Hi there. I'll be traveling to France for 12 nights with my family (two adults, two teenagers, experienced and adventurous travelers all) in mid-March 2023 and we're having some trouble sorting our itinerary given that everywhere looks great. We'd like to spend three nights in Paris at trip's end, leaving us nine for Provence. We'll TGV from CDG to Avignon to pick up a car. We'd like not to drive more than an hour to any day trip to maximize our time in each place, thus the shifting of hotels (also, the kids LOVE hotels and exploring new grounds and settings, so it's not just about efficiency.) Right now, here's what I'm thinking:
Night 1-TGV to Avignon (we'll have arrived from NYC that morning in Paris , so everyone will be exhausted)
2-3-4: Luberon in countryside to explore Gordes, Bonnieux, Menerbes
5-6: Aix closer to town for a village stay
7-8-9: St Remy/Arles area to do some outdoor stuff in Camargue, Baux de Provence, and of course, St Remy/Arles
10-11-12: Paris
Is it silly to stay overnight in Avignon? Am I missing a zone of Provence that has a different vibe worth exploring? Any insight would be so appreciated.
-Lisa.