Description: Nîmes is a manufacturing centre so as you speed past on the autoroute you could be forgiven for thinking this is a town to be missed. But you would be mistaken – Nîmes has a lot to offer including a well-preserved Roman arena, an Augustinian gate, the ruin of Diana’s Temple (in La Fontaine Gardens) and the Maison Carrée (Square House – formerly a Roman temple, now a museum of mosaics and statues).

Location: Just off the A9 autoroute between Orange and Montpellier.

Website: http://www.ot-nimes.fr/

Our recommendations: On a clear day, climb the Tour Magne in le Jardin de la Fontaine for an outstanding view across southern France.

Here’s more information to make the most of your visit to the Provence: