Hôtel de Ville Nîmes
Nîmes' neoclassical town hall, famed for its surreal hanging crocodiles symbolizing Roman heritage.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds for administrative tasks
Hôtel de Ville Nîmes
Best Time
Fewer crowds for administrative tasks
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Nîmes' neoclassical town hall, famed for its surreal hanging crocodiles symbolizing Roman heritage.
"The town hall's hanging crocodiles are a striking, surreal symbol of Nîmes' Roman past."
📸 Admire the Crocodiles
Don't miss the unique sight of taxidermy crocodiles hanging from the ceiling!
⏰ Watch the Jacquemart
Catch the automaton striking the hour on the town hall square.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Hanging Crocodiles
Interior
Four taxidermy crocodiles suspended from the ceiling, a striking symbol of Nîmes' Roman past and colonial history.
Jacquemart Clock
Place de l'Hôtel de Ville
An automaton that strikes the hours on a bell, a charming historical timepiece on the town hall square.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Understand the Crocodile Symbolism
Navigating Reception Staff
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Admire the Crocodiles
Don't miss the unique sight of taxidermy crocodiles hanging from the ceiling!
⏰ Watch the Jacquemart
Catch the automaton striking the hour on the town hall square.
🗣️ Be Patient with Staff
Service can vary; some find staff helpful, others less so.
🏛️ Understand the Symbolism
The crocodile emblem links to Nîmes' Roman heritage.
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Admire the Crocodiles
Don't miss the unique sight of taxidermy crocodiles hanging from the ceiling!
⏰ Watch the Jacquemart
Catch the automaton striking the hour on the town hall square.
🗣️ Be Patient with Staff
Service can vary; some find staff helpful, others less so.
🏛️ Understand the Symbolism
The crocodile emblem links to Nîmes' Roman heritage.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
The Hôtel de Ville in Nîmes is a notable civic building, primarily recognized for its unique interior feature: four taxidermy crocodiles hanging from the ceiling, symbolizing the city's Roman heritage. While this display is a significant draw for visitors, experiences with the reception staff can be highly variable, with some guests reporting positive and helpful interactions, while others have encountered rudeness and a lack of assistance.
"The neoclassical city hall serves as the administrative heart of the city. It was built in 1703 on the former site of the Trésorerie royale (Royal Treasury) after the city acquired the land in 1700. The design was created by Augustin-Charles d’Aviler. One of the most striking interior features is the set of four taxidermy crocodiles hanging from the ceiling since 1853. These reflect the city's historic emblem—Crocodile and Palm Tree—which dates back to the reign of King Louis I and symbolizes Nîmes' Roman heritage and colonial ties."
Seokjin Ham
"Very bad experience. I came to the town hall several times and was received each time by the same secretary at the reception on the left (black hair and glasses). A person without humanity and aggressive, who judged me in a condescending and crude manner without knowing my life situation, I who had come for simple information, I was thrown out after being shouted at by this lady who is obviously not made to help others. I left without having answers to my questions and without any assistance, sympathy, and understanding. It is a shame, especially in a service that should help everyone without judgment."
Yoann BOUETEL
"Following my visit to the Nîmes town hall to drop off my identity card, I came across very smiling and friendly ladies at reception, but when I had to go to the offices next door, the complete opposite was a small, blonde lady with glasses who was unpleasant. A wall is more pleasant than this lady. She should review her politeness and the way she speaks to people. Afterwards, I had a very pleasant gentleman who explained things to me very kindly. I give the 5 stars for the welcome and the gentleman, but certainly not for the blonde lady."
Emilie Jean
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Hôtel de Ville is centrally located in Nîmes, making it easily accessible on foot from many parts of the city center. Public transport options like buses also serve the area. Parking can be challenging in the immediate vicinity, so consider public transport or walking if possible.
While there might be some street parking, it's often limited and metered. Several public parking garages are available within a short walking distance, such as the Arènes or La Maison Carrée parking lots.
