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Ideas for France Itinerary in March

I will be joining a family member for skiing in Chamonix the first week of March 2024. On my own, I plan on spending another three weeks in the country, but am unsure of where to go and when.

I have traveled a number of times to and in France, lots in Paris, lots in the Alps, a bit in the area just southwest of the Alps. I speak a passable French, will travel by rail and bus, on a budget, and am eager to visit new areas. One exception: I have no interest in the Cote d'Azur cities or general area, nor do I care to spend much time in Paris.

I am thinking of some kind of loop, starting from and returning to Geneva (arrival/departure city).

My main concern is weather. I am fine with cold and (some) rain. Would rather avoid destinations that would involve those two plus wind.

Thanks for any ideas you can share.

Posted by
28065 posts

Provence might deliver mistrial winds at that time of year, but places farther west might be safe: Montpellier, Toulouse, Albi, Narbonne, etc. Maybe the Dordogne--but it's on the west coast and might be wetter. I also liked Limoges and Poitiers.

Have you been to Lyon? There's a lot to see there, including some indoor attractions if the March weather isn't kind.

I also enjoyed Normandy and Brittany, but I really don't think those are good March destinations from the weather standpoint.

Truthfully, I'd be on a plane to Seville in your shoes. I hate chilly, wet weather even without wind.

Posted by
19 posts

Thanks for your ideas, I will check into them all, with one exception:

Truthfully, I'd be on a plane to Seville in your shoes. I hate chilly, wet weather even without wind.

March 2022 I spent three weeks in Spain, mostly in Andalucia. Rarely did I venture out without my fleece, wool cap, and umbrella. THE most essential items that I brought.

Posted by
972 posts

I was just watching one of Rick's Monday Night Travels and he mentioned Strasbourg as a fascinating city.

We loved Aix-en-Provence but I don't know what the weather is like there in March.