We need to plug in an extra day . . .Arles or Amboise. Never been to either region before. We have a car. After two days in Nimes (we check out to Roman museum and Pont du Gard), we have four days in Arles planned (including trips to Avignon, Carpentras, Le Baux, St. Remy, Camp de Milles). We were going to spend half a day in Orange, then the night in Vienne, before going to Lyon for two nights. Why the cancellation? The feature attraction for Orange and Vienne seems to be Roman stuff, and we'll have seen plenty earlier in the trip (Italica and Tarragona in Spain, plus Nimes and Arles). After Lyon, three nights in Amboise (3 chateaux and cathedral in Tours). History is our main interest, followed by culture (that's, I know). Nature, not so much a determining factor. No interest in wine nor vinyards. We're open to suggestions. Thanks!
Posted by
San Francisco Bay Area
5697 posts
An extra day in Lyon just for the food ? (Loved the city, HATED the driving and parking -- didn't move the car for the four days we were there.)
Posted by
Twin Cities of MN
5581 posts
I like Amboise very much. However, I think 3 days is probably enough especially if you don't have any interest in wine. I haven't been to Arles, but I've researched it and I'd like to go, it does seem like there is plenty to do there as well as other cities that could be explored somewhat near by. Avignon, Carcossone, etc.
Posted by
Florida, USA
12172 posts
I've stayed in both (and liked both). I'd say Arles has more to see and do than Amboise - especially if you're already spending three nights in Amboise. After a few Chateaux you're likely to be palaced out on the opulent hunting lodges of the rich and famous. In Arles, there is a lot more to see and do - a longer and more varied history.
That said, each place has it's own claim to fame. I've been to Vienne and Orange too and enjoyed them (except, sadly, I went to Vienne on the museum's closed day).
Posted by
OP
Stevenson Ranch, CA, USA
235 posts
I tried to add another day to our hotel in Arles thru Booking.com. Sold out. Checked other hotels . . .nothing moderately priced available. So, we just might stay up the road in Avignon. Before I book that, I'll email the hotel in Arles . . .maybe they can accommodate a room they haven't released to third parties to sell.
Posted by
Columbus, OH, USA
2026 posts
Perhaps room at the hotel L’Amphitheatre in Arles? We liked it a lot a few years ago for several nights in Arles. Good luck.
Posted by
South Florida
776 posts
If you haven't already, extra time in Nimes for a side trip into the Camargue? Possible. Aigues Mortes
Posted by
Savannah, GA
1336 posts
While I love Amboise, Arles would be me choice. So much to do and see!
Posted by
OP
Stevenson Ranch, CA, USA
235 posts
Going out of our way to see nature isn't what we typically do, but Camargue looks very appealing. I had read about it months ago, then dismissed it due to lack of time and preference. Now, I think we're going to give it a go.
Posted by
South Florida
776 posts
If you decide to take a trip into the Camargue take insect repellent. The mosquitos are vicious. A boat trip , if you have the time, would allow you to see more of the wild life for which the Camargue is also noted.
Posted by
OP
Stevenson Ranch, CA, USA
235 posts
Mosquitos, huh? I'll just have to find a couple of used hazmat suits. A boat trip . . .I like it. I'll check into it, thanks.
Posted by
841 posts
What about breaking up the trip from Lyon to Amboise? You could spend a night in Bourges.
Posted by
Boston
4132 posts
I'd add the "spare" day to Lyon, actually. Do not underestimate that city.
But of your 2 options, would choose Arles.
Posted by
OP
Stevenson Ranch, CA, USA
235 posts
Thanks everyone for your help. We are good to go!