A Guide to Nimes and Montpellier What to see and do in the Area

Nîmes - the Rome of southern France  Located between the sea and the Cevennes hills, Nîmes is one of the most attractive towns in Mediterranean France. The city was established by the Romans, on the edge of the Mediterranean plain, some twenty-five miles inland from the sea; and to this day, Nimes has the finest collection of Roman remains in France.

Apart from its Roman remains, Nimes is worth visiting for its attractive old town and its gardens, as well as its ideal location for discovering the Cevennes national park to the north or the renowned wetlands of the Camargue to the south – not to mention the large number of historic sites and other sights to be discovered in this part of France.

Montpellier - dynamic, fascinating and full of charm Montpellier is 10km inland from the coast of the Mediterranean Sea. The town's stately Gothic Cathédrale Saint-Pierre, distinguished by conical towers, dates to 1364. The city's Antigone district is a chic, modern development inspired by neoclassical motifs. Paintings from French and European Old Masters hang at the Musée Fabre.

Montpellier is sure to inspire you: from its medieval streets ideal for shopping to new neighbourhoods combining natural spaces and buildings designed by the greatest international architects, via its new modern tram lines designed by Christian Lacroix.

Nimes - Tourist attractions Nîmes is the capital of the Gard department, is a popular tourist destination, notably on account of its Roman remains, and its attractive old town.

First and foremost among the Roman remains are the Maison Carrée, the best preserved Roman temple anywhere, and the mighty Arena, one of three large Roman arenas in the south of France. Apart from these two major monuments of classical antiquity, Nimes has several other Roman remains, in particular the Temple of Diana and Tour Magne, a Roman tower that was once a part of the city's outer fortifications, and now stands at the top of the Jardins de la Fontaine, overlooking the town.

The Nimes arena - though 2000 years old - is still used as a venue for events today, including concerts and French bull-fighting, a version of the Spanish tradition in which the bull is not killed.

The list of Nimes' Roman remains would not be complete without a mention of the imposing Pont du Gard, one of the finest remaining Roman aqueducts, ten miles to the northeast of the city. This remarkable structure was built by the Romans to bring water to the city.

Apart from its Roman monuments, Nimes has an attractive and well preserved historic centre, with narrow streets and tree-lined boulevards typical of the south of France. The park of the Jardins de la Fontaine, laid out in 1745, is one of the oldest city parks in France, and a delightful area of greenery, fountains and shade on the edge of the old town. The cathedral of Notre Dame and St. Castor partly dates back to the twelfth century, but was largely rebuilt in later centuries - as were Nimes' other churches.

Nimes has several small museums, the most notable of which are the Natural History museum, on the Boulevard Courbet, and the Archeological museum; but both of these museums are in serious need of modernisation.

Montpellier Tourist Attractions Louis XIV may have had the biggest hand in Montpellier’s history, when he appointed it capital of Bas Languedoc in the 17th century. This put the city in the service of the king and attracted the gentry who built themselves neighbourhood brimming with cultured homes. So there are many mansions to be seen around the extensive old quarter, as well as exalted monuments like the Promenade de Peyrou, fit for a regional capital.

In France it’s a city famed for style and panache, as you can tell from the snazzy trams designed by fashion star Christian Lacroix. You can come for a family break safe in the knowledge that your kids won’t be bored: There’s a highly-rated zoo and aquarium, and a chain of perfect sandy beaches on the coast just 15 kilometres away.

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In Montpellier a ‘folie’ describes any house that was used as a secondary home by the aristocracy during the Ancien Regime, and Montpellier used to be one of the most important cities in France in terms of medicine, so many rich noblemen had mansions built on the city’s outskirts.

The Château de Flaugergues is one of these ‘folies’, and it is considered by many to be the most original one in the city. The gardens are particularly beautiful, making this spectacular building worth a visit.

The Musée Fabre is the city’s most important museum, housing some excellent works of art. It is located on the Esplanade, by the grand Place de la Comédie, so it is very easy to reach from all parts of the city.

Visiting the museum is not a quick affair, since there are always several exhibitions and several floors with admirable paintings and stunning architecture. The museum is free to visit on the first Sunday of every month, so visitors who are in Montpellier then should take advantage and spend a wonderful cultural afternoon here.

