hey, thanks for stopping by! I will be in France after Portugal and Spain in a few weeks, and need some help. I will be coming up through the Pyrenees, and I’m looking to visit Albi and Sarlat as per a friend’s suggestion, eventually heading up to Lyon then Dijon. I would also love to check out Avignon & Arles, but only have about 5-6 days to make it to the French/Belgium border. I will be traveling on public transportation, and am wondering how train/bus service is there? I am a solo female who is an avid hiker, loves quirky, off the beaten path kinds of places, and of course loves great food & drink. I am thinking of renting a bike out of Dijon and checking out the Route des Grands Crus; has anyone done this? I think it would be such a cool thing to do! I also am not a fan of super hot weather, but not sure how hot it gets in these places? thanks again for your help, it’s most appreciated!
Posted by
Paris
10193 posts
What are your dates for France ? That will help us to advise on how hot it may be.
Posted by
L'Occitanie, France
10621 posts
You would be crossing from the west side of France to the east, Sarlat to Lyon and Dijon, an 8-10 hour train trip.
It's better to choose one side or the other, spend more time in each, and save the other for the next trip.
Posted by
OP
58 posts
@ Kim, 3rd week in July.
Posted by
Paris
7300 posts
On public transportation, I assume you will come into France on the east side of the Spanish border, i.e. Perpignan.
I would forget about Albi and Sarlat, really. You could spend 2 days in Avignon area, 2 in Lyon, 2 in Dijon : that would be rushed but well, you just have 6 days...
Posted by
OP
58 posts
thanks balso. if I had to choose between Lyon and Dijon, which one would you choose, and why? I know Lyon is known for all the great chefs, but I am ok leaving out a big city. I’m not into staying out and partying, but prefer a nice meal & a walk after dinner. I really want to get into the country, and think the bike ride through burgundy would be a not to miss activity. Thanks again for your help!
Posted by
Paris
7300 posts
I would 100% skip Lyon, and allocate 1 extra day to Burgundy and 1 extra day to the Avignon area.
No question for me, really.
For various reasons, I do not love Lyon. I like the cityscape - hills, two rivers - but the food is not my jam (I do not eat meat) and I find that the sights pale in comparison to what other French cities have to offer. However, this is clearly a minority opinion!
Posted by
OP
58 posts
@balso i appreciate it nonetheless! i’m literally stringing together my itinerary a few weeks beforehand 🙃 I have only been to France once, and it was in the south along the coast, and it was marvelous. I am certain I will return!