Our family with 3 teeangers are travelling to France in Dec. 2009. We feel hard to decide to visit the sourth of France or the north Normanday areas. Can you please give us some ideas?
Posted by
victoria, Canada
11507 posts
You do realize it will be winter in December, so it will not be beach weather in south of France. Normandy, would be even cooler and wetter, but may offer more sites( D Day Beaches, Mont St Michel, Bayeax tapestry etc) ..
I'd go to Paris.
Posted by
Boston
4132 posts
If you're not otherwise planning to go to Paris, Pat is right--go there.
But assuming you are asking where to go in addition to Paris, I'd chose a city that time of year, such as Lyon or Avignon.
If the weather is nice you can drive or take the train to a smaller town or the countryside, but if it's not there's things to do indoors.
Avignon is convenient to Arles and Nimes by rail, so you could also reasonably stay in one of those towns; Lyon is not far by train either.
As a logistical bonus, there are TGVs from Lyon and Avignon that go straight to Charles deGaulle airport, so you can return home directly.
I'd save Normandy for another trip.
Posted by
dallas, tx, usa
1358 posts
I would visit Versailles and Fontainebleau.
Posted by
Springfield, VA, USA
283 posts
Both are great locations to visit. The teens, depending on their likes, would probably enjoy both. The Normandy beaches, as well as all the museums in that area are fantastic. In the south, lots of Roman ruins, Avignon, Les Baux, Pont Du Garde, etc. Also, lotsof wineries to visit (for the adults)
I would choose the South. December is the beginning of truffle season and you should be able to feast, if the funds are there. Also, the weather is better than the cold north next to the English channel. But the south will also have Mistral at that time, which can really be something--such wind!
The south is relaxing, lots to see and do, with great markets. Just be sure to bundle up!