The Place de la Comédie is the centre of Montpellier, close to the city’s main train station, easily accessible by tram and a perfect location from which to explore everything that Montpellier has to offer.

The imposing building at one end of the square is the city’s Opera, and there are also many cute French cafes and cinemas lining the sides.

At another end there is a shopping mall with some exciting French stores, and in front lies the Esplanade, a beautiful green area where there is a relaxing pond.

The city’s main art museum is also located here, and the winding streets that lead from the Place de la Comédie upwards are great for shopping.

Other Things of Interest in Nimes

Esplanade de Charles de Gaulle As you leave Nîmes station, walk straight along the pleasant tree-lined Avenue Feuchères to find yourself in the lovely main square of Esplanade Charles-de-Gaulle. Dating back to the 16th century, when it was originally a space for artillery practice, it wasn’t until the 18th century that it really became a focal point for social life in the city.

At the centre of this enchanting spot is the strikingly detailed Fontaine Pradier. Built in 1851, its central figure is supposed to be a symbol of the city of Nîmes, while the four statues surrounding here are said to represent the four main rivers of the region.

Les Jardins de la Fontaine These idyllic gardens are historical on many levels. Built in the 18th century, they are notable for their gorgeous neoclassical-style water features, statues and Roman artifacts.

Climb up the winding paths to reach the imposing Tour Magne, the only vestige of ancient Augustan fortifications left here. it offers an unparalleled panoramic view of Nîmes and its surroundings.

Near the foot of the gardens is the Temple of Diana, which is also well worth exploring. Despite its name, it is unlikely that it was a temple and indeed, no one knows exactly why it is linked to Diana – the goddess of the hunt. What can be guessed, however, is that it probably once contained a library and that it was as a monastery during the Middle Ages.

Place Gabriel Péri On the edge of the charming old town lies the striking Place Gabriel Péri. It is dominated by the stunning 19th-century, neo-gothic Eglise Saint Baudile, the largest church in Nîmes, capable of holding up to 3,000 people.

To the left of this splendid structure visitors will find the fascinating Porte d’Auguste, the remnants of one of the main gates of the ancient Roman wall, a vestige of when Nîmes was a protected, imperial city. Two semi-circular towers once flanked this impressive monument; their former places now marked on the ground in writing.

Place d’Assas For a classy way to spend an evening in Nîmes try the stylish Place d’Assas. Notable for its interesting water feature, this tranquil spot is surrounded by chic bars and restaurants with comfortable outdoor terraces.

Try the lovely Imprévu for good portions of gourmet food, or the wine bar Casti for an impressive selection of delectable wines, complemented by delicious dishes of fresh, inventive French fare. In short, a great and comfortable way to relax after a long day of exploring Roman monuments.

Other Things of Interest in Montpellier

Cathedrale St Pierre The city’s cathedral is spectacular; gazing upwards at the awe-inspiring towers is an almost dizzying experience.

This is Montpellier’s most important Gothic building, situated right in the middle of the old town.

This Roman Catholic church is free to visit and has beautiful glass windows lining the cross, a stunning organ built in wood and gold and a spectacular altar.

It was founded in 1364 although it was only declared a cathedral in the 16th century.

Montpellier Zoo Montpellier’s Zoo is undoubtedly one of the city’s best features. Nowadays it is rare to find such attractions for free, let alone one that is so big and exciting.

The zoo has everything from giraffes to lions to colourful frogs, and the animals are divided by continents and areas.

The only part that requires a ticket is the Amazonian Jungle.

Jardin des Plantes The Jardin des Plantes is the city’s very own botanical garden. Montpellier has a rich history as a medicinal city, and in the olden days many of the country’s richest people would come down to Montpellier for its sea breeze and supposedly talented doctors.

Nowadays the Jardin des Plantes is no longer used for medicinal purposes, but it still houses a vast array of plants, which are fascinating to explore. It is free to visit, so it is an ideal place for a relaxing morning stroll.

Take the tram to the beach Montpellier has four tramlines, and the city is aiming to expand this by adding at least one more in the next couple of years. The last stop on tram number three takes visitors to the beach for a very modest price.

