My son is studying abroad in Paris and we will be joining him with his older brother for Christmas and NYE. We are in Paris the first week then would like to head south for the second week. We hear great things about Aix. My question is how best to get there train or drive. Will there be activity in the Aix area? Vacation rental or hotel. FYI: All my family except me are over 6'3".
Some goals are to put our toes in the Mediterranean, see the Carrieres de Lumieres, enjoy a simpler life than Paris.
This is our first trip to Europe so, any advice is appreciated!
Thanks!
Posted by
Vernon, Canada
32202 posts
Pam,
I'm not sure Aix will be the best choice in December as it will likely be very "quiet" and transportation is not as straightforward. You'll probably find that Nice is a better choice. I've never been there in December but a few things to consider.....
- Nice is an easy trip (about 6 hours) via high speed TGV from Paris.
- It has a good airport for regional flights, should that be a consideration.
- There are some good Museums there, such as the Chagall and Matisse Museums.
- It's easy to take a day trip to Monaco / Monte Carlo or other places in the area.
- It's right on the ocean so you can "dip your toes" there (although that will likely be chilly in December).
- There will probably be more festivities there on New Year's Eve.
Posted by
OP
26 posts
Thanks Ken!
Posted by
L'Occitanie, France
10188 posts
I agree with Ken that Nice is a better choice for New Year's Eve. Aix is pretty dead at that time. It is a university town and the students are home on break. On the other hand, Nice will be active and should even have fireworks on the beach New Year's Eve.