My wife and I (late 60's, in good health) are traveling to France the first time in mid-September. The center point of our 14-day trip is a four-night river cruise from Lyon to Avignon, so our itinerary so far includes a couple of extra nights in Lyon prior to our departure and some additional time in Avignon at the conclusion of the cruise. Before arriving in Lyon, we are looking to spend three nights in Beaune as well. Our flight plans aren't yet solidified, but we are thinking of flying into Paris, then flying home either from Marseille or Paris. So, given all that, do you think we'd be packing in too much if we tried to spend time in Paris also? On the flip side, would it be foolish to bypass Paris except for arrival and possibly departure? We look forward to reading your thoughts; thanks in advance....
Posted by
11787 posts
Yes, visit Paris when you will be so near. Never give up a chance to visit Paris in the future either!
Posted by
Long Beach, Ca, usa
1613 posts
See Paris! Cut time from Avignon, one of my least favorite cities in Provence, and head for Paris the day after your cruise ends (unless you have day trips planned from Avignon). Toujours Paris!
Posted by
OP
2 posts
Thanks, all, for your feedback. Just curious, Judy, as to why you're lukewarm regarding Avignon? As I mentioned in my original post, this is our first trip to France, and we've shaped our itinerary based solely on what we've read and watched, and Avignon seemed interesting from historical and cultural perspectives....
Posted by
Long Beach, Ca, usa
1613 posts
jlneri,
Avignon is okay, but compared to other towns and cities in the area, it has less charm. The two major sights are the half-bridge and the papal palace, which together require only a half-day. Yes, there are museums, etc., but Arles, Aix, St. Remy, Roussillon, Gordes, winery tours...all are more interesting IMO. Avignon is a good transportation hub, and there are numerous day trips from there to see other places (above), but for Avignon itself, I prefer other Provencal towns. A lot depends on how many days you plan to spend there after the cruise. As to Marseille or Paris, we have lots of ties to Marseille, and family there, but Paris wins hands down. There is no place quite like it and I would give it as many days as you can, especially since this is your first trip to France. Honest!