There you can rent some of the city’s Velomags (bicycles to hire by the hour or by the day) and either cycle to the shore, or opt for a leisurely stroll. Clear waters, soft sand and lots of sun make this a perfect excursion for spring or summer days.

Yet more to do in Nimes

Green Park Green Park is the perfect place to spend a whole day with the family. They have a water area with many fun water games, a play area and a small farm with different animals and pony riding. Dozens of activities are offered in the park. Come discover them!

The Aquatic Zone The Toboggens - These two slides are very popular with young and old. Come test them …..

Water Games - Tunnel, water curtain, geysers, mushroom fountain, so many opportunities to cool off while having fun. Watch out for the amazing buckets (It is the shower ensured!)

The Bath for Tout-Petits - A space specially designed for the youngsters in your family.To discover the joys of water safely.Parents can accompany them even without bathing ….

The Enchanted Farm To The Adventure - Knights! - Pony rides are offered regularly in the park. It's a great time to share with parents.Choose your pony and go!

 Unforgettable Encounters - To caress them, to cuddle them, to pamper them …. In Green Park, come meet your favourite animals! Some pens are accessible for better access to the animals.

Mysterious Nature - In Green Park you can visit a magnificent vegetable garden, admire an orchard or discover the treasures of the pond and its surroundings. But will you be brave enough to face the meanders of the plant labyrinth?

For All The Family The Magic Games Area - The pirate ship playground giant for children. A great activity for all. A castle, a pirate ship ... the games make a lot of room for the imagination in Green Park!

Activities For All - From 1 to 77, everyone can jump on the trampoline. Other attractions like the zip line or the water slides are accessible to young and old.

Spaces For The Little Ones - From 1 year, they are full of energy and have a crazy desire to discover the world. They are not forgotten. There are specially adapted spaces for toddlers.

Also not to be missed are the Beach Soccer area and the pedal karts track.

Les Halles de Nîmes You can tell a lot about a French city at the stalls of its covered market. You’ll be wowed by the sumptuous displays of regional produce, and in Nîmes that’s picholine olives and fish such as bream or oysters, caught overnight and sold from the fishmongers’ counters a few hours later.

But since so much of the city does its shopping at Les Halles, you can see local people going about their lives in a way you can’t at more touristy sites.

Bring an appetite too because at lunch there’s a selection of food bars with local dishes like brandade, cassoulet and even paella.

Place aux Herbes If you study the cathedral’s facade you can make out a row of holes above your head to the left of the portal; these were made by medieval market sellers, who would fix their stalls into the wall. But this was also where some of Nîmes’ darkest moments during the French Wars of Religion took place, most notoriously the massacre of Catholic priests and monks during Huguenot rioting in the Michelade in 1567. This triggered the Second War of Religion.

But now, instead of religious blood-letting you can have a chat at a cafe terrace, potter around the flea market and treat yourself to an ice cream from the glacier.

Yet more to do in Montpellier

Antigone, the extraordinary modern district designed by the Catalan architect Ricardo Bofill that, between 1979 and 2000, extended the city to the banks of the River Lez.

The focus of contemporary Antigone is the Esplanade de l'Europe, a walkway leading around the lawns and fountains of Place de l'Europe and Place de Thessalie. Neoclassical office blocks designed in the 1990s sit alongside Le Polygone shopping mall.

International pubs and chic brasseries overlook the Lez River, while restaurants serving global dishes, from sushi and noodles to curry, dot the area.

Theme park, Vivarium-Aquarium All aboard for an excitement-filled tour of the world’s oceans!

Your adventure begins with the treasures of the Mediterranean. Then, head for the beaches of the Cape to see the penguins, the unfathomable depths of the North Pacific, the underwater canyon of rays and sharks, the many-coloured Polynesian lagoon, the lush vegetation of the Amazon rainforest...

This incredible marine tour, lasting more than two hours, culminates at Station Odyssée, with an unforgettable experience: an encounter with a giant octopus!

Children’s games, immersive displays, daily activities, a sea-storm simulator and tactile pool... An experience packed with surprises that will reveal over 400 species in a way you’ve never imagined them before!

