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Switzerland and France

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I will be traveling to Switzerland and France for about 21 days at the end of May and early June. I will be staying with a family friend in Solothurn, Switzerland, just north of Bern for either the first or last week. In France I will be staying for a few nights with some friends in Le Creusot, just north of Lyons. I am trying to decide if about 8 days in Switzerland and about 12 in France is the best plan. Also, whether to go north or south from Le Creusot for the remaining 9 days. I am maining into outdoor activities, hiking, biking, etc. but might have enough of that in Switzerland. My friends will be taking me around to wineries in Burgundy.

So, should I go up toward the Paris area or down toward the Provence area or where?
Is Solothurn a good base area, or should I plan to stay in another town for a few nights as well?
Any suggestions on where to fly into and out of to keep the back tracking down?

Thank you,
Scott

Posted by
20032 posts

I'd fly into Paris and out of Zurich, or reverse if that is the order or your trip. You might do it France first as you'll have a chance of decent weather in the Alps in June. Solothurn is probably as good as any place especially if the lodging is free. By national mandate, there is at least one train per hour in each direction from any Swiss train station. You might think about a Half Fare card for 120 chf depending how far you want to travel and how often.
From Le Creusot to Solothurn, you might want to make your way to Alsace. Lots of biking/hiking opportunities there, then an easy transfer to Solothurn via Basel.

Posted by
16893 posts

Choosing between Paris and Provence is Personal Preference. Consistent with Sam's advice, you can fly home from Nice or Marseille, instead of Paris, if that's where you want to end, even if it builds in another plane connection in Paris. French trains back to Paris are not particularly cheaper or easier, unless you plan to visit that city.

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