Greetings! I just found out that I am going to be in Monaco around Christmas, which is very exciting. I'm planning to spend an extra few days to a week before returning home, and would like to spend it exploring the French countryside, since I've only ever been to Paris. Tops on my list is Carcassonne. I'm interested in any advice anyone has on:
-renting a car vs. trains
-places that aren't open or fun for tourists in the middle of winter
-places that are especially wonderful just after Christmas (or if there's someplace magical for New Year's)
-any Carcassonne-specific pointers
Many thanks!