Shopping in Nimes

In the heart of the city of Nîmes, the major shopping streets "Rue de l'Aspic" and "Place de l'Horloge" and their numerous shops attract both tourists and locals. The lively atmosphere makes it a nice place to go for a stroll and enjoy the wide choice of stores. You will find something for everyone!

Diving into the labyrinthine backstreets of the old town never fails to reveal interesting places for souvenirs. One of the best is L’Itineraire, located on Rue des Arenes, for vintage posters of the annual Fete de Nimes and black-and-white photos of the bullfighting festivals.

Les Indiennes de Nimes, located right by the amphitheatre, is a reminder of the city’s textile heritage, with cashmere scarves and shirts to make Paul Smith’s tailoring look positively monochrome.

Many tourists buy Santons, small clay figurines in the shape of farmers, maids, priests, etc. They can be found at Boutique Provencale on place de la Maison Carré. The market is located by the football stadium Stade des Costières.

At Nîmes Souvenirs you will find gifts, souvenirs and memorabilia for everyone. They also offer quirky items that are a great gift for friends and family at home. Find the perfect souvenir to remind you of your time in Nimes with its French Rome and Camarguaise tradition and Provençal culture.

Discover the top Nice markets - Market days are a way of life in Provence and the Cote d'Azur. They originated in the 12th century, when farmers and craftsmen would come to nearest market town to sell their wares, or engage in bartering agreements. Not much has changed since those days - the market is still the place to go for locally grown produce of all shapes & sizes. 

You can expect to find two common types of market in the Nice region, the Farmers market and the Provencal market.

The farmers market is where you'll find the fruit and vegetable of the local region on sale, plus meat from the butcher, bread and cakes from the baker, cheeses, herbs and spices. Anything to do with food really!

This is the kind of market that all the larger villages offer. Prices tend to be higher than you would find in the supermarket, but the taste and the quality of market-bought goods simply does not compare. The climate in Provence lends itself so beautifully to farming that much of the produce in the market is organically grown and likely to have been picked the day before.

The Provencal market (Marche Provencal) . These markets tend to be much larger, with all the fresh produce described above, with the addition of clothing, fabrics (napkins and tablecloths are most popular), ceramics and other local crafts, costume jewellery, leather goods, the list goes on...

Flea markets are also popular - One of the best is Cours Saleya. On Monday, from morning to mid-afternoon, Nice's colourful, sun-drenched cours Saleya (just behind the Promenade des Anglais) is filled with around 200 flea market vendors selling their wares.

This is a fairly high-quality market; however, bargain hunters can also score a good find, particularly in the adjacent place Pierre Gauthier, where odds and ends are piled on the ground.

A huge variety of collectables is on offer: silver, vintage clothing, posters, nautical and travel items, ceramics (with some emphasis on regional items from Monaco and Vallauris), paintings, toys, rustic wooden items, jewellery, etc.

This is a great market for visitors who are as interested in sun and people-watching as they are in purchasing collectables. You will hear many languages being spoken and some vendors speak English, as well as Italian.

Shopping in Montpellier Rue de la Loge is Montpellier's ultimate High Street, and the post-modern Polygone galleria just east of Place de la Comédie is three-storey open-air mall full of everything from designer fashions to deli foods.

Le Polygone is a centrally located shopping mall, with a decent selection of stores and boutiques.

It houses the famous French department store Galeries Lafayette, a Monoprix and various international brand shops such as Mango, Gap, Zara, and Lacoste to name a few.

There are also many restaurants and bars, Free Wi-Fi and various events held throughout the year.

The Odysseum concept is unique in this dynamic city and tourist destination. Located just 20 minutes via light rail from the Place de la Comédie, the centre is served by its own

light rail station.

Odysseum is part of a 140,000 sq m leisure and retail district that includes a Géant Casino Hypermarket, an Ikea Furniture Store, a Decathlon Sports Outlet, a Gaumont Multiplex Cinema, Vegapolis Ice Rink, Galilee Planetarium, Mare Nostrum Aquarium and a large range of shops and restaurants.

It is home to 116 shops in ultra-modern open-air surroundings. This exciting and exclusive shopping destination, which combines discovery with pleasure, won the 2010 Mapic Award for Best Shopping Centre

En Traits Libres is a venue that mirrors Montpellier’s art-filled atmosphere. It is used by local artists to create and sell their work. There is an ever-changing collection of paintings, illustrations, drawings and more, so if you want to pick up unique souvenirs from Montpellier’s creative art scene, this is the place to go.

