Thanks to some great advice from some of you, I've "almost" settled on where to spend my first 6 days or so in France, before going back to Paris for a week. I land at CDG on a Monday at 7 a.m. in early September would love some further advice on my tentative itinerary: Take train from Paris to Beaune, arrive afternoon. Explore Beaune Monday/Tuesday; rent a bike or take a guided bike tour Wednesday (along Burgundy Canal?). Early Thursday morning take train to Moulins; daytrip Friday to Vichy. Return to Paris Saturday. I don't drink wine; am interested in the scenery, nature, picturesque villages, markets ... I'm on a budget and see that Beaune lodgings are not cheap. Would love recommendations for lodging/dining, quaint spots, etc. in the 3 towns. Thanks so much!!
Posted by
Boston
4132 posts
This is a creative itinerary. There are several nice bike loops out of Beaune that are, in my opinion, as interesting as the canals. The canal is okay but given your limited time not worth the effort it would take to get there with a bicycle. Beaune is small. It has real charm and you can enjoy strolling around some, but you will exhaust its main sights in less than a day. The biking can keep you busy but you should have a plan in case of inclement weather. Or rent a car to visit other towns. PS You may have good luck and catch an earlier train to Beaune. I did on my trip (7 AM flight) and arrived at 10:30 AM!
Posted by
OP
Charlotte, NC, USA
386 posts
Thanks so much for your advice, Adam! Yes, I may end up cycling for 2 days around Beaune. I wasn't exactly sure how far the canal was from town, so great to know I can just head out on some good routes straight from town, instead. Sigh ... yes, you're right need to accept possibility of bad weather. If had no choice, could rent a car for a day and tour area, but hope that won't be necessary. When planning on enjoying "village life" for just a few days, bad weather can really throw a monkey wrench into plans. Do you have any recs for eating/not too pricey accomodation in Beaune?
Posted by
Boston
4132 posts
I am flattered that you should seek my advice about food and lodging, but it's been 8 years since I was in the area (alas!) and I have such cheapskate tastes about where I sleep that I never try to guess what other people might like. The low-end Rick Steves picks work out pretty well for me. There is excellent bread and cheese for picnics. I do think it is worth a minor splurge or two for food if you can swing it. Actually a good meal there is less expensive than a good one here.