I will be in Paris this summer from July 22 to August 2. While I will be staying with friends, I will be doing some travelling on my own ( for the first time!)
What is a good, safe and entertaining side trip (say a 3-4 day trip) from Paris that I could do on my own? Budget is definetly an issue.
Besides that, are there any words of caution or inspiration for me as a single in Paris? Any words from wise travellers?
Thank you in advance! Marcia
Two of my favorite day trips are to Versailles and Fontainebleau. Both small towns with big castles to the South of Paris. Here is the web page for one:
"Fontainebleau was the royal hunting residence before the first lights of the Renaissance shone here under François 1st, in the heart of the Palace which all sovereigns, right up to Napoleon III, cherished, decorated and embellished through the work of their best artists, painters, sculptors, architects, fountainers and gardeners."
You probably know about Versailles.
While not the "cheapest" trip for 3-4 days, I'd suggest London. Easy 2 1/2 train ride, lots to see and do.
With the low priced airlines, a 3-4 day trip could literally be anywhere in Europe.
What interests you?
Hmmm - some great ideas. I want to take the train, not fly. I am interested in countryside environment, good for walks and interesting historic sights, castles and art. I think by then I will crave a simple small town experience to contract with paris and my busy hometown. Any suggestions? Any safety tips if I need to worry?
Thank you so much already for the good ideas. Marcia
How are you getting around in the countryside after you get off the train? Are you going to rent a car for a couple days, or are you relying solely on public transit? Did you want to stay in France to do this 3-4 day trip, or are you wanting to tack on another country that is a short train ride from Paris?
Thanks for your question - I would use public transit/cabs I think. I dont want to drive. I also want to stay in France.
What do you think?
Do I have to drive to make this work?
Perhaps heading to the Loire Valley would be an option. Tours or Blois might be a good base, and I think there are some organized tours of chateau you could do. Otherwise you could get to some towns like Saumur by train, Chinon by bus(I did that about 5 years ago, so don't know exactly how the connections are now). I myself (50-plus single woman) did this by myself as a side trip about 5-6 years ago, stayed in Saumur two nights as I really wanted to go to Fontevraud and that was the only way to do it by public transportation.
I've not tried this, but a lot of people seem to recommend Normandy. From what I've seen you can get tours of the beaches. You also have Caens and the Bayeux Tapestry. I did spend a lovely weekend in Strasbourg when I was a student. I loved the city and it's very different than Paris. Look in the Rick Steves book for information about Alscace. Colmar might be a good base as well. You might also consider going to the mountains. I stayed in Chamonix and really enjoyed it. I went up the Auille du Midi and did a hike along the Balcony that was spectacular. The Loire river valley would also be nice, but you would need to do tours out to see the chateaux. I liked Amboise.
Pam
Does anyone know about bike tours of Paris - and has anyone done hiking in an area you recommend about a half day from Paris?
Thanks for all the fun suggestions! ~ Marcia
Marcia, my experience in Paris as a single (senior) woman was the highlight of my 6-week European trip. Felt completely safe, used mostly bus versus metro (like free sightseeing excursion). Use money belt (put money and passport in plastic baggie) or pocket on inside of jacket, safety-pinned shut. For a 3-4 day trip, I would consider Quimper in Brittany on the coast or Colmar in Alsace Lorraine. Actually, your question brought home to me that I could do the same thing on my next trip late this year. Wherever you go, this is the high season for European travelers, as well, so it will be crowded. I would definitely plan ahead. Let us know where you decide to go and have fun!