La Provence is a classic souvenir shop located in the heart of the old town, that has everything you would expect from a souvenir store: postcards displayed at the door, Provençal and Catalan ceramics, homewares and small gifts, all displayed in the colourful windows and inside this beautiful little shop.

Le Boutik’r de Montpellier - This is really the only ‘traditional’ souvenir shop in Montpellier. Located on one of the main, leafy boulevards of the city, Le Boutik’r stocks everything keepsake-related, from postcards, calendars and tea towels to foodie items, pottery and novelties. This is a good place to start if you are looking for regional souvenirs to take home.

Montpellier’s old town, Écusson, has every kind of shop from traditional souvenirs and fashion, to interior design, artisan, art and more.

For a souvenir that reflects the artistic flair and carefree attitude of Montpellier, browse the smaller, independent stores, where you’ll find local produce, hand-made homewares and regional items.

There are honestly too many gorgeous shops to highlight, but a few favourites are Les petits papiers de Flo (stationery store), Azimuts Librairie BD Comics Manga (comic book store) and La Fine Mouche (cheese shop).

Nimes Bars, Pubs and Eateries It is not just the Roman monuments that make it such an attractive city; it also has plenty of culinary delights and a great bar scene. Here are some of the best…

Le Victor Hugo: 36 Boulevard Victor Hugo, Nîmes, Occitanie, 30000 (T) +33 (0)4 66 21 20 90 Right in between the grand Maison Carrée and the Arena, and opposite the beautiful Eglise St Paul, Le Victor Hugo is ideally located and a great place to spend an evening. During the day, it serves delicious food, and in the evening it transforms itself into a happening music joint, with a number of live acts and DJs gracing the stage.

O’Flaherty’s: 21 Boulevard Amiral Courbet, Nîmes, Occitanie, 30000 (T) +33 (0)4 66 67 22 63 For a real Irish experience in the heart of this French city, O’Flaherty’s is a fun and authentic place to be. It has a lively, convivial atmosphere, and being full of regulars and visitors alike, it is a great way to get a taste of the local colour.

The extensive list of beers and whiskeys makes it one of the best destinations for hops and malt lovers in the city and for the more adventurous, there are several unusual “beer cocktails” to sample.

Carré Jazz: 25 Place de la Maison Carrée, Nîmes, Occitanie, 30000 (T) +33 (0)4 66 64 84 99 With outdoor seating offering stunning views of the Maison Carrée, the Carré Jazz is a superb location for both drinks and a meal. Its interior décor is almost equally pleasing to the eye, with striking beams and stonework that makes it a cosy and welcoming place to be. This bar boasts a good range of drinks, plus a wide variety of wine and cocktails.

Bar de la Mairie: 6 Rue de l'Hôtel de ville, Nîmes, Occitanie, 30900 (T) +33 (0)4 66 67 65 06 Located on a quiet street just a few minutes’ walk from the Arena, the Bar de la Mairie is the perfect spot for an early evening drink.

Possibly the oldest bar in the city, dating back at least to 1782, this little joint has been serving food and drink for over two centuries, without interruption.

Montpellier Bars, Pubs and Eateries Montpellier is one of the liveliest cities in the South of France, with endless activities, great cafés, stunning hotels and some very snazzy restaurants. The huge number of students that live in the city mean that its nightlife keeps itself fresh and relevant, giving Montpellier one of the best night scenes in the South.

The Shakespeare: 12 Rue de la Petite Loge, Montpellier, Occitanie, 34000 (T) +33 4 67 60 22 25 The Shakespeare is a great pub in the centre of Montpellier. After a long, exhausting day of sightseeing around the old town, this pub provides the perfect place in which to drink some beer and recover. There is a fantastic selection of beer and bottled ales served by very friendly waiters. Visitors can come here, sit down, enjoy their drink and listen to the pub’s great music whilst chatting with friends.

