We are picking up a car late August 2020 and not sure whether to pick up in Lyon or Nice. Haven't been to either. We will stay wherever we pick up the car for 2 nights and then will move onto Italy. Can anyone suggest some towns to stay in for a few days from either point. Prob 4/5 nights in maybe two places, dependant on what is around to drive and visit. We don't want to be constantly changing accommodation. This section of our travels will probably be for 2 weeks before heading further North. If we pickup Lyon we will head towards Milan. Somewhere to stay on outskirts on train line would be good as 2 will be flying out from here. If we pick up in Nice we will head for Rapallo and 2 will fly out of Genoa. Don't mind staying further inland from Nice on way to Rapallo.
We are 4 in our 60's. Like walking, driving, food, wine. Not into big touristy cities. Have done a lot of driving in both France and Italy.
Two widely different options but that is the fun of travelling. We have spent a lot of time previously in various areas of France and Italy and are flying into Paris to begin our holiday. We will train to either Lyon or Nice.
Thank you
Posted by
872 posts
Renting a car in France if you return it in Italy you pay a fee off about E850, as the car would be brought back on a truck. Plus a car for single full day [2 nights] is not worth the trouble.
Posted by
Boston
1782 posts
Nice is very pleasant and I prefer the scenery on the southern route. From Lyon to Milan you have pesky mountains and a 50 Euro tunnel. However, your plan doesn't sound well thought out. Why do you want a car at all? You can see Lyon, Nice, and Milan by train. Or why not lease a car in Paris that you can drop off in Milan?
Posted by
OP
auckland
23 posts
We have a Peugeot Euro Lease and there is no charge for dropping off in different locations and crossing borders is fine.
2 of us are driving onto Croatia and the other 2 will be flying out of either Milan or Genoa.
If you have any thoughts on stops before Rapallo, not particularly on the coast, more smaller towns inland that you think would be a good base for a few days, would appreciate your input.
Thanks
Posted by
4836 posts
Aosta, Cuneo, Alba, Asti (have been to the latter two and considered the first two)
Posted by
Boston
1782 posts
Between Nice and Rapallo, I would not miss Dolceaqua and the rock village of Apricale. San Remo is interesting as well as Cervo, Finalborgo, and Noli. Inland Liguria is mountainous so travel is primarily along the coast. For a base look at San Remo or Alassio. Also for a destination many folks prefer Santa Margherita to Rapallo. https://www.apathtolunch.com/2013/12/the-most-beautiful-villages-in-liguria.html?m=1
Posted by
OP
auckland
23 posts
Mike, thank you for your info. Will get back to you at a later date.