A generous breakfast buffet (€11) is served in the dining room.

Outside the hustle of town and yet just five minutes from the Arènes, this luxurious Art Deco hôtel particulier has lots of charm—especially in its large, airy, individually decorated guest rooms. The scent of jasmine leads you out to the garden, where colorful bougainvilleas contrast with the deep blue of the pool. Drift back to the lovely sitting room in the early evening for a cup of tea or a glass of wine (a fridge is at your disposal), and then curl up with one of the many good books thoughtfully provided by your hosts.