Fitzpatrick’s Irish Pub: 5 Place Sainte-Come, Montpellier (T) +33 4 67 60 58 30 Fitzpatrick’s is also a fabulous option for those on the lookout for tasty beer in a fun environment. The Guinness here is great, although not exactly cheap (which seems to be the case throughout France), and they also serve some pretty decent wines and even coffee for those who are not big fans of beer. Both locals and exchange students flock to this bar when they want to leave their worries aside and enjoy a great night out.

Los Parigos: 3 Rue de la Petite Loge, Montpellier, Occitanie, 34000 (T) +33 6 32 33 17 89 Los Parigos is a tapas bar located in Montpellier’s beautiful old town. It is a unique establishment with fantastic decor; upon entering visitors will feel they are in some sort of chic wine cellar or cave, with stone walls decorated with sparkly fairy lights, quirky pictures and potted plants here and there.

Not only are the drinks great here, but their tantalising tapas dishes are an excellent option for a fashionable evening meal in this international city. After having satisfied their hunger, visitors can stay and enjoy the great atmosphere at the bar whilst enjoying a few drinks.

Rockstore: 20 Rue de Verdun, Montpellier, (T) +33 4 67 06 80 00 Known as the go-to place for both locals and the many exchange students that frequent Montpellier’s famous universities, Rockstore always has a great event on.

Whether it is a night out for Erasmus students, a themed party or happy hour, there is always a fun crowd wanting to have a good time and dance the night away.

It is also one of the best bars for live music, with artists coming in quite often to perform.

Nimes - Essential Information

Public Transport Transport en Commun Nîmois manages the transport system – trains and buses – in the city and surrounding areas. Tickets can be bought from tobacconists and from the bus driver.

Taxi Taxis can be hailed on the street, at the train station, on Place Aristide Briand or on Boulevard de la Libération. The city’s only taxi company is Taxi Tran.

Post Stamps can be bought at tobacconists or at one of the three post offices. A post office in the city centre is located at: 1 Boulevard de Bruxelles, Nîmes

Montpellier - Essential Information

Public Transport Montpellier has an extensive network of buses and trains. Most pass through the main train station en route. The developed transportation system makes it easy for travellers to reach destinations within the city and in the suburbs.The city is a rather compact one and many places may be reached simply by walking. Alternatively, visitors are welcome to use the city bike rental system Vélo Magg, which has dozens of stations all throughout Montpellier.

Taxi The best places to find taxis quickly are at Place de la Comédie (next to Opera Comédie), and at the train station. Taxis are not often hailed from the side of the road.

Taxi Bleu Du Midi: (T) +33 4 67 03 2000 or +33 4 67 10 00 00

Taxis Radio Artisans: (T) +33 4 67 58 10 10

Taxi Montpellier: (T) +33 6 58 10 50 10

Post All post offices are open Monday to Saturday. Stamps can be bought at tobacconists, and at newsstands. Central Post Office: Rondelet 15, Montpellier

France - Know before You Go Electricity In France there are two associated plug types, types C and E. Plug type C is the plug which has two round pins and plug type E is the plug which has two round pins and a hole for the socket's male earthing pin. France operates on a 230V supply voltage and 50Hz.

Useful phone numbers Pan-European emergency number: 112 or 114 (for hearing assistance) These general numbers can be called free of charge during any emergency from your mobile phone. As it’s a Europe-wide number, you can also ask to be connected to an English-speaking operator. Those who are deaf or hard of hearing could send text messages to 114.

Ambulance and emergency services (SAMU): 15 The SAMU is the coordinated service to call in case of any serious medical emergency. A qualified doctor is always available to determine the type of response that best fits your situation, specifically, whether you need an ambulance. Otherwise, you’ll have to carry the cost of the ambulance transport. Alternatively, you could request a light medical vehicle (véhicule sanitaire léger or VSL) to get to hospital.

Emergency siren Do not be alarmed when you hear a siren every first Wednesday of the month at noon. France’s sirens are tested nationwide with three consecutive blasts of almost two minutes, separated by five seconds of silence. In the event of an unplanned siren, you can find information on France Inter or France Info radion stations.

Fire brigade: 18 The French fire brigade, called les sapeurs pompiers, can also be called in cases of medical emergencies, such as traffic and domestic accidents. They work closely with the SAMU and employ professional, health, medical and volunteer brigades.

