Hi everyone, My husband and I are planning to go to Geneva on August 24 and have 12 days. We thought of spending 2 days there (3 nights) then driving to Annecy for 2 nights, then Chamonix for 2 nights ending in Nice for the remaining time and flying home from there. Is this a good time schedule? Which would be better driving or taking trains? My husband likes the idea of driving, but I understand around Nice is very busy. Any suggestions on different places. We are open minded still. Our other thought was to skip Nice and take the train to Paris instead. We have been there several times and never get enough. We just love the city. Any thoughts are much appreciated.
Mary
Posted by
Dallas, Texas, USA
501 posts
I, personally, like your plans as they stand, plan to do all of it except Nice. Yes, you could do the Italian Riveria, but I would think Nice and Monaco area would spellbound you into wanting to stay. We have driven the part of trip to Chamonix, but not into Nice. You have selected a wonderful trip.
Posted by
OP
Toronto, Canada
46 posts
Thanks Jim, I think doing Nice and area is likely going to be the final plan as we want some time to relax and enjoy the people.
Any suggestions on nice hotels for any or all parts of the trip? Also really great restaurants are important to us, we both love wonderful food.
Posted by
Dallas, Texas, USA
501 posts
We are not " foodies", therefore can't recommend any rest.for taste or quality foods, but in Geneva, as you walk towards the Lake, there is a tiny island or Col de sac, that has a rest.that gives you a good view as well as good people watching spot. Hotels are pricy, but might be a little more affordable in August. I would prefer Hotel Warwick, but supposedly they were booked for our trip in July, ended up at Hotel Suisse( still haven't given up on Warwick, will try several weeks before our trip and see if I can snag an affordable rate). Have not spent the night in Annecy. In Chamonix, used Ricks pick, Hotel De L'Arve, have used before, not extravagant, but nice views of Mountains. The Hotel Suisse in Nice is the one you want to focus on, IF you get room with balcony and view of Med. Sea!! For Nice, affordable. Be sure and use Rick Steve guidebook for Nice, Annecy, and Chamonix. Good Luck!
Posted by
Ojai, CA
591 posts
I like your destination choices in the Alps plus the Nice area, so will just offer a suggestion on getting from Chamonix to Nice. Driving or taking a train is an all day trip (about 7 hours) so think about returning the car to Geneva and flying.
Easy Jet makes about 4 flights a day from Geneva to Nice (1hr 5") and if you book early the price can be cheaper than the other 2 transportation choices. There is good local transportation on the Riviera and a car is not needed.