2016 France

A car is really helpful to visit the sights located in the Provence countryside, but a car is a hassle to visit the cities/towns in Provence that are on the train routes.

Taking the train from CDG to Burgundy will require you to go into Paris and get to Gare de Lyon for the train. There are several ways to do this, the simplest is probably Les Cars Air France, a bus service that takes you right to the station. But allow plenty of time for a delayed flight, passport control, and the bus schedule and ride. A walk-up train fare costs a lot more than a prepaid one, but the prepaid one is non-refundable if you miss the train.

Driving very far the day you fly in is often discouraged on this board because you'll be tired. But it's about 4 hours from CDG to Dijon, less to Auxerre, a little more to Beaune. And a car will help a lot in Burgundy if you plan to visit many places there. If you can handle the post-flight drive you'll be off to a faster start. Via Michelin is a helpful planning tool though it may underestimate driving times.

The train from Avignon will take you to Gare de Lyon in Paris. From there, I'd suggest a taxi to your apartment, unless you're traveling so light that you don't mind changing Metro lines in stations full of steps and corridors. See Paris by Train for rail options. The Metro is certainly a good way to get around the city while you're sightseeing without luggage.

thank you. both posts very helpful. Linda