Yes, the Hôtel de Ville is a public building and can be visited. While primarily an administrative center, its unique interior features, like the hanging crocodiles, are of interest to visitors.
Opening hours for general public access may vary, especially for administrative offices. It's best to check the official Nîmes city website or inquire locally for the most up-to-date visitor hours.
Public buildings generally aim for accessibility. However, specific details regarding ramps, elevators, and accessible restrooms should be confirmed directly with the Hôtel de Ville if needed.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Generally, no ticket is required for general public access to the common areas of the Hôtel de Ville. However, if you have a specific appointment or are visiting for an official matter, you will proceed accordingly.
There is typically no admission fee for simply entering and viewing the public areas of the Hôtel de Ville, such as the main hall where the crocodiles are displayed.
Photography is usually permitted in public areas for personal use, but it's always wise to check for any specific restrictions, especially in administrative offices or during official ceremonies.
For official appointments, such as renewing identification documents, it's recommended to visit the official Nîmes city website to find out the procedure, which may involve online booking or phone reservations.
Official guided tours specifically for the Hôtel de Ville are not commonly advertised. However, the building's unique features can be appreciated during a self-guided visit.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
The most notable interior feature is the set of four taxidermy crocodiles hanging from the ceiling, a unique display reflecting Nîmes' historical emblem.
The crocodiles are a symbol of Nîmes, dating back to Roman times and representing the city's heritage and historical ties.
The Jacquemart clock is located on the exterior of the Hôtel de Ville, on the Place de l'Hôtel de Ville, where it strikes the hours.
The Hôtel de Ville is designed in a neoclassical style, built in the early 18th century.
Beyond the symbolic crocodiles, the building itself, with its historical context and neoclassical architecture, serves as a point of interest.
🎫 🗣️ Service & Staff
Visitor experiences with staff are mixed. Some report friendly and helpful individuals, while others have encountered unpleasant or unhelpful receptionists.
Be polite and clear about your needs. If you encounter an unhelpful staff member, consider seeking assistance from another colleague or returning at a different time.
While direct complaints can be difficult, you can provide feedback through official channels on the Nîmes city website or by speaking to a supervisor if available.
Reviews are divided. Some visitors find them welcoming, while others describe them as cold, aggressive, or lacking in politeness and empathy.
For its unique crocodile display and historical architecture, it can be a brief but interesting stop. However, manage expectations regarding the service experience.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Be aware that interactions with staff can be unpredictable. If you're visiting for administrative purposes, try to manage expectations regarding the reception experience. For a purely tourist visit focused on the crocodiles, it's a quick and memorable experience that kids will likely enjoy pointing out and talking about.
🏛️ History & Architecture Enthusiasts
These crocodiles are not merely decorative; they are a direct reference to Nîmes' ancient emblem, the Crocodile and Palm Tree, which signifies the city's deep Roman roots and its historical colonial ties. Understanding this symbolism enriches the visit, transforming the building from a mere administrative center into a repository of Nîmes' layered history. The exterior Jacquemart clock also adds a touch of medieval charm to the surrounding square.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Iconic Crocodiles of Nîmes
These crocodiles serve as a constant reminder of Nîmes' unique identity, blending its ancient Roman roots with later historical periods. The visual impact is striking, and many visitors find it to be the most memorable aspect of their visit to the town hall. It’s a conversation starter and a unique photo opportunity that sets the Hôtel de Ville apart from other municipal buildings.
Navigating Public Service Experiences
Conversely, other visitors have reported positive interactions, describing receptionists as smiling, friendly, and helpful, with one gentleman being particularly praised for his kindness. This disparity suggests that the quality of service can vary significantly depending on the individual staff member on duty. It's advisable for visitors to approach the staff with patience and understanding, and if one interaction is negative, to try again or seek assistance from a different person.
The Jacquemart clock on the exterior of the building offers a more consistently charming experience. This automaton, which strikes the hours on a bell, is a delightful historical feature that adds character to the Place de l'Hôtel de Ville. It's a simple yet engaging element that provides a pleasant focal point for visitors.
Social
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