Police: 17 This number puts you in contact with the appropriate emergency police services nearest you, whether that is the Police Nationale or the Gendarmerie Nationale. For non-urgent situations, make a note of the direct phone number for your nearest police station (commissariat de police or gendarmerie).

Credit Card Loss American Express: 01 47 77 72 00 Visa: 00 1-880-950-5114 or 08 92 70 57 05 Mastercard: 0 800 901 387 Citibank (collect): 001-605-335-2222

Is smoking prohibited? France has banned smoking in public places since 2006 in line with the rest of Europe. A much stronger law was passed banning smoking in enclosed public places such as those restaurants and bars as well as schools and government buildings. A minimum fine was also set to €500.

In 2013 France’s Health Minister, announced that the ban on smoking would be extended to take in electronic cigarettes. In June 2014 smoking was banned in children’s playgrounds as France’s anti-smoking laws become stricter. At the same time, smoking in cars carrying children was also banned.

In October 2015 a fine came into force for discarding used cigarettes in public places. There is now a law which bans smoking in cars carrying children and there will be one which will came into force in 2016 that requires tobacco companies to remove branding on cigarette packets and introduce plain, generic packaging.

Paying for things in France For anyone visiting France, the easiest way to pay for things is to use a credit card backed by one of the worldwide credit-card companies, notably Visa or Mastercard. Most traders accept the main types of card – Visa, Mastercard, American Express – and may accept other types of card too, including Cirrus and Maestro, notably if these are equipped with chip and pin technology.

ATMs (cashpoints) are widespread, and can be found outside virtually all banks, in many shopping centres or shopping malls, in main train stations, airports, conference centres, motorway service areas, and other places.

France is a country in which the use of cheques is also widespread. However French traders, shops, hotels etc. will not usually accept payment by cheque unless the cheque is on a French bank; some places accept cheques in Euros on banks in other Eurozone countries, but most do not, given the increased risk and the possibility of bank charges. It is generally impossible to pay for anything using a cheque on a bank situated outside the Eurozone.

Some hotels and some traders – notably those used to doing business with foreign tourists – may accept Travellers Cheques as payment, if these are in Euros; but travellers are advised not to count on paying for anything in this way. Far better, if you are travelling with travellers cheques, to cash them in a bank, and then use cash or plastic.

Is Tipping expected? In France, prices include all taxes and service; that will add between 10% and 15% to your addition. Therefore, you don't have any obligation to leave an additional tip to the waiter/waitress. Here are some suggestions:

Café Server: When paying for a café au lait (or other beverage), it is considerate to leave the change or round up to the nearest whole figure on the total bill.

Restaurant Server: The tip is included in the final bill (service compris), but if the service exceeded your expectations, round the bill up to the nearest whole figure or leave 5 to 10 percent to show your gratitude. Another option is to leave €1 to €2 per every €20 spent in all but the finest restaurants.

Taxis: Tips are not expected, but you can round up or offer 5 percent of the final fare if the driver helped with your luggage and/or provided a swift and safe ride.

Airport Shuttle Driver: No tip is required, but it is customary to tip €1 to €2 per bag.

Public Holidays 2020

01 Jan Wed New Years Day 10 Apr Fri Good Friday 13 Apr Mon Easter Monday 01 May Fri Labour Day 08 May Fri Victory Day 21 May Thu Ascension Day 31 May Sun Whit Sunday

Getting There Nimes airport is 18 miles from the tournament location.Only Ryan Air fly there from London-Luton and London-Stansted.

Montpellier airport is 20 miles away. easyJet fly there from London-Gatwick. Beziers Airport is 58 miles away. Ryan Air fly there from Bristol, Edinburgh, London-Luton, London-Stansted and Manchester.

Marseille Provance (73 miles away) is the best served airport with the following airlines flying there from the UK and Ireland: BA from London-Heathrow, easyJet from London-London-Gatwick and London-Luton. Ryan Air from Edinburgh, London-Stansted and Manchester.

01 Jun Mon Whit Monday 14 Jul Tue Bastile Day 15 Aug Sat Assumption Day 01 Nov Sun All Saints Day 11 Nov Wed Armistice Day 25 Dec Fri Christmas Day 26 Dec Sat St Stepens Day