Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Nîmes
Located in southern France, the Centre Hospitalier Universitaire (CHU) de Nîmes combines a long history of healthcare with contemporary medical innovation. Alongside its primary role as a medical centre, it offers a perspective on the development of healthcare, architecture and education in France. The hospital is affiliated with the Faculty of Medicine of Montpellier-Nîmes. Nîmes is also known for its Roman monuments, including the Arena of Nîmes and Maison Carrée, which are near the hospital (CHU Media; Nîmes Tourism).
History
The CHU de Nîmes traces its origins to centuries-old charitable healthcare and became a university hospital in the post-war era, in the latter half of the 20th century. It reflects the development of French public health infrastructure, balancing a legacy of care with medical advancements (CHU Media).
Nîmes’ Roman monuments, including the Amphithéâtre and Maison Carrée, are classified as Monument Historique. They illustrate the city’s Roman past and ongoing cultural vitality.
What to see and do
The CHU operates across three main sites, including the Centre Ambulatoire Carémeau Sud (CACS), which is known for its advanced ambulatory surgery facilities. The Institute for Health Professions features educational exhibits on healthcare training.
Affiliated with the Faculty of Medicine of Montpellier-Nîmes, the hospital hosts the SimHU Nîmes simulation platform for medical training and education. Visitors can inquire about open days and public events (CHU Media). Educational workshops and exhibitions are also mentioned among the visitor offerings.
The CHU pursues sustainability through ecological practices intended to minimize its environmental footprint and foster responsible healthcare (CHU Media).
Practical visiting information
Visiting the CHU
- Visiting hours Daily, 2:00 PM–8:00 PM. Specialized units may have different visiting hours; check with the hospital in advance.
- Access Visitors include relatives, friends and people interested in medical heritage. Non-patients are welcome.
- Admission Access to public areas and exhibitions is free.
- Tours Guided tours must be arranged in advance through visitor services. Themed tours on history, architecture and medical innovation can be scheduled upon request.
- Accessibility Accessibility is provided for visitors with reduced mobility.
- Address Place du Pr Robert Debré, 30029 Nîmes Cedex 9
- Phone +33 4 66 68 68 68
- Website CHU Nîmes Official Site
Roman monuments
Arena of Nîmes (Amphithéâtre de Nîmes)
Dating to the 1st century AD, the Arena is among the world’s best-preserved Roman amphitheaters. It was originally used for gladiatorial games and now hosts concerts, festivals and cultural events.
- Address 16 Boulevard des Arènes, 30000 Nîmes
- Hours Typically 9:00 AM–7:00 PM, with seasonal variation. A seasonal schedule lists 9:00 AM–7:00 PM from April to September and 9:00 AM–5:00 PM from October to March.
- Tickets €10 for adults, with discounts for students, seniors and children; reduced rates are also available. Combined monument tickets are available.
- Tours Guided tours are available in multiple languages.
- Accessibility Wheelchair ramps and designated viewing areas are provided.
- Getting there The Arena is in the city centre, accessible by public transport, with public parking nearby.
Maison Carrée
This Roman temple dates to 19 BC and is an example of classical architecture.
- Address Place de la Maison Carrée, 30000 Nîmes
- Hours 10:00 AM–6:00 PM daily.
- Tickets Prices are listed as €7 per adult, with free admission for children under 12; another listing gives €6, or includes admission in the City Museum pass.
- Tours Audio guides and guided tours are available.
- Accessibility The site is equipped for visitors with reduced mobility.
Guided tours of the monuments are offered in several languages. Special events and exhibitions take place throughout the year; tours can be booked through the Tourist Office.
Contacts for monument visits
- Tourist Office +33 (0)4 66 76 35 04
- Website nimes-tourisme.com
Tips
- Spring and autumn are suggested for mild weather and fewer tourists.
- French is the primary language, though many staff speak English; English tours are available at major sites.
- Cafés, restaurants and shops are plentiful near the monuments.
- Book tickets online in advance during peak season. Arena tickets can be bought through the official tourism website or at the entrance.
- Photography is generally permitted for personal use; flash and tripod use may be restricted.
- Check opening hours before visiting, arrange tours in advance and use available accessibility services.
- Official websites and apps provide up-to-date information and virtual tours.
- Nîmes is served by train and bus, and the city centre is pedestrian-friendly. There are multiple public parking options near the monuments.
Nearby places
- Arena of Nîmes About a 15-minute walk from the train station, or a short bus ride.
- Maison Carrée A Roman temple in the city.
- Jardins de la Fontaine Historic gardens built around Roman remains.
- Tour Magne An ancient tower with panoramic city views.
- Temple of Diana A Roman site within the Jardins de la Fontaine.
- Musée de la Romanité Near the city’s Roman monuments.
FAQ
Can the public tour the CHU de Nîmes?
Yes. Guided tours are available by appointment.
Is the CHU accessible for disabled visitors?
Yes. Accessibility services are provided.
Are there admission fees at the CHU?
No. Access to public areas and exhibitions is free.
What are the CHU visiting hours?
Daily from 2:00 PM to 8:00 PM. Specialized units may have different hours.
Can non-patients visit the CHU?
Yes. People interested in the hospital’s history or public health are welcome.
Can I buy Arena tickets online?
Yes, through the official tourism website or at the entrance.
Is photography allowed at the monuments?
Generally, photography is permitted for personal use, but flash or tripod use may be restricted.
Are English tours available?
Yes, at major sites.
Are Nîmes’ monuments open all year?
Yes, with seasonal and holiday adjustments to hours.
Are private tours available?
Yes, through the Tourist Office.
Are there family-friendly activities?
Yes, including educational programs for children.
