My husband and I are planning our first trip to France and are trying to figure out our itinerary. We will be spending the first part of our trip in Paris but are thinking about a few days in both Provence and Burgundy. I know that May 1st is a bank holiday, but what will be open that day if we are in either Provence or Burgundy? Do the towns essentially shut down or are museums, churches and other spots of interest open? What about restaurants? Also, if you have any opinion on whether we should go Paris-Burgundy-Provence-Paris or Paris-Provence-Burgundy-Paris it would be greatly appreciated.
Posted by
Chicago
7838 posts
I would go the furthest point and work my way back e.g. Paris to Provence (Arles or Avignon or Nimes) then to Burgundy (Beaune). Most museums tourists sites close May 1. Churches don't close on May 1. I would go to Pont du Gard on May 1 it is open. But you would have to find a way to get there since probably no public trans that day. Maybe there are some tours running there since it is open May 1.
Posted by
OP
18 posts
Thanks for the information. I was also thinking furthest out first and working our way back.
Posted by
Washington DC
27111 posts
I have no experience with museums on May 1, but last year there was no public transportation running from the Nice airport into the city, and very few buses. Oops. I meant there were very few TAXIS.
Posted by
Panguitch, Utah
2545 posts
You might expect just about everything to be closed on May 1st.
Posted by
Montreal, Quebec, Canada
8293 posts
Probably nothing much open or to do, but if you like Lilly of the Valley, there will be someone selling a small bouquet everywhere you turn. I know not why.
Posted by
Paris
2466 posts
Muguet du bois goes back to the Renaissance, in 1561, when Charles IX offered his troops a good-luck charm.
Nowadays, it is tied to the annual vacations which appeared in 1936.
You should not pay more than 2 or 3 EU for a small bouquet.
I wouldn't expect anything to be open, either. Most people wander around or sleep.
Posted by
OP
18 posts
Thanks for the information. This may alter how we plan our trip.
Posted by
Montreal, Quebec, Canada
8293 posts
Thank you, chexbres. Interesting information.