Skip-the-line available How to Get to Aigues-Mortes from Nîmes and Montpellier
Trains, driving routes and practical tips for reaching the walled town in the Camargue from the two nearest cities.
Aigues-Mortes sits out in the Camargue marshes, roughly between Nîmes and Montpellier, and it is easy to reach by both train and car. This guide covers the direct regional train from Nîmes, the driving routes from each city, journey times, parking near the walls, and how the flat approach across the salt flats makes for one of the great first sights of the region.
By Train from Nîmes
The simplest car-free option is the regional TER liO train, which runs directly from Nîmes to Aigues-Mortes. The station at Aigues-Mortes is only about 450 metres from the ramparts — a short, flat walk straight to the walls — which makes the train an easy and relaxing way to arrive, with no parking to worry about at the other end.
From Montpellier there is no direct train to Aigues-Mortes, so rail travellers from that side usually connect via Nîmes or combine train and bus. Check current TER liO timetables when you plan, as regional services vary by day and season, and allow a little buffer if you are connecting.
By Car from Nîmes and Montpellier
Aigues-Mortes is about 33 km southwest of Nîmes and about 27 km east of Montpellier, and driving is straightforward from either. From Nîmes, take the A9 motorway to exit 26, then follow the D6313 and D979 south to the town. From Montpellier, take the A9 to exit 29, then the D66 and D62 across the marshes. Both drives take roughly half an hour depending on traffic.
The approach is part of the pleasure: the last stretch runs dead flat across the salt marshes, with the golden ramparts rising alone from the horizon — a memorable first view. From Arles the town is about 45 km via the D570 and D38, making Aigues-Mortes an easy addition to a wider tour of the Camargue and Provence.
Parking and Arriving
Cars are largely kept outside the medieval walls, with car parks around the town rather than inside the narrow historic streets. From the parking areas it is a short walk through one of the fortified gates to the monument entrance at the Logis du Gouverneur. Reserved parking spaces for visitors with reduced mobility are available near the entrance.
In high summer and on weekends the closest car parks fill early, so an earlier arrival makes parking easier as well as beating the heat and crowds. Once you are inside the walls everything is walkable, and there is no need to move the car again during your visit.
Making a Day of the Camargue
Because Aigues-Mortes is so well connected, it pairs easily with the wider Camargue. Right beside the town are the Salins du Midi salt works, whose pink lakes you see from the ramparts, and a short drive brings you to the beaches of the Petite Camargue and the resort of Le Grau-du-Roi. The marshes are famous for their flamingos, bulls and white horses.
For a fuller itinerary, Nîmes with its Roman monuments and Montpellier with its lively old town are each about half an hour away, so many visitors build Aigues-Mortes into a day that also takes in one of the two cities. With the visit being self-guided and untimed, it slots flexibly around the rest of your plans.
Frequently asked
Is there a direct train to Aigues-Mortes?
Yes — the regional TER liO line runs directly from Nîmes to Aigues-Mortes, and the station is about 450 metres from the ramparts. From Montpellier there is no direct train, so rail travellers usually connect via Nîmes.
How far is Aigues-Mortes from Nîmes?
About 33 km southwest of Nîmes, roughly half an hour by car via the A9 (exit 26) and the D6313 and D979. The direct TER liO train is a convenient car-free alternative.
How far is Aigues-Mortes from Montpellier?
About 27 km east of Montpellier, around half an hour by car via the A9 (exit 29) and the D66 and D62 across the marshes. There is no direct train from Montpellier, so drivers have the easiest journey from that side.
Where do I park at Aigues-Mortes?
Cars are kept outside the medieval walls, with car parks around the town. From there it is a short walk through a fortified gate to the entrance at the Logis du Gouverneur. Reserved spaces for reduced mobility are available near the entrance.
Can I visit Aigues-Mortes without a car?
Yes. The direct TER liO train from Nîmes leaves you a short, flat walk from the walls, so no car is needed. Regional buses also serve the town.
How long does the journey take?
Roughly half an hour by car from either Nîmes or Montpellier. The direct train from Nîmes is a relaxed alternative that drops you close to the ramparts.
Can I combine Aigues-Mortes with the wider Camargue?
Easily. The Salins du Midi salt works are right beside the town, and the beaches of the Petite Camargue and Le Grau-du-Roi are a short drive away, as are Nîmes and Montpellier for a fuller day.