My husband and I are contemplating a trip to Paris and Provence in mid November. Is this a bad idea? It sounds like a lot of things might be closed in the Provence area - should we wait until next Spring to go, and when would be the earliest you would recommend for travel- mid March?
Posted by
Boston
4132 posts
Paris is a great city and there is lots to do in every season. For this reason I would suggest going there first if you go in the late winter and last if you go in the fall, to maximize best weather in Provence where as you note things may be closed more.
Provence is very much luck of the draw. The latest in the year I have been there was the very start of November, and it was sunny and warm, even a little hot. My guess is that mid-November there would likely be as pleasant or better than mid-March, but it depends on what you get. You might have to contend with the Mistral.
In terms of what's open, mid-March is still essentially the off-season so I think attractions and bus schedules would be on the same schedule as mid November.
The only clear advantage to March is that you would enjoy more hours of daylight. Unfortunately that does not necessarily translate into better weather or more warmth. If you are really concerned about these things you would be better off waiting another month, but I think you can have a great trip whenever you go.
Finally: Traveling at those times of year means you do not need reservations so you can fly to Paris with Plan A if the weather is nice in Provence and Plan B (Lyon? More Paris?) if it isn't.
Good luck!
Posted by
Paris, France
506 posts
There are pros and cons to Paris in November. No crowds tops the list. Prices are lower (hotel - train etc) Plus holiday lights start showing up along the streets. Beaujolais wines traditionally come out for the year in November.
The opposite - the days are short - sunrise typically at 8h30 and sunset around 16h30 to 17h. If it is cloudy - which typically it is in November - it feels like the day doesn't start from a light perspective until 11h or so. It can be cold, rainy and generally gloomy. But you will find most places will be open in Paris - exception some gardens.
Personally, I like Paris in November - the city is amazing in each season - and the colors are completely different compared to the Spring. If you want to wait mid to late March is good.
Posted by
Toronto, Ontario, Canada
191 posts
I know this is somewhat off-topic, so forgive me, but I wish that I loved where I live as much as Jona obviously does, given all the time taken to share insights with the rest of us. Then again, I don't live in Paris.